The miracle of water from the rock is recorded in two distinct events in Israel’s wilderness journey and teaches about God’s provision and the consequences of disobedience. It also points prophetically to Jesus Christ as the source of living water.
The first event occurs in Exodus 17:1–7. At Rephidim, the people quarreled with Moses because there was no water. Moses cried out to the Lord, and God instructed him to take the rod, strike the rock at Horeb, and water would come out. Moses obeyed, and water flowed to satisfy the thirst of the people. The place was named Massah and Meribah, meaning testing and quarreling, because of Israel’s complaint and doubt.
The second event is found in Numbers 20:1–13 at Kadesh. Again, the people complained about the lack of water. This time, God commanded Moses to speak to the rock. Instead, Moses struck the rock twice with his rod. Though water still came forth, God declared that Moses and Aaron would not bring the people into the Promised Land because they did not believe Him or hallow Him in the eyes of the people. This place was also called Meribah.
These miracles show God’s gracious provision in the midst of Israel’s rebellion. The rock in Exodus was a symbol of God’s presence and His sustaining power. In the New Testament, Paul reveals its deeper meaning: “And that Rock was Christ” (1 Corinthians 10:4). Christ was struck once for our salvation, and from Him flows the living water of eternal life. Striking the rock a second time, as Moses did, marred this picture and brought judgment.
Water from the rock illustrates that only God can meet the deepest needs of His people. It calls us to trust His provision and to respond to His Word with faith and reverence.
