This passage draws on the miraculous salvation of the Israelites from Egypt to give context and impact to the future gathering of Israel. Thus, events of the future will partake of the power of the past. The exodus from Egypt shaped the national consciousness of the Israelites. This new kingdom will be a return to Yahweh’s close presence and powerful protection, leading them by day and night. That same Lord who saved his people by opening dry land through the sea will do so again to create a highway to bring his people home.
The “tongue of the Egyptian sea” may describe the tongue-shaped Red Sea, heightening the connection to the events of Exodus.
Likening: Verse 1 predicts the “rod out of the stem of Jesse,” another Messianic prophecy. This chapter describes the ultimate victory of the Messiah, in which both Israel and the Nephites should have hope.
Text: The chapter does not end here in the 1830 edition.