Exodus 17:3 - Printer Friendly

ESV: But the people thirsted there for water, and the people grumbled against Moses and said, "Why did you bring us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our livestock with thirst?"

NIV: But the people were thirsty for water there, and they grumbled against Moses. They said, "Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?"

NASB: But the people were thirsty for water there; and they grumbled against Moses and said, 'Why is it that you have you brought us up from Egypt, to kill us and our children and our livestock with thirst?'

CSB: But the people thirsted there for water and grumbled against Moses. They said, "Why did you ever bring us up from Egypt to kill us and our children and our livestock with thirst?"

NLT: But tormented by thirst, they continued to argue with Moses. 'Why did you bring us out of Egypt? Are you trying to kill us, our children, and our livestock with thirst?'

KJV: And the people thirsted there for water; and the people murmured against Moses, and said, Wherefore is this that thou hast brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst?

NKJV: And the people thirsted there for water, and the people complained against Moses, and said, “Why is it you have brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our livestock with thirst?”

Much as they did just after leaving the Red Sea (Exodus 15:22–25), the Israelites are complaining to Moses about water. Wanting water makes sense. Worrying when there isn't enough to drink is normal. But Israel is not just expressing concern. They are debating and attacking Moses (Exodus 17:1–2) to the point that he worries about violence (Exodus 17:4). Their complaints are dramatic and sarcastic, saying they will all die of thirst. This tests God's patience, since the people have seen the Lord provide for them in spectacular ways (Exodus 3:19–20; 14:21–28; 15:22–25; 16:13–15).

God will provide an answer (Exodus 17:6). But this will be one of the low points in Israel's journey towards the Promised Land. When Satan tempts Jesus, (Matthew 4:5–6), Jesus cites Scripture referring to this moment in Israel's history (Deuteronomy 6:16). God's people should be more trusting and less arrogant in their approach.

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.

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.

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.