„Palec to Boży” (Wj 8,15ab). Dlaczego palec a nie ręka?

Abstract

This paper presents an interpretation of the statement of the Egyptian magicians, often neglected in standard commentaries: «This is the finger of God» (Ex 8,15). This comes after the third plague (gnats), and after the magicians' failed attempt to copy it. The expression «finger of God» describes the situation which has come about. «Finger» is used rather than «hand», the latter term denoting general instrumentality, as opposed to detailed and direct activity, especially in reference to God. The term „finger” in the mouth of the magicians indicates that a concrete situation is in view, a situation caused through the direct activity of a god, and that the situation has an instructive function. The instruction is addressed to Pharaoh. He has to understand that Moses is sent by the God YHWH who is present in Egypt, and that there is no one like Him.