The Egyptians' pursuit and subsequent destruction is a pivotal event in the narrative of the Exodus, marking a significant moment in the history of the Israelites and demonstrating the power and deliverance of God. This event is primarily recorded in the Book of Exodus, chapters 14 and 15.

Context and Background

The Israelites had been enslaved in Egypt for several centuries, and their liberation came through the leadership of Moses, whom God appointed to lead His people out of bondage. After a series of plagues that devastated Egypt, Pharaoh finally relented and allowed the Israelites to leave. However, as they journeyed toward the Promised Land, Pharaoh's heart was hardened once more, and he decided to pursue the Israelites with his army.

The Pursuit

As the Israelites camped by the Red Sea, they found themselves trapped between the sea and Pharaoh's approaching forces. The Egyptians pursued them with "all Pharaoh’s horses and chariots, horsemen, and troops" (Exodus 14:9). The sight of the Egyptian army caused great fear among the Israelites, who cried out to the Lord and lamented to Moses, questioning why they had been brought out of Egypt only to die in the wilderness.

Divine Intervention

In response to the Israelites' fear, Moses assured them of God's deliverance, saying, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation, which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again" (Exodus 14:13). God instructed Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea, and He miraculously parted the waters, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground.

The Destruction of the Egyptians

As the Israelites crossed the Red Sea, the Egyptian army pursued them into the midst of the sea. At God's command, Moses stretched out his hand once more, and the waters returned to their place, engulfing the Egyptian chariots and horsemen. "The waters flowed back and covered the chariots and horsemen—the entire army of Pharaoh that had chased the Israelites into the sea. Not one of them survived" (Exodus 14:28).

Significance

The destruction of the Egyptian army served as a powerful demonstration of God's sovereignty and His commitment to His covenant people. It was a definitive act of deliverance that established the Israelites' freedom from Egyptian oppression and underscored God's ability to protect and provide for His people against seemingly insurmountable odds.

The Song of Moses and Miriam

In response to this miraculous deliverance, Moses and the Israelites sang a song of praise to the Lord, recorded in Exodus 15. This song celebrates God's triumph over the Egyptians and His faithfulness to His people. "The 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" (Exodus 15:2).

The Egyptians' pursuit and destruction is a testament to God's power and faithfulness, serving as a reminder of His ability to deliver His people from their enemies and fulfill His promises.