Meribah is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament, known for its association with the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and their testing of God's patience. The name "Meribah" itself means "quarreling" or "contention," reflecting the events that transpired there.

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 17:1-7: The first mention of Meribah occurs during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. As they journeyed through the wilderness of Sin, they camped at Rephidim, where there was no water for the people to drink. The Israelites quarreled with Moses, demanding water and questioning whether the Lord was among them. In response, God instructed Moses to strike the rock at Horeb with his staff, and water miraculously flowed out for the people to drink. This place was named Massah (testing) and Meribah (quarreling) because of the Israelites' contention and testing of the Lord. The Berean Standard Bible records this event: "He named the place Massah and Meribah because the Israelites quarreled and because they tested the LORD, saying, 'Is the LORD among us or not?'" (Exodus 17:7).

2. Numbers 20:1-13: A second, more consequential event at Meribah occurs later in the wilderness journey, this time in the Desert of Zin. The Israelites again found themselves without water and quarreled with Moses and Aaron. God commanded Moses to speak to the rock to bring forth water. However, in frustration, Moses struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, but Moses' disobedience in not following God's specific command led to severe consequences. The Lord declared that Moses and Aaron would not lead the Israelites into the Promised Land because they did not uphold Him as holy before the people. The BSB recounts: "These were the waters of Meribah, where the Israelites quarreled with the LORD, and He showed Himself holy among them" (Numbers 20:13).

3. Deuteronomy 33:8: In Moses' blessing of the tribes of Israel, he references Meribah in relation to the tribe of Levi. The Levites, who were set apart for priestly duties, are commended for their faithfulness during the incident at Meribah. The BSB states: "About Levi he said: 'Your Thummim and Urim belong to your faithful one; You tested him at Massah and contended with him at the waters of Meribah'" (Deuteronomy 33:8).

Theological Significance:

Meribah serves as a poignant reminder of the Israelites' struggle with faith and obedience during their wilderness journey. It highlights the human tendency to doubt and test God, even after witnessing His miraculous provisions. The events at Meribah underscore the importance of trust in God's promises and the consequences of disobedience. Moses' failure to sanctify God before the people at Meribah is a sobering lesson on the necessity of honoring God's holiness and commands.

Symbolism and Legacy:

Meribah is often cited in biblical literature as a symbol of rebellion and testing. The psalmist refers to it in Psalm 95:8, urging the people not to harden their hearts as they did at Meribah. The Apostle Paul also alludes to the events at Meribah in 1 Corinthians 10:4, drawing a parallel between the spiritual rock that provided for the Israelites and Christ, the spiritual rock for believers.

In summary, Meribah is a testament to God's patience and provision, as well as a cautionary tale about the consequences of doubt and disobedience. It remains a significant location in biblical history, illustrating the ongoing struggle between faith and unbelief.Meribbaa

(contender against Baal). (1 Chronicles 8:34; 9:40) [See MEPHIBOSHETH].

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