יהושע, פרק כ״ד, פסוק ו׳

The journey from Egypt to the Red Sea was not merely a chronological progression, but a carefully orchestrated divine plan designed to cement the faith of the Israelites. God led the people out of Egypt and intentionally guided them toward the water to provoke the Egyptians into chasing them. This deliberate sequence of events was meant to create an opportunity for undeniable, open miracles. By doing so, God aimed to erase any lingering doubts about His power and protection, guiding the nation toward absolute faith [מלבי״ם].

Upon reaching the Red Sea, the Israelites initially arrived at the shoreline [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. However, they did not stop at the water's edge, but instead continued forward, stepping directly into the depths of the sea [אלשיך].

When recounting this historical moment, Joshua distinguishes between the ancestors who left Egypt and the people standing before him. This direct address is aimed specifically at the elders in the audience who had personally crossed the sea and were still alive to hear his words [רד״ק]. Another perspective views this distinction as a reflection of a deep spiritual divide between the two generations present at the sea. The younger generation recognized God and merited to enter the waters safely on their own standing. In contrast, the older generation, consisting of those over the age of twenty, had rebelled against God at the water's edge. Because of this spiritual difference, the terrifying pursuit of the Egyptian army was aimed specifically at the older generation. This targeted pursuit was a divine measure designed to awaken them and draw their hearts closer to their Father in heaven [אלשיך].