en_obs-tn/content/12/02.md

A tall pillar of cloud

This could be translated as: “A tall cloud” or “A cloud shaped like a pillar.” This was not an actual pillar such as something that supports a building. In appearance it resembled a pillar, but it was made out of clouds. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)

a tall pillar of fire

This was a column of fire that hung or floated in the air in front of the Israelites. This was not an actual pillar such as something that supports a building. It resembled a pillar in appearance, but it was made out of fire. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)

guided them

God showed them the way by making the pillar move along in front of them so they could follow it.