Catholic Public Domain Version
Exodus 15:11
“Who is like you in strength, O Lord? Who is like you: magnificent in sanctity, terrible and yet praiseworthy, accomplishing miracles?”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Exodus 15:11.
Plain-language explanation
Exodus 15:11 is a song of praise. The verse asks, in wonder, who could possibly be compared to the Lord. It describes God as powerful (“in strength”), holy and set apart (“magnificent in sanctity”), fearsome in judgment yet worthy of praise, and active in history by doing “miracles.”
Catholic context
Catholics often read this as a celebration of God’s unique greatness: He is not only strong, but perfectly holy. The phrase “terrible and yet praiseworthy” can be understood as God being truly awesome—worthy of reverence—while still deserving our trust and thanksgiving.
Historical background
This verse comes from Moses’ song after Israel’s deliverance from Egypt and the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 15). In that moment, God’s power and faithfulness become publicly visible, so the people respond with worship, gratitude, and awe.
Reflection
When you reflect on this verse, it can help to shift your focus from what seems powerful in the world to God’s true authority—holy, reliable, and able to act. Even when God’s ways are “terrible” to us, this song insists that He remains worthy of praise.
Practical takeaway
Try a simple prayer of awe today: name one “strength” you’ve experienced from God, one reason to praise His holiness, and one “miracle” (a concrete help or blessing) you can thank Him for—even if it was small.
Prayer
Lord God, who is like You? You are magnificent in sanctity and worthy of all praise. Grant me a reverent heart and steady trust when You act in surprising ways. Make me grateful for Your power and attentive to Your miracles. Amen.