Translations
Original
Notes
The father of seven daughters did not want to miss meeting a generous and brave man, who would make an excellent husband. We see here the famous hospitality of the region's residents, which continues today (see also Genesis 18:1–8).
This passage shows the concern Moses felt for the oppressed. It describes his move to a new land (2:18–22). He married, had a child, and lived there for 40 years (Acts 7:30).
From a human perspective, rescuing the Israelites through Moses seemed impossible. But what God's perspective is what matters. The end of this section tells us that God had not forgotten his people (Exodus 2:23–25). He was only waiting for the right time to act (2:25).
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).
Parallels
People
Jethro: Moses' father-in-law, priest of Midian
Glossary
Aaron Book of Exodus Deuteronomy, Book of Hobab Jethro Messiah Midian, Midianite Moses Reuel Zipporah
Topics
Jethro: Moses Spent Forty Years of Exile With, and Married his Daughter Moses: Joins Himself to Jethro, Priest of Midian Moses: Takes the Life of an Egyptian Taskmaster Reuel: Father-In-Law of Moses Zipporah: Wife of Moses