Exodus 17 - Printer Friendly

What does Exodus 17 mean?

Chapter Commentary:

The people of Israel have just been gifted with miraculous supplies of meat and bread (Exodus 16:13–15). They had been rescued from thirst (Exodus 15:22–25). God had enacted a spectacular rescue at the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21–29). All these came under the guidance of Moses, God's chosen leader (Exodus 3:15). And yet, when water again becomes scarce, the people react with bitterness and despair. Their reaction tries God's patience. Moses fears there will be violence. But the Lord responds with mercy (Exodus 17:1–4).

God arranges a public demonstration. Moses goes to a specific rock in the region of Horeb. Following the Lord's instructions, Moses strikes the rock twice with his staff (Exodus 4:17). This provides enough water for the people's needs. Despite the positive ending, this is one of the low points in Israel's history. The location becomes known as "testing and quarreling" because of the people's absurd lack of faith (Exodus 17:5–7).

While camped at the same location, Amalekites attack Israel. Moses instructs Joshua to lead men into battle. But since Israel is so newly freed (Exodus 12:40–41), they will need help to repel the invaders. Moses brings his staff to the top of a nearby hill. When he holds the staff up, Israel succeeds. When he starts to fatigue, and the staff lowers, the battle turns against the Hebrews. So, Aaron and a man named Hur help Moses by holding up his arms. Israel successfully overwhelms the enemy forces (Exodus 17:8–13).

God then tells Moses to carefully record the fate of the Amalekites. This enemy nation would cause many problems for Israel (Numbers 14:45; Judges 3:13; 6:3; 1 Samuel 14:48). God says they will be erased entirely. That prophecy is fulfilled when David (1 Samuel 30:17) reduces Amalek to a small remnant, which is later overcome by Simeonites (1 Chronicles 4:43). Moses names a newly-built altar "God is my Banner" so Israel will never forget their rescue, nor the Lord's condemnation of Amalek (Exodus 17:14–16).

After this, Moses' father-in-law will make a friendly visit (Exodus 18).

Exodus 17:1–7 records the second time God miraculously provided water in response to Israelite complaining. He has just given them meat (Exodus 16:13) and an ongoing daily provision of manna (Exodus 16:14–16). Yet when the people don't find water at their next stop, they react poorly. This time, they openly argue with Moses. Protests are so heated that Moses worries about violence. God instructs Moses and then creates a water source for the people.

Exodus 17:8–16 describes Israel's first true battle since leaving Egyptian slavery (Exodus 12:40–41). When Amalekites attack, Moses assigns Joshua to lead the fighting men of Israel. During the battle, Israel prevails while Moses' staff is held up. But they begin to lose when he puts the staff down. Aaron and Hur hold Moses' arms up, allowing Israel to complete its victory.

Chapter Summary:

Israel condemns and argues against Moses because of a water shortage, despite recent miracles proving the Lord's care. In response, God arranges a public display of His power through Moses. Then, when Amalekites attack Israel, God gives them power to repel the attack. This comes in the form of Moses holding up his staff, assisted by Aaron and Hur. Joshua is introduced as a military leader.

Chapter Context:

The nation of Israel recently received miraculous provisions of water, bread, and meat (Exodus 15—16). Still, they bitterly argue and bicker against Moses when water becomes scarce. After another miracle, God aids the Hebrews in repelling an enemy attack. Next, they will encounter Moses' father-in-law, who will provide some much-needed advice (Exodus 18).

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 5/31/2025 9:34:36 PM