Light and Darkness 70

Nearly forty years have passed since the turmoil and challenges of chapters 16 and 17. Moses and Aaron have led the difficult assembly of Israel to the Desert of Zin just south of Canaan, but there is no water. The people once again contend with their leaders, but instead of judgement, Yahweh instructs Moses to speak to the rock and water will pour out. The frustration of 40 years of contention spills forth as Moses strikes the rock instead of speaking to it.