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Exodus 15:14 - Nations tremble at redemption.

Exodus 15:14 - שמות 15:14

Hebrew Text

שָׁמְעוּ עַמִּים יִרְגָּזוּן חִיל אָחַז יֹשְׁבֵי פְּלָשֶׁת׃

English Translation

The people shall hear, and be afraid: trembling shall take hold of the inhabitants of Peleshet.

Transliteration

Shamu amim yirgazun khil ahaz yoshvei pleshet.

Hebrew Leining Text

שָֽׁמְע֥וּ עַמִּ֖ים יִרְגָּז֑וּן&nbsp
שָֽׁמְע֥וּ עַמִּ֖ים יִרְגָּז֑וּן&nbsp

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context in Tanakh

The verse (שמות ט"ו:י"ד) appears in Shirat HaYam (the Song of the Sea), sung by Bnei Yisrael after the miraculous splitting of the Yam Suf. It describes the reaction of neighboring nations—specifically the Plishtim (Philistines)—to Hashem's great deliverance of Israel from Egypt.

Grammatical and Literal Meaning

The phrase "שָׁמְעוּ עַמִּים יִרְגָּזוּן" ("The people shall hear, and be afraid") uses the plural "עַמִּים" (nations), indicating a widespread reaction. "יִרְגָּזוּן" conveys trembling from awe, not just fear. "חִיל אָחַז" ("trembling shall take hold") emphasizes an uncontrollable physical reaction, as חִיל often denotes birth pangs or intense dread (Rashi, Shemot 15:14).

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that the Plishtim—who resided near Egypt—were singled out because they were the first to witness the miracles and would later confront Israel (e.g., in the era of Shimshon and David). Their terror foreshadowed future events, demonstrating that Hashem’s miracles in Egypt had lasting geopolitical repercussions.

Midrashic Interpretation (Mechilta d'Rabbi Yishmael)

  • The Mechilta links this verse to Yehoshua 2:10, where Rachav recounts how the Plishtim's fear paralyzed them during Kriat Yam Suf, delaying their opposition to Bnei Yisrael until later generations.
  • It also notes that "יֹשְׁבֵי פְּלָשֶׁת" refers not only to the Philistines but to all coastal nations, symbolizing how terror spread beyond immediate witnesses.

Rambam's Perspective (Hilchot Melachim 11:4)

Rambam cites this verse in discussing the universal recognition of Hashem’s sovereignty during the Messianic era. The trembling of nations reflects the eventual fulfillment of "וְנָתַתִּי אֶתְכֶם לְמוֹרָא" (Devarim 28:10)—where Israel’s divine connection inspires awe among gentile nations.

Symbolic Layers (Malbim)

The Malbim distinguishes between "עַמִּים" (general nations) and "יֹשְׁבֵי פְּלָשֶׁת" (specific inhabitants): The former react emotionally ("יִרְגָּזוּן"), while the latter experience physical collapse ("חִיל אָחַז"), indicating escalating levels of dread based on proximity to Hashem’s miracles.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Exodus 15:14 mean?
A: Exodus 15:14 describes the reaction of the nations, particularly the Philistines (Peleshet), upon hearing about the miracles Hashem performed for the Jewish people during the Exodus from Egypt. According to Rashi, this verse is part of the 'Song of the Sea' (Shirat HaYam) and shows how the surrounding nations trembled in fear when they heard of Hashem's great power displayed through the splitting of the Red Sea.
Q: Why is this verse important in Jewish tradition?
A: This verse is important because it highlights the impact of Hashem's miracles on the nations of the world. The Midrash (Mechilta) explains that the fear of the Philistines and other nations served as a deterrent, preventing them from attacking the Jewish people as they journeyed toward the Land of Israel. It reinforces the idea that Hashem's protection extends beyond the Jewish people to influence global events.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Exodus 15:14?
A: The verse teaches us that when Hashem performs miracles for His people, it inspires awe and fear among the nations. The Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah) explains that recognizing Hashem's hand in history strengthens our faith and reminds us that His presence is felt not just by us, but by all who witness His deeds. This encourages us to trust in Hashem's protection and justice.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: Today, this verse reminds us that Hashem’s miracles and the Jewish people’s survival against all odds continue to inspire awe in the world. The Talmud (Megillah 10b) teaches that future redemption will also be accompanied by fear among the nations. This verse encourages us to recognize Hashem’s ongoing role in Jewish history and to remain steadfast in our faith.