Exodus 14:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 14:13
13 And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever.
Chapter Context
Exodus 14 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, judgment, wisdom. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 14:13
13 And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever.
Analysis
Moses' response—'Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD'—commands both negative (don't fear) and positive (stand firm) actions. The phrase 'see the salvation' (yeshu'at YHWH, יְשׁוּעַת יְהוָה) calls them to witness divine deliverance. The promise regarding Egyptians: 'whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever' predicts complete victory. Salvation requires faith to cease anxious activity and watch God work.
Historical Context
Moses' confidence despite circumstances demonstrates his faith in God's promises. His command to 'stand still' required Israel to resist panic and wait for God's timing rather than attempt escape.
Reflection
- How does the command to 'stand still and see' challenge the tendency toward anxious activism in crises?
- What enemy or obstacle do you need to stop fearing and trust God to handle completely?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Salvation: Exodus 14:30, Genesis 49:18, 2 Chronicles 20:17, Isaiah 35:4, 43:11, Lamentations 3:26
- References Lord: 2 Chronicles 20:15
- Parallel theme: 2 Kings 6:16