Overview
Exodus 8 describes the second, third, and fourth plagues that God sends upon Egypt as part of His plan to free the Israelites. The chapter begins with the plague of frogs, where Aaron stretches his hand over the waters of Egypt, causing a massive infestation of frogs that invade the Egyptians' homes and lives. Pharaoh, troubled by this plague, promises to let the Israelites go in exchange for relief, but once the frogs die, he hardens his heart and breaks his promise.
God then instructs Moses to bring forth the third plague without warning: gnats, which arise from the dust and afflict both people and animals. The Egyptian magicians, unable to replicate this plague, acknowledge it as "the finger of God," but Pharaoh remains unmoved.
The fourth plague involves swarms of flies infesting only the Egyptian territories, while the Israelite land of Goshen is spared, demonstrating God's ability to distinguish between His people and the Egyptians. Pharaoh again agrees to let the Israelites go, only to retract his promise once the plague is lifted. This pattern of stubbornness despite overwhelming signs continues to set the stage for the subsequent plagues and the ultimate deliverance of the Israelites.