Exodus 14:21

KJV

¶ And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go [back] by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry [land], and the waters were divided.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses {H4872} stretched out {H5186} his hand {H3027} over the sea {H3220}; and the LORD {H3068} caused the sea {H3220} to go {H3212} back by a strong {H5794} east {H6921} wind {H7307} all that night {H3915}, and made {H7760} the sea {H3220} dry {H2724} land, and the waters {H4325} were divided {H1234}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe reached his hand out over the sea, and ADONAI caused the sea to go back before a strong east wind all night. He made the sea become dry land, and its water was divided in two.

Berean Standard Bible

Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove back the sea with a strong east wind that turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided,

American Standard Version

And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and Jehovah caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all the night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 14:21 powerfully narrates the climactic moment of Israel's deliverance from Egypt, where Moses, in an act of obedient faith, stretched his hand over the Red Sea. In response, the LORD, by a sustained and mighty east wind throughout the entire night, supernaturally caused the vast waters to recede and divide, transforming the seabed into dry ground. This unprecedented miracle forged an escape path for the terrified Israelites, unequivocally demonstrating God's absolute sovereignty over creation and His unwavering, covenantal commitment to redeem and protect His people from bondage.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the pivotal turning point in the dramatic escape narrative of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery. Immediately preceding this, the Israelites found themselves in an utterly desperate and humanly impossible situation, trapped between Pharaoh's formidable pursuing army and the impassable Red Sea. Their initial elation at leaving Egypt quickly turned to panic and despair, leading them to bitterly question Moses' leadership and even express a desire to return to their former bondage in Egypt (see [Exodus 14:10-12](/exodus/14-10-12 "Israel's despair at the Red Sea")). Moses, however, stood firm in faith, boldly declaring that the LORD Himself would fight for them, instructing them to "stand still and see the salvation of the LORD" ([Exodus 14:13-14](/exodus/14-13-14 "Moses' declaration of God's salvation")). Just before Moses stretched out his hand, God had strategically intervened by positioning the [pillar of cloud and fire](/exodus/14-19-20 "The divine pillar separating Israel and Egypt") between the Israelite and Egyptian camps. This divine presence provided guiding light for Israel's journey while simultaneously plunging the Egyptians into darkness and confusion, thus preventing their immediate attack and setting the stage for the miraculous intervention described in [Exodus 14:21](/exodus/14-21 "The parting of the Red Sea"), where God begins to forge a path through the seemingly insurmountable watery barrier.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, large bodies of water like the sea often symbolized chaos, primordial forces, and insurmountable barriers. For the Egyptians, the Nile and the Red Sea were powerful natural entities, and Pharaoh was considered a divine ruler whose authority extended over all aspects of his domain, including nature. His army was perceived as an unstoppable force. God's act of dividing the sea was, therefore, not merely a practical solution for Israel's escape but a profound theological statement and a direct challenge to the perceived might of both nature and Pharaoh. It dramatically demonstrated that Yahweh, the God of Israel, held ultimate and absolute dominion over all creation, including the chaotic waters, and over all earthly powers, including the might of Egypt. This event would have been understood as a cosmic battle, where Yahweh unequivocally proved His supremacy by conquering the very elements that symbolized the limits of human and even pagan divine power, uniquely attributing this ultimate control to the one true God.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 14:21 contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Exodus and the broader biblical narrative. Foremost among these is the theme of **Divine Deliverance and Salvation**. This act is the quintessential example of God's active intervention in history to save His people from oppression and bondage, establishing Him as the ultimate Rescuer. It powerfully underscores God's **Sovereignty and Omnipotence** over all creation, demonstrating His ability to manipulate natural elements—even a "strong east wind" ([Exodus 14:21](/exodus/14-21 "The LORD's use of a strong east wind"))—to achieve His divine purposes. The event also highlights God's **Covenant Faithfulness**, as He delivers on His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to bring their descendants out of Egypt into the promised land ([Genesis 15:13-16](/genesis/15-13-16 "God's covenant with Abraham")). Furthermore, the passage subtly emphasizes the importance of **Human Obedience as a Catalyst for Divine Action**; Moses' stretching out his hand, though a simple physical act, was the direct fulfillment of God's command ([Exodus 14:16](/exodus/14-16 "God commands Moses to stretch out his hand")), unleashing God's mighty power. This miracle also foreshadows future acts of God's power and serves as a foundational narrative for Israel's identity as a people redeemed by Yahweh, a theme echoed throughout the Psalms and prophetic books (e.g., [Psalm 77:16-20](/psalms/77-16-20 "God's mighty acts at the sea")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Exodus 14:21 describes a foundational miracle in Israel's history, profoundly highlighting God's power, faithfulness, and the role of human obedience.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **stretched out (Hebrew, _nâṭâh'_):** From H5186, this primitive root means "to stretch or spread out" and, by implication, "to bend away." It is used in a great variety of applications, including to extend, incline, or turn. In this context, Moses' action of stretching out his hand signifies an obedient response to God's command (cf. [Exodus 14:16](/exodus/14-16 "God commands Moses to stretch out his hand")). It is not an act of inherent power on Moses' part, but rather a symbolic gesture that serves as the human catalyst for God's divine intervention, demonstrating Moses' role as God's chosen instrument.
* **dry (Hebrew, _chârâbâh'_):** From H2724, this feminine noun refers to "a desert" or "dry ground/land." Its use here is crucial, emphasizing the miraculous nature of the path created through the sea. It was not merely shallow or muddy, but completely dry, making it fully passable for a vast multitude, including livestock and children, "all that night." This detail underscores the completeness and supernatural efficacy of God's work, transforming an impassable watery barrier into a solid, traversable land.
* **divided (Hebrew, _bâqaʻ'_):** From H1234, this primitive root means "to cleave; generally, to rend, break, rip or open." It conveys a powerful, decisive, and often violent separation. This verb is used elsewhere for breaking open the ground ([Numbers 16:31](/numbers/16-31 "The earth splits to swallow Korah")), splitting wood, or even a woman giving birth (breaking forth from the womb). Here, it vividly portrays the dramatic, forceful, and complete separation of the water, indicating that the waters were not merely pushed aside but actively and miraculously "split" apart, forming walls on either side. This term highlights the supernatural, extraordinary nature of the event, emphasizing that the waters were not simply receding but were forcefully and decisively cleaved.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea;":** This initial clause describes the human action that initiates the divine miracle. Moses' act is one of direct obedience to God's prior command ([Exodus 14:16](/exodus/14-16 "God commands Moses to stretch out his hand")). It highlights Moses' role as God's chosen mediator and instrument, through whom God's mighty power is channeled. The focus is not on Moses' power, but on his faithful compliance, which unlocks God's intervention.
* **"and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land,":** This is the core of the divine action. The phrase "the LORD caused" directly attributes the power and agency to Yahweh ([H3068](/exodus/14-21 "The LORD's action in dividing the sea")), the personal, covenantal God of Israel. The "strong east wind" is identified as the *means* God employed, not the ultimate cause of the miracle itself. The duration, "all that night," emphasizes the sustained, deliberate, and powerful nature of God's work, far beyond any natural phenomenon. The result, "dry land," is crucial, indicating that the path was not muddy or treacherous, but miraculously prepared for the passage of a vast multitude, ensuring their safe transit.
* **"and the waters were divided.":** This final, succinct phrase describes the miraculous outcome and climax of the divine intervention. The waters, previously an impassable and terrifying barrier, are now supernaturally "split" apart ([H1234](/exodus/14-21 "The waters were divided")), forming walls of water on either side. This is the impossible made possible, a clear demonstration of God's absolute dominion over creation and His unparalleled power to deliver His people.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of Exodus 14:21 masterfully employs several literary devices to enhance its impact and convey its theological significance. A clear **cause-and-effect structure** is evident, where Moses' obedient act of stretching out his hand (the cause) directly precipitates God's miraculous intervention (the effect). The detail of the "strong east wind all that night" utilizes **descriptive imagery** to convey the sustained, overwhelming power and effort involved in God's work, even as it highlights the supernatural outcome that transcends natural capabilities. The profound **contrast** between the "sea" (representing an impassable, life-threatening barrier) and the transformed "dry land" (representing a safe, life-giving path) dramatically underscores the magnitude of the miracle and God's awe-inspiring ability to transform impossible situations into avenues of salvation. Furthermore, the use of the Hebrew verb *bâqaʻ* (translated as "divided") is a powerful example of **vivid verb choice**, painting a dynamic and forceful picture of the waters being dramatically cleaved rather than merely receding, emphasizing the decisive and supernatural nature of God's action.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 14:21 is a foundational text revealing several profound theological truths about God and His relationship with humanity. Primarily, it showcases God's **absolute sovereignty and omnipotence** over all creation, demonstrating His unparalleled ability to manipulate natural elements—even a "strong east wind"—to achieve His divine purposes. This event definitively establishes Him as the ultimate **Deliverer and Rescuer**, actively intervening in human history to save His people from oppression and bondage. It underscores His unwavering **faithfulness to His covenant promises**, as He delivers on His word to bring Israel out of Egypt into the promised land. Furthermore, the passage highlights the importance of **human obedience** as a catalyst for divine action; Moses' stretching out his hand, though seemingly simple, was the obedient act that God commanded to unleash His power. This event is a central theme throughout the biblical narrative, often referenced as the quintessential act of God's salvation, serving as the prototype of divine deliverance and a powerful reminder that God can make a way where there seems to be no way.

* [Isaiah 43:16](/isaiah/43-16 "God making a way in the sea"): "Thus says the LORD, who makes a way in the sea, and a path in the mighty waters."
* [Psalm 77:19-20](/psalms/77-19-20 "God's path through the sea"): "Your way was through the sea, your path through the great waters; yet your footprints were unseen. You led your people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron."
* [Hebrews 11:29](/hebrews/11-29 "By faith they passed through the Red Sea"): "By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 14:21 offers profound and enduring encouragement for believers facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles in their lives today. Just as God cleared an impossible path through the formidable Red Sea for Israel, He remains capable of making a way through our personal "Red Seas"—whether they manifest as overwhelming financial crises, deeply fractured relationship breakdowns, debilitating health challenges, or intense spiritual battles. This verse calls us to transcend despair and to place our unwavering trust in God's immense power and His steadfast commitment to His people. It serves as a powerful reminder that our role, much like Moses', is often one of simple, faithful obedience, even when the full outcome or the precise path ahead is not yet visible. God often works through both dramatic, supernatural intervention and sustained, "wind-like" processes that unfold over time, teaching us patience, perseverance, and absolute reliance on His perfect timing and methods. Ultimately, this foundational narrative reassures us that God is not a distant deity but is actively and intimately involved in our lives, always faithful to deliver us from bondage and lead us to true freedom and flourishing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Red Sea" or seemingly impossible situation are you currently facing, and how does the account of [Exodus 14:21](/exodus/14-21 "The Red Sea divided") encourage you to trust God's power and provision in that specific circumstance?**
* **God used a "strong east wind" over "all that night" to part the sea. How does God's use of both natural means and sustained effort in this miracle challenge or affirm your understanding of how He works in your life, especially when answers don't come instantly?**
* **In what area of your life is God calling you to an act of simple obedience, like Moses stretching out his hand, even when you cannot see the full path ahead or understand how He will bring about His purposes?**

### FAQ
**Did God use a natural phenomenon or a pure miracle to part the Red Sea?**

Answer: The text states that the LORD "caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night." This indicates that God utilized a natural phenomenon (a powerful wind) as His instrument. However, the *effect* of this wind—creating two walls of water and transforming the seabed into completely dry land for an entire nation to cross—goes far beyond what any natural wind, no matter how strong, could achieve. It was a supernatural miracle *accomplished through* natural means, demonstrating God's complete sovereignty over creation. He is able to command, sustain, and direct natural forces to perform His will in ways that defy natural explanation. It was not merely a convenient coincidence of nature, but a deliberate act of divine power.

**Why did God wait until the Israelites were trapped between the sea and the Egyptians?**

Answer: God often orchestrates circumstances to allow His people to reach a point of apparent impossibility or utter helplessness. By allowing the Israelites to be utterly trapped between Pharaoh's army and the Red Sea, God ensured that His deliverance would be undeniably miraculous and that there would be no doubt that it was His hand, not human strategy, strength, or luck, that saved them. This heightened the impact of the miracle, solidified Israel's trust in Him as their sole deliverer, and served as a powerful judgment against Pharaoh and the false gods of Egypt. It was a strategic display of divine power designed to instill awe, faith, and a lasting testimony of His redemptive might, not only for Israel but for all future generations.

**Is the story of the Red Sea crossing meant to be taken literally?**

Answer: Yes, within the biblical narrative, the Red Sea crossing is presented as a literal, historical event. It is foundational to Israel's identity as a nation supernaturally delivered by God and is frequently referenced throughout the Old and New Testaments as a real, tangible act of God's salvation. For instance, the psalmist recounts it as a historical event ([Psalm 106:9-11](/psalms/106-9-11 "God rebukes the Red Sea")), and the prophet Isaiah looks back to it as a precedent for future deliverance ([Isaiah 66:11-13](/isaiah/66-11-13 "God's leading through the deep")). Most notably, the New Testament book of Hebrews explicitly affirms it as an act accomplished "by faith" ([Hebrews 11:29](/hebrews/11-29 "By faith they passed through the Red Sea")). While the precise geographical location of the crossing is a subject of ongoing scholarly debate, the biblical text consistently treats the event itself as a historical reality where God supernaturally intervened in the physical world.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Red Sea crossing, as described in [Exodus 14:21](/exodus/14-21 "The Red Sea divided"), stands as a profound theological **type** and a glorious foreshadowing of the greater, ultimate deliverance found in Jesus Christ. Just as God made an impossible way through the impassable waters to deliver Israel from physical slavery, judgment, and death, Jesus Christ, through His perfect life, atoning death on the cross, and victorious resurrection, provides the ultimate "way" through the impassable barrier of sin, spiritual death, and eternal judgment, leading humanity to true and eternal freedom. The Apostle Paul explicitly connects the Red Sea crossing to Christian baptism, calling it a "baptism into Moses in the cloud and in the sea" ([1 Corinthians 10:1-2](/1_corinthians/10-1-2 "Israel's baptism in the cloud and sea")). This powerful typology highlights that just as Israel passed through the waters from a life of bondage to a new life of freedom and covenant relationship with God, believers pass through the waters of baptism, symbolizing their death to an old life dominated by sin and their resurrection to a new life in union with Christ ([Romans 6:3-4](/romans/6-3-4 "Baptism into Christ's death and resurrection")). Furthermore, Jesus demonstrates an even greater, inherent authority over nature than Moses. While Moses acted as God's instrument, commanding a wind for an entire night, Jesus, as God incarnate, displays His own divine power by simply [calming a violent storm with a single word](/mark/4-39 "Jesus rebukes the wind and sea") ([Mark 4:39](/mark/4-39 "Jesus calms the storm")). This showcases His intrinsic deity and supreme dominion over creation. The miraculous "dry land" path through the sea prefigures Christ as [the Way](/john/14-6 "Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life") ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "Jesus is the only way to the Father")), the exclusive means by which humanity can cross from the domain of spiritual darkness and death into the glorious kingdom of light and eternal life. The Exodus, culminating in the Red Sea deliverance, is the Old Testament's grand narrative of salvation, and it finds its ultimate fulfillment, amplification, and eternal significance in the new exodus accomplished by Jesus Christ, who delivers us not merely from an earthly Pharaoh, but from the eternal power of sin, death, and the grave itself.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 63:12

That led [them] by the right hand of Moses with his glorious arm, dividing the water before them, to make himself an everlasting name?

Exodus 15:8

And with the blast of thy nostrils the waters were gathered together, the floods stood upright as an heap, [and] the depths were congealed in the heart of the sea.

Psalms 66:6

He turned the sea into dry [land]: they went through the flood on foot: there did we rejoice in him.

Joshua 4:23

For the LORD your God dried up the waters of Jordan from before you, until ye were passed over, as the LORD your God did to the Red sea, which he dried up from before us, until we were gone over:

Psalms 78:13

He divided the sea, and caused them to pass through; and he made the waters to stand as an heap.

Nehemiah 9:11

And thou didst divide the sea before them, so that they went through the midst of the sea on the dry land; and their persecutors thou threwest into the deeps, as a stone into the mighty waters.

Isaiah 51:10

[Art] thou not it which hath dried the sea, the waters of the great deep; that hath made the depths of the sea a way for the ransomed to pass over?