And the LORD said unto Moses, Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel; and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thine hand, and go.
And the LORD said to Moses, 'Go ahead of the people, and take some of the elders of Israel with you. Take your staff in your hand—the same one you used to strike the river—and go.'
God is directing Moses to take his staff and some leaders with him to solve the people's water crisis, reminding him of God's past power.
📚 Historical Context
This occurs during Israel's wilderness journey after leaving Egypt, when the people were complaining about having no water to drink at Rephidim. The 'rod' refers to Moses' staff that God had used to perform miracles in Egypt, including turning the Nile River to blood. God is now preparing Moses to strike a rock to bring forth water for the thirsty nation.
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