Ancient history

What happened to the Hebrew slaves who left Egypt?

According to the biblical narrative in the Book of Exodus, after leaving Egypt, the Israelites, who were formerly enslaved, embarked on a journey through the wilderness known as the Exodus. Here's a summary of what happened to them during this period:

1. Crossing the Red Sea: After the Israelites left Egypt, they came to the Red Sea. God miraculously parted the waters, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry land, while the pursuing Egyptian army was drowned.

2. Receiving the Ten Commandments: At Mount Sinai, God gave Moses the Ten Commandments, a set of laws that would guide the Israelites' ethical, religious, and moral behavior.

3. Building the Tabernacle: Guided by God's instructions, the Israelites constructed a portable tent-like structure called the Tabernacle, which served as a place of worship and the dwelling place for God's presence among His people.

4. Wanderings in the Wilderness: The Israelites spent around forty years wandering in the wilderness as a consequence of their disobedience and lack of faith. During this time, they faced various challenges, including shortages of food and water, internal conflicts, and encounters with hostile nations.

5. God's Provision: Throughout their journey, God provided for the Israelites miraculously. He sent manna from heaven as food and water from the rock.

6. Leaders and Judges: Various leaders and judges, including Moses, Joshua, and others, guided the Israelites during their time in the wilderness.

7. Rebellions and Punishments: Despite God's miracles, the Israelites sometimes rebelled against His commands. As a result, they were punished with hardships and delays in reaching the Promised Land.

8. Defeat of the Canaanite King: After the forty years of wandering, a new generation of Israelites was ready to enter Canaan, the land promised to them. Under Joshua's leadership, they defeated the Canaanite king at Jericho and began the conquest of the land.

9. Entering the Promised Land: The Israelites eventually settled in the Promised Land and established their nation, following further conquests and the distribution of land among the twelve tribes of Israel.

It's important to note that the events and timelines described in the biblical account are subject to different interpretations and are considered sacred narratives within the religious and cultural traditions of Judaism and Christianity.