Exodus 17:15Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Moses constructed an altar, and the Lord demonstrated His power against Amalek, the most militaristic of nations. He made it apparent to all nations weaker than Amalek that if they engaged in battle with the Hebrews, they would face defeat just as the Amalekites did. Although these nations recognized that their fate, both salvation and ruin, rested with God, they failed to seek the Hebrews’ protection as a gesture of goodwill. Consequently, God instructed the Israelites to extend their right hand to the cities prior to confronting them in battle.

Moses declared: For the hand is raised against the throne of the Lord: the Lord's battle with Amalek from one generation to the next! This verse can be interpreted in two meaningful ways. The phrase "the hand over the throne of the Lord" can refer to either (1) the oath, or (2) God's declaration of perpetual conflict with Amalek. In the first interpretation, it signifies a hand that is lifted and extended, a gesture associated with oaths, which is even attributed to God in Psalms 105:26, Ezekiel 20:3, and Hebrews. In the second interpretation, it conveys a menacing hand, where the Lord, as if striking at His own throne, issues a threat of war against Amalek. This threat is explicitly expressed in verse 14. Toward Him, Moses, expressing his reliance and confidence, named his altar: the Lord is my refuge.

The Lord serves as my standard (v. 15). The significance of the altar's name is clarified in our translation’s note. (See Gen. 12:7; 35:14-15.) The establishment of this altar follows the traditions and customs surrounding the sacrifices practiced by Abraham and Jacob rather than later established regulations. (Refer to Genesis 12:7; 35:14-15.)