Exodus 17:5

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the LORD {H3068} said {H559} unto Moses {H4872}, Go on {H5674} before {H6440} the people {H5971}, and take {H3947} with thee of the elders {H2205} of Israel {H3478}; and thy rod {H4294}, wherewith thou smotest {H5221} the river {H2975}, take {H3947} in thine hand {H3027}, and go {H1980}.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI answered Moshe, "Go on ahead of the people, and bring with you the leaders of Isra'el. Take your staff in your hand, the one you used to strike the river; and go.

Berean Standard Bible

And the LORD said to Moses, “Walk on ahead of the people and take some of the elders of Israel with you. Take along in your hand the staff with which you struck the Nile, and go.

American Standard Version

And Jehovah said unto Moses, Pass on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel; and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thy hand, and go.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 17:5 marks a pivotal moment in Israel's wilderness journey, where the LORD, in direct response to the people's desperate thirst and contentious murmuring at Rephidim, issues precise instructions to Moses. This divine command directs Moses to step forward as leader, accompanied by the esteemed elders of Israel, and to wield the very rod that had previously demonstrated God's formidable power over the Nile. This verse powerfully underscores God's immediate and specific provision, His unwavering faithfulness despite human rebellion, and the instrumental role of Moses and the symbolic significance of the rod in manifesting God's miraculous intervention for the sustenance of His covenant people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the broader narrative of Israel's journey from their miraculous deliverance in Egypt to the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai, a period consistently characterized by God's extraordinary provision set against the backdrop of the Israelites' persistent complaints and lack of faith. Immediately preceding [Exodus 17:5](/exodus/17-5 "Exodus 17:5 - God's Command to Moses at Rephidim"), the people arrive at Rephidim, where they encounter a severe lack of water, leading them to "chide with Moses" and even accuse him of leading them out of Egypt to die of thirst ([Exodus 17:1-3](/exodus/17-1-3 "Exodus 17:1-3 - Israel's Thirst and Complaint at Rephidim")). Moses, overwhelmed by their hostility, cries out to the LORD, fearing that they are on the verge of stoning him ([Exodus 17:4](/exodus/17-4 "Exodus 17:4 - Moses' Plea to the Lord")). God's command in verse 5 is a direct, compassionate, and authoritative response to this existential crisis, setting the stage for the miraculous gushing forth of water from the rock in [Exodus 17:6](/exodus/17-6 "Exodus 17:6 - Water from the Rock at Horeb"). This episode culminates in the naming of the place Massah ("testing") and Meribah ("chiding") in [Exodus 17:7](/exodus/17-7 "Exodus 17:7 - Naming of Massah and Meribah"), serving as a perpetual reminder of Israel's faithlessness and God's enduring faithfulness. This sequence echoes earlier instances of murmuring, such as the bitter waters at [Marah](/exodus/15-23-25 "Exodus 15:23-25 - Bitter Waters at Marah Made Sweet") and the longing for food in the [wilderness of Sin](/exodus/16-1-3 "Exodus 16:1-3 - Israel Complains for Food"), each met with God's compassionate and powerful provision.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites' journey through the Sinai wilderness was a harsh and unforgiving ordeal, a desolate and arid region where the availability of water was a matter of life and death. This period was not merely a physical migration but a crucible for forging Israel's identity as God's chosen covenant people, marked by trials designed to test their faith and reveal the LORD's omnipotence and unwavering faithfulness. The constant, desperate need for water and food underscored their absolute dependence on divine provision, a stark contrast to the relative material security, albeit under oppression, they had known in Egypt. The inclusion of the "elders of Israel" in God's directive was culturally significant. In ancient Near Eastern societies, elders were respected leaders, wise counselors, and crucial witnesses in public affairs. Their presence in this miraculous event not only validated the act as a public, undeniable manifestation of God's power but also affirmed Moses' divinely appointed leadership in the eyes of the entire community. Furthermore, "the rod" was no ordinary shepherd's staff; it had already become a potent symbol of God's delegated authority and power, having been instrumental in performing the [plagues in Egypt](/exodus/7-20 "Exodus 7:20 - The First Plague: Water to Blood"), particularly the transformation of the Nile's waters into blood. This established historical association would have immediately conveyed to Moses and the elders that the upcoming act would be another profound demonstration of that same divine, awe-inspiring power.

* **Key Themes:** Exodus 17:5 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Provision and Sustenance**, highlighting God's commitment to caring for His people even in the most dire circumstances, demonstrating His limitless resources and His character as Provider (e.g., [Exodus 16](/exodus/16 "Exodus 16 - Manna and Quail")). Closely related is the theme of **Human Dependence and Faithlessness**, as the Israelites' repeated murmuring and lack of trust in God's ability to provide underscore humanity's inherent tendency to doubt and rebel against divine care, even after witnessing profound miracles (e.g., [Exodus 14:11-12](/exodus/14-11-12 "Exodus 14:11-12 - Israel's Complaint at the Red Sea")). The verse also emphasizes **Moses' Role as God's Appointed Mediator and Leader**, showing him as the one through whom God communicates His will and performs His mighty acts, despite Moses' own initial reluctance and the people's challenges to his authority (e.g., [Exodus 3:10](/exodus/3-10 "Exodus 3:10 - Moses Called to Lead Israel")). Finally, the **Symbolic Power of God's Instruments** is evident in the rod, which transcends its ordinary function to become a tangible conduit for divine power, signifying God's active presence and authority in the world (e.g., [Exodus 4:2-4](/exodus/4-2-4 "Exodus 4:2-4 - Moses' Rod Becomes a Serpent")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rod (Hebrew, מַטֶּה _maṭṭeh_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to extend," refers to a staff, branch, or club. In its various applications, as indicated by the Strong's data (H4294), it can be used for chastising, ruling (a scepter), throwing (a lance), or walking (a staff). Crucially, it can also figuratively represent a "support of life," such as bread. In the context of Exodus, Moses' _maṭṭeh_ transcends its ordinary function to become a consecrated instrument through which God chooses to manifest His supernatural intervention. Its repeated use, from the plagues in Egypt to the parting of the Red Sea and now the striking of the rock, establishes it as a consistent symbol of God's authority delegated to Moses and His active, life-giving presence among His people.
* **Smotest (Hebrew, נָכָה _nakah_):** This primitive root (H5221) signifies to strike, smite, or hit, with a wide range of applications from light to severe, literal to figurative. It can mean to beat, kill, slay, or wound, and can even imply "to give wounds" or "punish." Its specific recall in "wherewith thou smotest the river" immediately brings to mind the first plague in [Exodus 7:20](/exodus/7-20 "Exodus 7:20 - The First Plague: Water to Blood"), where the Nile's waters were turned to blood. The use of _nakah_ here emphasizes a decisive, impactful action, underscoring that the same divine power that brought judgment upon Egypt through the rod would now bring life-giving provision to Israel. It highlights the continuity of God's power, whether for judgment or for salvation, demonstrating His sovereignty over all creation.
* **Elders (Hebrew, זְקֵנִים _zəqēnîm_):** Derived from the root "to be old," this term (H2205) refers to individuals who are "old," "aged," or "ancient men," serving as "senators" or respected leaders within the community. Their presence was crucial for several reasons: they served as official, credible witnesses to the miracle, ensuring its authenticity and preventing accusations of trickery or natural occurrence. Their inclusion also affirmed Moses' authority and God's direct involvement before the entire community, lending legitimacy to the event. Furthermore, as representatives, they bridged the gap between the divine command and the communal experience, ensuring the people understood the miraculous nature of God's provision.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the LORD said unto Moses,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes the divine origin and authority of the command. It underscores that the solution to Israel's desperate crisis originates solely with God, not from Moses' ingenuity, the people's demands, or any human wisdom. It signifies a direct, personal, and authoritative communication from the sovereign God to His chosen leader, setting the stage for a miraculous intervention.
* **"Go on before the people,"**: This instruction positions Moses as the divinely appointed leader and intermediary, physically leading the way and demonstrating his absolute trust in God's directive. It implies a public act, visible to the entire congregation, reinforcing Moses' unique role as God's representative and the people's necessary dependence on his leadership in following God's commands. His going "before" them signifies both leadership and a protective vanguard.
* **"and take with thee of the elders of Israel;"**: The explicit inclusion of the elders is a deliberate command for official witnesses. Their presence ensures that the subsequent miracle will be publicly attested and recognized as an undeniable divine act, not a natural occurrence or a deceptive trick. It also lends crucial legitimacy and authority to Moses' actions in the eyes of the entire community, validating the miracle's authenticity and God's direct involvement.
* **"and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thine hand, and go."**: This is a highly specific and profoundly significant instruction. The mention of "thy rod" (Moses' personal staff) and the explicit recall of its use in "smotest the river" (referencing the first plague in [Exodus 7:20](/exodus/7-20 "Exodus 7:20 - The First Plague: Water to Blood")) serves multiple critical purposes. It reminds Moses of God's consistent power demonstrated through this very instrument, reinforces the continuity of God's miraculous work across different contexts, and signifies that the same divine authority that brought judgment upon Egypt would now bring life-giving provision to Israel. The rod is not inherently magical, but it is the chosen, consecrated conduit for God's omnipotent power.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 17:5 is rich with literary devices that amplify its theological and narrative impact. **Allusion** is profoundly evident, as the phrase "thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river" directly alludes to the first plague in Egypt ([Exodus 7:20](/exodus/7-20 "Exodus 7:20 - The First Plague: Water to Blood")), creating a powerful and intentional connection between God's past judgments and His present, gracious provision. This **repetition** of the rod's specific function reinforces the consistency of God's power and Moses' established role as His instrument. The rod itself functions as a potent **symbolism**, representing not merely Moses' delegated authority but, more importantly, the active, transformative presence and power of God working through ordinary means. The divine command, "Go on before the people, and take with thee... and thy rod... take in thine hand, and go," is a clear example of **imperative language**, emphasizing God's direct, authoritative, and non-negotiable instruction, leaving no room for ambiguity or human deliberation. Furthermore, the entire scene sets up a dramatic **juxtaposition** between the Israelites' persistent faithlessness and rebellious murmuring and God's unwavering faithfulness and compassionate provision, highlighting the profound attribute of divine mercy even in the face of human rebellion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 17:5 profoundly illustrates several core theological truths that resonate throughout biblical revelation. It unequivocally underscores God's **sovereign power** and His boundless ability to provide miraculously even in the most desolate and humanly impossible circumstances, demonstrating that His resources are limitless and His solutions transcend all human limitations and expectations. Despite Israel's persistent murmuring, contentious spirit, and profound lack of faith, the verse highlights God's **unwavering faithfulness** to His covenant promises to sustain and preserve His people. This divine provision is not earned by human merit or obedience but flows solely from God's unchanging character and His redemptive plan for His chosen nation. The passage also emphasizes the critical importance of **obedient leadership**, as Moses is called to act precisely according to God's specific instructions, using the very instrument that had previously marked divine intervention. The water from the rock, initiated by this command, becomes a powerful type or foreshadowing of spiritual sustenance and the life-giving Spirit.

* [1 Corinthians 10:4](/1_corinthians/10-4 "Christ as the Spiritual Rock")
* [Psalm 78:15-16](/psalms/78-15-16 "God Provides Water from the Rock")
* [John 7:37-38](/john/7-37-38 "Rivers of Living Water from Believers")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 17:5 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today, serving as a powerful reminder that God's faithful provision is not contingent upon our perfect performance, unwavering faith, or lack of complaint, but rather upon His unchanging and merciful character. In moments of spiritual dryness, overwhelming doubt, or even when we find ourselves murmuring in discontent, this passage encourages us to look intently to the Lord, who remains intimately attentive to our deepest needs and supremely capable of providing in ways far beyond our imagination or human capacity. Just as Moses was called to explicit, immediate obedience, we too are challenged to trust and obey God's Word, recognizing that He frequently chooses to use ordinary people, seemingly insignificant objects, and humble means to accomplish His extraordinary, supernatural purposes. The rod, a simple shepherd's staff, became a mighty conduit for divine power, teaching us that our own seemingly insignificant gifts, talents, or circumstances can be transformed into powerful instruments of God's glory when yielded completely to His sovereign will. This narrative calls us to cultivate a spirit of profound dependence, trusting that the same God who miraculously provided life-sustaining water in the barren wilderness will faithfully sustain us through every trial, both physical and spiritual, in our own journeys of faith.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's instruction to Moses in this verse challenge our understanding of divine provision in the face of human complaint and spiritual dryness?**
* **In what ways might God be calling us to "go on before the people" in our own spheres of influence, demonstrating courageous obedience and trusting Him for the miraculous outcome?**
* **What "rods" (ordinary objects, personal talents, unique circumstances, or even past experiences of God's faithfulness) might God be calling us to take in our hands today to be instruments of His transformative power?**

### FAQ
**Why did God instruct Moses to take the elders with him?**

Answer: God commanded Moses to take "of the elders of Israel" primarily for the purpose of **witness and authentication**. In ancient Near Eastern culture, elders were highly respected community leaders, official representatives, and legal witnesses. Their presence ensured that the miraculous provision of water from the rock would be undeniably observed and authenticated by credible, authoritative figures. This prevented any accusations that Moses was performing a trick, that the event was a natural occurrence, or that the miracle was not genuinely from God. It also publicly affirmed Moses' divine commission and God's direct involvement, thereby validating the miracle for the entire congregation and reinforcing Moses' leadership.

**What is the significance of the "rod, wherewith thou smotest the river"?**

Answer: The "rod, wherewith thou smotest the river" is profoundly significant because it is not merely a common staff but an instrument that had already been consecrated by God for miraculous and powerful purposes. By explicitly recalling its use in "smotest the river" (referring to the first plague in [Exodus 7:20](/exodus/7-20 "Exodus 7:20 - The First Plague: Water to Blood"), where the Nile's water was turned to blood), God emphasizes the **continuity of His power** and the **authority delegated to Moses**. The rod itself is not magical or inherently powerful, but it serves as a tangible symbol and chosen conduit through which God chooses to manifest His mighty hand. Its reappearance here reminds both Moses and the people that the same divine power that brought judgment upon Egypt would now bring life-giving provision to Israel, demonstrating God's sovereign control over creation for both judgment and salvation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 17:5, leading to the miraculous provision of water from the rock, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul explicitly connects this Old Testament event to Christ, stating in [1 Corinthians 10:4](/1_corinthians/10-4 "1 Corinthians 10:4 - Christ as the Spiritual Rock") that the Israelites "did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ." This establishes the rock as a powerful **type** of Christ, who is the true and eternal source of spiritual life and sustenance. Just as the physical rock provided life-sustaining water in the barren wilderness, Christ offers "living water" that satisfies the deepest spiritual thirst, as He declared to the Samaritan woman at the well in [John 4:10-14](/john/4-10-14 "John 4:10-14 - Jesus Offers Living Water to the Samaritan Woman") and to the crowds on the last day of the feast in [John 7:37-39](/john/7-37-39 "John 7:37-39 - Rivers of Living Water from Believers"). The striking of the rock by Moses' rod powerfully foreshadows Christ being "smitten" or crucified on the cross, from whom flows the life-giving Spirit and the inexhaustible grace of salvation. Thus, the physical provision in the wilderness points forward to the ultimate spiritual provision found in the person and atoning work of Jesus, who is our ever-present, unfailing, and eternal source of life.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 7:19

And the LORD spake unto Moses, Say unto Aaron, Take thy rod, and stretch out thine hand upon the waters of Egypt, upon their streams, upon their rivers, and upon their ponds, and upon all their pools of water, that they may become blood; and [that] there may be blood throughout all the land of Egypt, both in [vessels of] wood, and in [vessels of] stone.

Exodus 7:20

And Moses and Aaron did so, as the LORD commanded; and he lifted up the rod, and smote the waters that [were] in the river, in the sight of Pharaoh, and in the sight of his servants; and all the waters that [were] in the river were turned to blood.

Numbers 20:8

Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.

Numbers 20:11

And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts [also].

Acts 20:23

Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.

Acts 20:24

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

Ezekiel 2:6

¶ And thou, son of man, be not afraid of them, neither be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns [be] with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions: be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they [be] a rebellious house.