Exodus 14:10 - When Pharaoh came near, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians were marching after them; and they were very afraid. The children of Israel cried out to Yahweh.

Generated Verse: Exodus 14:10

What does "Exodus 14:10" mean?


Exodus 14:10 describes a pivotal moment of crisis for the Israelites during their escape from Egypt. Here's a breakdown of the verse's meaning:

"When Pharaoh came near..." This sets the scene. The Israelites are on the move, fleeing slavery, and Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, has changed his mind about letting them go and is pursuing them with his army. The "coming near" signifies the imminent threat of recapture and potential slaughter.

"...the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians were marching after them..." The Israelites finally realize the extent of their peril. They look back and see the full force of the Egyptian army bearing down on them. The word "behold" emphasizes the shocking and terrifying nature of the sight.

"...and they were very afraid." This is a natural human reaction. They are trapped, with the sea in front of them and a powerful army behind. They are likely untrained in warfare and lack the resources to defend themselves.

"The children of Israel cried out to Yahweh." In their desperation, the Israelites turn to their God, Yahweh (often rendered as LORD in English translations). This cry is a plea for help, a recognition of their powerlessness, and an appeal to the God who promised to deliver them. It also shows the very beginning of faith. In the face of absolute danger, they do not turn to their own strength, or to some other potential solution, but turn to God.

In summary, the verse illustrates:

The escalating tension and sense of impending doom.
The vulnerable and seemingly hopeless situation of the Israelites.
Their fear and desperation.
Their reliance on God in a moment of crisis, marking an early expression of their faith.

This verse is crucial because it sets the stage for the dramatic intervention of God in the following verses, where He parts the Red Sea and allows the Israelites to escape while destroying the Egyptian army. It highlights the power of God in rescuing His people from impossible situations and their own reliance on Him, as well as demonstrating their early faith journey, and the beginning of their reliance on God in times of desperation.

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