This verse gives the second and third items in the list of characteristics that Moses reminds the Israelites that they must remember about "Yahweh your God" ([Deuteronomy 8:14](./14.md)) the first being that he "brought you out of Egypt" ([Deuteronomy 8:14](./14.md)). the second that he led them "through the ... wilderness," and the third that he "brought ... water out of the rock."
Moses continues to remind the Israelites of what they know about Yahweh ([Deuteronomy 8:14](../08/14.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-distinguish]])
This phrase describes the ground as being thirsty just like a person is thirsty when he needs water. Alternate translation: "dry ground" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-personification]])