תהלים, פרק ע״ח, פסוק נ״ג

The journey of the Israelites from a state of weakness to absolute security was a direct result of God's careful watch. Under His supervision, they were guided safely through the barren wilderness and across the parted waters of the Red Sea. Some explain that this safety meant no enemy attacked them from the moment they left Egypt until they reached the water, while others suggest it refers to their calm, secure walk on the dry seabed itself [אבן עזרא]. Building on the imagery of a shepherd leading a flock, this guidance was extraordinary. While ordinary sheep wandering in a desert are constantly terrified of wild predators, the Israelites were led with total security, completely free from dread [מלבי״ם]. Beyond simple protection, this guidance included comfort and physical delight. God led His people through the harsh desert by providing them with an abundance of resources, carefully tending to their every need [אלשיך].

The idea that the Israelites experienced no fear seems to contradict the historical account of their departure, which notes their sheer terror when they saw the Egyptian army closing in behind them. The primary approach among commentators is that this panic was only temporary. As soon as Moses reassured them, urging them to stand firm and witness God's salvation, their fear completely vanished. They moved forward with confidence and pride [רד״ק, מאירי]. This absence of fear also highlights their deep faith at the very edge of the sea. The people stepped into the towering waters without hesitation. As a reward for this deep trust, they were able to safely watch the sea crash down and cover their pursuers [אלשיך].

Another perspective suggests their lack of fear was related to a deeper, internal anxiety. Watching the Egyptians drown, the Israelites might have worried that they, too, would be swallowed by the waves as punishment for their past sins in Egypt. However, the comfort and physical delights God had already provided them served as reassurance. They reasoned that God would not grant such abundance to people He intended to kill. Comforted by this thought, they let go of their fear [אלשיך]. Ultimately, once the sea closed over the Egyptian army, every possible reason for fear was entirely washed away [ביאור שטיינזלץ].