By Aldwin Naruse (Miyagi)
Insight #1.
Scripture (Exo 14:1-4)
And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,
2 Speak unto the children of Israel, that they turn and encamp before Pihahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, over against Baalzephon: before it shall ye encamp by the sea.
3 For Pharaoh will say of the children of Israel, They are entangled in the land, the wilderness hath shut them in.
4 And I will harden Pharaoh's heart, that he shall follow after them; and I will be honoured upon Pharaoh, and upon all his host; that the Egyptians may know that I am the Lord. And they did so
IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament
14:1–4. Pi Hahiroth. Pi Hahiroth is not otherwise known, but many interpret it as meaning “mouth of the diggings,” possibly referring to canal work. It is known that a north-south canal was being constructed during this period (Seti I) and that it passed through the region near Qantara, a few miles west of Sile.
My commentary
The exodus is Goshen. The Lord used Pharoah to direct the Israelites by way of the sea in the southern route. God used the puppet Pharaoh to stir him up to pursue the Israelites. This is the start of the Exodus.
Insight
In conclusion, what I gleaned from the Pi Hahiroth is the insight is that God will use all things, people, and places to manifest His will for His people.
Insight #2.
Scripture (Exo 14:5-9)
5 And it was told the king of Egypt that the people fled: and the heart of Pharaoh and of his servants was turned against the people, and they said, Why have we done this, that we have let Israel go from serving us?
6 And he made ready his chariot, and took his people with him:
7 And he took six hundred chosen chariots, and all the chariots of Egypt, and captains over every one of them.
8 And the Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and he pursued after the children of Israel: and the children of Israel went out with an high hand.
9 But the Egyptians pursued after them, all the horses and chariots of Pharaoh, and his horsemen, and his army, and overtook them encamping by the sea, beside Pihahiroth, before Baalzephon.
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
14:5–9. Egypt’s army. Most chariot units of this period range between 10 and 150, so 600 is a large muster, and this represents only Pharaoh’s unit. When Rameses II fought the Hittites at the battle of Qadesh, his enemy boasted 2,500 chariots.
My commentary
Pharoah used 600 best chariots plus all the chariots of Egypt with captains to pursue the Israelites because he realized that the Israelites is his prize possession. it was important to him that he would use his best chariots with the other chariots with the captains over them and pursued them, marching boldly. He wanted to use his best to capture his prize possession which is the Israelites and keep them in bondage slavery.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight I gleaned from Egypt’s army is that Pharaoh valued the Israelites for their services and sent out his best chariots and captains to get them back. He was willing to do that at all cost..
Insight #3
Scripture (Exo 14:23-25)
23 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.
24 And it came to pass, that in the morning watch the Lord looked unto the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the host of the Egyptians,
25 And took off their chariot wheels, that they drave them heavily: so that the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel; for the Lord fighteth for them against the Egyptians.
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
14:23–25. the morning watch. The morning watch was from two to six a.m. The image of deity as flaming brilliance in the midst of a cloud is common throughout the Near East as well as in Greek mythology as early as Homer’s Iliad, where Zeus sends forth lightning and causes horses to stumble and chariots to break. The Mesopotamian warrior god, Nergal, and the Canaanite Baal each asserts his superiority in combat by means of his dazzling brilliance and fire.
My commentary
God send a pillar of fire and cloud to guide the Israelites. Back in their times, they were already associating dazzling brilliance and fire with deity. From 2 am to 6 am is the darkness hours in the night because it is just before dawn. So the pillar of fire is most visible.
Because the Egyptian grew up in a culture that associated dazzling brilliance in the sky with deity, the pillar of fire and cloud triggered deity in the mind of the Egyptians. So when they saw the pillar of fire and cloud, they naturally equate that with deity. Furthermore, due to their superstitious and cultural upbringing, it affected the Egyptians and disturbed them immensely.
So when God took off (bound their chariots wheels so that they were driven with difficulties), the Egyptians took that to mean that God was present with the Israel. It made them even more fearful of God. So they came to the conclusion to flee from the Israelite because that confirmed in their minds that God fought for them.
Have you ever been to Makapu lighthouse to watch the sun rise? Many residents go there to worship God.
The insight
So in conclusion, the insight I gleaned from the morning watch is that even though God only used the pillar of fire and cloud to guide the Israelites, the Egyptian took that to mean that there is a presence of deity that is fighting for the Israelites. God frustrated the Egyptians because of their own superstition.
Insight #4
Scripture(Exo 15:3)
3 The Lord is a man of war: the Lord is his name.
IVP Bible Background commentary
15:3. the Lord as warrior. The book of Exodus has been developing the idea of Yahweh fighting for the Israelites against the Egyptians and their gods, so here the Lord is praised as a warrior. This is a concept that remains significant throughout the Old Testament and even into the New Testament. It is especially prominent in the books of Samuel, where the title “Yahweh of Armies” (Lord of Hosts) is common. Yahweh is the king and champion of the Israelites and will lead them forth victoriously in battle. Ancient mythologies often portrayed gods in battle, but these depictions generally concerned the harnessing and organizing of the cosmos. Both Marduk (Babylonian) and Baal (Canaanite) subdue the sea, which is personified in their divine foe (Tiamat and Yamm respectively). In contrast, this hymn recognizes how Yahweh harnessed the natural sea (not representing a supernatural being) to overcome his historical, human foes. Nevertheless, bringing secure order out of conflict, being proclaimed king and establishing a dwelling are common themes both here and in the ancient Near Eastern literatures concerning cosmic battle.
My Commentary
The Lord is a man of war. and the name of this man is the Lord.
Cross reference
Psalm 24:7-10
New King James Version (NKJV)
7 Lift up your heads, O you gates!
And be lifted up, you everlasting doors!
And the King of glory shall come in.
8 Who is this King of glory?
The Lord strong and mighty,
The Lord mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O you gates!
Lift up, you everlasting doors!
And the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory?
The Lord of hosts,
He is the King of glory.
Revelation 19:11-16
11 Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. 12 His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had[a] a name written that no one knew except Himself. 13 He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. 14 And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean,[b] followed Him on white horses. 15 Now out of His mouth goes a sharp[c] sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 16 And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written:
KING OF KINGS AND
LORD OF LORDS.
My Commentary:
The Scripture reveals that Jesus Christ is the King of glory, strong and mighty in battle. He is the Lord of host. He is called faithful and true. He judges and makes war. His name is called the word of God. Out of his mouth goes a sharp sword that strikes the nation. He rules with rod of Iron. He has on His robe and on his tie a name written “King of kings and Lord of lord.”
The name of the Lord who is the man of wars is none other than the King of kings and Lord of lord. His name is Jesus Christ. Jesus was there in the time of Moses and the Israelites. The people of Israel would see the salvation of the lord Jesus Christ. The Lord will fight for you and you shall hold your peace. And this angel of God moved and went behind them is none other than Jesus Christ. (Stamps) (Barker)
The insight
So in conclusion, the insight that I gleaned from the Lord as warrior is that Jesus Christ is the one who fights our battle and He is also the King of kings and Lord of lord who carries a double-edge sword. On one hand He is faithful and true, and on the other hand, He is righteous and judges and makes war. In the beginning, He was there with Moses and the Israelites, fighting against the Egyptians.
Insight #5
Scripture (Exo 15:4)
4 Pharaoh's chariots and his host hath he cast into the sea: his chosen captains also are drowned in the Red sea.
IVP Bible Background Commentary
15:4. Red Sea. Here the reference to the Reed Sea does not suggest further discussion of its identity (see comment on 13:18) but may well include a pun. The Hebrew word suph not only means “reed” but also means “end” as a noun and “swept away” as a verb (see Ps 73:19).
Cross reference:
Exodus 14:7
7 Also, he took six hundred choice chariots, and all the chariots of Egypt with captains over every one of them.
Exodus 14:28
28 Then the waters returned and covered the chariots, the horsemen, and all the army of Pharaoh that came into the sea after them. Not so much as one of them remained.
Psalm 106:1-5
Praise the Lord!
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever.
2 Who can utter the mighty acts of the Lord?
Who can declare all His praise?
3 Blessed are those who keep justice,
4 Remember me, O Lord, with the favor You have toward Your people.
Oh, visit me with Your salvation,
5 That I may see the benefit of Your chosen ones,
That I may rejoice in the gladness of Your nation,
That I may glory with Your inheritance.
My commentary
The powerful force of the red sea was no match against any armies, including Pharaoh’s. god is the creator of the heaven and earth and he created the sea. For Pharoah to think that he can defile the power of God through his creation is foolish and blind.
This hymn that Moses and the Israelites began to sing unto the Lord is a song of thanksgiving to the Lord for His goodness and mighty acts. And they saw the goodness of God. The Red Sea represents a defining moment. It is a demonstration of God proving Himself that the God of Israel is righteous and just. The signs and wonders of that event should cause the Israelites to believe that He is God. How can the Red Sea supernaturally part? (Barker) (Stamps)
The insight
So in conclusion, the insight from the Red Sea is that even though Pharoah used his best efforts and his best chariots and captains to come against God, God still defeated him and in the process, Pharoah lost everything. They were all swept away in the end. The Red Sea was the defining moment for Pharaoh and his armies. It was also a defining moment for the Israelites for they saw God’s majesty in action.
Insight #6
Scripture(Exo 15:6-12)
6 Thy right hand, O Lord, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O Lord, hath dashed in pieces the enemy.
7 And in the greatness of thine excellency thou hast overthrown them that rose up against thee: thou sentest forth thy wrath, which consumed them as stubble.
8 And with the blast of thy nostrils the waters were gathered together, the floods stood upright as an heap, and the depths were congealed in the heart of the sea.
9 The enemy said, I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoil; my lust shall be satisfied upon them; I will draw my sword, my hand shall destroy them.
10 Thou didst blow with thy wind, the sea covered them: they sank as lead in the mighty waters.
11 Who is like unto thee, O Lord, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?
12 Thou stretchest out thy right hand, the earth swallowed them.
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
15:6–12. right hand. The right hand is the one that holds the weapon, so that it is the one that brings victory. In verse 12 the right hand is not seen as literally causing the earth to open up. In Hebrew the term for earth can occasionally also mean “netherworld,” and that seems likely here. To say that the netherworld swallowed them is to say that they were sent to their graves. It should also be remembered that in Egyptian concepts of afterlife the wicked are devoured by the “Swallower” when they fail to convince the judges of their goodness.
Exodus 15:6
New King James Version (NKJV)
6 “Your right hand (Jesus Christ), O Lord, has become glorious in power;
Your right hand (Jesus Christ), O Lord, has dashed the enemy in pieces.
Exodus 15:9
New King James Version (NKJV)
9 The enemy said, ‘I will pursue,
I will overtake,
I will divide the spoil;
My desire shall be satisfied on them.
I will draw my sword,
My hand (Jesus Christ) shall destroy them.
Exodus 15:12
New King James Version (NKJV)
12 You stretched out Your right hand (Jesus Christ);
The earth swallowed them.
My commentary:
Who is your right hand, o Lord.
It is none other than Jesus Christ.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight I gleaned from the right hand is that Jesus is God’s right hand and has been there with God from the beginning to fight all the battles for the Israelites and today, He is still fighting the battles for us.
Insight #7
Scripture (Exo 15:13-16)
Exodus 15:13-16
King James Version (KJV)
13 Thou in thy mercy hast led forth the people which thou hast redeemed (avenge, ramson. redeemed Israel from Egyptian bondage) thou hast guided (to lead) them in thy strength (might, force) unto thy holy (sacred) habitation (abode, dwelling).
14 The people shall hear (witness), and be afraid (tremble, quiver): sorrow (pain, anguish) shall take hold (to grasp, to seize) on the inhabitants of Palestina (general territory of Canaan)
15 Then the dukes of Edom (land southeast of Palestine) shall be amazed(disturbed, terrified); the mighty men of Moab, trembling(fear) shall take hold upon them; all the inhabitants (abode) of Canaan (various nations who peopled the sea coast of Palestine, land west of Jordan, conquered by the Israelites under Joshua) shall melt away.
16 Fear (dread, horror) and dread (terror, great fear) shall fall upon them; by the greatness (of God) of thine arm (symbol of strength, force, power) they shall be as still as a stone; till thy people (nation) pass over (cross over, march over, pass through, overtake), O Lord, till the people pass over , which thou hast purchased (to procure, attain, recover, redeem, acquire).
IVP Bible Background commentary, Old Testament
15:13–16. terrified peoples. The terror of the peoples becomes a standard theme in the account of the conquest. While the peoples of Canaan may have previously been terrified of the Egyptians (as the Amarna correspondence from this period suggest some were), it is now not the arm of Pharaoh, but the arm of Yahweh, who has defeated Pharaoh, that poses a threat to them.
Cross Reference
Joshua 2:9 (KJV)
9 And she said unto the men, I know that the Lord hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you.
Isaiah 41:10 (KJV)
10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness
Joshua 10:14 (KJV)
14 And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the Lord hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the Lord fought for Israel.
Psalm 78:52-54 (KJV)
52 But made his own people to go forth like sheep, and guided them in the wilderness like a flock.
53 And he led them on safely, so that they feared not: but the sea overwhelmed their enemies.
54 And he brought them to the border of his sanctuary, even to this mountain, which his right hand had purchased
My commentary
In this section, this is a song of celebration, a hymn of praise and thanksgiving to God and his faithfulness to his people. He kept his word and promise. This is a defining moment in biblical history. The red sea represents the defining moment. All of the chariots, army, captains represent the power of darkness. God’s people is assure victory over the enemies of Christ Jesus. The redeemed people, the people of God, the Israelites is this song of Moses. (Barker) (Stamps)
The Insight
In conclusion, the insight that I gleaned from the terrified people is that the Israelites were fearful of Pharoah because he had dominance over them back in Egypt. But since God has delivered them from the hands of Pharoah, they now feared God, who is by far mightier than Pharaoh. However, the Israelites needed to have the fear of the Lord, which is reverence toward God, instead of a fear of man.
Insight #8
Scripture (Exo 15:21-22)
20 And Miriam (sister of Moses and Aaron) the prophetess (ancient type,endowed with the gift of songs) , the sister of Aaron (brother of Moses, levite, first high priest), took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances.
21 And Miriam answered (respond, pay attention, shout, testify) them, Sing ye to the Lord, for he hath triumphed (to be raised up, exalted) gloriously (majestic, triumph); the horse and his rider hath he thrown (to hurl, to deceive, mislead) into the sea (large body of water, sometimes a large river)
.
IVP Bible background commentary
15:20–21. prophetess. Miriam, here hailed as a prophetess and sister of Aaron (no mention of Moses), takes up the song. This is the only mention of Miriam by name in the book, and the only place she is referred to as a prophetess. The only other account that she is named in is the challenge to Moses’ authority in Numbers 12. Other prominent prophetesses in the Old Testament include Deborah (Judg 4) and Huldah (2 Kings 22). There is no reason to think that it was odd for women to be found in this role. In fact, the prophetic texts from Mari feature women in this role as often as men. It was also common for musical troupes to feature women. Music and prophecy also were associated, since music was commonly used to induce the trances from which prophetic utterances proceeded (1 Sam 10:5; 2 Kings 3:15).
Cross reference:
1 Samuel 18:6-7 (KJV)
6 And it came to pass as they came, when David was returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women came out of all cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with tabrets, with joy, and with instruments of musick.
7 And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.
My commentary:
So the Jewish tradition with women singing and dancing with tambourines is a common practice to celebrate victory in battle. So Miriam was a prophetess, took the tambourines and all the women were dancing and she sang the song “sing ye to the Lord for He had triumph graciously, for their horse and riders He had thrown into the sea.” Miriam sang this song. She is called a prophetess because she moved in the spirit of prophecy and spoke a message from God to the people. This is a song of Moses, a hymn of praise and thanksgiving to God for the victory over Pharaoh’s army. Miriam, the prophetess, took leadership with the other women and worship the Lord and sang this hymn to the Lord. That God had triumph gloriously. All the horses, chariots and the men were thrown into the sea. (Barker) (Stamps)
How was Pharaoh deceived?
Because God hardened his heart.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight that I gleaned from the prophetess is that Miriam, a prophetess, led the other women to worship the Lord in songs and thanksgiving whenever they celebrated victory in battle. Instruments, such as the tambourines and hymns were commonly used as tools of worship and praise.
Insight # 9
Scripture (Exo 15:22-27)
Exodus 15:22-27
King James Version (KJV)
22 So Moses (prophet, leader of exodus) brought Israel (God prevails, the descendants in the nation of Jacob) from the Red (red seaweed of red sea) sea ( large body of water, sometimes large river), and they went out into the wilderness (pasture, uninhabited land) of Shur (region of desert where Israelites pass through after the crossing of the Red Sea); and they went three days in the wilderness, and found no water.
23 And when they came to Marah (bitter water) they could not drink of the waters (refreshment) of Marah, for they were bitter: therefore the name of it was called Marah.
24 And the people murmured (complaining, grumble) against Moses, saying, What shall we drink?
25 And he cried (to call together, summons) unto the Lord (the proper name for the one true God, eternal); and the Lord shewed (direct, teach, instruct) him a tree, which when he had cast into the waters, the waters were made sweet (pleasant): there he made (change, purpose, work) for them a statute (commandment, ordinance, decree) and an ordinance ( command) , and there he proved (to test, to tempt) them,
26 And said, If thou wilt diligently (obedient) hearken (consent) to the voice (sound) of the Lord thy God (supreme God, true God), and wilt do that which is right (straight and correct) in his sight (presence), and wilt give ear (listen and hear) to his commandments (the law), and keep all his statutes (customs,conditions) I will put none of these diseases (sickness, infirmity) upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth (make healthy, repair, cure) thee.
27 And they came to Elim (second encampment of Israelites after exodus), where were twelve wells of water, and threescore and ten palm trees: and they encamped (pitched tent, make abode) there by the waters.
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
15:22–27. Desert of Shur. The wilderness of Shur is located in the northwest region of the Sinai peninsula. An east-west route runs through the region that connects Egypt to the King’s Highway in Transjordan at Bozrah, or leads up into Palestine through Beersheba, but the Israelites did not take this route. Shur means “wall” in Hebrew, so it is possible that this term refers to the well-known Egyptian line of fortresses in this region. This is supported by Numbers 33:8, where it is called the wilderness of Etham (etham means “fort”). Built a few centuries earlier to protect the northeastern frontiers of Egypt, this series of garrisons was known as the Wall of the Ruler. This marked Sinuhe’s point of departure as he fled from Egypt in the Story of Sinuhe.
Cross reference
Deuteronomy 28:27
King James Version (KJV)
27 The Lord will smite thee with the botch of Egypt, and with the emerods, and with the scab, and with the itch, whereof thou canst not be healed.
My commentary
The bitter water was at Marah. and people could not drink the water because it was bitter. They complain to Moses and Moses told the Lord. The Lord answered him and showed him a tree. He casted it into the water and the water became sweet. The Lord then made a covenant and The Lord said to them if you diligently heed the voice of God and do what is right, give ear to his commandments and heed them, I will put none of these diseases on you which I have bought on to the Egyptians for I am the Lord God who heals you. So when Moses brought them out of the Red Sea, they went to the desert of Shur, the place of the bitter water. (Barker)
Marah is located in the wilderness of Shur. They came to this wilderness from the Red Sea. And the Red Sea which is the sea of Reeds is located approximately in the lower section of Menzaleh where it is call the sea of Reeds. These red seaweed cannot grow in salt water. It must be in the lower section of Goshen, which is adjacent to the Desert of Shur. So after Moses led them out of the Red sea, they went to Shur and then headed southward along the coast of the Red Sea and arrived at Marah. And there they found no water. (Stamps)
They started complaining to Moses. God used this event from victory, to desert to bitter water to test them. He then presented an option. The option is that “if you diligently heed the voice of the Lord, and do what is right in his sight, give ear to his com and keep all his statutes, I the Lord will put none of these diseases on you which I have bought on to the Egyptians for I am the Lord God who heals you.
And so the analogy is from victory at red sea, they were led to Shur. At shur was the refining process of the people of israel. Faith that is not tested cannot be trusted. God use this event to test the condition of their heart. If they keep complaining to Moses, then the condition of their hearts is wicked. So God used this event at Shur to reveal them the condition of their hearts and laid out a plan of salvation and deliverance. Once they came to terms with God, then God led Moses to lead them to Elim where there were 12 wells of water, 70 palm trees and they pitched their tent there.
This is a conditional covenant. It requires consent and agreement from the other party to the terms and condition of the agreement. It is not unilateral. It is bilateral and must be met by the other parties.
The plagues of Egypt that God struck Pharaoh and his people could not deter and change Pharaoh’s heart. Waters became blood. Frogs came. Lice, flies, hail, locusts, boils, darkness, and the last plague was placed on Pharaoh and on Egypt. All the first born of Egypt shall die, starting with the first born of Pharaoh.
So even after God struck Pharaoh with these plagues, it did not deter him and his heart hardened even more.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight gleaned from the desert of Shur is that God will use any geographical domain or physical obstacle to get our attention and test the condition of our hearts. And we were are slow to learn the lesson, we will continue to suffer the same conditions until we have come to terms with His plan and purposes. If a person’s faith is not tested, it cannot be trusted. God chose the Israelites as His chosen people. If God did not trust them, they cannot be trusted. So this wilderness of Shur was all in God’s plan so that in the process, the Israelites will be holy and sanctified unto Him. If not, all of the plagues and diseases that were brought up the Egyptians will come to the Israelites as well.
Insight #10
Scripture (Exo 16:1-3)
Exodus 16:1-3
King James Version (KJV)
16 And they took their journey from Elim (second encampment of the Israelites after the exodus), and all the congregation (generally a family, a crowd)of the children (people of a nation) of Israel came unto the wilderness of Sin (a track of wilderness between Elim and Sinai), which is between Elim and Sinai (mountain where Moses receive the law, located in the southern end of the peninsula), on the fifteenth day of the second month after their departing out of the land of Egypt (a country at the north eastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine through which the Nile flows)
2 And the whole congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness:
3 And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand (power, strength) of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh (the body, flesh as frail or erring) pots, and when we did eat (consume, to feed) bread (food) to the full; for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness (uninhabited land, pasture), to kill this whole assembly (a company, a congregation of multitude) with hunger (famine).
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
16:1–3. Desert of Sin. The Desert of Sin is an area in the west-central region of the peninsula. Here the main route moves inland five to ten miles for about the next seventy-five miles until it rejoins the coast at Abu Zenimah and the El Markha plain. This may be where they camped by the sea (Num 33:10–11). From there they moved east and northeast across the wilderness of Sin by way of the Wadi Ba’ba and Rod el ‘Air to the region of Serabit el-Khadim, which is likely where Dophkah was (Num 33:11).
My commentary
The Israelites are complaining to Moses for the third time. They just arrive at Elim, pitched their tent and were singing praises to the Lord. Now again, from Elim, into the wilderness of Sin, which is now located between Elim and Sinai, they started complaining. Inspite of what God had done for them at Elim, God gave His promise that “if you diligently obey me, none of the dread diseases of Egypt will come upon you.”
Do you think murmuring against Moses and God is the right thing to do?
There are in the wilderness again.
So with God, the complaint was that “we had die by the hand of the lord and sat by the pots of meat and ate to the full. For you Moses have brought us out to the wilderness to kill the whole assembly with hunger. “ So they are complaining to Moses and Aaron again. Their faith was shallow and were quick to forget the goodness of God. Just previously in Elim, they were singing and praising God.
So the wilderness of sin like the wilderness of Shur represent testing grounds of their faith, commitment, loyalties, obedience, faithfulness to God. And the problem of water is a situation that God would deliberately allow to put in front of them as the test of faith.
The Insight
In conclusion, the insight I gleaned from the desert of sin is that the Israelite is so stubborn and wicked that time and time again, God puts them through the same test because they hadn’t learned the lesson of trust and obedience unto the Lord. This is the third wilderness that God had placed them in because of their wickedness and stubbornness. This is why they wonder in the wilderness for forty years. They just move from one wilderness to another, always living under grace and mercy but never from glory to glory.
Insight #11
Scripture (Exo 16:3)
3 And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh (fat) pots (to boil up, a fish hook, wash pot), and when we did eat bread to the full; for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
16:3. pots of meat. In their exaggerated recollection of the situation in Egypt they refer to large pots filled with meat—we might say “meat by the bucketload.”
My Commentary
They claimed that life was better in Egypt. They claimed to have it a whole lot better while they in slavery back in Egypt. So the meat by the bucketload in their exaggeration were overboard. They made it sound like they were better off to have stayed in Egypt because they sat around pots of meat and ate all they wanted. But now, we are in this desert to starve to death. Because they are not operating in the Spirit, but in the flesh, they are putting value in their assessment and using that basis to put down Moses and Aaron and discrediting and judging them and blaming them. They are saying that “if we had die in the Lord had back in Egypt rather than in this desert.” They rather die in slavery and bondage with pleasure than suffer for the Lord by passing through this wilderness segment. They are very carnal, self center people who are quick to judge and murmur and forget easily the provision of God.
They were shown previously in Elim the 12 wells and the 70 palm trees. And provided for them every step of the way. But it was never good enough and in their insanity, they conclude by saying that they rather die by God’s hand in Egypt because at least they died with a full belly.
I am reminded that we should not be let and govern by our appetite, but by the spirit of God. They are coming against the messengers of God who is leading them out of the slave bondage. If that is the only life that they know, they are truly poor, blind and wretched. (Barker)
This meat for food here refers to items of food from Egypt that the Israelites were addicted to. These pots of meat where what they craved because it was probably delicious. They missed the meat from Egypt. The negative soul ties to the food and lifestyle had a strong grip to the Israelites and they were in deep bondage. Despite the army of Pharaoh who came to pursue them to bring them back to slave bondage, they still wanted to go back.
The Insight
In conclusion, the insight that I gleaned from the pots of meat is that the reason for their exaggeration of the pots of meats is really their insatiable appetites for the foods from Egypt. They were addicted to the food. And even though they were in slave bondage to Egypt, they didn’t care because they value the food (which is of little value) over freedom of slave bondage ( which is of greater value). In essence, they rather settle for the small blessings than go for the bigger blessings. How stubborn and foolish they were.
Insight #12
Scripture (Exo 16:4-9)
4 Then said the Lord unto Moses, Behold, I will rain bread (grain for making bread, food) from heaven (the abode of God) for you; and the people (a congregation, tribe, nation, kindred) shall go out and gather a certain rate every day, that I may prove (to test, tempt, try) them, whether they will walk (to proceed, to move) in my law( instruction and direction, statutes), or not.
5 And it shall come to pass, that on the sixth day they shall prepare (be firm, stable, established, secure, be ready) that which they bring in; and it shall be twice as much as they gather daily.
6 And Moses and Aaron said unto all the children of Israel, At even (a day, even night, from dust to day), then ye shall know that the Lord hath brought you out from the land of Egypt:
7 And in the morning (the coming of daylight), then ye shall see the glory (abundance, riches, splendor) of the Lord; for that he heareth (consider, listen to, to be heard) your murmurings against the Lord: and what are we, that ye murmur against us?
8 And Moses said, This shall be, when the Lord shall give (to bestow, to give over, to yield, to produce) you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the Lord heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the Lord.
9 And Moses spake unto Aaron, Say unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, Come near before the Lord: for he hath heard your murmurings.
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
16:4–9. bread from heaven/manna. The bread from heaven was called “manna” in verse 31, where it is described (see also Num 11:7). The fact that it came with the dew (v. 4) suggests that God’s miraculous provision used a natural process. The most frequent identification is with the secretion of small aphids that feed on the sap of tamarisk trees. When it hardens and falls to the ground, it can be collected and used for a sweetener. The problem is that this occurs only during certain seasons (May to July) and only where there are tamarisk trees. A full season would normally produce only about five hundred pounds, in contrast to the biblical account that has the people gathering about half a pound per person per day. Alternatively, some would favor the sweet liquid of the hammada plant, common in southern Sinai, which is used to sweeten cakes. As with the plagues, it is not necessarily the occurrence of this phenomenon that is unnatural but the timing and magnitude. Nevertheless, these natural explanations seem to fall far short of the biblical data. The comparison to what most translations identify as the seed of the coriander (rarely found in the desert) is more likely to refer to a wider generic category of desert plants with white seeds.
Cross reference:
Numbers 11:4-9
King James Version (KJV)
4 And the mixt multitude that was among them fell a lusting: and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat?
5 We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlick:
6 But now our soul is dried away: there is nothing at all, beside this manna, before our eyes.
7 And the manna was as coriander seed, and the colour thereof as the colour of bdellium.
8 And the people went about, and gathered it, and ground it in mills, or beat it in a mortar, and baked it in pans, and made cakes of it: and the taste of it was as the taste of fresh oil.
9 And when the dew fell upon the camp in the night, the manna fell upon it.
My commentary
After only three days into the journey, they again for the third time are complaining to Moses because their circumstances were not like Egypt. they were accustomed to a lifestyle even though under slave bondage. They were compromising that they had it better there. They forgot the value and importance of being free from slavery and an opportunity of a new life in the God of Abraham, Jacob, and Issac. They would not trust God. Because they had limited experience with God, they could not trust what they don’t know. But their faith was very shallow and that even though God send them messengers (Moses) and the parting of the Red Sea and the feeding of Manna, a unique and different type of food substance from coriander seeds and made it into cake and tasted it with fresh oil. They remember the fish which they ate freely in Egypt. But they are now deprived and their substance is made of bread. And when night fall came, this manna fell upon it. ( Stamps)
The special food Manna was miraculously sent from God. The food substances found in the desert is different from Egypt. These manna-like coriander seeds that look like resin that people gathered and ground it and crushed it and cooked it in a pot and made it into cakes. It tasted like something made from olive oil. And when the dew came and settle on the camp, the Manna also came down.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight that I gleaned from the bread from heaven/ manna is that God’s provision is always generous and in abundance, above and beyond what is expected. God is generous in His provision just as He is generous in His love, kindness and compassion towards us. He is never short and lacking in resources and his provision is above and beyond just good enough. The Israelites were spoil brats who were ungrateful to God’s awesome provision of manna for them daily. They could not see His love even though He showed it to them every single day.
Insight #13
Scripture (Exo 16:13)
13 And it came to pass, that at even (dust to day) the quails (quail collectively has slow inflight from his weight) came up (to cause to spring up), and covered the camp: and in the morning the dew (night mist) lay round about the host (place of encampment, body of people).
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
16:13. quail. Small, plump migratory quail often come through the Sinai on their way north from the Sudan to Europe, generally in the months of March and April. They generally fly with the wind and are driven to ground (or water) if caught in a crosswind. In their exhaustion it is not unusual for them to fly so low that they can be easily caught. Quail looking for a place to land and rest have been known to sink small boats, and in the Sinai they have been noted to cover the ground so densely that some landed on the tops of others.
Cross Reference
Numbers 11:31-33
King James Version (KJV)
31 And there went forth a wind from the Lord, and brought quails from the sea, and let them fall by the camp, as it were a day's journey on this side, and as it were a day's journey on the other side, round about the camp, and as it were two cubits high upon the face of the earth.
32 And the people stood up all that day, and all that night, and all the next day, and they gathered the quails: he that gathered least gathered ten homers: and they spread them all abroad for themselves round about the camp.
My commentary
A wind from the Lord went out and drove the quail from the sea down to the camp. The wind is construe to be the Holy Spirit. God was the driving force that drove the quail from the sea to the camp. All the day and night and next day, the people went out and gather quail. That evening, quail came from God and cover the camp. Quails are fat and heavy and comes in multitudes.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight I glean from the quail is that God provided so much quail for them that there wasn’t even enough room on the ground to contain it. When God wants to bless a person, he must be in a place where he is ready, willing or able to receive it. If not, the blessing will go right on by and the person will miss it and he will lose out in the end. The blessings of God is for right now. You may not have a chance to regain the blessings that was lost yesterday. If we are walking with God, and our trust is with Him, we are always ready, willing and able to receive the blessings. The Israelites did not know that quail migrated to that region and God knew this. So when the Israelites set up camp in the wilderness of Sin which is located between Elim and Sinai along the sea coast, God sent quail because God knew their needs and predetermined this location and knew that the quails will come.
Insight #14
Scripture (Exo 16:20)
20 Notwithstanding they hearkened (consent, consider, listen, obey) not unto Moses( the prophet, law giver, leader of exodus); but some (certain, divers, strangers) of them left (to leave over, to show excess, to have more than enough) of it until the morning (the next day, the beginning of the day), and it bred (to raise, to be rotten, to be wormy) worms (maggots), and stank (smell bad): and Moses was wroth (anger, displeased) with them.
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
16:20. spoilage. If manna is the secretion of aphids (see above on 16:4–9), ants are responsible for carrying it off each day once the temperature rises. They would also be the bugs that got into any additional manna the people tried to collect and save. The Hebrew word translated “maggots” can refer to any number of scale insects, but there is a different word for ants. Furthermore, the insect secretions are not subject to spoilage.
My commentary
Some of them pay no attention to Moses. They took him likely and disobeyed him. They did not give ear to Him. They ignored him. And some of them left behind too much manna and it caused a residue and showed evidence of excess. They were greedy and took more than enough. They bred worms and started to smell bad and become rotten. Moses was provoke to anger because the people disobeyed God.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight that I glean from spoilage is that the blessings of God can only be enjoy within the parameters of God’s law. If we step outside of God’s word and instructions, the blessings of God will become a curse to us instead of a blessings.
Insight #15
Scripture (Exo 17:5-7)
Exodus 17:5-7
King James Version (KJV)
5 And the Lord said unto Moses, Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders ( of those having authority) of Israel; and thy rod (figurative a tribe, a correction ruling, sceptre), wherewith thou smotest (strike, kill, slay) the river (water courses), take (seize, lay hold, acquire) in thine hand (power, strength), and go (to walk forward, depart, proceed).
6 Behold, I will stand (remain and endure) before thee there upon the rock (stone, boulder) in Horeb (desert, another name for mount sinai from which God gave the law to Moses and the Israelite); and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.
7 And he called the name of the place Massah (temptations, the place in the wilderness where the Israelites tested God), and Meribah (a fountain at Rephidim in the desert of Sin, the name of the water supply at Kadesh on the southern border of the promise land. The people also murmur here against God, meaning is strife or contention), because of the chiding (contest, quarrel, strife, dispute) of the children of Israel, and because they tempted (to test, to try, to prove)the Lord, saying, Is the Lord among us, or not?
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
17:5–7. rock at Horeb. The location of this provision of water is identified with the rock at Horeb, but Horeb most likely refers to the region in the vicinity of Mount Sinai (Mount Horeb) rather than to a specific location.
My commentary
The place of Horeb where God told him to strike the rock and water would come out for people to drink. So Moses did that in the sight of the elders. Moses called this place Massah and Meribah because Massah means testing and Meribah means quarreling. The Israelites were testing God and quarreling by saying “is the Lord among us or not.” So Moses demonstrated a miraculous event by striking the rock at Horeb for water to come out to dispel the murmuring, the backbiting against God. (Barker)
This particular spot in Mount Sinai where this rock is located in Horeb or Mount Sinai is where Moses was told to smite the rock so that water would come out for the people to drink. Moses called this rock Massah and Meribah which means testing and quarreling. Because of the striving, the quarreling, the complaining of the children of Israel and because they tempted the Lord and challenged Him to prove Himself, they were in contempt of the Lord. They were so bold to do that, asking “is the Lord amongst us or not.” Even when God used Moses to perform the miracle of smiting the rock so that water would come out for the people to drink, they still challenged the Lord and protested and contended with the Lord. Their attitude was ungrateful, selfish, and self-centered. They were still not satisfied. They still question God.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight that I glean from the rock at Horeb is that the stubborness and ungratefulness of the Israelites only revealed the true condition of their hearts which is poor, blind and wretched. They refused to acknowledge God’s provision for them, nor were they thankful. They were just a bunch of self-serving, egotistical free loaders. They lack humility and thankfulness and truly undeserving of God’s blessings on every level. How much more does God have to prove Himself?
Insight #16
Scripture (Exo 17:6)
6 Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come (to cause to go, to bring out, to deliver) water (spring) out of it, that the people may drink (to feast). And Moses did (to do or make) so in the sight of the elders of Israel.
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
17:6. water from rock. Sedimentary rock is known to feature pockets where water can collect just below the surface. If there is some seepage, one can see where these pockets exist and by breaking through the surface can release the collected water. Again, however, we are dealing with a quantity of water beyond what this explanation affords.
My commentary
So as Moses endure and stood before and take a stand that God is who He is, he made a stand for God. He stood before the Israelites, face to face and addressed the elders. Moses performed a miraculous demonstration by striking the rock, which was situated in this place called Massah and Meribah in the region of Horeb or Mount Sinai. The importance of this rock in Horeb was to express the spiritual condition of the elders at this time. If the elders of Israel could see, understand, believe and accept this God of Abraham and that Moses is performing a miracle here, the elders of Israel would be the influences over the men and women and would be able to convey and confirm that this God is real.
Although this rock may be a cliff, a boulder, a rocky wall, then in scientific research, these boulders can collect and accumulate water. Springs of water comes from cliffs and boulders and rock formation. And so this rock or boulder in Horeb could also be a predestination who God knew in advance that this rock in Horeb contained enough water that when smited will pour out enough water. The rock should not be misconstrue to be just an ordinary rock. It could be a stone that was porous enough to accumulate water and was a set up to pour out water.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight that I glean from this water from rock is that God knows where the blessings are and He leads us to find it. If we tune in to Him, He will show us one step at a time and the blessings of God shall unfold before our eyes because we are watching and waiting on Him moment by moment. It is beyond our natural understanding and we would be foolish to limit God in His infinite wisdom.
Insight #17
Scripture (Exodus 17:11-12
11 And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed (to be strong, to exceed, be mighty, to be valiant).
12 But Moses hands (power, strength, portion) were heavy (difficult, burdensome, oppressive) ; and they took (to take, to seize, to acquire) a stone (tablets, weapons, weight), and put (to set or lay upon, to establish) it under him, and he sat (to dwell and remain) thereon; and Aaron (brother of Moses, levite, first high priest) and Hur (chief assistance to Moses and Aaron) stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady (firmness, steadfast, fidelity) until the going down of the sun.
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
17:11–12. battle signals. Signals were often used to deploy the various divisions in battle. It is possible that Moses used the staff in just such a way. When he was unable to relay divine guidance through the signals, the Israelites were not able to succeed. Alternatively, it has been noticed that Egyptian texts speak of the uplifted arms of Pharaoh to bring protection as well as to signal the attack.
My commentary
If moses’ hand which represent strength and power were heavy, and they took a stone, possibly a tablet and put it under him, was Moses carrying something in his hand? Was it a staff that was used to strike the rock that pour out water for the israelites to drink? So now they were in battle with the Amaleks and Moses is the leader of the Israel and his hand represented power and authority as the leader and that the Israelites saw it and they were strengthen by it. The leader is alive and leading them. Israel was encouraged when they saw his hand and it motivated them and strengthen them and they were able to overcome the Amaleks. They wer valiant and when Moses’ hand became heavy, Aaron and Hur put a stone under him and help him. They were diligent, steadfast and faithful to keep Moses’ hand from falling down. They knew the importance of his hands staying up for all of Israel to see.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight that I glean from this battle signals is that without a leader, the people will scatter and be confused. A leader is needed to keep the people focus on God and unified in the things of God. Therefore we are to cherish, support and honor the leaders that are God-fearing. We are to pray for them, encourage them and be supportive of them.
Insight #18
Scripture (Exodus 17:15)
15 And Moses built (to establish, cause to continue) an altar (a place of sacrifice, a high point), and called the name of it Jehovahnissi(Jehovah is my banner, the name given by Moses to the altar which he built in commemoration of the disconfiture of the Amalakites.:
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
17:15. altar: “Lord my banner.” The altar Moses builds is one of commemoration of the victory. The name given it, “Yahweh is my standard,” reflects the theology of Yahweh as the leader of the armies of Israel. In the Egyptian army the divisions were named for various gods (e.g., the division of Amun, division of Seth) and the standards would identify the division by means of some representation of the god.
My commentary
When Moses built this altar, it was to signify a major event. It is a memorial, a monument to show, to declare that God is my banner. So this altar that was built by Moses is to permanently proclaim and exhibit to the Amalakites to remember the God of Abraham, Issac and Jacob. He was the One who defeated you. He went before us.
The insight
wn conclusion, the insight that I glean from altar is that without God, we are on our own strength. All the kingdom power and authority are from God almighty. Like the foolish Pharaoh who thought that his mighty chariots could defeat God, we will be defeated every time if we rely on our own strength. God is the only One who can help us win our daily battles. Apart from Him, we are just a mere sitting duck.
Insight #19
Scripture (Exo 18:5)
5 And Jethro (father in law of Moses), Moses' father in law, came (abide, to come, to go in, enter) with his sons and his wife unto Moses (prophet, law giver, leader of the exodus) into the wilderness (pasture, desert), where he encamped (to pitch a tent, to dwell, to camp) at the mount (a mountain range, hill country, mountain) of God (the almighty One):
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
18:5. mountain of God. “Mountain of God” is used to describe Mount Sinai. At Rephidim they are in the general vicinity of Sinai, but this chapter probably records events that took place after they had set up camp at the foot of the mountain itself.
My commentary
Jethro, with his son and wife, came to Moses in the wilderness where they set camp and made abode and pitch their tent at the mountain of God, Mount Sinai. So they join together with Moses, the whole family of Moses’ wife.
Families are united together because of a common thread. This thread is God. This God that Moses serve is the God of Abraham. Jethro and his family came to join Moses. This mountain was where God made His presence known. Jethro came because he knew God had chosen Moses to be the leader of his people. So if Moses is with God, then Jethro would want to be with Moses so that he could be close to God. So when Moses was lead to Mount Sinai and when Jethro heard about it, he came with his family to set up camp at Mount Sinai, the mountain of God.
The insight
In conclusion, when we are close with God, true believers will want to be around us. They too will want to set up camp with us so that they can get close to God too. Our deep relationship with God is advantageous to all who draws near.
Insight #20
Scripture (Exo 18:12)
12 And Jethro, Moses' father in law, took (to take, to bring, to get, lay hold of, to seize) a burnt offering (sacrifice) and sacrifices (offering, a thank offering) for God: and Aaron came, and all the elders of Israel, to eat (consume) bread (food) with Moses' father in law before (in front of, face to face) God.
IVP Bible Background Commentary, Old Testament
18:12. sacrificial meal. Sacrifices in the ancient world were often opportunities for communal meals. Though communal meals were used to ratify formal agreements, they were also a part of offerings of thanksgiving, more suitable to this context. This is like a banquet with Yahweh as the guest of honor.
My commentary
And so Jethro, Moses father-in-law brought and carried a burnt offering of sacrifice and a thank offering for God. Aaron, Moses’ brother and the first high priest came also and led the way and called the other elders of Israel to come together to break bread to share a meal. They would celebrate with food and to dine collectively with Moses. In the presence of God the almighty One, they come together freely.
The insight
In conclusion, the insight I glean from this sacrificial meal is that believers can only come to God when they have clean hands and a pure heart. They are too come often. Finally the elders of Israel came to terms and were able to break bread with Moses, Jethro and before God. The only time that we can break bread with others meaningfully is when we can eat before God. This is an awesome privilege to eat bread before God because we are in right standing with God and before God and our relationship with HIm is right. To have right standing with God is prerequisite to breaking bread with the Lord and other true believers.
Work cited
1. Barker, Kenneth L. Zondervan NIV study Bible fully revised, Zondervan: grand rapids, 2002. Print
2. Stamps, Donald C., The Full Life Study Bible King James Version, Zondervan Publishing House:Grand Rapids. 1992, print.
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