Exodus 17:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 17:1
1 And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin, after their journeys, according to the commandment of the LORD, and pitched in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink.
Chapter Context
Exodus 17 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, fellowship, faith. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-16: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 17:1
1 And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin, after their journeys, according to the commandment of the LORD, and pitched in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink.
Analysis
And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin—Israel's journey from Sin to Rephidim marks continued testing after manna provision. The phrase 'according to the commandment of the LORD' (עַל־פִּי יְהוָה, al-pi YHWH, literally 'by the mouth of the LORD') emphasizes divine direction—they move only as God speaks through the cloud/fire pillar. Yet this obedience in location doesn't translate to obedience in attitude. Rephidim (רְפִידִם, 'rests' or 'supports') becomes the place of testing without water, showing that following God's direction doesn't eliminate trials. Paul warns believers against Israel's wilderness failures (1 Cor 10:5-11), urging us to trust God through appointed difficulties.
Historical Context
Rephidim's exact location is uncertain but likely in the southern Sinai peninsula before reaching Mount Sinai. The site becomes significant for both water from rock and the Amalek battle.
Reflection
- How does obedience to God's direction not exempt believers from trials?
- What does journeying 'by the mouth of the LORD' teach about following divine guidance even into difficulty?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Sin: Exodus 16:1, 19:2