Exodus is the most supernatural book in the Hebrew bible. But it is also the climax, the pinnacle of Israel’s story. All roads in the Torah either lead to the Exodus or link back to the Exodus. Before earth-shaking plagues and parting seas, however, the patriarchs learned of God’s covenant promises through quiet acts like night-time wrestling, star gazing, and angelic visitations. The quiet acts may have been enough to prod the conscious of those sensible to matters of faith like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The unbreakable imperial Egyptians, on the other hand, required unprecedented signs and punishments that go beyond the explainable.
Still, in all of this, God did not open up the heavens and directly order Pharaoh to let his people go. That message was repeatedly given only through Moses, the intermediary chosen by God.
