Judgment of the Water.

Next, as shown in the previous section, the narrative method of midrash—interpretation and commentary on biblical details—is used. It describes how the Israelites benefit from the things that punish the Egyptians to justify their trust in God: the polluted water of the Nile that punishes the Egyptians (Ex 7:17-24) for the infanticide decree (Ex 1:16, 22) becomes water of salvation—rock of the desert—for Israel (Ex 17:5-7; Nm 20:8-11), which also serves as a test and explanation of thirst (Deut 8:2-5). Meanwhile, the people’s murmuring is ignored, and their behavior is idealized (as in Ps 107:6). At another time, the people of Israel were encouraged to reflect on God’s presence amid trials and liberation. Their past assured their present and future. For personal and community situations alike, texts like this serve as a source of support and an opportunity to recognize moments when God has comforted and saved us.

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