ישעיהו, פרק מ״ג, פסוק ט״ז

God possesses the absolute power to carve a safe passage through impassable obstacles. The miracles of the past serve as a clear promise for future redemption. The very same God who saved the Israelites long ago will rescue them from their current exile, gathering them from wherever they are scattered [רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The primary approach among commentators is that this promise draws upon the miracles of the Exodus from Egypt, specifically the splitting of the Red Sea. However, another perspective views this as a prophecy about the future downfall of an enemy, suggesting that God will pave a route through the sea for warships coming to defeat the Babylonian fleet [אבן עזרא].

The promise speaks of making a way through the sea and a path through mighty waters. While some view this dual imagery as poetic repetition [רד״ק], others find distinct historical events in each part. According to one view, the first half points to the splitting of the Red Sea, while the second half points to the splitting of the Jordan River in the days of Joshua [מצודת דוד, רד״ק]. These waters are described as strong and stormy [מצודת ציון, מלבי״ם]. They are also deeply connected to the defeat of the pursuing Egyptians, who drowned in the depths as God completely subdued their fierce army [רש״י, שד״ל, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

A careful distinction exists between the types of routes God provides. A wide road is meant for the masses, whereas a narrow path is designed for an individual [מצודת ציון, מלבי״ם]. Through this lens, God did not merely open one massive road through the sea for the entire nation. Instead, He formed personal, individual routes within the turbulent waters. The sea was split into twelve separate paths, providing a unique and dedicated trail for each tribe [מלבי״ם].