Exodus 15:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 15:17
17 Thou shalt bring them in, and plant them in the mountain of thine inheritance, in the place, O LORD, which thou hast made for thee to dwell in, in the Sanctuary, O Lord, which thy hands have established.
Chapter Context
Exodus 15 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, salvation, 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 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 15:17
17 Thou shalt bring them in, and plant them in the mountain of thine inheritance, in the place, O LORD, which thou hast made for thee to dwell in, in the Sanctuary, O Lord, which thy hands have established.
Analysis
The ultimate destination: 'Thou shalt bring them in, and plant them in the mountain of thine inheritance.' The verb 'plant' (nata, נָטַע) suggests permanent, rooted settlement—not temporary sojourn. The phrase 'the place, O LORD, which thou hast made for thee to dwell in' identifies the location as God's chosen dwelling. The parallel 'the Sanctuary, O Lord, which thy hands have established' specifies both temple mount and temple structure. Redemption's goal is dwelling with God.
Historical Context
This prophecy looked ahead to both the tabernacle (immediate) and the Jerusalem temple (ultimate). It established that God's presence dwelling with His people was the exodus's ultimate purpose, fulfilled finally in Revelation 21:3.
Reflection
- How does understanding that God's presence is redemption's goal rather than merely blessing affect your priorities?
- What does God 'planting' rather than temporarily placing you teach about His intention for permanent relationship?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Jeremiah 31:23
- Parallel theme: Psalms 44:2, 80:8, Jeremiah 2:21, 32:41