When Israel departed from Egypt
This phrase refers to the Exodus, a foundational event in Israel's history when God delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The departure from Egypt is a central theme in the Old Testament, symbolizing liberation and God's faithfulness. The Exodus is dated around the 13th century BCE, during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II, according to some scholars. This event is celebrated annually in the Jewish festival of Passover, which commemorates the night when the angel of death passed over the homes of the Israelites. Theologically, the Exodus prefigures the salvation offered through Jesus Christ, who delivers believers from the bondage of sin.

the house of Jacob
The term "house of Jacob" refers to the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel, who was the grandson of Abraham. This phrase emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and the patriarchs, highlighting the continuity of God's promises from Abraham to Isaac to Jacob. The "house of Jacob" signifies the collective identity of the twelve tribes of Israel. In the New Testament, this concept is expanded to include all believers as part of the spiritual Israel, as seen in passages like Galatians 3:29.

from a people of foreign tongue
This phrase highlights the cultural and linguistic differences between the Israelites and the Egyptians. The Egyptians spoke a different language and had distinct customs and religious practices, which often led to the Israelites being marginalized and oppressed. The "foreign tongue" underscores the alienation and separation experienced by the Israelites in Egypt. In a broader sense, this can be seen as a metaphor for the believer's journey from the world of sin to the kingdom of God, where they are called to be set apart and holy. The deliverance from a "foreign tongue" also foreshadows the ultimate reconciliation of all nations and languages under Christ, as depicted in Revelation 7:9.

Judah became God’s sanctuary
This phrase highlights the special status of Judah as the tribe from which the Davidic line and ultimately the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would come. The term "sanctuary" signifies a holy place where God's presence dwells. Historically, the temple in Jerusalem, located in Judah, was the central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people. This reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to dwell with His people, as seen in Exodus 25:8. The choice of Judah as the sanctuary also points to the prophecy in Genesis 49:10, where the scepter is promised to Judah, indicating leadership and divine favor.

Israel His dominion
This phrase refers to the entire nation of Israel being under God's rule and authority. The term "dominion" suggests sovereignty and control, emphasizing that Israel was chosen to be a theocracy, governed directly by God. This is evident in the covenant relationship established at Sinai, where God gave the Law to Moses, setting Israel apart as His people (Exodus 19:5-6). The historical context includes Israel's journey from slavery in Egypt to becoming a nation under God's guidance. This dominion is a type of the ultimate reign of Christ, who is the King of Kings and will establish His eternal kingdom, as prophesied in Isaiah 9:6-7.

The sea observed and fled;
This phrase refers to the miraculous parting of the Red Sea, an event recorded in Exodus 14:21-22. This event is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, symbolizing God's deliverance of His people from slavery in Egypt. The "sea" here is the Red Sea, which God parted to allow the Israelites to escape Pharaoh's pursuing army. This act demonstrated God's power over nature and His commitment to His covenant people. The sea "observing" and "fleeing" personifies the waters, emphasizing the divine intervention that caused them to part. This event is often seen as a type of Christ's deliverance of believers from the bondage of sin, as referenced in 1 Corinthians 10:1-2, where Paul draws a parallel between the Israelites' passage through the sea and Christian baptism.

the Jordan turned back;
This phrase refers to the crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land, recorded in Joshua 3:14-17. Just as the Red Sea parted for the Israelites' escape from Egypt, the Jordan River stopped flowing to allow them to enter Canaan. The river "turning back" signifies God's continued presence and guidance as the Israelites transitioned from wandering in the wilderness to claiming their inheritance. This event occurred during the harvest season when the Jordan was at flood stage, making the miracle even more remarkable. The crossing of the Jordan is also seen as a type of entering into the promises of God, symbolizing the believer's journey into the fullness of life in Christ. The Ark of the Covenant, which led the way, represents God's presence and foreshadows Christ as the mediator of the New Covenant.

the mountains skipped like rams
This phrase poetically describes a miraculous event during the Exodus when the Israelites crossed the Red Sea and later the Jordan River. The imagery of mountains skipping like rams suggests a powerful, divine intervention that caused the natural world to respond in an extraordinary way. In biblical context, mountains often symbolize stability and permanence, yet here they are depicted as lively and dynamic, emphasizing God's supreme power over creation. This imagery can be connected to other scriptural instances where nature responds to God's presence, such as in Habakkuk 3:6, where mountains tremble. The skipping of mountains can also be seen as a type of Christ's victory over the natural order, foreshadowing the ultimate redemption and transformation of creation through Him.

the hills like lambs
The hills are described as skipping like lambs, which conveys a sense of joy and vitality. Lambs are often associated with innocence and new beginnings, and their playful skipping suggests a celebration of God's deliverance and the new life He offers. This imagery complements the previous phrase, reinforcing the theme of nature's joyful response to God's mighty acts. In the broader biblical narrative, lambs are significant as they are used in sacrificial contexts, pointing to Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The hills' response can be seen as a metaphor for the joy and renewal that comes through Christ's sacrificial work, highlighting the transformative power of God's salvation.

Why was it, O sea, that you fled
This phrase refers to the miraculous parting of the Red Sea, an event recorded in Exodus 14:21-22. The Israelites, led by Moses, were escaping from Egyptian bondage, and God parted the sea to allow them to cross on dry ground. This event is a demonstration of God's power over nature and His ability to deliver His people. The sea fleeing symbolizes the removal of obstacles through divine intervention. Theologically, it represents salvation and deliverance, prefiguring Christ's victory over sin and death. The sea's obedience to God's command highlights His sovereignty over creation.

O Jordan, that you turned back
This refers to the crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land, as described in Joshua 3:14-17. The river stopped flowing and piled up in a heap, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This event parallels the crossing of the Red Sea and signifies a new beginning for the Israelites as they claim the land promised to their ancestors. It underscores God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Theologically, the Jordan River's turning back can be seen as a type of baptism, symbolizing the transition from the old life to the new life in Christ. The event also foreshadows the ultimate inheritance believers receive through Jesus.

O mountains, that you skipped like rams
This phrase evokes the imagery of mountains moving with agility and energy, akin to rams. In the biblical context, this is a poetic description of the natural world responding to the presence and power of God. The reference to mountains skipping is likely an allusion to the events at Mount Sinai, where the earth trembled at the giving of the Law (Exodus 19:18). This imagery underscores the majesty and authority of God over creation, as even the most immovable parts of the earth respond to His presence. The mountains symbolize strength and stability, yet they are depicted as lively and responsive, highlighting God's supreme power. This can also be seen as a type of Christ, who has authority over all creation (Colossians 1:16-17).

O hills, like lambs?
The hills are described as moving like lambs, which are known for their innocence and playfulness. This imagery complements the previous line, emphasizing the joy and vitality of creation in response to God's presence. The hills, often seen as smaller and less significant than mountains, are also depicted as animated and responsive. This reflects the biblical theme that all of creation, regardless of size or significance, is subject to God's will and rejoices in His presence (Psalm 96:11-12). The use of lambs can also be seen as a subtle reference to Christ, the Lamb of God, who brings joy and renewal to creation (John 1:29). This phrase, together with the previous one, paints a picture of a world that is alive and vibrant in the presence of its Creator.

Tremble, O earth,
This phrase calls for a reaction of awe and reverence from the earth itself, symbolizing all creation. The trembling signifies the power and majesty of God, reminiscent of the earth's reaction at Mount Sinai when God gave the Law to Moses (Exodus 19:18). The earth's trembling is a metaphor for the fear and respect due to God, highlighting His sovereignty over all creation. This imagery is also seen in prophetic literature, such as in Isaiah 64:1-3, where the mountains quake at God's presence.

at the presence of the Lord,
The presence of the Lord refers to His manifest glory and power. In the Old Testament, God's presence was often associated with the Ark of the Covenant and the Tabernacle, where He dwelt among His people (Exodus 25:22). The presence of the Lord is a recurring theme, emphasizing His immanence and involvement in the world. This presence is both comforting and fearsome, as seen in the reactions of those who encountered it, such as Isaiah's vision in Isaiah 6:5.

at the presence of the God of Jacob,
The title "God of Jacob" connects this verse to the covenantal relationship God established with the patriarchs, particularly Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel (Genesis 32:28). This emphasizes God's faithfulness to His promises and His chosen people. The God of Jacob is a personal and relational God, involved in the history and destiny of Israel. This phrase also points to the continuity of God's plan from the patriarchs to the present, as seen in the New Testament where Jesus is identified as the fulfillment of the promises made to the patriarchs (Luke 1:32-33).

who turned the rock into a pool
This phrase refers to the miraculous provision of water from a rock during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, as recorded in Exodus 17:6 and Numbers 20:11. In these accounts, God instructs Moses to strike the rock, resulting in water flowing out to quench the thirst of the Israelites. This miracle demonstrates God's power and provision, emphasizing His ability to transform seemingly impossible situations into sources of life and sustenance. The rock symbolizes Christ, as noted in 1 Corinthians 10:4, where Paul identifies the spiritual rock that followed the Israelites as Christ Himself, highlighting the typology of Jesus as the source of living water.

the flint into a fountain of water!
Flint is a hard, sedimentary cryptocrystalline form of the mineral quartz, known for its toughness and resistance to breaking. The transformation of flint into a fountain of water underscores the miraculous nature of God's provision, as flint would not naturally yield water. This act signifies God's sovereignty over creation and His ability to bring forth life from the most unlikely sources. The imagery of water flowing from flint also points to the abundance and refreshment found in God's presence, as seen in Isaiah 41:18, where God promises to open rivers on barren heights and springs within the valleys. This transformation can be seen as a foreshadowing of the living water that Jesus offers in John 4:14, where He speaks of the water that leads to eternal life.