Topical Bible: Rocks: Meribah in Kadesh

◄ Rocks: Meribah in Kadesh ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Meribah in Kadesh is a significant location in the biblical narrative, particularly in the journey of the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. The name "Meribah" itself means "quarreling" or "strife," reflecting the contentious events that took place there. This site is closely associated with the miraculous provision of water and the subsequent disobedience of Moses, which had lasting consequences for him and the Israelites.

Biblical Account:

The primary account of Meribah in Kadesh is found in the Book of Numbers. As the Israelites journeyed through the desert, they arrived at Kadesh, where they faced a severe lack of water. The people quarreled with Moses and Aaron, expressing their frustration and longing for the comforts of Egypt. In response to their complaints, God instructed Moses to take his staff, gather the assembly, and speak to the rock before their eyes to bring forth water.

Numbers 20:7-8 records God's command: "The LORD said to Moses, 'Take the staff, and assemble the congregation, you and your brother Aaron, and speak to the rock before their eyes, and it will yield its water. You will bring out water from the rock and provide drink for the congregation and their livestock.'"

However, in a moment of anger and frustration, Moses struck the rock twice with his staff instead of speaking to it as God had commanded. Water gushed forth abundantly, but Moses' actions were seen as a failure to uphold God's holiness before the people. As a result, God declared that Moses and Aaron would not lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.

Numbers 20:12 states: "But the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 'Because you did not trust Me to show My holiness in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this assembly into the land I have given them.'"

Theological Significance:

Meribah in Kadesh serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of obedience and faith in God's instructions. Moses' actions at Meribah highlight the gravity of leadership responsibilities and the consequences of failing to honor God's commands. The incident underscores the necessity of trusting in God's provision and the dangers of allowing frustration and anger to lead to disobedience.

Historical and Geographical Context:

Kadesh, often identified with Kadesh-barnea, is located in the northeastern part of the Sinai Peninsula. It served as a significant encampment for the Israelites during their 40 years in the wilderness. The exact location of the rock at Meribah is not definitively known, but it is traditionally associated with the area around Kadesh.

Legacy and Lessons:

The events at Meribah in Kadesh are referenced in other parts of Scripture, serving as a cautionary tale for future generations. Psalm 106:32-33 reflects on the incident: "At the waters of Meribah they angered the LORD, and trouble came to Moses because of them. For they rebelled against His Spirit, and Moses spoke rashly with his lips."

The account of Meribah in Kadesh continues to be a powerful lesson on the importance of faith, obedience, and the reverence due to God. It reminds believers of the need to trust in God's provision and to follow His commands with humility and respect.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 20:1-11
Then came the children of Israel, even the whole congregation, into the desert of Zin in the first month: and the people stayed in Kadesh; and Miriam died there, and was buried there.
Torrey's Topical Textbook