Exodus 15:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 15:2
2 The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him.
Chapter Context
Exodus 15 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of wisdom, salvation, righteousness. 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 contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 15:2
2 The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him.
Analysis
The declaration 'The LORD is my strength and song' makes God both the power for victory and the subject of praise. The phrase 'he is become my salvation' uses 'yeshuah' (יְשׁוּעָה), meaning salvation/deliverance—root of Jesus' name. The personal pronouns shift from 'the LORD' (third person) to 'my God' (first person), showing intimate relationship. The resolve 'I will prepare him an habitation' anticipates the tabernacle. The phrase 'my father's God' connects present experience to patriarchal covenant.
Historical Context
This verse's promise to build God a dwelling would be fulfilled in chapters 25-40 with the tabernacle construction. It shows that experiencing salvation leads to desiring God's presence.
Reflection
- How does recognizing God as both your strength and your song affect your worship?
- What 'habitation' are you preparing in your life for God's dwelling presence?
Word Studies
- Salvation: יְשׁוּעָה (Yeshuah) H3444 - Salvation, deliverance
Cross-References
- Salvation: Psalms 18:46, 118:14, 140:7, Isaiah 12:2
- References God: Psalms 59:17, 99:5, 99:9, 118:28, Isaiah 25:1
- References Lord: Psalms 34:3