Topical Bible: Journey of Israel Through The Desert: Between Baalzephon and Pihahiroth: Red Sea Divided

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◄ Journey of Israel Through The Desert: Between Baalzephon and Pihahiroth: Red Sea Divided ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The journey of the Israelites through the desert, particularly the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, is a pivotal event in biblical history, symbolizing God's deliverance and faithfulness. This event is recorded in the Book of Exodus, primarily in chapters 13 and 14, and serves as a testament to God's power and the fulfillment of His promises to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Context and Setting

After centuries of bondage in Egypt, the Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, were finally set free following a series of divine plagues that culminated in the Passover. Pharaoh, initially resistant, relented and allowed the Israelites to leave. The journey began from Rameses to Succoth, and from there, God led them in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, guiding them through the wilderness (Exodus 13:21-22).

Baalzephon and Pihahiroth

The Israelites encamped at a location between Baalzephon and Pihahiroth, near the Red Sea. This strategic positioning was ordained by God, who instructed Moses to lead the people to this specific area. "Tell the Israelites to turn back and encamp before Pi-hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea; you are to camp by the sea, directly opposite Baal-zephon" (Exodus 14:2). This location was significant as it appeared to trap the Israelites, with the sea before them and Pharaoh's army in pursuit.

The Pursuit by Pharaoh

Pharaoh's heart was hardened once more, and he regretted letting the Israelites go. He mobilized his chariots and army to recapture them, believing they were wandering aimlessly in the desert. As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites were terrified and cried out to the Lord, expressing doubt and fear. Moses reassured them, 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).

The Miracle of the Red Sea

In response to Moses' faith and the cries of the Israelites, God instructed Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea. "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided" (Exodus 14:21). The Israelites crossed the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on their right and left.

As the Egyptian army pursued, God caused confusion among them, and at His command, Moses stretched out his hand again, causing the waters to return and engulf the Egyptians. "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 crossing of the Red Sea is a foundational event in the history of Israel, demonstrating God's sovereignty and His ability to deliver His people against insurmountable odds. It is a powerful symbol of salvation and redemption, prefiguring the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ. The event is commemorated in Jewish tradition during the Passover and is frequently referenced throughout Scripture as a testament to God's mighty acts and His covenant faithfulness.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 14:16,21
But lift you up your rod, and stretch out your hand over the sea, and divide it: and the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the middle of the sea.
Torrey's Topical Textbook