In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add in the dates, and simmer until soft and the mixture is thick, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Stir in the vanilla.
Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray an 8×8 baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, oats, cinnamon and baking soda. Add in the butter and mix until it looks like coarse meal.
Pour half of the flour mixture into the prepared baking pan, and press down. Top with the dates, followed by the remaining flour mixture.
Place in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and it has set in the center.
Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.