Exodus 17:6 - Divine water from rock.

The Context of the Verse

The verse (Shemot 17:6) describes the miracle of water flowing from a rock at Ḥorev (Mount Sinai) in response to the people's thirst. This event occurred after Bnei Yisrael complained about the lack of water, testing Hashem (Shemot 17:2-3). The Ramban explains that this miracle was meant to strengthen their emunah (faith) in Hashem's constant providence, especially after witnessing the Exodus and the manna.

Hashem's Presence at the Rock

The phrase "הִנְנִי עֹמֵד לְפָנֶיךָ שָּׁם עַל־הַצּוּר" ("Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock") emphasizes that Hashem’s presence would be manifest at the rock. Rashi comments that this demonstrates that the miracle was not due to Moshe’s power but to Hashem’s divine intervention. The Sforno adds that this was to prevent any misconception that Moshe performed the miracle independently.

The Significance of Striking the Rock

Moshe was commanded to "וְהִכִּיתָ בַצּוּר" ("smite the rock"), which later contrasts with the incident at Mei Merivah (Bamidbar 20:8-12), where Moshe was commanded to speak to the rock. The Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 1:24) explains that striking the rock here was necessary to demonstrate Hashem’s power in a visible way to the people. The Kli Yakar suggests that the rock symbolized the hardened hearts of Bnei Yisrael, requiring a forceful act to awaken their faith.

The Role of the Elders

The verse concludes with "וַיַּעַשׂ כֵּן מֹשֶׁה לְעֵינֵי זִקְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל" ("And Moshe did so in the sight of the elders of Yisra᾽el"). The Midrash Tanchuma (Beshallach 22) teaches that the elders were present to serve as witnesses, ensuring the nation would recognize the miracle as divine. The Netziv (Ha'amek Davar) adds that their presence reinforced Moshe’s leadership and the authenticity of the miracle.

Lessons for Future Generations

• Emunah in Hashem’s Providence: The miracle reinforced that Hashem provides for all needs, even in the wilderness (Talmud, Ta’anit 9a).
• Leadership and Humility: Moshe’s actions demonstrated that true leadership directs credit to Hashem (Rambam, Hilchot De’ot 2:3).
• Public Miracles: The involvement of the elders teaches that open miracles strengthen communal faith (Maharal, Gur Aryeh on Shemot 17:6).