Pillar of Cloud and Fire

Not the short road, but the wilderness

Succoth · 1446 BC · Ex 13:17–14:4

Story

The long column that had streamed out of Rameses reached Succoth. The road along the coast into the land of the Philistines was the shortest way. But God did not lead them by that road. He was concerned that if the people met with war, they would change their minds and go back to Egypt. So the column turned and went the long way, by the wilderness road toward the Red Sea.

Moses took the bones of Joseph with him as they set out. Joseph had left these words. God will surely come to you, and when he does, you must carry my bones up from here. It was the request Joseph had made the children of Israel swear to, centuries before. The multitude left Succoth and camped at Etham, at the edge of the wilderness. By day a pillar of cloud went ahead of them to lead the way, and by night a pillar of fire lit up the desert darkness.

Day and night the pillar never left its place before the people. Then the Lord said to Moses, Turn back and camp by the sea before Pi Hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea. It was a shore with nowhere left to retreat. The Lord went on. Pharaoh will think they are trapped and wandering in the wilderness, and he will pursue them. Then I will show my glory through Pharaoh and all his army.

God's Words

If these people see war, they may change their minds and go back to Egypt.

I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and he will pursue you. Through Pharaoh and his army I will show my glory, and the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord.

God will surely come to help you. When he does, carry my bones up from this place.

The sayings are fresh renderings of the original meaning in today's language. Text: Ex 13:17–14:4

Background

Pause and Reflect