The answer is: 10

Exo 7-11

The Exodus is one of the most thrilling tales in the Bible, and if you dive into the narrative of the ten plagues, you'll find it's filled with drama as well as poignant lessons. God’s demonstrations of power aimed both at the Egyptian Pharaoh, who was notoriously stubborn, and at the Israelites, to affirm their faith and right to freedom. These plagues escalate in severity—from water turning to blood to a devastating darkness that lasted three days—each showcasing various aspects of Divine authority and justice.

What’s intriguing here is the cultural context. Under Ancient Egyptian beliefs, various gods were associated with many elements of nature; each plague can be seen as a challenge to these deities. For instance, God transforming the Nile into blood showed His superiority over Hapi, the god of the Nile, while the locusts dismantled the agricultural prowess attributed to the goddess Serqet—both sending a solid message: God is the ultimate ruler!

As we follow Moses through these epic encounters, the tenacity of the Israelites shines through, too. Have you ever pondered what it must have been like for them? Facing both physical and emotional struggle while watching their oppressors defiantly withstand the obvious signs of divine intervention! By the tenth and final plague—the death of the firstborn—the theme of sacrifice becomes paramount, hinting at the greater narrative of redemption that weaves through the scriptures and echoes through generations. This story not only demonstrates God's might but also sets the stage for profound themes of liberation and hope in the human experience.