Old Testament
Exodus 14:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and at dawn, the sea returned to its full strength. The Egyptians fled into it, and the LORD overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.
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And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to his strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and the LORD overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.
What Exodus 14:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Moses raises his hand over the sea, signaling a powerful act of faith. As dawn breaks, the waters return to their original state, revealing the might of nature and divine intervention. The Egyptians, in their desperation, attempt to escape into the sea, but they are met with disaster. The Lord intervenes decisively, causing the waters to engulf the pursuing army. This event highlights the struggle between freedom and oppression, showcasing how faith can lead to miraculous outcomes. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming odds, help can come from unexpected places. The story emphasizes the importance of trust in a higher power during challenging times, illustrating that liberation often requires courage and belief. Ultimately, this passage invites us to reflect on our own battles and the forces that seek to hold us back, encouraging us to seek strength and guidance in our own lives as we navigate through difficulties and uncertainties.
How to apply Exodus 14:27 to your life
When facing challenges, remember that faith can lead to unexpected solutions. Just as Moses trusted in a higher power, we too can find strength in our beliefs. Embrace courage in difficult times, and seek support from those around you. Trust that help can come when you least expect it, guiding you toward freedom and resolution. Stay hopeful and resilient in your journey forward, knowing that you are not alone in your struggles.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Crossing the Red Sea (Exodus 14:1–31)
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Moses
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying Exodus 14:27
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 14:27 mean?
Exodus 14:27 describes the moment when Moses raises his hand over the sea, causing the waters to return and engulf the pursuing Egyptians. This act symbolizes divine intervention and the power of faith, illustrating how trust in God can lead to miraculous outcomes.
What is the significance of Moses stretching out his hand in Exodus 14:27?
Moses stretching out his hand signifies a pivotal moment of faith and obedience to God. It represents the authority given to him by God to command nature, leading to the deliverance of the Israelites and the destruction of their oppressors.
What happens to the Egyptians in Exodus 14:27?
In Exodus 14:27, the Egyptians attempt to flee into the returning waters of the sea, but they are ultimately overthrown by the Lord as the waters engulf them. This event marks a decisive victory for the Israelites and a demonstration of God's power.
What themes are present in Exodus 14:27?
Exodus 14:27 highlights themes of faith, divine intervention, freedom, and courage. It illustrates the struggle against oppression and the importance of trusting in a higher power during challenging times.
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