Water from the Rock
Moses struck the rock at Horeb and water gushed out to give Israel drink.
When Israel found no water at Rephidim, they contended with Moses. The Lord told him to strike the rock in Horeb, and water came out for the people to drink. Years later at Meribah, Moses struck the rock again instead of speaking to it — and forfeited entry into the promised land.
Moses (by the hand of God)
Rephidim (Horeb) and Meribah, in the wilderness
What Happened
Key KJV Scriptures
"Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel."
"And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ."
Spiritual Significance
Paul reveals the rock was a picture of Christ — smitten once for our salvation. The contrast at Meribah teaches that even faithful leaders must obey God exactly as He commands.
Lesson for Today
God provides what we need, but He cares how His people honor Him. Obey His instructions precisely, even when frustration tempts you to act otherwise.
Key People
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Moses get water from the rock?
First at Rephidim, also called Horeb (Exodus 17), and later at Meribah in the wilderness of Zin (Numbers 20).
Why was Moses punished at Meribah?
God told him to speak to the rock, but Moses struck it twice in anger. Because he did not sanctify the Lord before the people, he was not allowed to enter the promised land (Numbers 20:12).
Where in the Bible is the miracle of Water from the Rock?
The miracle of Water from the Rock is recorded in Exodus 17:6 (KJV), with additional references in 1 Corinthians 10:4.
Who performed the miracle of Water from the Rock?
Scripture records that Moses (by the hand of God) carried out this miracle at Rephidim (Horeb) and Meribah, in the wilderness. Ultimately the power belonged to God, who alone does wondrous things (Psalm 72:18).
Related Bible Miracles
Angels, Demons & Spiritual Warfare
Continue your study into the unseen battle Scripture describes:
Beelzebub — Prince of Devils
Beelzebub is a name for Satan as 'prince of devils,' which Jesus addressed when the Pharisees accused Him of casting out demons by demonic power.
Read moreMichael the Archangel
Michael is the archangel and warrior prince who stands for God's people and contends with Satan himself.
Read moreFallen Angels
Fallen angels are heavenly beings who rebelled against God under Satan and now oppose His kingdom.
Read moreWhat Are Demons in the Bible?
Demons are fallen, evil spirits under Satan who oppose God and oppress people — but they are subject to Christ.
Read moreQuiz yourself on Bible miracles
Free KJV quizzes on Jesus' miracles and the supernatural acts of God in Scripture.
- Medium · 10 Qs
Aaron Quiz
Moses' brother, spokesman, and Israel's first high priest.
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Manna & Quail Bible Quiz
God's provision in the wilderness — bread from heaven and meat in abundance.
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Moses Quiz
From the bulrushes to Mount Nebo — the life of God's deliverer.
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Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Water from the Rock
Moses struck the rock at Horeb and water gushed out to give Israel drink.
The Bitter Waters of Marah Sweetened
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Aaron in the Bible
The First High Priest
Moses in the Bible
The Lawgiver
Joel 2:27 Commentary
In-depth study • God in the Midst, My People Never Ashamed
Who Was Jacob (Israel) in the Bible?
People & Characters