Exodus 15:3 (KJV)

What does Exodus 15:3 mean?

Exodus 15:3 describes the LORD as a "man of war," meaning God is pictured as a mighty warrior who fights for His people. The verse also states that "the LORD is his name," emphasizing God's identity and reputation as the one who delivers and defends.

This verse is part of a song sung by Moses and the Israelites after their escape from Egypt, celebrating God's victory over Pharaoh's army at the Red Sea. By calling God a "man of war," the people are expressing their awe at how powerfully and decisively God acted to save them from danger.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 15:3

• LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, highlighting God's unique identity and covenant relationship with Israel.
• man (אִישׁ, ish): This word means "man" or "person," and here it is used to picture God in human terms as a warrior, making the idea of God fighting for His people more vivid and relatable.
• war (מִלְחָמָה, milchamah): This word means "battle" or "war," underlining the military imagery and showing that God is being praised for His power in defeating Israel's enemies.
• name (שֵׁם, shem): The word for "name" points to reputation and character; saying "the LORD is his name" stresses that God's identity is tied to His saving acts.

Why Exodus 15:3 matters

• Exodus 15:3 clears up the idea that God is distant or uninvolved by showing Him as actively fighting for His people in real history.
• The verse highlights the theme of deliverance that runs through the whole book of Exodus, connecting God's name and character directly to His actions.
• This description sets the tone for how Israel would remember and talk about God—as a powerful defender—throughout their story.