Exodus 15:10 (KJV)

What does Exodus 15:10 mean?

Exodus 15:10 describes how God used a powerful wind to cause the sea to cover the Egyptians, making them sink like lead in deep water. The verse uses vivid imagery to show the complete and sudden destruction of Pharaoh’s army as they pursued the Israelites.

In this verse, Moses and the Israelites are singing a song of praise to God after crossing the Red Sea. They are recalling how, when the Egyptians tried to follow them, God’s action (“blow with thy wind”) caused the sea to return and overwhelm their enemies. The language emphasizes both God’s control over nature and the finality of the Egyptians’ defeat.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 15:10

• “Blow” (נָשַׁף, nashaf, H5398): This word means to blow or breathe out, often used for wind or breath. Here, it highlights the idea that God’s action was as effortless as a breath.
• “Wind” (רוּחַ, ruach, H7307): This word can mean wind, spirit, or breath. In this context, it refers to the natural wind, but also hints at God’s power and presence.
• “Sank” (צָלַל, tsalal, H6749): This word means to sink or go down, and the image of sinking “as lead” (עוֹפֶרֶת, opheret, H5777) stresses how quickly and completely the Egyptians disappeared under the water.
• “Mighty” (אַדִּיר, addir, H117): This word means mighty or majestic, describing the waters as powerful and overwhelming, not just physically deep but also forceful.

Why Exodus 15:10 matters

• Exodus 15:10 clears up any idea that the Egyptians might have survived or escaped; the language is absolute, showing their total defeat.
• The verse highlights God’s direct involvement, not just through natural events but by actively controlling the wind and sea.
• This verse connects to the larger theme of Exodus 15, which is a song celebrating God’s deliverance and power, reminding the Israelites—and the reader—of God’s ability to save and protect.