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.
Numbers 20:11 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "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." from the book of Exodus, chapter 17, verse 6, tells the story of a miraculous moment in the wilderness where Moses, following God's command, strikes a rock with his rod to provide water for the thirsty Israelites and their livestock. This event is significant as it demonstrates both the power of God and the faithfulness of Moses in carrying out God's instructions. It also serves as a reminder of God's provision and care for his people even in the midst of challenging circumstances. The water flowing from the rock symbolizes the spiritual nourishment and sustenance that God provides to his followers, fulfilling their physical needs and strengthening their faith. This verse is a powerful testimony to the faithfulness of God and serves as a reminder to trust in Him to provide for our needs in every situation.
Theological Overview
In the theological interpretation of this verse, many scholars see a symbolic representation of the relationship between God and His people. The act of Moses striking the rock with his rod can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ being struck on the cross for the salvation of humanity. The water flowing abundantly from the rock can be interpreted as a symbol of the spiritual refreshment and sustenance that God provides to His people. Additionally, the fact that both the congregation and their beasts drank from the water emphasizes the inclusivity of God's grace and provision. Through this miraculous event, God demonstrated His power and faithfulness to provide for the needs of His people, a theme that runs throughout the Bible.
Numbers 20:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Moses lifted up his hand, and smote the rock with his rod twice: and water came forth abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their cattle.
World English Bible
Moses lifted up his hand, and struck the rock with his rod twice, and water came out abundantly. The congregation and their livestock drank.
Douay-Rheims
And when Moses bad lifted up his hand, and struck the rock twice with the rod, there came forth water in great abundance, so that the people and their cattle drank,
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then Moses lift vp his hande, and with his rod he smote the rocke twise, and the water came out aboundantly: so the Congregation, and their beastes dranke.