Exodus 14:22Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

"He has divided the Red Sea into sections, for His mercy endures forever" (Psalms 135:13). Another translation (Simmachus) refers to it as divisions (είς τομάς). A third (unknown translator, see Orig. Ex.) describes it as parts (είς τμήματα). Some suggest there was not a single pathway but that the waters parted in such a way that each tribe had its own passage, creating multiple routes. This miraculous act, which undeniably showcased His immense power and instilled a sense of awe, was simultaneously an expression of great compassion, not only towards those who benefited from it but also towards His adversaries, should they choose to reflect on it. "And led His people Israel through the midst of it, for His mercy endures forever" (Psalms 135:14).

The people of God, rescued from the great and mighty Egypt, are guided through the Red Sea to vanquish their foes through baptism. This sacrament of the Red Sea symbolizes immersion in the sacred blood of Christ, annihilating the sins represented by the pursuing Egyptians. Upon emerging from this experience, no oppressor remains to trouble you.

As Moses traversed the parted sea, he descended into the depths along with his people, emerging unharmed as if the sun had dried his body. He walked confidently along the seabed, moving through the depths of the ocean, undeterred by the sudden retreat of the waves. On both sides, the waters had solidified into towering walls.

Some believe that the sea was separated into twelve sections, allowing each tribe to cross uniquely; they refer to the cherished words of David, who stated, “To him who divided the Red Sea into divisions” (Psalm 135:13). However, I hold the view that the sea was parted into two distinct halves. This is also supported by Sacred Scripture, which describes, "And the water was a wall at their right hand, and a wall at their left" illustrating that the passageway was vast enough for the countless people who traversed it. It is written, "I am set in the depths as in the wilderness" (Psalms 105:9), which further indicates the wide breadth of the path. Nonetheless, the initial interpretation does not contradict the truth of piety; both understandings arise from God's miraculous power. Yet, it is essential to adhere to the truth revealed in Sacred Scripture.

The author of ancient sacred texts recalls how the Israelites ventured into the heart of the Red Sea. As stated, "And the children of Israel went in through the midst of the sea on dry ground, and the water was a wall unto them at their right hand, and a wall beside them." They traversed this dry expanse amidst the sea, which created formidable barriers of water on either side (Exodus 14:22). Consequently, it is a common understanding among church leaders that the Israelites journeyed directly from the shores of Egypt to those of Arabia.

The waters stood as a barrier to their right and left. Considering the configuration of the waters that resembled solid walls on both sides, it is difficult to align with the views of those enamored with miraculous tales, who propose that the Israelites benefited from a sea tide. Tides do not separate waters; they merely reveal, and only briefly, the area of the sea closest to the land. Were it not for divine intervention during the Israelites' crossing of the Red Sea, and if the tide had in fact aided them, it remains unclear why surrounding nations were alarmed upon hearing of this miraculous occurrence (Ex. 15:14). The Canaanites were well aware of this wonder and were filled with fear of the Israelites (Num. 2:11).

They served as their shield on both the right and left, rendering any assault from those directions impossible.