Exodus 15:19

KJV

For the horse of Pharaoh went in with his chariots and with his horsemen into the sea, and the LORD brought again the waters of the sea upon them; but the children of Israel went on dry [land] in the midst of the sea.

KJV (with Strong's)

For the horse {H5483} of Pharaoh {H6547} went in {H935} with his chariots {H7393} and with his horsemen {H6571} into the sea {H3220}, and the LORD {H3068} brought again {H7725} the waters {H4325} of the sea {H3220} upon them; but the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} went {H1980} on dry {H3004} land in the midst {H8432} of the sea {H3220}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the horses of Pharaoh went with his chariots and with his cavalry into the sea, but ADONAI brought the sea waters back upon them, while the people of Isra'el walked on dry land in the midst of the sea!"

Berean Standard Bible

For when Pharaoh’s horses, chariots, and horsemen went into the sea, the LORD brought the waters of the sea back over them. But the Israelites walked through the sea on dry ground.

American Standard Version

For the horses of Pharaoh went in with his chariots and with his horsemen into the sea, and Jehovah brought back the waters of the sea upon them; but the children of Israel walked on dry land in the midst of the sea.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 15:19 serves as a powerful, concise summary within the triumphant "Song of Moses," encapsulating the dramatic and decisive conclusion of the Red Sea miracle. It starkly contrasts the complete annihilation of Pharaoh's formidable army, engulfed by the returning waters at the LORD's command, with the miraculous and safe passage of the children of Israel across the seabed on dry ground. This verse stands as an enduring testament to God's unparalleled power, His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people, and His righteous judgment against their oppressors.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse acts as a concluding summary to the "Song of Moses" ([Exodus 15:1-18](/exodus/15-1-18 "Exodus 15:1-18 - The Song of Moses")), a profound hymn of praise and thanksgiving sung by the Israelites immediately after their miraculous escape from Egyptian bondage and the destruction of Pharaoh's army. The preceding chapter, [Exodus 14](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - The Red Sea Crossing"), provides the detailed narrative of the Red Sea crossing, describing how God parted the waters, allowed Israel to pass through on dry ground, and then caused the waters to return, drowning the pursuing Egyptians. [Exodus 15:19](/exodus/15-19 "Exodus 15:19 - Summary of the Red Sea Miracle") distills the essence of this pivotal event into a single, declarative statement, reinforcing the theological message of divine victory and deliverance that permeates the entire song. It serves as an emphatic capstone, solidifying the truth of God's intervention before the narrative continues with Miriam's responsive song and the subsequent journey through the wilderness.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described in [Exodus 15:19](/exodus/15-19 "Exodus 15:19 - Summary of the Red Sea Miracle") occurred at a critical juncture in Israel's history, marking their definitive liberation from centuries of Egyptian slavery. Pharaoh, despite witnessing ten devastating plagues, remained hardened in his heart, refusing to let God's people go. His decision to pursue the Israelites with his elite military—comprising the most advanced chariots and horsemen of the ancient world—demonstrated his hubris and contempt for the God of Israel. The Red Sea, a formidable natural barrier, represented an insurmountable obstacle for the fleeing, unarmed Israelites. God's act of parting the sea and then bringing the waters back was not merely a natural phenomenon but a profound display of divine power that utterly humiliated Egypt's military might and its gods, who were believed to control natural forces. This event established YHWH as the supreme, sovereign God, the deliverer of His people, and the righteous judge of His oppressors, forever shaping Israel's identity as a nation redeemed by a mighty hand. The memory of this deliverance would become a foundational narrative, frequently referenced throughout Israel's history as a reminder of God's faithfulness and power to [save His people from their enemies](/psalms/106-10 "Psalm 106:10 - God Saved Them from Their Enemies").
* **Key Themes:** [Exodus 15:19](/exodus/15-19 "Exodus 15:19 - Summary of the Red Sea Miracle") powerfully encapsulates several core theological themes. Foremost is the **Sovereignty and Power of God**, demonstrated by His absolute control over creation, manipulating the sea to achieve His purposes of judgment and salvation. This event also highlights God's unwavering **Covenant Faithfulness** to His people, Israel, as He delivers them precisely as He promised. Furthermore, it showcases God's **Justice and Judgment** against those who oppose Him and oppress the innocent, as seen in the complete destruction of Pharaoh's army. The Red Sea crossing is a foundational narrative for Israel, establishing YHWH as the unique and supreme Deliverer, a theme that resonates throughout the Old Testament (e.g., [Psalm 77:19-20](/psalms/77-19-20 "Psalm 77:19-20 - God's Path Through the Sea")). It underscores that deliverance from bondage and the defeat of seemingly invincible enemies are God's prerogative, not dependent on human strength or strategy.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **brought again (Hebrew, _shûwb'_):** This verb (H7725) signifies "to turn back," "to return," or "to cause to return." Its use here is crucial, emphasizing that the waters did not merely recede naturally or close by chance. Instead, the LORD actively and deliberately caused them to return to their normal course, specifically "upon them"—the Egyptian army. This highlights God's direct, personal, and sovereign intervention in the natural world to execute His judgment and fulfill His purposes. It underscores that the miracle was not passive but an intentional act of divine power, a reversal of the previous miraculous parting.
* **dry (Hebrew, _yabbâshâh'_):** This term (H3004) refers to "dry ground" or "dry land," contrasting sharply with the surrounding "sea." Its inclusion emphasizes the supernatural nature of Israel's passage. It was not merely shallow water or a muddy path, but truly dry ground, enabling the vast multitude of Israelites, their livestock, and possessions to cross safely and efficiently. This miraculous detail underscores God's meticulous provision and His absolute control over creation, ensuring the complete safety and deliverance of His people while simultaneously preparing the trap for their pursuers.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This sacred name (H3068) refers to "the self-Existent or Eternal," Jehovah, the Jewish national name of God. Its explicit mention as the subject of the action ("the LORD brought again") is paramount. It unequivocally identifies the divine agent behind the miracle, emphasizing His personal involvement, His covenant relationship with Israel, and His unique power as the one true God. This name underscores His eternal nature and His active presence in history, distinguishing Him from the impotent gods of Egypt.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the horse of Pharaoh went in with his chariots and with his horsemen into the sea":** This clause vividly depicts the relentless pursuit of the Egyptian army. "The horse of Pharaoh," along with "his chariots and with his horsemen," represents the full might and pride of the world's most formidable military power at that time. Their entry "into the sea" signifies their arrogant confidence in overcoming any obstacle, their determination to re-enslave the Israelites, and their fatal misjudgment of God's power. They entered the very path God had miraculously opened, unknowingly stepping into their own watery grave, driven by their hardened hearts and defiance.
* **"and the LORD brought again the waters of the sea upon them":** This is the pivotal moment of divine intervention and judgment. The subject is explicitly "the LORD" (YHWH), underscoring His direct and active role. He "brought again the waters," indicating a deliberate, controlled, and powerful act of reversal. The waters did not merely close; they were commanded by God to return "upon them"—the entire Egyptian military force. This act sealed their destruction, demonstrating God's absolute sovereignty over creation and His righteous wrath against those who defy Him and oppress His chosen people, executing His promised judgment.
* **"but the children of Israel went on dry [land] in the midst of the sea":** This final clause provides a stark and powerful contrast, highlighting God's discriminatory salvation. While their enemies were engulfed, the "children of Israel" continued their journey "on dry [land]," emphasizing the complete safety and miraculous nature of their passage. The phrase "in the midst of the sea" reinforces the extraordinary nature of the event—they were surrounded by what should have been a deadly barrier, yet they walked through it as if on solid ground. This contrast magnificently illustrates God's faithfulness to His covenant and His power to deliver His people from utterly impossible situations, securing their freedom.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 15:19 is rich in literary devices that amplify its message and underscore its theological significance. The most prominent is **Contrast**, which is central to the verse's impact. The destructive fate of Pharaoh's army (drowning in the sea) is set in direct opposition to the miraculous and safe passage of the Israelites (walking on dry land in the midst of the sea). This stark juxtaposition powerfully highlights God's selective judgment and salvation, demonstrating His distinct dealings with His enemies versus His chosen people. **Repetition** is also employed, with the repeated mention of "horse," "chariots," and "horsemen" in relation to Pharaoh's army. This emphasizes the overwhelming military might of the Egyptians, thereby magnifying the miraculous nature of God's victory over such a formidable force. The verse also showcases clear **Divine Agency**, explicitly stating "the LORD brought again the waters." This direct attribution to God underscores His active, intentional, and sovereign control over the natural world and the course of human history, leaving no doubt about the source of this miraculous deliverance and judgment. Finally, the imagery itself is a form of **Symbolism**, where the sea represents an insurmountable barrier and a place of death for the Egyptians, while for Israel, it becomes a path to freedom and new life, symbolizing God's ability to transform obstacles into avenues of salvation and to use the very instruments of destruction against His foes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 15:19 powerfully encapsulates several core theological themes: the absolute **Sovereignty and Power of God** over creation and human affairs, His unwavering **Covenant Faithfulness** to His people, and His righteous **Justice and Judgment** against those who oppose Him and oppress the innocent. The Red Sea event is a foundational narrative demonstrating that YHWH is not merely a tribal deity but the Lord of all creation, capable of manipulating natural elements to achieve His redemptive purposes. It underscores that deliverance from bondage and the defeat of seemingly invincible enemies are God's prerogative, not dependent on human strength or strategy. This event solidifies Israel's identity as a people redeemed by divine power, establishing a precedent for God's future interventions on their behalf throughout their history.

* [Exodus 14:28](/exodus/14-28 "Exodus 14:28 - Not One of Them Remained")
* [Psalm 77:19-20](/psalms/77-19-20 "Psalm 77:19-20 - Your Path Through the Mighty Waters")
* [Isaiah 43:16](/isaiah/43-16 "Isaiah 43:16 - Making a Way in the Sea")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 15:19 offers profound lessons for believers today, reminding us that the God who parted the Red Sea remains active and powerful in our lives. This verse calls us to trust in God's sovereign ability to deliver us from seemingly impossible situations, whether they are personal struggles, spiritual battles, or societal injustices. Just as He made a way through the sea for Israel, He can create a path for us where none seems to exist, transforming our greatest obstacles into opportunities for His glory. It also reminds us that God is a righteous judge who will ultimately bring justice to those who oppress and defy Him, offering comfort and assurance to those who suffer under injustice. We are called to remember His past faithfulness, allowing it to fuel our hope and courage in the face of present challenges, knowing that His power and love for His people are unchanging. This divine act serves as a powerful anchor for our faith, assuring us that no enemy is too strong and no circumstance too dire for the God who commands the seas.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the stark contrast in this verse encourage our faith in God's ability to deliver us from seemingly impossible situations?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to trust God to "make a way through the sea," believing in His sovereign power to act on your behalf?**
* **What does this event teach us about the certainty of divine justice against those who oppose God and oppress His people, and how does this bring you comfort or challenge?**

### FAQ
**Why is this verse included as a summary at the end of the "Song of Moses" rather than just in the narrative of Exodus 14?**

Answer: Exodus 15:19 serves as a theological and poetic summary, reinforcing the core message of divine victory and deliverance that the "Song of Moses" celebrates. While [Exodus 14](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - The Red Sea Crossing") provides the detailed narrative, [Exodus 15:19](/exodus/15-19 "Exodus 15:19 - Summary of the Red Sea Miracle") functions as a concise, declarative statement of truth, emphasizing God's direct agency ("the LORD brought again") and the complete contrast in outcomes for Israel and Egypt. It acts as a powerful capstone to the hymn, ensuring that the theological implications of the Red Sea event—God's power, justice, and faithfulness—are clearly articulated and remembered, moving beyond mere historical recounting to profound theological affirmation. It encapsulates the [reason for the song itself](/exodus/15-1 "Exodus 15:1 - The Song of Moses").

**What is the significance of "dry land" in this context?**

Answer: The mention of "dry land" (Hebrew: _yabbashah_) is crucial for highlighting the miraculous nature of Israel's passage. It emphasizes that God did not merely make the waters shallow or muddy, but created a truly dry, firm path through the very heart of the sea. This detail underscores God's absolute control over creation, demonstrating His ability to suspend natural laws for the sake of His people. It also signifies the complete safety and security of the Israelites, contrasting sharply with the watery destruction of their enemies. This supernatural "dry land" became a symbol of God's unique and [mighty deliverance](/psalms/106-9 "Psalm 106:9 - He Rebuked the Red Sea").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 15:19, with its dramatic portrayal of deliverance through water and the destruction of an oppressive enemy, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Testament. The Red Sea crossing is a powerful type of salvation, foreshadowing the ultimate liberation from the bondage of sin and death accomplished by Jesus Christ. Just as Israel passed through the waters to freedom, believers are united with Christ in His death and resurrection through baptism, passing through the waters of judgment to new life. Paul alludes to this typology, stating that the Israelites "were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea" ([1 Corinthians 10:2](/1_corinthians/10-2 "1 Corinthians 10:2 - Baptized Unto Moses")). Furthermore, the destruction of Pharaoh and his army prefigures Christ's decisive victory over Satan, sin, and death. Pharaoh, as the embodiment of an oppressive power seeking to enslave God's people, mirrors the spiritual enemies that held humanity captive. Christ, through His sacrificial death on the cross and glorious resurrection, has utterly defeated these spiritual foes, disarming them and triumphing over them ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumphing Over Them")). He is the true Deliverer who leads His people through the "sea" of judgment, providing a "dry land" of salvation and eternal life, ensuring that those who trust in Him are forever safe from the destructive power of their spiritual enemies ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Destroying Him Who Has the Power of Death")). The Red Sea miracle, therefore, is not merely a historical event but a vibrant prophetic picture of the greater salvation wrought by the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - The Lamb of God")).

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

Exodus 14:28

And the waters returned, and covered the chariots, and the horsemen, [and] all the host of Pharaoh that came into the sea after them; there remained not so much as one of them.

Exodus 14:29

But the children of Israel walked upon dry [land] in the midst of the sea; and the waters [were] a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left.

Hebrews 11:29

By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry [land]: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.

Exodus 14:22

And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry [ground]: and the waters [were] a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left.

Exodus 14:23

And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them to the midst of the sea, [even] all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.

Proverbs 21:31

The horse [is] prepared against the day of battle: but safety [is] of the LORD.