Psalm 136:13

He divided the Red Sea in two His loving devotion endures forever.

Study Bible

He divided
The Hebrew root for "divided" is "בָּקַע" (baqa), which means to split or cleave. This word is used to describe a miraculous act of God, emphasizing His power over creation. The division of the Red Sea is a pivotal event in the history of Israel, symbolizing God's ability to make a way where there seems to be none. It serves as a reminder of His sovereignty and His intervention in the lives of His people. This act of dividing the sea is not just a historical event but a demonstration of God's ongoing ability to overcome obstacles in the lives of believers.

the Red Sea
The Red Sea, or "יַם-סוּף" (Yam Suph) in Hebrew, is a significant geographical location in the biblical narrative. It represents a barrier that the Israelites could not cross on their own. The crossing of the Red Sea is a testament to God's deliverance and protection. Archaeological studies and historical records have sought to pinpoint the exact location of this crossing, but the spiritual significance remains paramount. The Red Sea crossing is a metaphor for the deliverance from sin and bondage, pointing to the ultimate salvation through Jesus Christ.

in two
The phrase "in two" underscores the completeness and thoroughness of God's action. It was not a partial or temporary solution but a definitive and miraculous intervention. This division allowed the Israelites to pass through on dry ground, highlighting God's provision and care. The splitting of the sea into two parts can also symbolize the separation between the old life of slavery and the new life of freedom, a theme that resonates with the Christian experience of being born again.

His loving devotion endures forever
This refrain, repeated throughout Psalm 136, is rooted in the Hebrew word "חֶסֶד" (chesed), often translated as lovingkindness, mercy, or steadfast love. It emphasizes the eternal and unchanging nature of God's love for His people. The enduring nature of His loving devotion assures believers that just as God was faithful to the Israelites, He remains faithful to us today. This phrase serves as a reminder that God's actions, such as the dividing of the Red Sea, are motivated by His everlasting love and commitment to His covenant people. It is an invitation to trust in His unending mercy and grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The central figure in this verse, demonstrating His power and loving devotion by performing a miraculous act.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who, under God's command, led the people out of Egypt and through the Red Sea.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and witnessed the parting of the Red Sea.

4. The Red Sea
The body of water that God miraculously divided to allow the Israelites to escape from the pursuing Egyptian army.

5. The Egyptians
The oppressors of the Israelites, who pursued them but were ultimately defeated when the sea returned to its place.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
The parting of the Red Sea is a testament to God's supreme power over creation. It reminds us that no obstacle is too great for God to overcome.

Enduring Loving Devotion
The phrase "His loving devotion endures forever" is repeated throughout Psalm 136, emphasizing God's unwavering love and faithfulness to His people.

Faith in Action
The Israelites' crossing of the Red Sea required faith in God's promise and command. We are called to trust God even when the path seems impossible.

Deliverance and Salvation
Just as God delivered the Israelites from physical bondage, He offers spiritual deliverance through Jesus Christ. This event foreshadows the ultimate salvation found in Christ.

Remembrance and Gratitude
Remembering God's past acts of deliverance encourages us to trust Him in present and future challenges. Gratitude for His faithfulness should be a constant in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the parting of the Red Sea demonstrate God's power and sovereignty in your life today?

2. In what ways can you see God's "loving devotion" enduring in your personal experiences?

3. How can the faith of the Israelites in crossing the Red Sea inspire you to trust God in your current circumstances?

4. What are some "Red Sea" moments in your life where you have seen God make a way where there seemed to be none?

5. How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude and remembrance for God's past deliverances in your daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
This chapter provides the detailed account of the parting of the Red Sea, highlighting God's miraculous intervention and the faith of Moses and the Israelites.

Nehemiah 9:11
This verse recounts the parting of the Red Sea as a demonstration of God's power and faithfulness to His people.

Isaiah 51:10
This passage reflects on God's mighty acts, including the parting of the sea, as a reminder of His enduring power and love.

Hebrews 11:29
This verse in the New Testament references the faith of the Israelites as they passed through the Red Sea, emphasizing the importance of faith in God's promises.