The pursuit and encounter with the Egyptian is a significant event in the narrative of the Exodus, where the Israelites, led by Moses, are pursued by Pharaoh and his army after their departure from Egypt. This event is pivotal in demonstrating God's deliverance and power, as well as His faithfulness to His covenant people.

Biblical Context

The account of the pursuit and encounter with the Egyptian army is found in the Book of Exodus, primarily in chapters 13 and 14. After the ten plagues culminate in the death of the Egyptian firstborns, Pharaoh finally relents and allows the Israelites to leave Egypt (Exodus 12:31-32). The Israelites, numbering around 600,000 men besides women and children, set out from Rameses to Succoth (Exodus 12:37).

The Pursuit

As the Israelites journey toward the Promised Land, God leads them by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22). However, God instructs Moses to lead the people in a seemingly circuitous route, turning back and encamping by the sea at Pi Hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, opposite Baal Zephon (Exodus 14:1-2). This strategic positioning is part of God's plan to display His glory through Pharaoh's defeat.

Pharaoh, upon realizing that the Israelites have fled, hardens his heart once more and decides to pursue them with his army, including 600 of his best chariots and all the other chariots of Egypt (Exodus 14:5-7). The Egyptian army overtakes the Israelites as they camp by the sea.

The Encounter

Faced with the advancing Egyptian army and the impassable Red Sea, the Israelites become terrified and cry out to the Lord, expressing regret for leaving Egypt (Exodus 14:10-12). Moses reassures them, saying, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation, which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again" (Exodus 14:13).

God instructs Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea, and He miraculously parts the waters, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground (Exodus 14:16, 21-22). The Egyptian army follows them into the sea, but God causes confusion among them, clogging their chariot wheels (Exodus 14:24-25).

As the Israelites reach the other side, God commands Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea again, causing the waters to return and engulf the Egyptian army, thus delivering Israel from their pursuers (Exodus 14:26-28). The text emphasizes that not one of the Egyptians survived (Exodus 14:28).

Theological Significance

The pursuit and encounter with the Egyptian army highlight several key theological themes:

1. Divine Sovereignty and Power: The event underscores God's control over nature and history. By parting the Red Sea, God demonstrates His supreme power over creation and His ability to save His people in seemingly impossible situations.

2. Covenant Faithfulness: God's deliverance of Israel is a fulfillment of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It reaffirms His commitment to His covenant people and His intention to bring them into the Promised Land.

3. Judgment and Salvation: The destruction of the Egyptian army serves as a judgment against Pharaoh's defiance and a demonstration of God's justice. Simultaneously, it is an act of salvation for the Israelites, showcasing God's mercy and grace.

4. Faith and Obedience: The Israelites' initial fear and doubt contrast with Moses' faith and obedience. The event calls God's people to trust in His deliverance and to follow His guidance, even when circumstances appear dire.

The pursuit and encounter with the Egyptian army remain a powerful testament to God's deliverance and a foundational event in the history of Israel, celebrated in the Song of the Sea (Exodus 15) and remembered throughout Scripture as a defining moment of God's redemptive work.