1)
What is "Ma'afel"?
1.
Malbim: It is something that covers light. It is not Ofel (darkness).
2)
Why does it say "va'Yavei Alav (singular) Es ha'Yam"?
1.
Rashi citing Shochar Tov: If an Egyptian fled not to enter the sea, a wave chased him and absorbed him [into the sea].
2.
Radak #1: It refers to Pharaoh. Even though he was not mentioned, the Egyptians were mentioned.
3.
Radak #2: It refers to the Egyptians as one entity.
3)
Why does it mention a long time in the Midbar?
1.
Malbim: You did not have full Emunah, and needed 40 years in the Midbar to cleanse you of Tum'as Mitzrayim - "ba'Midbar Arba'im Shanah? Lev Lada'as... Ad ha'Yom ha'Zeh" (Devarim 29:3,4).
