Exodus 14:17Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Regarding the ‘hardening of Pharaoh's heart by God’: refer to Ex. 9:12. And I will display My glory upon Pharaoh - see Ex. 7:4-5, Ex. 9:16, Ex. 14:18.

Look, I will strengthen Pharaoh's heart, meaning I will not intervene against the pride of the Egyptians. When they witness the astonishing miracle of the sea being parted, they will remain unaware of their wrongdoing. I will be exalted as I bring destruction upon Pharaoh and his entire army.

Since the Lord is close to all who sincerely seek Him (Psalm 144:18), when Moses called out from the depths of his heart, despite the silence that surrounded him, the One who discerns hearts responded, "Why are you crying out to me? Strike the sea with the rod in your hand, and it will part, allowing the people to pass through, and I shall be magnified in Pharaoh and all his might." Likewise, we find ourselves in similar circumstances. Affliction and the oppression of evil spirits lead to turmoil and emotional distress. The body feels the toll of illness, weighed down by the torment of dark forces.

This passage reiterates God’s decree regarding the judgment of the Egyptians, as highlighted in verse 4, referencing the drowning of the Egyptians, through which the Lord will be exalted. The following verse describes the realization of God's purpose for the deliverance of the Israelites and the judgment of the Egyptians.

The ultimate judgement is that of Pharaoh, who continued in his obstinacy, who remained deceitful for an extended period, and who disregarded the universal principles that even the Gentiles uphold, namely compassion, integrity, and honoring one’s commitments. His own pride and the blinding effect of wickedness lead him to destruction.