Exodus 14:23

ESV The Egyptians pursued and went in after them into the midst of the sea, all Pharaoh 's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.

NIV The Egyptians pursued them, and all Pharaoh’s horses and chariots and horsemen followed them into the sea.

NASB Then the Egyptians took up the pursuit, and all Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots, and his horsemen went in after them into the midst of the sea.

CSB The Egyptians set out in pursuit—all Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots, and his horsemen—and went into the sea after them.

NLT Then the Egyptians — all of Pharaoh’s horses, chariots, and charioteers — chased them into the middle of the sea.

KJV 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.

NKJV And the Egyptians pursued and went after them into the midst of the sea, all Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.

What does Exodus 14:23 mean?

Israel left Egyptian slavery (Exodus 12:40–41) and was commanded to camp on the seashore (Exodus 14:1–2). There, they were trapped by the pursuing Egyptian army (Exodus 14:8–9). But God blocked the army's advance (Exodus 14:19–20) and then miraculously made the waters of the sea split, like walls, opening a path for Israel to cross (Exodus 14:21–22). As part of this, the Lord also dried the seabed so the people could travel.

As the nation crosses during the night, the Egyptians see the dry ground between the walls of water. With God's protective pillar (Exodus 14:24) marking the rear of the Israelite procession, there is now an open corridor. Rather than admitting defeat, Egypt's king, the pharaoh (Exodus 14:5–7), will make the reckless choice to follow. This blunder is part of the Lord's judgment. After repeatedly defying God (Proverbs 29:1), Pharaoh is being used as an illustration of divine wrath (Exodus 10:1–2; 14:8). The soldiers following Pharaoh are hardened, as well (Exodus 14:17).

None of those who pursue Israel into the sea will survive (Exodus 14:28). This group most likely includes Pharaoh.

Expand

What is the Gospel?

Download the app: