Old Testament
Exodus 15:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The depths covered them; they sank to the bottom like a stone.
Compare translations
The depths have covered them: they sank into the bottom as a stone.
What Exodus 15:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a powerful image of defeat. The depths of the sea overwhelmed the enemies, and they sank down like a heavy stone. This illustrates the totality of their loss and the might of the forces against them. The sea, often seen as chaotic and dangerous, becomes a symbol of judgment. The imagery evokes a sense of finality, showing that there was no escape for those who opposed. It reminds us that sometimes, what seems insurmountable can lead to a dramatic downfall. The comparison to a stone emphasizes the weight of their failure and the certainty of their fate. This moment serves as a reminder of the consequences of opposing what is right and just. It highlights the importance of aligning ourselves with truth and righteousness, as the outcome can be dire for those who choose otherwise. The verse encapsulates a moment of triumph for the faithful and a stark warning for those who resist the truth, making it a memorable lesson in the power of divine justice.
How to apply Exodus 15:5 to your life
Reflect on the choices you make and their potential consequences. Align yourself with what is just and true in your life. Remember that actions have weight, and standing for righteousness can lead to victory. Seek to be on the right side of truth in all situations. Your decisions matter greatly in the long run, so choose wisely. “,”chapter_summary_teaser”: “This chapter recounts a moment of victory and celebration after a great deliverance. It highlights the power
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 15:5
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 15:5
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 15:5 mean?
Exodus 15:5 describes the defeat of the enemies of Israel as they are overwhelmed by the sea, illustrating their total loss and the power of divine judgment. The imagery of sinking like a stone emphasizes the finality of their fate.
What is the significance of the phrase 'they sank to the bottom like a stone' in Exodus 15:5?
The phrase 'they sank to the bottom like a stone' signifies the absolute defeat and helplessness of the enemies. It conveys a strong image of their downfall, highlighting the consequences of opposing God's will.
How does Exodus 15:5 relate to themes of judgment and triumph?
Exodus 15:5 encapsulates themes of judgment by showing the fate of those who oppose God, while also celebrating the triumph of the Israelites. It illustrates the consequences of actions and the victory that comes from standing for what is right.
What lesson can we learn from Exodus 15:5?
From Exodus 15:5, we learn that our choices have significant consequences, and aligning with truth and righteousness is crucial. The verse serves as a warning against opposing justice and a reminder of the potential for victory when we stand firm in our beliefs.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.