Exodus 17:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 17:5
5 And the LORD said unto Moses, Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel; and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thine hand, and go.
Chapter Context
Exodus 17 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, prayer, holiness. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 17:5
5 And the LORD said unto Moses, Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel; and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thine hand, and go.
Analysis
Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel—God's instruction to 'go on before' (עֲבֹר, avor) means Moses must lead despite the danger. Taking elders provides witnesses to the miracle, preventing later accusations that Moses found natural water. The command to take 'thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river' identifies the Nile-striking staff that brought plague. That same rod that brought judgment on Egypt will now bring salvation to Israel—the instrument of wrath becomes instrument of grace. This pictures the cross: what seemed God's judgment on Christ becomes salvation's source for believers. The rod's double use shows God's sovereignty over both judgment and mercy.
Historical Context
The elders served as witnesses and representatives of the entire congregation. Their presence authenticated the miracle and prevented later disputes about whether Moses found natural water.
Reflection
- How does leading 'before the people' despite danger model courage through God's command?
- What does the same rod bringing judgment (Egypt) and grace (Israel) teach about the cross?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord