how did moses part the red sea

According to the biblical account, Moses did not part the sea by himself; he stretched out his hand, and God sent a strong east wind all night, turning the water into dry land so the Israelites could cross. The story then says the waters returned and engulfed the pursuing Egyptian army.

Biblical account

In Exodus 14, the key detail is the wind: the sea is said to have been driven back by a strong east wind through the night. That means the story presents the event as both miraculous and tied to a natural force.

Scientific theories

Some modern researchers argue the crossing could have involved a wind setdown effect, where sustained strong winds push shallow water aside and temporarily expose land. These explanations are offered as possible natural mechanisms, but they do not prove the event happened exactly as described in the Bible.

Main interpretations

• Religious view: it was a direct miracle done by God through Moses.

• Naturalistic view: unusual wind and water conditions may have created a temporary crossing.

• Historical-critical view: the story may preserve a memory of an escape event later framed theologically.

In plain terms

So the simplest answer is: the Bible says Moses lifted his hand, God sent a powerful wind, and the waters separated long enough for the Israelites to escape. Whether you take that as miracle, nature, or both depends on the interpretation.