Matthew Poole and continuators on Exodus 13:17

17 And it came to pass when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines , although that was near : For God said, Lest peradventure the people repent them when they see war , and they return to Egypt .

A fierce and warlike people, whereof they had sad and late experience, 1 Chron. 7. 21.

There being this way but [illegible: 1 word] few days journey between Egypt and Canaan.

God speaks after the manner of men, for nothing was unknown nor uncertain to him. Though the Hebrew particle, pen doth not always imply doubting, but oft-times onely signifies, lest, as Gen. 3. 3. and 38. 23. Numb. 20. 18.

Which they were likely to do, because the war would probably be long and hot, and their bodies were much weakned, and their spirits and courage broken, by a tedious and grievous bondage. And therefore it was fit that before they were called to such sharp conflicts, they should be hardened by the labours of a long and troublesome journey, and their faith should be strengthened by further experience of Gods power and faithfulness and goodness, and by the glorious appearance of God at mount Sinai, and those commands, promises and encouragements there given them. But though this which is here mentioned was one, yet it was not the onely, reason of this counsel, but there were other causes for it, the Egyptians were to be drowned in the sea, the Israelites to be further tried, Deut. 8. 2. and full measure to be allowed to the iniquity of the Amorites.

As afterwards they attempted to do Numb. 14. upon a like occasion.