Israel in the Wilderness

The wilderness journey

David A. Dorsey, The Literary Structure of the Old Testament

1. a
   introduction: departure from Egypt13:17–22
2. b
   victory over the Egyptians at the Suph Sea14:1–15:21Moses lifts his hand; ends: two memorial songs
3. c
   Yahweh provides the Israelites with water at Marah15:22–27
4. d
   CENTER: Yahweh provides manna and quail16:1–36
5. c′
   Yahweh provides the Israelites with water at Rephidim17:1–7
6. b′
   victory over the Amalekites (by the water) at Rephidim17:8–16Moses lifts his hand; ends: a memorial
7. a′
   conclusion: arrival at Sinai18:1–19:2