The phrase "three days without water" is a significant motif in the Bible, often symbolizing a period of testing, trial, and divine intervention. This concept is most prominently illustrated in the narrative of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt.

Exodus 15:22-25
In the Book of Exodus, after the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, the Israelites traveled into the Desert of Shur. The Scripture states, "Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea, and they went out into the Desert of Shur. For three days they walked in the desert without finding water" (Exodus 15:22). This period of three days without water serves as a test of faith for the Israelites, who had just witnessed God's mighty hand in their deliverance from Egypt. The lack of water led to grumbling among the people, highlighting their dependence on God for sustenance and provision.

Upon reaching Marah, the Israelites found water, but it was bitter and undrinkable. In response to the people's complaints, Moses cried out to the LORD, who showed him a piece of wood. When Moses threw the wood into the water, it became sweet and drinkable. This miraculous provision underscores God's ability to transform situations of despair into blessings and serves as a testament to His faithfulness and care for His people.

Symbolism and Theological Implications
The three-day period without water can be seen as a symbolic representation of spiritual dryness and the need for divine intervention. In the broader biblical narrative, the number three often signifies completeness or divine perfection. Thus, the three days without water may also point to a complete cycle of testing that ultimately leads to a deeper understanding of God's provision and sovereignty.

The incident at Marah is not only a physical demonstration of God's power but also a spiritual lesson for the Israelites. It teaches reliance on God and the importance of obedience to His commands. The LORD used this occasion to establish a statute and ordinance for the people, saying, "If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in His eyes, if you pay attention to His commands and keep all His statutes, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD who heals you" (Exodus 15:26).

New Testament Connections
While the specific phrase "three days without water" is not directly mentioned in the New Testament, the theme of spiritual thirst and divine provision is echoed in the teachings of Jesus. In John 4:13-14, Jesus speaks to the Samaritan woman at the well, saying, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again. But whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a fount of water springing up to eternal life" . Here, Jesus offers Himself as the living water, the ultimate source of spiritual satisfaction and eternal life.

Conclusion
The motif of three days without water in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of God's provision and the necessity of faith during times of trial. It calls believers to trust in God's promises and to seek His guidance in all circumstances, knowing that He is the source of life and sustenance.