Topical Bible: Journey of Israel Through The Desert: To Rephidim: Called Massah and Meribah

Bible > Topical > Journey of Israel Through The Desert

◄ Journey of Israel Through The Desert: To Rephidim: Called Massah and Meribah ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The journey of the Israelites through the desert to Rephidim is a significant episode in the narrative of the Exodus, illustrating both the challenges faced by the Israelites and the providence of God. This journey is marked by the events at Massah and Meribah, where the Israelites tested the Lord and quarreled with Moses due to a lack of water.

Biblical Context

The account of the journey to Rephidim is found in the Book of Exodus, specifically in Exodus 17:1-7. After departing from the wilderness of Sin, the Israelites camped at Rephidim, where they found no water to drink. This led to a crisis of faith among the people, who quarreled with Moses and expressed doubt in God's provision.

Scriptural Account

In Exodus 17:1-3 , the narrative begins: "Then the whole congregation of the Israelites set out from the Desert of Sin, traveling from place to place according to the command of the LORD. They camped at Rephidim, but there was no water for the people to drink. So the people contended with Moses, 'Give us water to drink.' 'Why do you contend with me?' Moses replied. 'Why do you test the LORD?' But the people thirsted there for water, and they grumbled against Moses, saying, 'Why have you brought us out of Egypt—to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?'"

The people's complaint reflects a recurring theme of doubt and rebellion during the wilderness wanderings. Despite witnessing numerous miracles, including the parting of the Red Sea and the provision of manna, the Israelites struggled to trust in God's continued care.

Divine Intervention

In response to the people's grumbling, God instructed Moses to take his staff and strike the rock at Horeb, promising that water would flow from it for the people to drink. Exodus 17:5-6 records God's command: "The LORD answered Moses, 'Walk on ahead of the people and take some of the elders of Israel with you. Take in your hand the staff with which you struck the Nile, and go. Behold, I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. And when you strike the rock, water will come out of it for the people to drink.' So Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel."

This miraculous provision of water from the rock is a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to provide for His people even in the most challenging circumstances.

Significance of Massah and Meribah

The place where these events occurred was named Massah and Meribah, which mean "testing" and "quarreling," respectively. Exodus 17:7 explains: "He named the place Massah and Meribah because the Israelites quarreled and because they tested the LORD, saying, 'Is the LORD among us or not?'"

The naming of the site serves as a lasting reminder of the Israelites' lack of faith and the importance of trusting in God's presence and provision. This episode is later referenced in other parts of Scripture, such as Deuteronomy 6:16 and Psalm 95:8-9, as a warning against testing God and a call to obedience and faithfulness.

Theological Implications

The journey to Rephidim and the events at Massah and Meribah highlight the tension between human doubt and divine faithfulness. The Israelites' struggle to trust God despite His continuous provision underscores the importance of faith and reliance on God in the life of believers. This narrative also foreshadows the spiritual rock, Christ, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 10:4, who provides living water to all who believe.

The journey to Rephidim, therefore, is not merely a historical account but a profound lesson in faith, obedience, and the enduring presence of God among His people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 17:7
And he called the name of the place Massah, and Meribah, because of the chiding of the children of Israel, and because they tempted the LORD, saying, Is the LORD among us, or not?
Torrey's Topical Textbook