Exodus 2:18 meaning
In the unfolding narrative of Moses, this verse reflects a pivotal moment in his life and mission. Following the discovery of his defense of an Israelite, Moses flees to Midian to escape retribution from Pharaoh. This retreat might appear as a setback; however, it strategically positions him in a land where God would prepare him for future leadership. Midian, populated by descendants of Abraham through Keturah, offered Moses not only a refuge but also a nurturing environment for spiritual and personal growth.
The act of Moses “sitting down by a well” symbolizes an interlude of rest and reflection, significant before his eventual return to liberate the Israelites from bondage. In Midian, Moses would be transformed from a prince into a leader of the people, illustrating how God’s sovereignty directs events, shaping individuals for their divine purposes. This process is reminiscent of themes in the broader biblical narrative that highlight how God prepares His servants for fulfillment of His plans, even through seemingly trivial or difficult experiences. The transition to Midian signifies both an ending and a new beginning, as it allows Moses to learn reliance on God rather than his own strength.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Exodus 2:16-22 meaning. Moses settles at a place called Midian and is welcomed by a family there.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Exodus 18:1-4 meaning. Verses 1 – 4 reintroduces Jethro, a Midianite priest and Moses’ father-in-law. It recalls the fact that Moses sent his wife and children back home to Jethro. It also provides added information about Moses' two sons.
- Exodus 2:23-25 meaning. These verses not only serve as the introduction to a large section of the book of Exodus that describes the actual deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt (2:23-12:28). This passage (2:23 - 25) also introduces the account of the preparation of Moses. God responds to the cries for help from His covenant people who are in bondage.
- Exodus 4:18-31 meaning. All of Moses’ objections have now been answered, and he was convinced that the LORD would be with him as he goes back to Egypt. But there was another confrontation between the LORD and Moses concerning his son not being circumcised. Once that issue was resolved, Moses and Aaron could return to Egypt and speak to the leaders of Israel in Egypt, persuading them through Aaron's words and Moses' miraculous signs. There are four sections to this passage:
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