The First Step

Though the Bible does not say who was the first to step into the sea, The Prince of Egypt shows that Moses entered and raised his rod while standing in the midst of the water. After the parting, the Hebrews stare at the site in awe, yet too afraid to venture through the new corridor. Then Aaron steps from among the people, and with great confidence, marches into the breach. Seeing that no harm has come to Aaron, the others follow his lead [1:27; one hour and twenty-seven minutes into the film].

These elements of The Prince of Egypt have evolved from the story found in Mekhilta, Be-shallah 5; Pirkey Rabbi Eliezer; Midrash Tehillim 76, 114; and the Talmud. We read of stepping into the sea even before it is parted, and of one person taking the lead when others do not. (Midrash Rabbah offers some additional insight.)