Abstract
In this article I focus on a neglected aspect of the exodus story. The fact that the story dwells on absolute divine control over all aspects of these events, especially the minds and hearts of Israel's Egyptian captors, suggests that our reading of the well- known theme of liberation needs be tempered by the dominant theme of omnipotence and its revelation to humankind. The well-being of Israel and its Egyptian partner is clearly subordinate to Yahweh's overarching goal: 'that ye may know how that I am the LORD' (Exod. 10.2). Such a reading suggests that we take a little less heart from the story and come away with a little more fear and trembling.