Exodus 17:8 Then came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim.

Exodus 17:8 Then Amalek came and fought against Israel at Rephidim.

Ex 17:8-16. ATTACK OF AMALEK.

8. Then came Amalek--Some time probably elapsed before they were exposed to this new evil; and the presumption of there being such an interval affords the only ground on which we can satisfactorily account for the altered, the better, and former spirit that animated the people in this sudden contest. The miracles of the manna and the water from the rock had produced a deep impression and permanent conviction that God was indeed among them; and with feelings elevated by the conscious experience of the Divine Presence and aid, they remained calm, resolute, and courageous under the attack of their unexpected foe.
fought with Israel--The language implies that no occasion had been furnished for this attack; but, as descendants of Esau, the Amalekites entertained a deep-seated grudge against them, especially as the rapid prosperity and marvellous experience of Israel showed that the blessing contained in the birthright was taking effect. It seems to have been a mean, dastardly, insidious surprise on the rear (Nu 24:20; De 25:17), and an impious defiance of God.

JFB.

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Exodus 17 Images and Notes

Brief Summary: The Israelites again murmur about water and Moses smites the rock at Horeb, water gushes forth from the rock, the Amalekites attacked the host of Israel, Israel goes to battle, Moses raises his staff on the Hill for all the people to see, Aaron and Hur hold up Moses hands so the Joshua prevails against Amalek. Him him

Outline
1 The people murmur for water at Rephidim
5 God sends them for water to the rock in Horeb
8 Amalek is overcome by the raising of Moses' hands
15 Moses builds the altar Jehovah-nissi

Painting of Aaron and Hur helping Moses

Important Topics for Bible Study
The children of Israel come to Rephidim
there is no water and the people murmured against Moses
Moses cries to the Lord
the Lord calls Moses to Mount Horeb
Moses smote the rock and water comes out
Moses names the place where the water gushed out
Amalek attacks the Israelites
Moses appoints Joshua to fight for Israel
Joshua succeeds only when Moses's hands are raised on the hillside
when his hands go down Amalek prevails
Israel wins the battle and Moses built an altar
Moses gives a name for the occasion and the meaning
Jehovah Nissi - The LORD is our banner or ensign
The war will never end with Amalek
Amalek descended from Esau

Quick Reference Map

Map of the Possible Route of the Exodus (Click to Enlarge)

Ancient Customs
murmured
rod of God
rock at Horeb
encampment
warfare

Ancient People
God, Moses, Aaron, Hur, Joshua, Amalek
the LORD

Geography
the wilderness of Sin
Rephidim
Horeb
Massah
Meribah

Quick Reference Maps

The Exodus of the Hebrews

Mount Horeb

The Red Sea

Map of the Red Sea and Egypt (Click to Enlarge)

The Old Testament

Exodus Resources

Moses and the Exodus
The Giving of the Law
The Tabernacle
The Wilderness Wanderings