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Exodus chapter 17

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What does Exodus chapter 17 mean?

The people of Israel have just been gifted with miraculous supplies of meat and bread (Exodus 16:13–15). They had been rescued from thirst (Exodus 15:22–25). God had enacted a spectacular rescue at the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21–29). All these came under the guidance of Moses, God's chosen leader (Exodus 3:15). And yet, when water again becomes scarce, the people react with bitterness and despair. Their reaction tries God's patience. Moses fears there will be violence. But the Lord responds with mercy (Exodus 17:1–4).

God arranges a public demonstration. Moses goes to a specific rock in the region of Horeb. Following the Lord's instructions, Moses strikes the rock twice with his staff (Exodus 4:17). This provides enough water for the people's needs. Despite the positive ending, this is one of the low points in Israel's history. The location becomes known as "testing and quarreling" because of the people's absurd lack of faith (Exodus 17:5–7).

While camped at the same location, Amalekites attack Israel. Moses instructs Joshua to lead men into battle. But since Israel is so newly freed (Exodus 12:40–41), they will need help to repel the invaders. Moses brings his staff to the top of a nearby hill. When he holds the staff up, Israel succeeds. When he starts to fatigue, and the staff lowers, the battle turns against the Hebrews. So, Aaron and a man named Hur help Moses by holding up his arms. Israel successfully overwhelms the enemy forces (Exodus 17:8–13).

God then tells Moses to carefully record the fate of the Amalekites. This enemy nation would cause many problems for Israel (Numbers 14:45; Judges 3:13; 6:3; 1 Samuel 14:48). God says they will be erased entirely. That prophecy is fulfilled when David (1 Samuel 30:17) reduces Amalek to a small remnant, which is later overcome by Simeonites (1 Chronicles 4:43). Moses names a newly-built altar "God is my Banner" so Israel will never forget their rescue, nor the Lord's condemnation of Amalek (Exodus 17:14–16).

After this, Moses' father-in-law will make a friendly visit (Exodus 18).
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