Exodus 2:13

Moses, who had put himself at risk to prevent an Egyptian from beating a Hebrew, must have been especially angered to see a Hebrew beating up a fellow Hebrew.

This section describes the first failed attempt of Moses to rescue Israel. He acted in his own strength instead of waiting for God’s direction.

This event shows the courage and quick action of Moses. However, it also shows that he sometimes took responsibility on himself instead of trusting God’s plan. Later in his life, this same pattern led to serious consequences (Numbers 20:1–13).

Moses cared deeply about his people’s well-being. His desire to help was good. But the time and the way he acted did not match God’s plan.

Chapter 1 explained why Israel needed rescue. Chapter 2 shows how God prepared Moses, the rescuer. God used the threat to Hebrew baby boys to ensure that Moses was ready for his mission (see study note on 2:10).