Exodus 14:27
And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to his strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and the LORD overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.
Exodus 14:27 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Exodus, we see the culmination of one of the most iconic moments in the Bible - the parting of the Red Sea. As the Israelites flee from the pursuing Egyptians, Moses stretches out his hand over the sea, and through the power of God, the waters are miraculously parted, allowing the Israelites to cross to safety. As dawn breaks, the sea returns to its natural state, drowning the Egyptians who had been in pursuit. This event showcases the power and might of the Lord, as well as his protection over his people. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and his ability to deliver his followers from even the most dire situations. This verse also highlights the importance of trust and obedience, as Moses faithfully followed God's instructions, leading to the salvation of the Israelites. Overall, this verse serves as a profound example of God's provision and deliverance, as well as the consequences of disobedience and opposition to his will.
Theological Overview
In the theological interpretation of the verse from Exodus 14:27, where Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea and the Egyptians were overthrown, many scholars highlight the significance of God's power and deliverance. The act of stretching forth the hand symbolizes the authority and control that God has over creation. The return of the sea to its strength at morning signifies the restoration of order and God's sovereignty over chaos. The word "overthrew" in the original Hebrew conveys the idea of judgment and destruction, emphasizing the divine punishment of the oppressors. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's protection and justice towards his people, demonstrating His mighty deeds in delivering them from their enemies. It is a testimony to the faithfulness and power of the LORD in rescuing those who trust in Him.
Exodus 14:27 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to its strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and Jehovah overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.
World English Bible
Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to its strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it. Yahweh overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.
Douay-Rheims
And when Moses had stretched forth his hand towards the sea, it returned at the first break of day to the former place: and as the Egyptians were fleeing away, the waters came upon them, and the Lord shut them up in the middle of the waves.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then Moses stretched forth his hand vpon the Sea, and the Sea returned to his force early in the morning, and the Egyptians fled against it: but the Lord ouerthrew the Egyptians in the mids of the Sea.