Exodus 15:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 15:16
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.
Chapter Context
Exodus 15 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, creation, 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 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 15:16
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.
Analysis
The cause of enemy fear: 'Fear and dread shall fall upon them.' The phrase 'by the greatness of thine arm' credits divine power for psychological victory. The result: 'they shall be as still as a stone; till thy people pass over, O LORD, till the people pass over, which thou hast purchased.' The repetition 'pass over' echoes Passover—God's people 'pass over' obstacles while enemies are paralyzed. The term 'purchased' (qanah, קָנָה) indicates ownership by right of redemption price paid.
Historical Context
This paralysis of enemies occurred in Joshua's conquests where Canaanite kings were demoralized (Joshua 10:2, 11:20). God's reputation made conquest possible through psychological rather than merely military means.
Reflection
- How does God's psychological defeat of enemies (paralyzing fear) complement physical victory?
- What does God 'purchasing' you teach about ownership rights over your life and direction?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 11:7, Deuteronomy 11:25, Joshua 2:9, Jeremiah 31:11, 2 Peter 2:1
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 2:25, 1 Samuel 25:37, Psalms 74:2, Titus 2:14, 1 Peter 2:9