Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Exodus 14:8. It’s a really powerful and dramatic verse that describes a pivotal moment in the Israelites' history. Here’s a simplified explanation: Basically, this verse tells us that Pharaoh, the Egyptian king, refused to let the Israelites go, even when they were desperately trying to escape. Let’s unpack it bit by bit: “And the LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt…” – This means God, through His power, made Pharaoh unable to help the Israelites. He deliberately chose to make it difficult for them to leave Egypt. It's like a protective shield being placed in front of them. “…and he pursued after the children of Israel.” - Pharaoh was determined to stop the Israelites from leaving. He relentlessly chased after them, showing no signs of letting them go. “And the children of Israel went out with an high hand.” – This is where it gets interesting. The Israelites were actively pushing forward, even though it was incredibly difficult for them. They were determined to reach their promised land, Canaan (the Promised Land), despite facing immense obstacles. So, what’s the big takeaway? This verse highlights a key theme in the story of the Exodus – God's unwavering control over His people. It speaks to: God’s Sovereignty: He is actively working against Pharaoh and his efforts to stop them. Faith & Perseverance: The Israelites were demonstrating incredible faith and determination, even when facing overwhelming odds. Divine Protection: God's power was evident in His refusal to allow the Israelites to leave, ultimately leading to their liberation. In essence, it’s a story of a powerful struggle between Pharaoh’s stubbornness and God’s determined protection. --- Would you like me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example: Do you want to know about the context of this event in the Exodus? Are you curious about what it means for faith and perseverance when facing challenges?