Exodus 14:23 Meaning and Explanation
“And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them to the midst of the sea, even all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Egypt's forces—Pharaoh's horses, chariots, and all his horsemen—pursue Israel into the midst of the divided sea.
The Context of Exodus 14:23
The Egyptian army pursues Israel into the divided sea.
What Does Exodus 14:23 Mean?
The Egyptians, seeing the passage open before them, enter after Israel into the sea. Their confidence in their military superiority and their desire to recapture the slaves drives them into the same divided sea where Israel walks safely.
The text presents the facts without moral editorializing: they pursued and went in. What looks like a military advantage (the opening path, the pursuing enemy) is actually the setup for judgment. Pharaoh's heart, hardened by God, drives him toward his own destruction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 14:23
What does Exodus 14:23 mean?
Egypt's forces—Pharaoh's horses, chariots, and all his horsemen—pursue Israel into the midst of the divided sea.
What is the context of Exodus 14:23?
The Egyptian army pursues Israel into the divided sea.