Exodus 17:3
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?”
What does Exodus 17:3 mean?
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.
