The miraculous events, profound kindness, and physical salvation that defined the Exodus from Egypt and the subsequent journey through the desert were not earned by the generation that experienced them. Instead, these events were rooted entirely in a deep historical foundation: God's ancient promise to Abraham. God fulfilled His holy word by honoring the covenant and oath He originally established with Abraham [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This ancient agreement guaranteed that Abraham's descendants would eventually emerge from their exile with great wealth and return to the Land of Israel [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. Abraham stands alone in this context, without mention of the other forefathers, because he is the true origin and starting point of this enduring covenant [אבן עזרא].
The primary approach among commentators highlights a stark contrast between this divine promise and the actual spiritual condition of the Israelites at the time of the Exodus. The people themselves were not worthy of redemption, as they frequently argued and tested God. Their liberation was made possible exclusively by the strength of that ancient oath [רד״ק, מאירי]. God was meticulous in fulfilling His promise entirely. He ensured that the difficult aspects of the covenant, namely the slavery and oppression, would not come to pass without the corresponding promise of leaving with great wealth being fully realized [מלבי״ם].
The protective power of Abraham's merit did not end with the physical release from Egypt and the acquisition of wealth. It continued to shield the Israelites throughout their journey. Because of Abraham, they received divine providence and sustenance in the wilderness, which included the falling of the Manna, the protective Clouds of Glory, and the miraculous well of water, sustaining them until they reached the Land of Israel [אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם].
Beyond the physical and material rescue, this redemption carried a supreme spiritual significance. Thanks to Abraham's unwavering faith, the Israelites did not merely leave in joy, but they were moved to sing in praise. During the Exodus, angels descended to accompany the process and wished to be the first to sing. However, God held the angels back, granting the Israelites the rare and special privilege of singing before the heavenly court, a profound honor granted entirely through the merit of Abraham, His servant [אלשיך].