Exodus 15:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 15:8
8 And with the blast of thy nostrils the waters were gathered together, the floods stood upright as an heap, and the depths were congealed in the heart of the sea.
Chapter Context
Exodus 15 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, redemption, obedience. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 15:8
8 And with the blast of thy nostrils the waters were gathered together, the floods stood upright as an heap, and the depths were congealed in the heart of the sea.
Analysis
The means of victory: 'with the blast of thy nostrils' anthropomorphizes God's breath as wind. This connects to 14:21's 'strong east wind'—natural means, supernatural orchestration. The result: 'the waters were gathered together, the floods stood upright as an heap' pictures water defying gravity. The phrase 'the depths were congealed in the heart of the sea' suggests water solidified like ice—miraculous suspension of natural law. Creation obeys Creator.
Historical Context
The 'blast of nostrils' metaphor appears in Psalm 18:15 and Job 4:9, indicating God's power expressed through what seems natural. Wind and breath are linguistically related in Hebrew (ruach).
Reflection
- How does God using natural means (wind) for supernatural ends demonstrate His sovereignty over creation?
- What impossible situation needs God's 'breath' to suspend natural law in your favor?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 2 Samuel 22:16, Job 4:9, Psalms 78:13, Isaiah 11:4, Habakkuk 3:10, 2 Thessalonians 2:8