תהלים, פרק קל״ו, פסוק י״ד

The miracle of the Red Sea extends beyond the dramatic parting of the waters; the true marvel lies in the safe passage of an entire nation through the heart of the sea. Gratitude is offered to God specifically for the act of guiding the people securely within the raging depths.

Commentators explore the nature of this journey, offering several perspectives on how the crossing unfolded. One approach emphasizes the sheer depth of their path. The Israelites traveled far from the safety of the shore, entering deep into the sea's interior [אבן עזרא, רד״ק]. Yet, despite being surrounded by the abyss, God's kindness was so absolute that they walked on perfectly dry ground, without a single drop of water touching their feet [רד״ק]. Alternatively, the journey may be understood through the specific route they took. Rather than crossing directly from one shore to the opposite side, the people entered the sea, traveled a certain distance within it, and then exited [מאירי].

Another perspective focuses on the timing of the events. While the Israelites were still walking through the water, God already began to drown the pursuing Egyptian army. Experiencing their own miraculous salvation at the exact same moment they witnessed the downfall of their enemies was meant to instill a profound faith. It demonstrated the unified nature of God, seamlessly blending strict justice for the oppressors with deep mercy for the oppressed [אלשיך].

When recounting who exactly was brought through the sea, the primary understanding is that it refers to the entire Israelite nation [מצודת דוד]. However, a unique tradition suggests that it specifically refers to the patriarch Jacob. According to this view, God brought Jacob's spirit into the sea to witness the wonders being performed for his descendants. Jacob's spiritual presence served a vital purpose: it protected the people from strict divine justice, which threatened to strike them down due to their rebellious moments at the sea. God's kindness in shielding them from destruction was an act that sustained the entire world, as the world's continued existence relies upon the survival of the Israelite nation [אלשיך].