Old Testament
Exodus 15:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For Pharaoh's horses, chariots, and horsemen went into the sea, and the LORD brought the waters of the sea back over them. But the children of Israel walked on dry ground in the middle of the sea.
Compare translations
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.
What Exodus 15:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, we see a dramatic contrast between the fate of Pharaoh's army and the Israelites. Pharaoh's horses and chariots plunged into the sea, but the waters returned, drowning them. Meanwhile, the Israelites walked safely on dry ground, a miraculous escape from danger. This event highlights the power of the LORD, who protects His people. The sea, once a barrier, became a pathway for the Israelites, demonstrating that what seems impossible can become possible with faith. The imagery of the waters crashing back over Pharaoh's forces serves as a reminder of the consequences of pursuing evil. The Israelites' safe passage symbolizes hope and deliverance, showing that even in dire situations, there is a way out. This story encourages us to trust in a higher power during our struggles, knowing that we can find safety and freedom, just as the Israelites did. It’s a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our battles, and that faith can lead us through the toughest times.
How to apply Exodus 15:19 to your life
When facing challenges, remember that there is always a way through. Trust in your ability to overcome obstacles, just as the Israelites did. Seek support from your community and stay hopeful, knowing that you can find a path to safety and freedom in difficult times. Your faith can guide you forward, even when the way seems blocked. Embrace the journey ahead with courage and confidence, believing in the possibilities that lie before you.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Song of the Sea (Exodus 15:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Exodus 15:19
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Exodus 15:19
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 15:19 mean?
Exodus 15:19 describes the moment when Pharaoh's army pursued the Israelites into the sea, only to be drowned as the waters returned. It highlights the contrast between the fate of the oppressors and the miraculous deliverance of God's people.
What is the significance of the dry ground in Exodus 15:19?
The dry ground symbolizes God's miraculous provision for the Israelites, allowing them to escape danger safely. It emphasizes that God can turn obstacles into pathways for deliverance.
What does the phrase 'the LORD brought the waters of the sea back over them' mean?
This phrase indicates that God actively intervened to protect the Israelites by causing the sea to return and drown Pharaoh's army, showcasing His power over nature and His commitment to safeguarding His people.
How does Exodus 15:19 relate to themes of hope and faith?
This verse exemplifies hope and faith by showing that even in dire situations, God provides a way out. The Israelites' safe passage through the sea encourages believers to trust in God's ability to deliver them from challenges.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.