Exodus 15:16
Fear and dread shall fall upon them; by the greatness of thine arm they shall be as still as a stone; till thy people pass over, O LORD, till the people pass over, which thou hast purchased.
Exodus 15:16 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the concept of fear and dread falling upon the enemies of God's people is introduced. The imagery of stillness, like that of a stone, is used to illustrate the complete immobilization and powerlessness of those who oppose God. By emphasizing the greatness of God's arm, the verse highlights the unstoppable force that He possesses. The reference to God purchasing the people further reinforces the idea of His ownership and protection over them. The imagery of passing over is a symbol of transitioning from one place to another under the safety and guidance of the Lord. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the sovereignty and protection that God offers to His people in the face of their enemies.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of this verse from Exodus 15:16 is that it reflects the power and protection of God over His people. The phrase "Fear and dread shall fall upon them" suggests that God's enemies will be struck with fear and awe in the presence of His greatness. The imagery of being as still as a stone emphasizes the complete immobilization and powerlessness of those who oppose God. This highlights the idea that no force can stand against the might of God's arm and His people. The repetition of "till thy people pass over" underscores the sense of divine purpose and guidance, with God leading His chosen ones to safety and victory. The mention of God purchasing or redeeming His people further emphasizes His ownership and care for them, showing that they are precious and valued in His sight.
Exodus 15:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
Terror and dread falleth upon them; By the greatness of thine arm they are as still as a stone; Till thy people pass over, O Jehovah, Till the people pass over that thou hast purchased.
World English Bible
Terror and dread falls on them. By the greatness of your arm they are as still as a stone— until your people pass over, Yahweh, until the people pass over who you have purchased.
Douay-Rheims
Let fear and dread fall upon them, in the greatness of thy arm: let them become immoveable as a stone, until thy people, O Lord, pass by: until this thy people pass by, which thou hast possessed.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Feare and dread shall fall vpon them: because of the greatnesse of thine arme, they shalbe stil as a stone, till thy people passe, O Lord: til this people passe, which thou hast purchased.