Exodus 17:6 - Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horeb. You shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink.” Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.

Generated Verse: Exodus 17:6

What does "Exodus 17:6" mean?


Exodus 17:6 is a pivotal verse in the story of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horeb." This is God speaking directly to Moses. God is promising to be present at a specific location (Horeb, another name for Mount Sinai) and to provide the means for Moses to perform a miracle. The fact that God will "stand before" Moses emphasizes his direct involvement and authority in the event.

"You shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink." This is the command and the promise. God is instructing Moses to strike a rock (likely a specific one pointed out by God), and miraculously, water will flow forth from it. This water is intended to quench the thirst of the Israelites, who are in desperate need. This is a demonstration of God's power to provide for his people in even the most desolate circumstances.

"Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel." This emphasizes the public nature of the miracle. Moses obeys God's command in front of the elders, the leaders of the Israelites. This confirms the event's authenticity and ensures that the whole community witnesses God's power and provision. The elders serve as witnesses to this act of divine intervention.

In essence, the verse signifies:

God's provision: God demonstrates his ability to provide for his people's needs, even in seemingly impossible situations.
Moses' obedience: Moses faithfully follows God's instructions, even though they might seem strange or unlikely to succeed.
A miracle: The verse describes a supernatural event, defying natural laws. Water from a rock is a clear display of God's power.
Divine authority: The command and the promise come directly from God, highlighting his authority over creation and his relationship with Israel.
A sign and a symbol: This event becomes a powerful symbol of God's care for his people and his ability to meet their needs. It's also sometimes interpreted as a foreshadowing of spiritual provision.

This event also serves as a lesson in faith and trust. The Israelites are in a dire situation and complaining, and God responds by miraculously providing water. It's a reminder that even when things look bleak, God is able to intervene and care for his people.

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