Old Testament
Exodus 17:3
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The people were thirsty for water and murmured against Moses, saying, "Why did you bring us out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our livestock with thirst?"
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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?
What Exodus 17:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, the people of Israel are feeling desperate and afraid. They are wandering in the desert and have run out of water, which makes them anxious. Instead of trusting Moses, their leader, they complain and blame him for their situation. They question why he brought them out of Egypt, suggesting that they would rather have stayed in slavery than face thirst in the wilderness. Their words reveal a deep fear for their survival and the well-being of their families and livestock. This scene highlights the struggle between faith and fear, as the people forget the miracles they have witnessed. They focus on their immediate needs rather than remembering the bigger picture of their journey toward freedom. This moment serves as a reminder of how easy it is to lose hope when faced with challenges, and how important it is to support one another during tough times. Trusting in leadership and having faith can help us navigate through difficult situations, even when the path seems uncertain.
How to apply Exodus 17:3 to your life
When facing challenges, it's natural to feel anxious and question our circumstances. Instead of blaming others, we can choose to communicate our needs and trust those who lead us. Remembering past victories can help us maintain hope during tough times. Support each other in moments of doubt and fear, fostering a community of trust and resilience. “Trust the process.” “Stay hopeful.” “Support each other.” “Communicate needs.”
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Water from the Rock (Exodus 17:1–7)
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Moses
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Keep studying Exodus 17:3
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 17:3 mean?
Exodus 17:3 describes the Israelites' desperation for water in the desert, leading them to complain against Moses. Their fear and anxiety cause them to question their leader and the decision to leave Egypt, highlighting their struggle between faith and fear.
What is the significance of the people's complaint in Exodus 17:3?
The complaint in Exodus 17:3 reveals the Israelites' lack of trust in Moses and God during a critical moment. It illustrates how quickly people can forget past miracles and focus on immediate needs, emphasizing the importance of faith and support in challenging times.
What does the phrase 'thirsted for water' in Exodus 17:3 represent?
In Exodus 17:3, 'thirsted for water' symbolizes not just physical thirst but also a deeper longing for security and survival. It reflects the Israelites' fear and desperation in the wilderness, showcasing their vulnerability and need for guidance.
How does Exodus 17:3 relate to leadership?
Exodus 17:3 highlights the challenges leaders face when their followers are anxious and fearful. It shows that effective leadership requires patience and understanding, as well as the ability to inspire trust even in difficult circumstances.
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