THEOSISCyrill of Alexandria
Divine revelation has unfolded important truths in the book of Exodus, and the book of Numbers provides an in-depth account that I find essential to share. This thorough examination of the events of the past will not only deepen our understanding of those times but also allow us to appreciate the beauty of spiritual reflection. The entire congregation of the children of Israel entered into the wilderness of Sin in the first month, stopping at Kadesh. It was here that Miriam passed away and was laid to rest. The people found themselves without water, prompting them to assemble against Moses and Aaron. They grumbled, lamenting, "If only we had perished when our relatives fell before the Lord! Why have you led the Lord’s congregation into this wilderness to die, along with our livestock?
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What was the purpose of bringing us out of Egypt, only to lead us into this desolate place, where we cannot sow crops, find fig trees, grapes, or pomegranates, and where there is no water to drink?"
In response, Moses and Aaron withdrew from the assembly to the entrance of the tabernacle of meeting, where they prostrated before the Lord, who manifested His glory to them. The Lord instructed Moses, "Take the rod, gather the community, you and your brother Aaron, and speak to the rock before their eyes; it will yield water. Thus, you shall provide drink for the people and their livestock." Moses obeyed and took the rod from the presence of the Lord as instructed. He and Aaron called the assembly to the rock, saying, "Listen, you rebellious ones, shall we bring forth water from this rock?" Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with the rod, resulting in an abundant flow of water for the people and their cattle.
The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, declaring, "Because you did not trust Me to demonstrate My holiness in the sight of the children of Israel, you will not lead this people into the land I am giving them." This site was named the water of Meribah, as it represented the contention the children of Israel had with the Lord, who displayed His holiness through their circumstances (Num. 20:1-13).
Despite having journeyed through a barren desert, facing severe drought, and being burdened by the trials of their travels, the people raised objections against Moses and Aaron whenever hardships arose. Though they had witnessed God's numerous miraculous signs and had learned through experience about His magnificent power, they were anxious that He might grow weary of providing for their needs, securing food from all directions, and ensuring their access to water.