King James Version

What Does Exodus 15:6 Mean?

Exodus 15:6 in the King James Version says “Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy. — study this verse from Exodus chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy.

Exodus 15:6 · KJV


Context

4

Pharaoh's chariots and his host hath he cast into the sea: his chosen captains also are drowned in the Red sea.

5

The depths have covered them: they sank into the bottom as a stone.

6

Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy.

7

And in the greatness of thine excellency thou hast overthrown them that rose up against thee: thou sentest forth thy wrath, which consumed them as stubble.

8

And with the blast of thy nostrils the waters were gathered together, the floods stood upright as an heap, and the depths were congealed in the heart of the sea.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The focus shifts to God's hand: 'Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power.' The right hand symbolizes strength and action. The repetition 'thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy' uses 'ra'ats' (רָעַץ), meaning shattered or crushed. God's power isn't merely defensive but actively offensive—crushing opposition. This anticipates Psalm 110:1 where Messiah's enemies become His footstool.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The 'right hand' imagery appears throughout Scripture as the place of power and honor (Psalm 110:1, Mark 16:19). Christ seated at God's right hand continues this motif.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does meditating on God's 'glorious power' in past victories strengthen confidence for present battles?
  2. What enemy needs to experience God's right hand 'dashing it in pieces' in your current circumstances?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
יְמִֽינְךָ֥1 of 8

Thy right hand

H3225

the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

יְהוָ֖ה2 of 8

O LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

נֶאְדָּרִ֖י3 of 8

is become glorious

H142

to expand, i.e., be great or (figuratively) magnificent

בַּכֹּ֑חַ4 of 8

in power

H3581

vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce)

יְמִֽינְךָ֥5 of 8

Thy right hand

H3225

the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

יְהוָ֖ה6 of 8

O LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

תִּרְעַ֥ץ7 of 8

hath dashed in pieces

H7492

to break in pieces; figuratively, harass

אוֹיֵֽב׃8 of 8

the enemy

H341

hating; an adversary


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 15:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 15:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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