What does the Bible say about the rock being smitten in Exodus?

Exodus 17 recounts how Moses was instructed by God to smite the rock at Horeb so that water could flow for the Israelites. This event is not merely a historical account; it serves as a profound picture of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 10:4, it states that 'the rock was Christ,' illustrating that the smiting of the rock symbolizes the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus. Just as the rock was struck to provide for the physical needs of the Israelites, Christ was 'smitten' by God's justice to satisfy the spiritual needs of His people, giving them the 'water of life' through His death and resurrection.