Definition: Fear and dread shall fall upon them; by the greatness of thine arm they shall be [as] still as a stone; till thy people pass over, O LORD, till the people pass over, [which] thou hast purchased.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It's a really powerful and significant passage from Exodus 15, and it speaks to a pivotal moment in Israel’s history. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a time of intense fear and anxiety for the Israelites, but it also has a hopeful message about God's protection. Let’s unpack it part by part: “Fear and dread shall fall upon them” : This is a direct expression of the anxiety and worry that the Israelites were experiencing. It’s not just a little nervousness; it’s a deep, overwhelming fear. Think of it like a storm brewing inside their hearts. “By the greatness of thine arm they shall be as still as a stone” : This is where the imagery really shines. The “greatness of thine arm” refers to God's power and strength. It’s saying that even in this fear, God’s power is holding them steady. They are being lowered to a state of stillness – like a rock or stone – because of His might. This symbolizes their unwavering faith and obedience. “Till thy people pass over, O LORD, till the people pass over” : This is the crucial part. “Thy people” refers specifically to Israel. "Till the people pass over" means that God will allow them to move on – to leave the land they’ve been occupying – and continue their journey. “[Which] thou hast purchased.” - This is a very important phrase. It means that God has bought this land, this nation, this entire existence of Israel. It's not just about a physical purchase; it’s a promise of protection, security, and the continuation of their life. Overall Meaning & Significance: The verse is essentially saying: “Even in the midst of fear and anxiety, God’s power is strong enough to protect us. We are safe, we are secure, and we will continue on our journey because He has purchased this land for us.” Why is it important? This passage is a reminder that even when things seem scary or uncertain, God is in control and watching over his people. It’s a powerful message of hope and assurance during times of crisis. It emphasizes the covenant (the agreement) between God and Israel – a promise of protection and continued existence. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give you an example of how this verse might be interpreted in different historical contexts?