Exodus 14

2 turn. That is, to the right, southwards. The Red Sea, as late as the Roman time, extended through the Bitter Lakes to near Ismailia (now on the Suez Canal). Here it was very shallow and therefore the most likely place for the “strong east wind” (ver. 21) to blow the waters back and leave a dry crossing. See Flinders Petrie: Researches in Sinai, and Sir J. W. Dawson: Egypt and Syria (R.T.S.).

Pi-hahiroth. This word, if, as is likely, it be Egyptian or Coptic, means, “a place where grass grows.”

5 turned against. Or, “changed towards” (R.V.).

7 chariots. The ancient monuments of Egypt represent its military force as consisting entirely of war-chariots and infantry.

8 with a high hand. As conquerors rather than as fugitives.

14 hold your peace. That is, “leave it to Him.” The frequent murmurings and rebellions of the Israelites are pathetically commemorated in Psa. xvi.; and in Psa. lxxviii. forcibly contrasted with God’s mercies.

21 a strong east wind. The use of natural agencies may be observed in many miracles, both of the Old and New Testaments.

23 went in. Pharaoh and his host, hurrying onward in their pursuit with blind impetuosity, probably did not perceive the danger of their position, amid the twofold darkness of the night and of the cloud, till it was too late to return.

25 took off. Some ancient versions read “bound,” or “clogged.”

28 there remained. This event was known to the surrounding nations and aided the subsequent conquests of the Israelites. See xv. 16; Josh. ii. 9-11.

31 that great work. Literally, “the great hand”; i.e., the great power.