The nations will hear and tremble;This phrase reflects the widespread impact of God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt, as described in the preceding verses. The miraculous events, such as the parting of the Red Sea, were not only significant for Israel but also served as a testimony to surrounding nations of God's power. Historically, news of such events would travel through trade routes and interactions among nations, causing fear and respect for the God of Israel. This fear is echoed in
Joshua 2:9-11, where Rahab speaks of the terror that fell upon the inhabitants of Canaan upon hearing of Israel's exodus and victories. The trembling of nations can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate victory of God over all nations, as prophesied in passages like
Isaiah 2:2-4.
anguish will grip the dwellers of Philistia.
Philistia refers to the region inhabited by the Philistines, located along the southwestern coast of Canaan. The Philistines were known as one of Israel's primary adversaries throughout the Old Testament. The mention of Philistia here highlights the immediate threat perceived by neighboring regions upon witnessing God's intervention for Israel. This anguish is not just fear but a deep-seated anxiety over the potential threat posed by a nation whose God performs such mighty acts. The Philistines' fear is later confirmed in1 Samuel 4:7-8, where they express dread over the presence of the God who struck Egypt. This phrase also serves as a type of Christ, as it prefigures the fear and awe that Jesus' miraculous works and ultimate victory over sin and death would inspire among both His followers and adversaries.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
NationsRefers to the surrounding peoples and tribes who would hear of God's mighty acts and be filled with fear. This includes various groups in the ancient Near East.
2.
PhilistiaA region and its inhabitants, the Philistines, who were known adversaries of Israel. They lived along the coastal areas of what is now modern-day Israel and Gaza.
3.
TrembleThis describes the reaction of fear and awe that the nations would experience upon hearing of God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt.
4.
AnguishA deep distress or anxiety that would grip the people of Philistia, indicating the profound impact of God's power on Israel's enemies.
5.
The Song of MosesThis verse is part of the Song of Moses, a hymn of praise sung by Moses and the Israelites after their deliverance from Egypt and the crossing of the Red Sea.
Teaching Points
God's Sovereign PowerThe verse highlights God's supreme power over nations, reminding believers that God is in control and His plans will prevail.
Fear of the LordThe fear experienced by the nations serves as a reminder of the reverence and awe due to God. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord, which leads to wisdom.
Witness of God's WorksThe reaction of the nations underscores the importance of God's works as a testimony to His greatness. Believers are called to share testimonies of God's work in their lives.
Trust in DeliveranceJust as God delivered Israel, He is faithful to deliver His people today. Believers can trust in God's deliverance in their own lives.
Impact of God's PresenceThe presence of God among His people causes fear among their enemies. Believers are reminded of the power and protection that comes from God's presence.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Exodus 15:14?
2.How does Exodus 15:14 demonstrate God's power over surrounding nations' fear?
3.What emotions do the "peoples" experience in Exodus 15:14, and why?
4.How can we trust God's deliverance today, as seen in Exodus 15:14?
5.Connect Exodus 15:14 to other instances of God's deliverance in the Bible.
6.How should Exodus 15:14 inspire our faith in God's protection and guidance?
7.How does Exodus 15:14 reflect the historical context of the Israelites' journey?
8.What archaeological evidence supports the events described in Exodus 15:14?
9.How does Exodus 15:14 demonstrate God's power over other nations?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 15?
11.How can God's morality be absolute if it changes (e.g., dietary laws, sacrifices, Sabbath regulations)?
12.How does Moses praise God for His deliverance?
13.What does the Bible mention about hornets?
14.In Job 15:20-24, where is the historical or archaeological basis for the notion that the wicked perpetually face this kind of torment?What Does Exodus 15:14 Mean
The nations will hearWhen Moses and Israel sing this line, they assume that word of God’s mighty act at the Red Sea will spread far beyond their camp. History proves them right. Rahab in Jericho later testifies, “We have heard how the LORD dried up the waters of the Red Sea before you” (Joshua 2:9-11). Centuries later, even pagan monarchs acknowledge Israel’s God because “the LORD has made His salvation known before the nations” (Psalm 98:2). The message: God’s works are public, undeniable, and newsworthy.
and trembleHearing is one thing; trembling is another. The same God who shattered Pharaoh’s army now stands between the nations and Israel. Scripture repeatedly records that terror preceded Israel wherever the LORD led them (Deuteronomy 2:25;Exodus 23:27). Even mighty rivers and mountains react: “The waters saw You, O God; the waters saw You and writhed” (Psalm 77:16). The verse assures Israel that their enemies will not shrug off God’s reputation—they will shake because of it.
anguish will grip“Tremble” speaks of fear; “anguish” points to an inner, paralyzing pain. Think birth pangs—inescapable and overwhelming (Isaiah 13:8). When God moves, emotional and psychological distress seize those who oppose Him (Psalm 48:5-6). The line reminds Israel that the dread felt in Egypt during the plagues will now be reproduced in every hostile camp they encounter.
the dwellers of PhilistiaPhilistia represents the first significant enemy territory on Israel’s horizon. Geographically close and historically hostile (Joshua 13:2-3), the Philistines would later capture the ark and experience divine judgment until they cried out in fear (1 Samuel 5:10-12). Moses’ song predicts that very pattern: God’s fame will reach Philistia, grip its people with panic, and prepare the way for Israel’s future victories (2 Samuel 5:17-25).
summaryExodus 15:14 assures Israel that God’s victory at the Red Sea will echo across borders, evoke fear, cause deep anguish, and specifically unsettle the Philistines. The line invites us to trust that the LORD who once silenced hostile nations still defends His people today with the same power and reputation.
(14)
The people.--Heb.,
The peoples: i.e.,all the various tribes and nations of the desert and of Palestine--the Amalekites, Edomites, Philistines, Moabites, Amorites, &c.
Shall hear, and be afraid.--On the fear which was actually felt, seeNumbers 22:3;Joshua 2:11;Joshua 5:1;Joshua 9:3-15, &c.
The inhabitants of Palestinaare the Philistines, from whom the Holy Land derived the name which it still retains in most of the languages of modern Europe. The Hebrew word isPh?lasheth,of which the nearest English equivalent would be "Philistia."
Verse 14. -
The people shall hear. - Rather, "the peoples" -
i.e., the tribes, or nations, of these parts - Philistines, Amalekites, Edomites, Moabites, etc. - will hear of the wonders done in Egypt, especially of the crowning wonder of all - Israel's passage through the Red Sea and Egypt's destruction in it - and will in consequence tremble with fear when the Israelites approach them, and offer them no effectual opposition.
Palestine. This is a Greek form. The Hebrew is Phelasheth, which would perhaps be best translated "Philistia." (Compare
Psalm 60:8;
Psalm 87:4;
Psalm 108:9.) The Philistine country was a strip of territory extending along the coast of the Mediterranean from a little below Gaze on the south, nearly to Mount Carmel on the north. It is curious that the philistines are not mentioned under that name on any of the early Egyptian monuments. They may perhaps be the Purusaia of the time of Rameses III., whom some however identify with the Pelasgi.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
The nationsעַמִּ֖ים(‘am·mîm)Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 5971:A people, a tribe, troops, attendants, a flockwill hearשָֽׁמְע֥וּ(šā·mə·‘ū)Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 8085:To hear intelligently[and] tremble;יִרְגָּז֑וּן(yir·gā·zūn)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural | Paragogic nun
Strong's 7264:To be agitated, quiver, quake, be excited, perturbedanguishחִ֣יל(ḥîl)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2427:A writhing, anguishwill gripאָחַ֔ז(’ā·ḥaz)Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 270:To grasp, take hold, take possessionthe dwellersיֹשְׁבֵ֖י(yō·šə·ḇê)Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural construct
Strong's 3427:To sit down, to dwell, to remain, to settle, to marryof Philistia.פְּלָֽשֶׁת׃(pə·lā·šeṯ)Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 6429:Philistia -- a territory on the southern Mediterranean coast of Israel
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OT Law: Exodus 15:14 The peoples have heard (Exo. Ex)