The people shall heare, and be afraid: sorrow shall take hold on the inhabitants of Palestina. Exodus 15:14 (KJV)
The wording “The people shall hear, and be afraid: sorrow shall take hold on the inhabitants of Palestina” does not appear in the Masoretic text of Exodus 15:14. The Song of Moses recorded in Exodus 15 celebrates God’s deliverance of Israel after the crossing of the Red Sea, but the verses there do not contain those exact words nor a reference to “Palestina” or the Philistines. Nevertheless, the broader passage does proclaim God’s mighty acts and His supremacy over the nations. The narrative of the Exodus demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His people, His power to perform signs and wonders, and His authority over all creation. From this perspective, the surrounding peoples would have witnessed a dramatic display of divine power that could inspire fear and reverence. The theme that God’s works extend beyond a single nation and affect the whole world is evident throughout the Exodus account. For believers today, the story serves as a source of encouragement and reassurance. It reminds us that God remains actively involved in human affairs, that His plans surpass earthly boundaries, and that His deliverance can evoke awe in those who observe His actions. While the specific quotation is not a literal part of Exodus 15:14, the spirit of the passage underscores the widespread impact of God’s salvation, the reverent response it provokes among nations, and the enduring promise that His power is available to all who trust in Him.
