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Exodus 14:20

And it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night.

Exodus 14:20 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse describes a miraculous event that took place during the Israelites' escape from Egypt. As the Israelites were fleeing, they were pursued by the Egyptians. In order to protect the Israelites from the Egyptians, God intervened by placing a cloud and darkness between the two camps. This cloud served as a barrier, preventing the Egyptians from advancing any further towards the Israelites. However, for the Israelites, the cloud provided light during the night, guiding them on their journey. This miraculous intervention allowed the two camps to remain separate throughout the night, ensuring the safety of the Israelites.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the divine protection and guidance provided by God to the Israelites during their exodus from Egypt. The "cloud and darkness" that separated the camp of the Egyptians from the camp of Israel symbolizes God's presence and intervention on behalf of his chosen people. The cloud served as a barrier, preventing the Egyptians from harming the Israelites, while also illuminating the path for the Israelites to safely travel by night. This imagery can be seen as a demonstration of God's sovereignty over the forces of darkness and his ability to provide light and direction in times of uncertainty. The juxtaposition of light and darkness in this verse further emphasizes the contrast between the fate of the Egyptians, who were ultimately defeated in their pursuit of the Israelites, and the deliverance of the Israelites under the protection of God's presence.

Exodus 14:20 in other translations

American Standard Version

and it came between the camp of Egypt and the camp of Israel; and there was the cloud and the darkness, yet gave it light by night: and the one came not near the other all the night.

World English Bible

It came between the camp of Egypt and the camp of Israel; and there was the cloud and the darkness, yet gave it light by night: and the one didn’t come near the other all the night.

Douay-Rheims

Stood behind, between the Egyptians' camp and the camp of Israel: and it was a dark cloud, and enlightening the night, so that they could not come at one another all the night.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And came betweene the campe of the Egyptians and the campe of Israel: it was both a cloude and darkenes, yet gaue it light by night, so that all the night long the one came not at the other)