What does Hebrews 11:29 mean?

By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. Hebrews 11:29

Explanation

Hebrews 11:29 recounts the event of the Israelites’ miraculous crossing of the Red Sea by faith, as narrated in the book of Exodus in the Old Testament. The verse suggests that it was by virtue of their faith that the people were able to pass through the sea on dry ground, a feat that seemed impossible under normal circumstances. In contrast, the Egyptians, who were pursuing the Israelites, attempted to make the same crossing without faith and were drowned when the waters returned to their place. This event is highlighted as an example of faith’s power to make possible what is otherwise impossible and serves as an enduring testimony of divine intervention and deliverance.

Historical Context

Hebrews 11 is part of the New Testament. Often referred to as the “faith chapter,” it was written to a group of early Christians who were familiar with the Old Testament. The context of the verse is a catalogue of the heroes of faith from the Old Testament. The author of Hebrews is recounting the story of the Exodus, which is found in the second book of the Bible, to illustrate the faith of individuals like Moses and the Israelites. This crossing of the Red Sea is one of the most significant events in Jewish history, symbolizing God’s salvation and is celebrated during the Jewish festival of Passover.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Hebrews 11:29 is loaded with meaning. For some, it underscores the doctrine of salvation through faith alone, excluding works. It reinforces the belief that faith in the divine promise enables God’s people to do the extraordinary. It also speaks to God’s providential care for His chosen people, as well as His judgment against oppressors symbolized by the drowning of the Egyptians. The verse plays a pivotal role in understanding the New Testament view that Old Testament events are spiritually instructive for Christians (1 Corinthians 10:11).

Practical Applications

This verse can encourage individuals to trust in God’s power to provide and to overcome challenges that seem insurmountable. It can inspire believers to act boldly in faith, even when circumstances appear dire or the path ahead is unclear. Additionally, it serves as a reminder of the consequences that can follow when individuals choose to act without regard to divine guidance and wisdom, as the Egyptians did.

Cross-References

• Exodus 14:21-31 – The original account of the crossing of the Red Sea and the drowning of the Egyptians.
• 1 Corinthians 10:1-2 – Refers to the Israelite crossing the Red Sea as being ‘baptized unto Moses’.
• Psalm 106:9 – Describes the Red Sea being dried up.
• Isaiah 43:16 – Speaks of making a way through the sea.
• Hebrews 11:1 – Prior verse that defines faith as the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Language Study

In the original Greek text of Hebrews 11:29, the word ‘faith’ is translated from the Greek word “πίστει” (pistei), which denotes trust and belief in something not yet seen or fully understood. The Greek word for ‘passed through’ is “διέβησαν” (diebēsan), which often implies success in crossing over a boundary or barrier. The term ‘Red sea’ is “ἐρυθρᾶς θαλάσσης” (erythras thalassēs) and shares the same name in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament).

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The crossing of the Red Sea in the Bible has parallels in other ancient mythologies and religions featuring stories where bodies of water are parted or controlled by deities or heroes. For instance, in Greek mythology, the god Poseidon is known to have control over the seas. In other traditions, miraculous crossings of water serve as powerful images of salvation and divine assistance, though none are as historically pivotal to a religion as the Red Sea crossing is to Judaism and Christianity.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically speaking, there have been attempts to provide natural explanations for the parting of the Red Sea, such as unusual wind patterns or a tsunami. However, from a faith perspective, the event is considered a miracle and thus not subject to natural explanations. The verse does not attempt scientific elucidation but rather focuses on the faith aspect of the event.

Commentaries

Commentators on Hebrews 11:29 offer various insights. Some focus on the historicity of the event, assuming its literal occurrence as a foundation for the lesson on faith. Others may view the crossing as a metaphor for triumph over adversity through divine aid. Commentators often discuss the contrast between the faith of the Israelites and the presumption of the Egyptians, which led to their demise. Many agree that the key takeaway is the vital role of faith in the believer’s journey.