Old Testament
Exodus 14:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
As the Israelites faced the approaching Egyptians, fear gripped their hearts.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up and saw the Egyptians marching after them, and they were very afraid. The Israelites cried out to the LORD.
And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians marched after them; and they were sore afraid: and the children of Israel cried out unto the LORD.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
As the Israelites faced the approaching Egyptians, fear gripped their hearts. They had just escaped slavery, but now they found themselves trapped between the Red Sea and their former captors. Panic set in as they realized the danger they were in. In their desperation, they looked up and cried out to the LORD for help. This moment highlights the human instinct to seek divine assistance in times of crisis. The Israelites' fear was palpable, but their response was to turn to God, showing their reliance on Him. This scene illustrates the tension between fear and faith, as they stood on the brink of a miraculous deliverance. Their cry was not just a plea for help; it was an acknowledgment of their need for divine intervention. In the face of overwhelming odds, they chose to reach out to the one who could save them, setting the stage for a powerful act of salvation that would change their lives forever. This moment serves as a reminder that even in our darkest times, we can call out to God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Exodus 14:10 to your life
When faced with overwhelming challenges, remember that it's okay to feel afraid. Instead of letting fear paralyze you, reach out for help. Just like the Israelites, you can turn to God in your moments of need. Trust that there is a way forward, even when it seems impossible. Your cries for help can lead to unexpected solutions and strength you didn't know you had.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 14:10 mean?
Exodus 14:10 describes the moment when the Israelites, seeing the Egyptians pursuing them, were filled with fear and cried out to the LORD for help. This verse highlights their desperation and the instinct to seek divine assistance in a crisis.
What is the significance of the Israelites crying out to the LORD in Exodus 14:10?
The Israelites' cry to the LORD in Exodus 14:10 signifies their recognition of their need for divine intervention in a dire situation. It reflects a moment of vulnerability and the human tendency to seek help from a higher power when faced with overwhelming fear.
What does the phrase 'sore afraid' in Exodus 14:10 mean?
The phrase 'sore afraid' in Exodus 14:10 indicates that the Israelites were extremely frightened as they faced the Egyptians. It emphasizes the intensity of their fear in a moment of imminent danger.
How can Exodus 14:10 apply to my life today?
Exodus 14:10 teaches that it is natural to feel afraid in challenging situations, but it encourages turning to God for help. This verse reminds us that reaching out for divine assistance can lead to strength and solutions when we feel trapped.

The Book of Exodus
Exodus 1: Israel's Oppression in Egypt
The sons of Israel settle in Egypt, and their families grow rapidly until the land is filled with them. A new Pharaoh arises who does not know Joseph and fears that the Israelites will join Egypt's enemies if war comes, so he places them under harsh labor and forces them to build the store cities Pithom and Raamses. The more they are oppressed, the more they multiply, which increases Egyptian fear. Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every male child at birth, but they fear God and let the boys live. When Pharaoh confronts them, they say the Hebrew women deliver before the midwives arrive, and God blesses the midwives with households. Pharaoh then commands all his people to cast every Hebrew son into the river while allowing the daughters to live.
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