Exodus 14:10Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Upon finally exiting Egypt, he, along with the Israelites, began to long for freedom. Yet, even before he could fully rest, he found himself enveloped by a fear, perhaps even more intense than before. Just three days later, the Israelites beheld a formidable enemy arrayed against them. This moment was akin to the distress runaway slaves might feel when faced suddenly by their former masters in a foreign land, or to the anguish of waking from a blissful dream of liberty only to discover the harsh realities of bondage once more. It is difficult to determine what could be classified as their dream: was it the brief taste of freedom they had just experienced or the dreadful and frightening vision that now loomed before them? A thick fog of despair had descended upon them all.

The Israelites, upon witnessing the fully equipped chariots and the overwhelming array of weaponry, were filled with dread due to their inexperience in battle and their unpreparedness for such extraordinary events. As a result, they turned against Moses in fear.

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We must revisit our starting point. Those who have already set their sights on righteousness and seek to follow the lawgiver in their journey, upon leaving the land of Egypt, encounter various temptations that bring forth trials, uncertainties, and grave perils. The apprehensive hearts of those who have yet to solidify their faith can easily succumb to despair, believing that the blessings they seek are unattainable.

When the Israelites observed the Egyptians, fear overcame them. However, could it be that such a multitude of Egyptians frightened six hundred thousand Hebrews? The Hebrews felt their strength diminish because they were accompanied by their wives, children, and livestock. After all, who would protect their wives, and who would watch over their herds?

As the Israelites awaited their liberation from slavery in Egypt, they endured immense suffering and trials, caught between the sea and their enemies. Despite witnessing the miraculous signs and wonders performed against the Egyptians in the entirety of Egypt, they quickly forgot the Lord who had accomplished these mighty deeds. In their desperation for salvation, they found themselves on the verge of despair, recognizing that Pharaoh, with all his might, was poised to launch an assault on them.

The father was deeply concerned that the Israelites would succumb to fear. From a human perspective, their predicament seemed dire; they faced the vast sea to the east, insurmountable mountains to the west, and the Egyptians to the north, making success against such an armed force impossible for unarmed individuals. Their spirits had been diminished by years of oppression in Egypt, leaving them devoid of valor. The only potential escape route led south into the wilderness, yet it appeared unlikely that they could evade the swift chariots and horses of the vast multitudes that included two million people along with their livestock and possessions. Furthermore, the wilderness was fraught with dangers.