◄ Exodus 17 ►
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Water from the Rock (Numbers 20:1–13) 1Then the whole congregation of Israel left the Desert of Sin,a moving from place to place as the LORD commanded. They camped at Rephidim, but there was no water for the people to drink. 2So the people contended with Moses, “Give us water to drink.” “Why do you contend with me?” Moses replied. “Why do you test the LORD?” 3But the people thirsted for water there, and they grumbled against Moses: “Why have you brought us out of Egypt—to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?” 4Then Moses cried out to the LORD, “What should I do with these people? A little more and they will stone me!” 5And the LORD said to Moses, “Walk on ahead of the people and take some of the elders of Israel with you. Take along in your hand the staff with which you struck the Nile, and go. 6Behold, I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb.b And when you strike the rock, water will come out of it for the people to drink.” So Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel. 7He named the place Massahc and Meribahd because the Israelites quarreled, and because they tested the LORD, saying, “Is the LORD among us or not?” The Defeat of the Amalekites 8After this, the Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites at Rephidim. 9So Moses said to Joshua, “Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites. Tomorrow I will stand on the hilltop with the staff of God in my hand.” 10Joshua did as Moses had instructed him and fought against the Amalekites, while Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. 11As long as Moses held up his hands, Israel prevailed; but when he lowered them, Amalek prevailed. 12When Moses’ hands grew heavy, they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. Then Aaron and Hur held his hands up, one on each side, so that his hands remained steady until the sun went down. 13So Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his army with the sword. 14Then the LORD said to Moses, “Write this on a scroll as a reminder and recite it to Joshua, because I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.” 15And Moses built an altar and named it The LORD Is My Banner.e 16“Indeed,” he said, “a hand was lifted up toward the throne of the LORD. The LORD will war against Amalek from generation to generation.” Footnotes: 1 a The geographical name Sin is related to Sinai and should not be mistaken for the English word sin. 6 b Horeb is another name for Sinai. 7 c Massah means testing. 7 d Meribah means quarreling. 15 e Hebrew YHWH Nissi Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Exodus 17 Summary Water from the Rock Verses 1–3 – The Thirst and Complaint Israel moves from the Wilderness of Sin to Rephidim, finds no water, and the people quarrel with Moses, accusing him of bringing them out to die of thirst. Verses 4–7 – Water from the Rock at Rephidim Moses cries out to the LORD, is told to take the staff, gather the elders, and strike the rock at Horeb. Water gushes out; the place is named Massah (“Testing”) and Meribah (“Quarreling”). Verses 8–13 – The Amalekite Assault and Israel’s Defense Amalek attacks. Joshua leads the fighters while Moses, holding the staff, stands on a hill. As long as Moses’ hands are raised, Israel prevails. Aaron and Hur steady his arms until sunset, and Joshua overwhelms Amalek. Verses 14–16 – The LORD’s War against Amalek and the Altar of Jehovah-Nissi God orders Moses to record Amalek’s doom. Moses builds an altar, calling it “The LORD Is My Banner,” declaring perpetual war between the LORD and Amalek. The chapter describes a challenging time for the Israelites as they leave the Desert of Sin and encamp at Rephidim, with a dire lack of water. In their thirst and desperation, the Israelites grumble, which leads to another miraculous intervention from God. Following this, the Israelites face a threat from the Amalekites, marking an important event in their journey. Historical and Geographical Background Rephidim likely lies in the southwestern Sinai Peninsula near the Wadi Feiran oasis. Granite outcrops in the region show ancient water-wear and fissures compatible with the “struck rock” scene. Horeb is another name for the Sinai mountain area, so the rock may have stood close to Israel’s ultimate destination. Complaining Hearts and the Test at Rephidim Only weeks after crossing the Red Sea (Exodus 15) and receiving manna (Exodus 16), Israel still doubts God’s care. The text says, “The people thirsted there for water and grumbled against Moses” (17:3). Their words reveal fear: “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt?” Complaining replaces trust when past miracles fade from memory. Connections: • Numbers 14:22 – repeated testing of God in the wilderness • Psalm 95:8–11 – later generations warned, “Do not harden your hearts as at Meribah” The Rock that Gave Water “Behold, I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. When you strike the rock, water will come out of it” (17:6). God’s presence “by” the rock shows He Himself is the source. Moses strikes once, not repeatedly, matching the specific command. Centuries later Paul writes, “that rock was Christ” (1 Corinthians 10:4), linking the physical provision to the living water Jesus offers (John 7:37–38). Meribah and Massah: Lessons on Faith The twin names memorialize failure, yet also grace. Israel’s doubt names the site, but God’s water makes it livable. Deuteronomy 6:16 cautions: “Do not test the LORD your God as you did at Massah.” Faith trusts without demanding proof; testing means insisting God must meet terms first. The Amalekites: Background and Future Amalek is a grandson of Esau (Genesis 36:12). Nomadic raiders of the Negev, they strike Israel’s rear, targeting the weary (Deuteronomy 25:17–18). Their hostility persists: • 1 Samuel 15 – Saul ordered to destroy Amalek but spares King Agag. • 1 Samuel 30 – David rescues captives from Amalek. • Esther 3 – Haman, “the Agagite,” plots against the Jews. The enmity culminates in God’s promise: “I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek” (17:14). Joshua’s Introduction and Growing Leadership This chapter names Joshua for the first time, showing early trust in his courage. Moses delegates military command while he intercedes, an early model of shared leadership later expanded when Joshua succeeds Moses (Numbers 27:18–23). The Battle Plan: Spiritual and Physical Cooperation Israel fights with swords, yet victory hinges on raised hands. Both arena—field and hilltop—matter. God’s people are called to practical action while relying on divine power. Aaron and Hur’s support illustrates teamwork: one man’s fatigue could have cost lives. Raised Hands: Symbolism and Practice “As long as Moses held up his hands, Israel prevailed” (17:11). Raised hands picture: • Dependence – surrendering self-effort. • Prayer – common posture (Psalm 28:2; 1 Timothy 2:8). • Identification – the staff recalls earlier wonders (Exodus 7:20; 14:16). Some see a foreshadow of the cross: a mediator with outstretched arms securing victory for the people. Writing it Down: The Book and the Memorial “Write this on a scroll as a memorial and recite it to Joshua” (17:14). This is one of the earliest commands to record revelation. The written word would guide future leaders long after the wilderness generation passed. Jehovah-Nissi: The LORD My Banner Ancient armies rallied under banners. By naming the altar “Yahweh Is My Banner,” Moses declares God Himself as Israel’s rallying point. Trust and identity center on Him, not symbols or leaders. Connections Across Scripture • Water from a rock again at Kadesh (Numbers 20) shows the importance of obedience—there Moses strikes twice and forfeits entry into Canaan. • Psalm 23:1–2 parallels: the Shepherd provides water in arid places. • Revelation 7:17 promises final shepherding: “He will lead them to springs of living water.” • Galatians 5:17 – a spiritual conflict between flesh and Spirit echoes Israel vs. Amalek. Timeless Life Lessons • Gratitude guards against grumbling. Recalling past deliverances fuels present faith. • God often demands steps of obedience (strike the rock, go to battle) before supply and victory appear. • Spiritual battles are won when God’s people combine prayerful dependence with faithful action. • Leadership is shared: even the strongest need supporters, and emerging leaders like Joshua gain experience through real responsibility. • The Lord remains the ultimate Banner—identity, strength, and rallying point for every generation. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing. Isaiah 11:10 On that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will seek Him, and His place of rest will be glorious. Teaching Points God's Provision in Desperation The Israelites grumbled against Moses due to the lack of water, questioning, Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst? (Exodus 17:3). Despite their complaints, God instructs Moses to strike the rock at Horeb, providing water for the people (Exodus 17:6). Testing and Trust The place is named Massah and Meribah because the Israelites tested the Lord by saying, Is the LORD among us or not? (Exodus 17:7). This reflects a recurring theme of testing God's presence and faithfulness. Victory through Obedience and Support In the battle against the Amalekites, Moses' raised hands symbolize dependence on God. As long as his hands are raised, Israel prevails. Aaron and Hur support Moses, ensuring victory (Exodus 17:11-13). The Lord as Our Banner After the victory, Moses builds an altar and names it The LORD Is My Banner (Exodus 17:15), signifying God's leadership and protection. Practical Applications Trust in God's Provision In times of need, instead of grumbling, we should turn to God in prayer, trusting that He will provide for our needs. Recognize God's Presence Even when circumstances seem dire, remember that God is always with us, and His presence is not dependent on our situation. Support One Another Just as Aaron and Hur supported Moses, we should support each other in prayer and encouragement, especially during spiritual battles. Declare God's Faithfulness Like Moses, we should acknowledge and declare God's faithfulness and leadership in our lives, using our testimonies to encourage others. People 1. Moses Moses is the central human figure in this chapter. He is the leader of the Israelites, guiding them through the wilderness. In Exodus 17, Moses is instructed by God to strike the rock at Horeb to provide water for the people (Exodus 17:6). He also plays a crucial role in the battle against the Amalekites, holding up his hands to ensure Israel's victory (Exodus 17:11-12). 2. Aaron Aaron is Moses' brother and serves as his spokesperson and assistant. In this chapter, Aaron, along with Hur, supports Moses by holding up his hands during the battle against the Amalekites (Exodus 17:12). 3. Hur Hur is a lesser-known figure who assists Moses alongside Aaron. He helps hold up Moses' hands during the battle, ensuring that the Israelites prevail against the Amalekites (Exodus 17:12). 4. Joshua Joshua is introduced as a military leader in this chapter. Moses instructs Joshua to choose men and lead them into battle against the Amalekites (Exodus 17:9). This is one of the first mentions of Joshua, who later becomes a significant leader of Israel. 5. The Amalekites While not a single person, the Amalekites are the adversaries of the Israelites in this chapter. They attack the Israelites at Rephidim, prompting the battle in which Joshua leads the Israelite forces (Exodus 17:8). 6. The LORD (Yahweh) Although not a human figure, God is the central divine presence in this chapter. He instructs Moses on how to provide water for the Israelites and assures victory over the Amalekites. The name Yahweh is often translated as "the LORD" in English Bibles, including the BSB (Exodus 17:5-6, 14). Places 1. The Wilderness of Sin This is the initial location mentioned in Exodus 17:1. The Israelites journeyed from the Wilderness of Sin according to the command of the LORD. The Hebrew root for "Sin" (סִין) is not directly related to the English word "sin" but is a geographical name. 2. Rephidim This is the place where the Israelites camped and where they found no water to drink, leading to the events of the water from the rock and the battle with the Amalekites (Exodus 17:1, 8). The name "Rephidim" (רְפִידִים) is derived from a root that can mean "supports" or "rests," indicating a place of rest or support, though ironically, it became a place of contention and struggle for the Israelites. Events 1. The Israelites Camp at Rephidim The Israelites journeyed from the Wilderness of Sin and camped at Rephidim, where there was no water for the people to drink. This situation led to a crisis among the people. The Hebrew root for "Rephidim" (רְפִידִים) suggests a place of rest or support, which is ironic given the lack of water. 2. The People Quarrel with Moses The people quarreled with Moses, demanding water. They said, "Give us water to drink." Moses responded by asking why they were quarreling with him and testing the LORD. The Hebrew word for "quarrel" (רִיב) indicates a legal dispute or contention. 3. Moses Cries Out to the LORD Moses, feeling the pressure of the people's anger, cried out to the LORD, asking what he should do as the people were almost ready to stone him. This highlights Moses' reliance on divine guidance in times of crisis. 4. The LORD Instructs Moses The LORD instructed Moses to go ahead of the people, taking some of the elders of Israel and the staff with which he struck the Nile. God promised to stand before Moses on the rock at Horeb, and Moses was to strike the rock to bring forth water. The Hebrew word for "strike" (נָכָה) implies a forceful action. 5. Water from the Rock Moses did as the LORD commanded, striking the rock at Horeb, and water gushed out for the people to drink. This miraculous provision demonstrated God's faithfulness and power. 6. Naming the Place Massah and Meribah Moses named the place Massah (מַסָּה) and Meribah (מְרִיבָה) because the Israelites quarreled and tested the LORD, saying, "Is the LORD among us or not?" These names reflect the testing and contention that occurred there. 7. The Amalekites Attack The Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites at Rephidim. This unprovoked attack set the stage for a significant battle. 8. Joshua Leads the Battle Moses instructed Joshua to choose men and go out to fight the Amalekites. This is the first mention of Joshua, who would later become a key leader of Israel. 9. Moses, Aaron, and Hur on the Hill Moses, along with Aaron and Hur, went to the top of a hill. As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites prevailed, but when he lowered them, the Amalekites gained the advantage. This act symbolized intercession and reliance on God's power. 10. Victory Over the Amalekites With Aaron and Hur supporting Moses' hands, the Israelites, led by Joshua, defeated the Amalekites. This victory underscored the importance of faith and support within the community. 11. The LORD's Command to Record the Event The LORD instructed Moses to write the account of this victory on a scroll as a memorial and to recite it to Joshua, ensuring that the memory of the Amalekites' defeat would be preserved. 12. Moses Builds an Altar Moses built an altar and named it "The LORD Is My Banner" (יְהוָה נִסִּי), signifying the LORD's protection and presence in battle. 13. The LORD's Declaration Against Amalek The LORD declared that He would be at war with the Amalekites from generation to generation, indicating ongoing divine opposition to those who oppose His people. Lessons from Exodus 17 1. Trust in God's Provision In Exodus 17, the Israelites find themselves in the wilderness, thirsty and desperate for water. Instead of panicking, Moses turns to God, who instructs him to strike a rock at Horeb, bringing forth water for the people. This miraculous provision reminds us that God is our ultimate provider. As Philippians 4:19 assures us, "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Trusting in God's provision means believing that He will meet our needs, even in the most barren of circumstances. 2. The Power of Prayerful Leadership Moses exemplifies the power of prayerful leadership. When faced with the Amalekite threat, he stands on a hill with the staff of God in his hand, praying for victory. As long as his hands are raised, the Israelites prevail. This teaches us the importance of intercessory prayer and reliance on God in leadership. James 5:16 reminds us, "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail." 3. Community Support is Essential Moses' arms grow weary, and Aaron and Hur step in to support him, holding up his hands until sunset. This act of teamwork and support highlights the importance of community. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, "Two are better than one... If either falls, his companion can lift him up." We are not meant to walk alone; community strengthens us in our journey. 4. Remembering God's Faithfulness After the victory over the Amalekites, Moses builds an altar and names it "The LORD Is My Banner." This act of remembrance is crucial. By recalling God's past faithfulness, we bolster our faith for future challenges. Psalm 77:11 encourages us, "I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old." 5. Obedience Brings Blessings Moses' obedience to God's instructions results in miraculous outcomes. When we follow God's commands, we align ourselves with His will, opening the door to His blessings. As Jesus said in John 14:15, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." 6. God's Presence in Our Trials The Israelites' journey through the wilderness is a testament to God's presence in our trials. Despite their grumbling, God remains with them, guiding and providing. Deuteronomy 31:6 reassures us, "He will never leave you nor forsake you." In every trial, God is with us, offering His strength and comfort. 7. The Importance of Faith Over Fear When faced with the Amalekites, the Israelites could have succumbed to fear. Instead, they chose faith, trusting in God's power to deliver them. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline." Faith overcomes fear, enabling us to face challenges with courage. 8. God's Timing is Perfect The Israelites' thirst is quenched at the perfect moment, and their victory over the Amalekites comes at the right time. God's timing is impeccable, even when it seems delayed to us. Ecclesiastes 3:11 assures us, "He has made everything beautiful in its time." Trusting in His timing brings peace and patience. 9. Gratitude Fuels Worship Moses' response to God's deliverance is worship and gratitude. By building an altar, he acknowledges God's hand in their victory. Gratitude fuels our worship, drawing us closer to God. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 encourages us, "Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." 10. God's Sovereignty in Our Battles The battle against the Amalekites underscores God's sovereignty. While the Israelites fight, it is God's power that secures their victory. Proverbs 21:31 reminds us, "The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory belongs to the LORD." Recognizing God's sovereignty in our battles brings assurance and peace, knowing He is in control. Topics 1. Water from the Rock at Rephidim In Exodus 17:1-7, the Israelites camp at Rephidim, where there is no water for them to drink. The people quarrel with Moses, expressing their fear and doubt. Moses cries out to the LORD, who instructs him to strike the rock at Horeb with his staff, resulting in water flowing out for the people to drink. This event highlights God's provision and the testing of faith. The Hebrew word "Massah" (meaning "testing") and "Meribah" (meaning "quarreling") are significant here, as they denote the Israelites' contentious attitude and lack of trust in God. Exodus 17:6 "Behold, I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. And when you strike the rock, water will come out of it for the people to drink.” So Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel." 2. The Battle Against the Amalekites In Exodus 17:8-16, the Amalekites attack the Israelites at Rephidim. Moses instructs Joshua to choose men to fight, while he stands on the hill with the staff of God. As long as Moses holds up his hands, Israel prevails; when he lowers them, Amalek prevails. Aaron and Hur support Moses' hands, ensuring Israel's victory. This passage emphasizes the power of intercession and reliance on God for victory. The Hebrew root "nacah" (meaning "to test" or "to try") is relevant as it reflects the ongoing trials faced by the Israelites. Exodus 17:11-12 "As long as Moses held up his hands, Israel prevailed; but when he lowered them, Amalek prevailed. When Moses’ hands grew heavy, they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. Then Aaron and Hur held his hands up, one on each side, so that his hands remained steady until the sun went down." 3. The LORD as Banner After the victory over the Amalekites, Moses builds an altar and names it "The LORD Is My Banner" (Yahweh Nissi), signifying God's protection and leadership over Israel. This act of worship and remembrance underscores the importance of acknowledging God's role in their success and serves as a testament to His faithfulness. Exodus 17:15 "And Moses built an altar and named it The LORD Is My Banner." Themes 1. Divine Provision and Testing In Exodus 17:1-7, the Israelites face a lack of water in the wilderness, leading to their grumbling against Moses. This theme highlights God's provision as He instructs Moses to strike the rock at Horeb, bringing forth water. The Hebrew root for "test" (נָסָה, nasah) in verse 7 emphasizes the testing of both the people's faith and God's patience. 2. Leadership and Obedience Moses' role as a leader is tested as he follows God's command to provide water. His obedience to God's instructions (Exodus 17:5-6) underscores the importance of faithful leadership in guiding God's people. 3. God's Presence and Faithfulness The naming of the place as Massah and Meribah (Exodus 17:7) reflects the Israelites' questioning of God's presence: "Is the LORD among us or not?" This theme emphasizes God's continual faithfulness despite the people's doubts. 4. Spiritual Warfare and Intercession The battle against the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8-13) introduces the theme of spiritual warfare. Moses' raised hands, supported by Aaron and Hur, symbolize intercessory prayer and reliance on God's power for victory. The Hebrew root for "banner" (נֵס, nes) in verse 15 signifies God's protection and leadership. 5. Remembrance and Memorial God instructs Moses to write a memorial of the victory over Amalek (Exodus 17:14). This theme highlights the importance of remembering God's past deliverances as a source of faith and encouragement for future challenges. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Provision Thank God for His constant provision and faithfulness in our lives. Trust in Trials Pray for the strength to trust God in difficult times and to seek His guidance rather than relying on our understanding. Unity and Support Ask God to help us support and uplift one another, especially in times of spiritual warfare. Boldness in Testimony Pray for the courage to declare God's faithfulness and share our testimonies with others. Answering Tough Questions 1. How is it scientifically plausible that water could come from a mere strike of Moses’s staff on a rock (Exodus 17:6)? 2. What archaeological evidence, if any, supports the Israelites' presence at Rephidim (Exodus 17)? 3. Why do no contemporary historical sources mention the defeat of the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8–13)? 4. How can Moses’s raised hands alone affect the outcome of a battle (Exodus 17:11)? 5. Why is there no corroboration outside the Bible for such a significant miracle at Massah and Meribah (Exodus 17:7)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the Israelites' quarreling reflect their faith in God? 2. How can we relate to the grumbling of the Israelites in the desert when faced with our own difficult circumstances? 3. How does God's response to the Israelites' need for water reflect His character? 4. What can we learn from Moses' reaction to the Israelites' grumbling? 5. How can the miracle of water from the rock inspire our faith during tough times? 6. Why do you think the Israelites continually doubted God's presence and provision? 7. How does the battle against the Amalekites represent spiritual warfare in our own lives? 8. What does the support of Aaron and Hur for Moses symbolize in our Christian journey? 9. How can Moses' intercession during the battle apply to our prayer life? 10. What can we learn from the total dependence of Israel's success on Moses' raised hands? 11. How do you respond when you're feeling weary or discouraged like Moses? 12. How does God's command to Moses to record the victory over Amalek speak to the importance of remembering God's deliverance in our lives? 13. How can we ensure that we don't test God's presence in our lives, as the Israelites did? 14. How can we draw strength from God in our battles, like Joshua did against the Amalekites? 15. What does "The LORD is my banner" mean to you personally? 16. How does this passage challenge your understanding of God's provision, protection, and promise? 17. What practical steps can you take to remember God's deliverance in your life? 18. How does the community of believers help you in your spiritual battles? 19. How can we avoid grumbling against God during challenging times? 20. How does this passage inspire you to trust in God's provision and protection in your life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions