The Visual and Scientific Examination of the Red Sea Split in the Bible

The biblical account of the Red Sea being split is described in the Book of Exodus, where Moses leads the Israelites out of Egypt. While the exact visual representation is not documented, various artistic interpretations and depictions throughout history have imagined this event in numerous ways. Let us delve into the visual and scientific aspects of this fascinating event.

Artistic Representations

Many paintings and illustrations show towering walls of water on either side of a dry path, with the Israelites walking through the middle. These depictions often emphasize the dramatic nature of the event, highlighting the contrast between the raging waters and the calm pathway.

The Dramatization of Events

In films and theatrical productions, the scene is often dramatized with special effects to create the illusion of water being held back. Waves crash on either side, and the sky is filled with clouds or light, further enhancing the visual appeal of this significant event.

Physical Landscape and Geology

Geologically, if such an event were to occur, it might involve a significant parting of the sea, potentially exposing the seabed. The water would create massive walls, perhaps with marine life visible in the depths depending on the specific location and conditions.

While these interpretations and visuals are imaginative, the actual event remains a matter of faith and tradition rather than historical documentation.

The Record and Its Complexity

The Bible provides detailed records of events, offering insights into the phenomenon. For instance, it mentions a strong east wind blowing all night, which is the only clue to what might have happened.

Location and Possible Route

The tip of Yam Suph, Hebrew for the 'Sea of Termination' which means a gulf, has a narrow point just to the south. It has been suggested that the Israelites turned at what is now called Suez and instead of proceeding into the desert, turned and went back around behind the sea past today’s port of Adabiya, a journey of about 17km. This route would allow the approaching Egyptian army to block their escape.

Scientific Explanation

The problem with the record is that it carefully describes the wind which blows all night, which would likely cause the water to be pushed back down the Gulf of Suez, draining the water from the top of the gulf. We have clear evidence of this very process from Tampa, Florida, during Hurricane Irma.

"And the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night and made the sea into dry land," (Exodus 14:21)

However, the record then goes on to say, "And the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left."

Now, if God simply made a wall of water on each side, then wind had nothing to do with it and did not in fact 'blow the water back all night.'

Interpretation of the Account

I suggest that a later storyteller has added the comments about the wall of water on each side to dramatize the account or because he did not understand the phenomenon they had experienced. Indeed, we find such comments in other Jewish writings.

The Red Sea split remains a subject of both religious and scientific interest, offering a complex interplay of tradition and natural phenomenon.