Exodus 17:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 17:15
15 And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovah-nissi:
Chapter Context
Exodus 17 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, prayer, mercy. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 17:15
15 And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovah-nissi:
Analysis
And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovahnissi—Moses' altar commemorates victory through worship. The name יְהוָה נִסִּי (YHWH-Nissi, 'The LORD is my banner') proclaims that God Himself is Israel's standard/ensign under which they fought. Ancient armies rallied around visible banners; Israel rallies around invisible YHWH. The altar's name teaches that worship recognizes God as source of victory. This anticipates Christ lifted up on the cross becoming the banner drawing all nations (John 12:32, Isa 11:10). The altar at Rephidim—place of thirst and warfare—shows that locations of testing become sites of worship when faith triumphs. Moses' immediate response of building an altar models giving God glory before proceeding.
Historical Context
This altar likely served for thank offerings. Its name entered Israel's theological vocabulary as declaration that YHWH goes before His people as their rallying point in battle.
Reflection
- How does God being our 'banner' differ from human military standards or national flags?
- What does building an altar at the place of testing teach about transforming trials into worship?
Word Studies
- Altar: מִזְבֵּחַ (Mizbeach) H4196 - Altar, place of sacrifice
Cross-References
- Sacrifice: Genesis 33:20, Judges 6:24
- Parallel theme: Genesis 22:14, Psalms 60:4