Pharaoh made the people leave Egypt. The Lord did not let the people take the road leading to the land of the Philistines. That road {by the sea} is the shortest way, but the Lord said, "{If the people go that way} they will have to fight. Then they might change their minds and go back to Egypt."
Moses carried the bones of Joseph with him. Before Joseph died, he made the sons of Israel promise to do this for him. Joseph said, "When God saves you, remember to carry my bones with you out of Egypt."
The Lord led the way. During the day, the Lord used a tall cloud to lead the people. And during the night, the Lord used a tall column of fire to lead the way. This fire gave them light so they could also travel at night.