The Song at the Sea 1Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the LORD: “I will sing to the LORD, for He is highly exalted. The horse and rider 2The LORD is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise Him, my father’s God, and I will exalt Him. 3The LORD is a warrior, 4Pharaoh’s chariots and army He has cast into the sea; the finest of his officers are drowned in the Red Sea.a 5The depths have covered them; 6Your right hand, O LORD, is majestic in power; Your right hand, O LORD, 7You overthrew Your adversaries by Your great majesty. You unleashed Your burning wrath; it consumed them like stubble. 8At the blast of Your nostrils the waters piled up; like a wall the currents stood firm; the depths congealed in the heart of the sea. 9The enemy declared, ‘I will pursue, I will overtake. I will divide the spoils; I will gorge myself on them. I will draw my sword; 10But You blew with Your breath, and the sea covered them. They sank like lead 11Who among the gods is like You, O LORD? Who is like You—majestic in holiness, revered with praises, 12You stretched out Your right hand, and the earth swallowed them up. 13With loving devotionb You will lead the people You have redeemed; with Your strength You will guide them 14The nations will hear and tremble; anguish will grip the dwellers of Philistia. 15Then the chiefs of Edom will be dismayed; trembling will seize the leaders of Moab; those who dwell in Canaan will melt away, 16and terror and dread will fall on them. By the power of Your arm they will be as still as a stone until Your people pass by, O LORD, until the people You have bought pass by. 17You will bring them in and plant them on the mountain of Your inheritance— the place, O LORD, You have prepared for Your dwelling, the sanctuary, O Lord, Your hands have established. 18The LORD will reign forever and ever!” 19For when Pharaoh’s horses, chariots, and horsemen went into the sea, the LORD brought the waters of the sea back over them. But the Israelites walked through the sea on dry ground. 20Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing. 21And Miriam sang back to them: “Sing to the LORD, for He is highly exalted; the horse and rider The Waters of Marah 22Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea, and they went out into the Desert of Shur. For three days they walked in the desert without finding water. 23And when they came to Marah,c they could not drink the water there because it was bitter. (That is why it was named Marah.) 24So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, “What are we to drink?” 25And Moses cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a log. And when he cast it into the waters, they were sweetened. There the LORD made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there He tested them, 26saying, “If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in His eyes, and pay attention to His commands, and keep all His statutes, then I will not bring on you any of the diseases I inflicted on the Egyptians. For I am the LORD who heals you.” 27Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve springs of water and seventy palm trees, and they camped there by the waters. Footnotes: 4 a Or the Sea of Reeds; also in verse 22 13 b Forms of the Hebrew chesed are translated here and in most cases throughout the Scriptures as loving devotion; the range of meaning includes love, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, and mercy, as well as loyalty to a covenant. 23 c Marah means bitter. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Exodus 15 Summary The Song at the SeaVerses 1–3 – The Song Begins Verses 4–6 – Egypt Overthrown Verses 7–10 – The Red Sea Closes Verses 11–13 – God’s Matchless Character Verses 14–18 – Nations Tremble, Israel Secured Verse 19 – A Historical Note Verses 20–21 – Miriam’s Chorus Verses 22–24 – Bitter Water at Marah Verses 25–27 – Sweet Water and Shaded Rest This chapter marks an important journey in the history of the Israelites, filled with divine interventions, victories, challenges, and miracles. After their miraculous escape through the Red Sea, they sang praises to the Lord, who later guided them through their grumbling and thirst in the desert. The bitterness of their circumstances was turned into sweetness, signaling the compassionate and healing nature of God. Historical Setting and Route • The song is sung immediately after crossing the Red Sea (Sea of Reeds). • Pharaoh’s chariot corps, crucial to Egyptian military might, is specifically highlighted, underscoring the LORD’s victory over the greatest power of the day. • The mention of Philistia, Edom, Moab, and Canaan anticipates Israel’s upcoming journey and foreshadows future encounters (Numbers 20–24; Joshua 2). Structure and Poetry of the Song • Two stanzas (vv. 1–12, 13–18) framed by the refrain in vv. 1 and 21. • Parallel lines, repetition (“Right hand… right hand,” vv. 6, 12), and vivid imagery (“waters were congealed,” v. 8) heighten the drama. • Contrast between Israel’s weakness and God’s power drives the song’s message. Names and Titles for God • LORD (YHWH) appears ten times, stressing covenant faithfulness. • “Warrior” (v. 3) shows God as defender; compare Psalm 24:8 and Revelation 19:11. • “Redeemed” (v. 13) points ahead to Isaiah 43:1 and 1 Peter 1:18–19. Rescue and Justice • Salvation and judgment are two sides of the same event. The same sea that opened for Israel closes over Egypt. • Other Scripture echoes: Genesis 7 (flood), Joshua 3–4 (Jordan crossing), 2 Chronicles 20:22 (victory through praise). Music and Worship in Community • First recorded congregational song in Scripture. • Music follows mighty acts of God—see Judges 5; 1 Samuel 18:6; Luke 1:46–55. • Instruments (timbrels) and dance show whole-body worship. Women in Worship and Leadership • Miriam called “prophetess,” a rare OT title (see Deborah, Judges 4:4; Huldah, 2 Kings 22:14). • Her leading role affirms God’s inclusion of women in corporate praise. Geography and Archaeology: Marah and Elim • “Marah” means “bitter.” Possible sites include Ain Hawarah on the Sinai Peninsula, where brackish springs exist today. • Elim may correspond to Wadi Gharandel, with abundant palms and water. • Egyptian reliefs show six-spoked chariot wheels like those described in Exodus 14:25. From Bitter to Sweet: Life Lessons • The piece of wood prefigures how God can turn hardship into blessing. • Cross reference Ruth 1:20 for Naomi’s “Mara” bitterness and Psalm 30:11 for mourning turned to dancing. Health Promise at Marah • Conditioned on obedience: “If you listen carefully… I will put none of the diseases on you” (v. 26). • Later echoed in Deuteronomy 7:15 and 1 Corinthians 10:1–6, warning believers not to repeat Israel’s grumbling. Foreshadowing Christ • Salvation through water points to baptism imagery (1 Corinthians 10:2; 1 Peter 3:20-21). • Wood that sweetens bitter water hints at the cross turning sin’s curse into life (Galatians 3:13). The Song of Moses in Revelation • Revelation 15:3–4 unites “the song of Moses… and the song of the Lamb,” linking this Exodus song to final victory over evil. Key Words and Phrases • “Triumphed gloriously” – total, public victory. • “Right hand” – symbol of power; see Psalm 118:16. • “Planted” (v. 17) – agricultural metaphor for settlement in the promised land (Psalm 80:8). Literary Devices • Personification: waters “standing up like a heap” (v. 8). • Hyperbole: Egyptians “covered like lead in mighty waters” (v. 10). • Victory taunt: the song mocks the enemy’s vain boasts (v. 9). Comparisons with Other Biblical Songs • Deborah’s song (Judges 5) – similar structure, praise for divine victory. • Hannah’s song (1 Samuel 2) – echoes “There is none holy like the LORD.” • Mary’s Magnificat (Luke 1) – themes of God exalting the humble and casting down the proud. Practical Application Today • Celebrate deliverance: remembering God’s past faithfulness fuels present trust. • Worship as testimony: public praise can strengthen the community and witness to outsiders. • Obedience and health: physical and spiritual well-being are linked to hearing and doing God’s word. • Embrace journey phases: God provides not only Red Sea miracles but also water and shade in the wilderness. Summary Thought Exodus 15 invites every generation to sing the LORD’s praise for turning impossible situations into pathways of freedom, transforming bitterness into sweetness, and promising a future where He reigns forever and ever. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 118:14The LORD is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation. This verse echoes the themes of praise and deliverance found in Exodus 15. Revelation 15:3-4 The Song of Moses is referenced in the New Testament, where the redeemed sing the song of Moses and the Lamb, celebrating God's righteous acts. Isaiah 12:2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. For the LORD GOD is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation. This verse reinforces the themes of trust and praise. Teaching Points The Song of Moses and MiriamExodus 15:1-21 is a song of praise and thanksgiving. It begins with Moses and the Israelites singing, I will sing to the LORD, for He is highly exalted; the horse and rider He has thrown into the sea (Exodus 15:1). This song celebrates God's victory over the Egyptians and His power and majesty. God as a Warrior The passage portrays God as a warrior who fights for His people. The LORD is a warrior; the LORD is His name (Exodus 15:3). This imagery emphasizes God's strength and His role as protector and deliverer. God's Faithfulness and Guidance The song recounts God's faithfulness in leading His people. In Your loving devotion You will lead the people You have redeemed; in Your strength You will guide them to Your holy dwelling (Exodus 15:13). It highlights God's commitment to His covenant and His guidance towards the Promised Land. The Response of the Nations The song also anticipates the fear and awe that will grip the surrounding nations as they hear of God's mighty acts. The peoples will hear and tremble; anguish will grip the dwellers of Philistia (Exodus 15:14). This underscores the far-reaching impact of God's deliverance. Practical Applications Praise in Response to DeliveranceJust as the Israelites responded to God's deliverance with song, we too should cultivate a heart of praise and gratitude for the ways God has worked in our lives. Trust in God's Protection Recognize God as our warrior and protector. In times of trouble, we can trust in His strength and His ability to deliver us from our adversaries. Confidence in God's Guidance Trust in God's faithful guidance as we journey through life. He leads us with loving devotion and strength, just as He led the Israelites. Witness to God's Power Be aware of how our testimonies of God's deliverance can impact those around us, drawing them to a recognition of His power and majesty. People 1. MosesMoses is the leader of the Israelites and the primary figure in the Song of Moses. He leads the people in singing praises to the LORD for their deliverance. The Hebrew name "מֹשֶׁה" (Moshe) is derived from the root meaning "to draw out," reflecting his being drawn out of the Nile as a baby. 2. Miriam Miriam is identified as the prophetess and sister of Aaron. She leads the women in dance and song with tambourines, echoing the triumph over the Egyptians. Her Hebrew name "מִרְיָם" (Miryam) is associated with bitterness or rebellion, though her role here is celebratory. 3. Pharaoh Pharaoh is the king of Egypt, whose army is drowned in the Red Sea. The Hebrew term "פַּרְעֹה" (Par'oh) is a title for the Egyptian monarch, not a personal name. Places 1. Red SeaThe Red Sea is the body of water that the Israelites crossed miraculously as they fled from the Egyptians. In Exodus 15, the Song of Moses celebrates this miraculous event. The Hebrew term used is "יַם-סוּף" (Yam Suph), which is often translated as "Sea of Reeds" or "Red Sea." 2. Marah Marah is the place where the Israelites arrived after crossing the Red Sea. The waters at Marah were bitter, and the people complained. Moses, following God's instruction, threw a piece of wood into the water, making it sweet and drinkable. The name "Marah" comes from the Hebrew word "מָרָה" (Marah), meaning "bitter." 3. Elim Elim is described as an oasis where the Israelites camped after leaving Marah. It is noted for having twelve springs of water and seventy palm trees, providing a place of rest and refreshment for the Israelites. The name "Elim" is derived from the Hebrew "אֵילִם" (Elim), which can mean "terebinths" or "large trees." Events 1. The Song of Moses and the IsraelitesThe chapter begins with Moses and the Israelites singing a song to the LORD, celebrating their deliverance from Egypt. The song praises God for His triumph over the Egyptians, particularly highlighting the destruction of Pharaoh's army in the Red Sea. The Hebrew word "שִׁיר" (shir) is used for "song," indicating a lyrical composition of praise (Exodus 15:1-18). 2. Miriam's Song and Dance Miriam, the prophetess and sister of Aaron, takes a tambourine and leads the women in dance and song, echoing the themes of Moses' song. The Hebrew term "נְבִיאָה" (nevi'ah) is used for "prophetess," underscoring her role as a spiritual leader (Exodus 15:20-21). 3. Journey to Marah The Israelites travel from the Red Sea into the Desert of Shur. After three days without finding water, they arrive at Marah, where the water is bitter and undrinkable. The Hebrew word "מָרָה" (marah) means "bitter," reflecting the nature of the water and the people's discontent (Exodus 15:22-23). 4. The LORD Heals the Waters The people grumble against Moses, and he cries out to the LORD. God shows Moses a piece of wood, which he throws into the water, making it sweet and drinkable. This event is a test of faith and obedience, with the Hebrew word "נִסָּה" (nissah) meaning "tested" (Exodus 15:24-25). 5. God's Promise and Statute At Marah, God makes a statute and ordinance for the people, promising that if they listen to His voice and keep His commandments, He will not bring upon them the diseases He brought on the Egyptians. The Hebrew word "חֹק" (choq) is used for "statute," indicating a decree or law (Exodus 15:25-26). 6. Arrival at Elim The Israelites then travel to Elim, where they find twelve springs of water and seventy palm trees, providing a place of rest and refreshment. The numbers twelve and seventy may symbolize completeness and abundance, reflecting God's provision (Exodus 15:27). Topics 1. The Song of Moses and MiriamThis section (verses 1-21) is a song of praise and thanksgiving to the LORD for the deliverance of the Israelites from the Egyptians at the Red Sea. The song highlights God's power and majesty, celebrating His triumph over Pharaoh's army. The Hebrew root for "song" (שִׁיר, shir) emphasizes a vocal expression of joy and victory. 2. The LORD as a Warrior In verses 3-5, the LORD is described as a "warrior" (אִישׁ מִלְחָמָה, ish milchamah), emphasizing His might and ability to protect and deliver His people. This imagery underscores God's active role in the battle against the Egyptians. 3. The Overthrow of Pharaoh's Chariots Verses 4-10 recount the destruction of Pharaoh's chariots and army in the sea. The narrative highlights God's direct intervention, using natural elements like wind and water to achieve victory. 4. The LORD's Unmatched Power Verses 11-13 focus on the uniqueness and holiness of the LORD, asking rhetorically, "Who among the gods is like You, O LORD?" This section emphasizes God's unparalleled power and the awe it inspires. 5. The Future of Israel's Enemies In verses 14-16, the song prophesies the fear and dread that will fall upon other nations as they hear of God's mighty acts. The Hebrew word for "fear" (פַּחַד, pachad) conveys a deep, overwhelming terror. 6. The Promise of the Promised Land Verses 17-18 speak of God's promise to bring the Israelites into the land He has prepared for them, a place where He will establish His sanctuary. This reflects the covenantal relationship between God and His people. 7. Miriam's Song and Dance In verses 20-21, Miriam, the prophetess and sister of Aaron, leads the women in song and dance, echoing the themes of the earlier song. This act of worship highlights the communal celebration of God's deliverance. 8. The Waters of Marah Verses 22-26 describe the journey from the Red Sea to Marah, where the Israelites encounter bitter water. Moses, following God's instruction, throws a piece of wood into the water, making it sweet. This event underscores God's provision and testing of His people. 9. The LORD as Healer In verse 26, God reveals Himself as Jehovah Rapha (יְהוָה רֹפְאֶךָ, Yahweh Ropheka), "the LORD who heals you," promising health and protection if the Israelites obey His commands. This introduces a theme of divine healing and covenantal faithfulness. 10. The Oasis at Elim Verse 27 concludes the chapter with the Israelites arriving at Elim, a place of rest with twelve springs and seventy palm trees. This symbolizes God's provision and care for His people in the wilderness. Themes 1. Divine Deliverance and PowerThe chapter opens with a song praising God for His mighty deliverance of Israel from the Egyptians. "The LORD is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation" (Exodus 15:2). The Hebrew word for salvation, "yeshua," emphasizes God's role as a deliverer. 2. God as a Warrior The depiction of God as a warrior is central to this chapter. "The LORD is a warrior; the LORD is His name" (Exodus 15:3). This theme highlights God's active role in fighting for His people, using the Hebrew term "ish milchamah" for "man of war." 3. Judgment on the Enemies The song recounts the judgment and destruction of the Egyptian forces. "Pharaoh’s chariots and army He has thrown into the sea" (Exodus 15:4). This theme underscores God's justice and power over the enemies of His people. 4. God’s Sovereignty and Majesty The song emphasizes God's unmatched sovereignty and majesty. "Who among the gods is like You, O LORD? Who is like You—majestic in holiness, revered with praises, performing wonders?" (Exodus 15:11). The Hebrew word "kadosh" for holiness highlights God's distinct and sovereign nature. 5. Covenant Faithfulness The song reflects on God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. "In Your loving devotion You will lead the people You have redeemed" (Exodus 15:13). The Hebrew word "chesed" for loving devotion signifies God's steadfast love and faithfulness. 6. Future Hope and Inheritance The song looks forward to the future hope and inheritance of the Israelites. "You will bring them in and plant them on the mountain of Your inheritance" (Exodus 15:17). This theme points to God's promise of a land and a future for His people. 7. Eternal Reign of God The chapter concludes with a declaration of God's eternal reign. "The LORD will reign forever and ever!" (Exodus 15:18). This theme affirms God's eternal kingship and the ultimate fulfillment of His purposes. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Exodus 15:4–5, if Pharaoh’s entire army truly drowned, why is there no corroborating historical or archaeological evidence in Egyptian records? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the Israelites' song of praise reveal their perception of God? 2. What does Miriam's role in this chapter say about the role of women in faith and community? 3. Compare the attitudes of the Israelites after their escape and at Marah. What led to this shift, and what can we learn from it? 4. How did God respond to the grumbling of the Israelites? What does this teach us about His character? 5. How can we apply the principle of trust and obedience demonstrated in this chapter in our own lives? 6. Why do you think God chose to use a log to sweeten the water? What symbolism can you infer from this act? 7. Can you identify instances in your life where you've seen God turn 'bitter water into sweet'? 8. How can we cultivate an attitude of praise and worship during difficult times? 9. How does God's promise of healing and protection in verse 26 apply to us today? 10. How can this chapter guide us in our response to challenging circumstances? 11. How can the journey of the Israelites encourage us in our own spiritual journey? 12. What can we learn from Moses' leadership throughout these events? 13. In the context of today's world, what diseases (physical, spiritual, or societal) do you think obedience to God's commands could prevent? 14. What are some modern-day 'bitter waters' that you believe need God's intervention? 15. How can we practice active trust in God's guidance when we are in 'the desert' of our lives? 16. In what ways can we express our faith and exalt God, similar to the Israelites' song? 17. How can the story of Marah be seen as a test of faith? 18. How does the promise at Elim contrast with the experience at Marah, and what does this tell us about God's promises? 19. How does the chapter's ending, with the Israelites finding rest and provision at Elim, encourage you about God's ultimate plans for your life? 20. How can we, as Christians today, carry the message of this chapter to the world around us? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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