Book of Exodus - Chapter 17 - Verse 15

When Moses built an altar and named it Jehovahnissi, he was commemorating a significant event in the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. The name Jehovahnissi means "The Lord is my banner" in Hebrew. This name served as a reminder to the Israelites of God's protection and victory over their enemies. The altar symbolized their dependence on God for strength and guidance as they faced various challenges on their journey. In biblical times, altars were often erected as places of worship and offerings to God. By building this altar, Moses was demonstrating the importance of acknowledging God's presence and provision in their lives. The act of naming the altar Jehovahnissi also emphasized the Israelites' trust in God as their leader and protector. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the Israelites' faith in God's power and their willingness to submit to His authority.

In this verse, Moses builds an altar and gives it the name Jehovahnissi, which means "The Lord is my banner." The act of building an altar was a common practice in the Old Testament to commemorate significant events or encounters with God. In this case, the naming of the altar as Jehovahnissi holds a deep theological significance. By calling the altar "The Lord is my banner," Moses is acknowledging God's role as the ultimate protector and source of victory for the Israelites. The term "banner" refers to a rallying point, a symbol of unity and strength. This naming highlights the Israelites' dependence on God for protection, guidance, and victory in battle. It serves as a reminder that their ultimate allegiance and trust should be in the Lord. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty, strength, and provision in every aspect of our lives, just as the Israelites did through the naming of Jehovahnissi.