Exodus 2:20

Translations

Modern

“So where is he?” their father asked. “Why did you leave the man behind? Invite him to have something to eat.”

Traditional

And he said unto his daughters, And where is he? why is it that ye have left the man? call him, that he may eat bread.

Literal

And he said to his daughters, “And where is he? Why is this, that you have left the man? Call to him, and let him eat bread.”

Latin

At ille: Ubi est? inquit: quare dimisistis hominem? vocate eum ut comedat panem.

Original

Hebrew

English

“So where is he?” their father asked. “Why did you leave the man behind? Invite him to have something to eat.”

Notes

Exodus 2:18–20

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).

Exodus 2:16–25

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).

Exodus 2:1–25

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).

Theme notes and profiles

Egypt Jethro (Reuel) Moses

Related verses

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Then Jacob offered a sacrifice on the mountain and invited his relatives to eat a meal. And after they had eaten, they spent the night on the mountain.
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…but no stranger had to lodge on the street, for my door has been open to the traveler—
Hebrews 13:2
Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.
Genesis 24:31–33
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Job 42:11
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Genesis 18:5
And I will bring a bit of bread so that you may refresh yourselves. This is why you have passed your servant’s way. After that, you may continue on your way.” “Yes,” they replied, “you may do as you have said.”
Genesis 19:2–3
…and said, “My lords, please turn aside into the house of your servant; wash your feet and spend the night. Then you can rise early and go on your way.” “No,” they answered, “we will spend the night in the square.”
1 Timothy 5:10
…and well known for good deeds such as bringing up children, entertaining strangers, washing the feet of the saints, imparting relief to the afflicted, and devoting herself to every good work.
Genesis 29:13
When Laban heard the news about his sister’s son Jacob, he ran out to meet him. He embraced him and kissed him and brought him to his home, where Jacob told him all that had happened.

Exodus 2:20

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