And he hardened Pharaoh's heart,.... Or, "notwithstanding the heart of Pharaoh was hardened" (a); though he saw the rods of his magicians devoured by rod; or "therefore" (b) his heart was hardened, because he saw that the rods of his magicians became serpents as well as Aaron's; in which there was a deception of sight, and which was suffered for the hardening of his heart, there being other wonders and miracles to be wrought, for showing forth the divine power, before Israel must be let go: that he hearkened not unto them; to Moses and Aaron, and comply with their demand, to dismiss the people of Israel: as the Lord had said; or foretold he would not. (a) "attamen obfirmatum est", Junius & Tremellius. (b) "Itaque", Piscator.