Exodus 15:9
ESV
The enemy said, ‘I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoil, my desire shall have its fill of them. I will draw my sword; my hand shall destroy them.’
NIV
The enemy boasted, ‘I will pursue, I will overtake them. I will divide the spoils; I will gorge myself on them. I will draw my sword and my hand will destroy them.’
NASB
The enemy said, ‘I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoils; I shall be satisfied against them; I will draw my sword, my hand will destroy them.’
CSB
The enemy said: "I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoil. My desire will be gratified at their expense. I will draw my sword; my hand will destroy them."
NLT
'The enemy boasted, ‘I will chase them and catch up with them. I will plunder them and consume them. I will flash my sword; my powerful hand will destroy them.’
KJV
The enemy said, I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoil; my lust shall be satisfied upon them; I will draw my sword, my hand shall destroy them.
NKJV
The enemy said, ‘I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoil; My desire shall be satisfied on them. I will draw my sword, My hand shall destroy them.’
What does Exodus 15:9 mean?
Egypt freed their Israelite slaves (Exodus 1:11–14; 12:40–41) only after the worst of ten supernatural disasters (Exodus 12:29–31). In fact, the Egyptians demanded the Hebrews leave immediately (Exodus 12:33). Yet it wasn't long before they changed their minds (Exodus 14:5–8). Pharaoh, Egypt's king, led an army of chariots and horsemen to pursue Israel. The soldiers' intent was to return the Israelites to slavery—but this would certainly come with brutality and death. Egypt caught up to Israel on the seashore (Exodus 14:9).Then, as Israel crossed between miraculously parted waters, the soldiers followed (Exodus 14:21–23). Even in the presence of more divine miracles, they persisted in their attack. This suggests arrogant confidence. But this would not last; after Israel was safely through, God collapsed the waters over the army, drowning them all (Exodus 14:24–28). This song (Exodus 15:1) celebrates that rescue (Exodus 15:10).
