1 Now a man from the house of Levi went and took as his wife a Levite woman.
2 The woman conceived and bore a son, and when she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him three months.
3 When she could hide him no longer, she took for him a basket made of bulrushes and daubed it with bitumen and pitch. She put the child in it and placed it among the reeds by the river bank.
4 And his sister stood at a distance to know what would be done to him.
5 Now the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the river, while her young women walked beside the river. She saw the basket among the reeds and sent her servant woman, and she took it.
6 When she opened it, she saw the child, and behold, the baby was crying. She took pity on him and said, “This is one of the Hebrews’ children.”
7 Then his sister said to Pharaoh’s daughter, “Shall I go and call you a nurse from the Hebrew women to nurse the child for you?”
8 Then Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this child away and nurse him for me, and I will give you your wages.” So the woman took the child and nursed him.
9 Then Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this child away and nurse him for me, and I will give you your wages.” So the woman took the child and nursed him.
10 When the child grew older, she brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter, and he became her son. She named him Moses, “Because,” she said, “I drew him out of the water.”
11 One day, when Moses had grown up, he went out to his people and looked on their burdens, and he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his people.
12 He looked this way and that, and seeing no one, he struck down the Egyptian and hid him in the sand.
13 When he went out the next day, behold, two Hebrews were struggling together. And he said to the man in the wrong, “Why do you strike your companion?”
14 He answered, “Who made you a prince and a judge over us? Do you mean to kill me as you killed the Egyptian?” Then Moses was afraid, and thought, “Surely the thing is known.”
15 When Pharaoh heard of it, he sought to kill Moses. But Moses fled from Pharaoh and stayed in the land of Midian. And he sat down by a well.
16 Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters, and they came and drew water and filled the troughs to water their father’s flock.
17 But the shepherds came and drove them away, but Moses stood up and saved them, and watered their flock.
18 When they came home to their father Reuel, he said, “How is it that you have come home so soon today?”
19 They said, “An Egyptian delivered us out of the hand of the shepherds and even drew water for us and watered the flock.”
20 He said to his daughters, “Then where is he? Why have you left the man? Call him, that he may eat bread.”
21 And Moses was content to dwell with the man, and he gave Moses his daughter Zipporah.
22 She gave birth to a son, and he called his name Gershom, for he said, “I have been a sojourner in a foreign land.”
23 During those many days the king of Egypt died, and the people of Israel groaned because of their slavery and cried out for help. Their cry for rescue from slavery came up to God.
24 And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.
25 God saw the people of Israel—and God knew.
The True Meaning of Exodus 2
The book of Exodus was written by Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites. Moses, a young man, fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian and found refuge in the land of Midian. There, he encountered God at the burning bush and was called to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. The early life of Moses and the events that would set the stage for his pivotal role in the Exodus are seen in this chapter. We witness the birth and preservation of Moses, his flight from Egypt, and his encounter with the daughters of Jethro in the land of Midian. These events foreshadow the mighty acts that God will perform through Moses to deliver His people from bondage and establish them as a nation.
The chapter also connects to other important biblical narratives, such as the promise God made to Abraham regarding the future of his descendants (Genesis 15:13-14) and the call of Moses that is further detailed in Exodus 3. We begin to delve into this chapter as God’s plan for the redemption of His people unfolds.
Exodus 2:1-4
The passage in Exodus 2:1-4 describes the birth of Moses, one of the most significant figures in the Bible. The narrative begins by introducing us to Moses’ parents, a man from the house of Levi and a woman also of the house of Levi. When Moses was born, his parents saw that he was a special child and they sought to protect him. Due to the cruel decree of Pharaoh to kill all Hebrew male infants, Moses’ mother hides him for three months. When she can no longer keep him hidden, she makes a papyrus basket coated with tar and pitch to make it watertight. She places Moses in the basket and puts it among the reeds by the bank of the Nile, while Moses’ sister stands watch.
This account is replete with symbolism and foreshadowing. The hidden birth and miraculous survival of Moses amidst a genocidal decree echoes similar themes found in the Old Testament, such as the birth of Isaac to Sarah and the birth of Samuel to Hannah. It underscores the divine providence at work behind the scenes to protect and preserve the one who would become a mighty leader. The use of the Nile river is not incidental; it serves as both a place of danger (as Pharaoh’s daughter comes to bathe) and a source of salvation for Moses, who will later lead the Israelites through the Red Sea. The imagery of the basket in the river recalls the motif of salvation and deliverance. Just as Noah and his family were saved in the midst of the waters of judgment, Moses is rescued from the waters of death to fulfill his destiny as the deliverer of Israel. This typology is significant in foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance that Jesus Christ brings to humanity. Water and salvation are recurring themes throughout the Bible, most notably in the rituals of baptism and the symbolism of water as a purifying and life-giving force (John 4:14, Ephesians 5:26).
Moses’ sister, who watches over him as he floats in the river, plays a crucial but often overlooked role in the story. We later learn that this sister is Miriam, a prophetess and a significant figure in the Exodus narrative. Miriam will play a pivotal role in the liberation of Israel from Egypt, leading the people in worship and dance after the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 15:20-21). Her faithfulness and courage in guarding her brother at a distance reflect the important role that women play in God’s redemptive plan throughout the Bible. Exodus 2:1-4 sets the stage for the remarkable life of Moses, a man chosen by God to lead His people out of bondage. The themes of protection, providence, salvation, and the divine role of women in God’s plan are all interwoven in this narrative. It serves as a prelude to the epic saga of the Exodus, where God’s power is displayed in mighty ways to bring deliverance to His chosen people. Through the story of Moses, we see a foreshadowing of the ultimate Deliverer, Jesus Christ, who rescues humanity from sin and death, leading them to true freedom and redemption.
Exodus 2:5-10
The story of Moses as a baby being drawn from the water is found in Exodus 2:5-10. Let’s break this down into key sections for a deeper understanding.
Verse 5 starts with Pharaoh’s daughter finding the baby Moses while she was bathing by the river. This is a crucial moment in the life of Moses as it sets the stage for his extraordinary journey and eventual leadership of the Israelites. The fact that Pharaoh’s daughter, a member of the ruling Egyptian elite, takes pity on a Hebrew child shows the irony and mysterious working of God’s plan. It highlights how God can use even the seemingly insignificant or weak to accomplish His purposes.
Moving on to verse 6, when Pharaoh’s daughter sees the baby crying, she has compassion on him. This compassion from an Egyptian royal towards a Hebrew child defies the social norms and prejudices of the time. It shows us that God’s mercy transcends human boundaries and expectations. This act of kindness from Pharaoh’s daughter sets in motion a series of events that will culminate in Moses becoming a key figure in the history of Israel.
Verse 7 describes how Moses’ sister, who was watching from a distance, approaches Pharaoh’s daughter and offers to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the baby. This act of bravery and quick thinking from Moses’ sister not only ensures that Moses is cared for by his own mother but also allows for a critical bond to be forged between Moses and his Hebrew roots. It’s fascinating how God orchestrates these intricate details to ensure that Moses grows up with an awareness of his identity and heritage. Pharaoh’s daughter instructs Moses’ biological mother in verse 8 to nurse and care for him, promising to pay her for this service. This arrangement not only brings Moses back to his family but also allows his mother to play a significant role in his upbringing, instilling in him a deep sense of identity and purpose. This act of divine providence reveals God’s hand in preserving Moses and preparing him for the great work He has in store for him.
Verse 9 portrays the irony and sovereignty of God’s plan, as Moses is raised in the house of Pharaoh, the very ruler who sought to have all Hebrew baby boys killed. This juxtaposition of Moses being raised in the house of power while being part of an oppressed people sets the stage for his future role as a deliverer. It underscores how God often works in ways that confound human expectations and showcases His ability to use anyone, regardless of their background, for His divine purposes.
Finally, in verse 10, we see Moses growing up in Pharaoh’s household and being named by Pharaoh’s daughter. The name ‘Moses’ is derived from an Egyptian word meaning “drawn from” or “to be drawn out,” symbolizing how he was drawn out of the water and also hinting at his future role in drawing the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. This naming not only marks Moses’ identity but also foreshadows his destiny as the leader who will lead his people to freedom. Exodus 2:5-10 captures the intricate weaving of God’s divine plan through seemingly ordinary and unexpected events. It emphasizes themes of providence, mercy, identity, and deliverance, all of which resonate throughout the entire Bible. The story of Moses being drawn from the water is not just a historical event but a profound reminder of how God can use our humble beginnings and unlikely circumstances for His glory and purpose in our lives.
Exodus 2:11-15
Moses, the great prophet and leader chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, experiences a pivotal moment in his life in Exodus 2:11-15. This passage marks the beginning of Moses’ journey towards fulfilling his divine purpose.
The section begins with Moses, who had grown up as an Egyptian prince in Pharaoh’s household, going out to visit his people, the Israelites. Despite his privileged upbringing, Moses had a strong sense of justice and kinship with his Hebrew brethren. This act of going out to see the burdens of his people speaks to Moses’ compassion and recognition of his true identity as an Israelite. Moses observes an Egyptian taskmaster beating a Hebrew slave, stirs his righteous anger, and intervenes to defend the oppressed man. Moses strikes down the Egyptian taskmaster and buries him in the sand in a moment of intense emotion and impulse. This impulsive act reveals Moses’ deep-seated concern for justice and his willingness to take action against oppression, even at great personal risk.
The following day, Moses again encounters two Hebrew men fighting, and he intervenes to reconcile them. However, his efforts are met with resistance and a challenge to his authority. The response of one of the Hebrew men, “Who made you a prince and a judge over us?”, foreshadows the internal and external conflicts Moses will face as he steps into his role as the deliverer of Israel.
Moses realizes that his act of killing the Egyptian has been discovered and that Pharaoh seeks to kill him for it. Fearing for his life, Moses flees to the land of Midian, where he encounters Reuel (also known as Jethro), a priest of Midian, and his daughters. This flight into the wilderness marks the beginning of a period of exile and preparation for Moses, during which he will encounter God at the burning bush and receive his commission to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
These verses in Exodus 2 highlight several important themes that resonate throughout biblical narratives. Moses’ actions demonstrate the tension between justice and impulsivity, foreshadowing his future struggles with anger and obedience to God’s commands. His identity as both an Egyptian prince and an Israelite foreshadows the dual role he will play as a mediator between God and the people of Israel. Moses’ flight to Midian mirrors the journeys of other biblical figures, such as Jacob and Elijah, who sought refuge and encountered God in the wilderness. This period of exile serves as a time of preparation and purification for Moses, equipping him with the humility and dependence on God necessary to fulfill his calling. Exodus 2:11-15 sets the stage for the epic narrative of Moses’ leadership and God’s redemption of Israel, illustrating the timeless themes of justice, identity, obedience, and divine calling that shape the lives of God’s chosen servants throughout the Bible. Through the story of Moses, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own responses to injustice, their understanding of their identity in God, and their willingness to heed God’s call in their lives.
Exodus 2:16-22
Moses meets his future wife Zipporah at the well in Exodus 2:16-22. This section of the passage reveals important insights into Moses’ life and his journey towards becoming the leader of the Israelites.
The passage begins with Moses arriving in the land of Midian, having fled from Egypt after killing an Egyptian who was mistreating an Israelite slave. It is noteworthy that despite Moses having been raised in the Egyptian royal household, his loyalty ultimately lies with his Hebrew brethren, as he intervenes to protect an Israelite from oppression. This act ultimately leads to his exile from Egypt and sets the stage for his encounter with Zipporah.
At the well in Midian, Moses defends Zipporah and her sisters from shepherds who were attempting to drive them away. This act of chivalry and justice demonstrates Moses’ strong sense of righteousness and protection, qualities that would later define his leadership of the Israelites. It also foreshadows his role as a protector and deliverer of his people.
Moses’s interaction with Zipporah eventually leads to their marriage, and she bears him a son whom he names Gershom, for he said, “I have been a sojourner in a foreign land.” This naming reflects Moses’ sense of displacement and his continued journey towards fulfilling his divine destiny as the liberator of the Israelites. It also serves as a reminder of the Israelites’ own history as strangers in a foreign land, drawing parallels between Moses’ experiences and those of his people.
The union of Moses and Zipporah also highlights the importance of interpersonal relationships and companionship in one’s journey towards fulfilling God’s plan. Zipporah’s presence in Moses’ life not only provides him with a partner and confidante but also plays a crucial role in supporting him in his mission to lead the Israelites out of bondage. This underscores the biblical theme of the significance of supportive and godly relationships in navigating life’s challenges and fulfilling one’s calling. God’s providence and sovereignty in orchestrating events in Moses’ life are underscored in this passage, from his upbringing in Pharaoh’s household to his encounter with Zipporah in Midian. It serves as a reminder that God works all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Moses’ journey from prince to shepherd to deliverer is a testament to God’s faithfulness and guidance in shaping his life for a greater purpose. Exodus 2:16-22 unveils significant facets of Moses’ character, his relationships, and God’s providential hand in directing his path towards fulfilling his role as the liberator of the Israelites. It emphasizes the themes of justice, protection, companionship, providence, and obedience to God’s calling, which resonate throughout the Bible and continue to inspire and instruct believers in their own walks of faith.
Exodus 2:23-25
The king of Egypt died during that long period, as read in Exodus 2:23-25. The Israelites groaned in their slavery and cried out, and their cry for help because of their slavery went up to God. God heard their groaning and he remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac and with Jacob. So God looked on the Israelites and was concerned about them.” This section of the text marks a significant turning point in the story of the Israelites in Egypt. It begins with the death of the king of Egypt, signaling the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for God’s people.
The Israelites, who had been suffering under harsh slavery in Egypt, finally reach a breaking point where they cry out to God for help. This moment highlights the power of prayer and the enduring faith of the Israelites, despite their difficult circumstances. Their cry for deliverance is a poignant reminder that even in our darkest moments, we can turn to God for strength and refuge.
God’s response to the Israelites’ cries is a testament to His faithfulness and His commitment to His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The mention of these patriarchs serves to connect the current situation of the Israelites to the promises God had made to their ancestors. It reaffirms God’s enduring love and concern for His people throughout generations.
This passage also emphasizes God’s attentiveness to the suffering of His people. Despite the years of oppression they endured, God never forgot them. His response to their cries demonstrates His compassion and His willingness to intervene on their behalf. It is a powerful reminder that God is always aware of our struggles and is ready to come to our aid when we call out to Him.
The events described in Exodus 2:23-25 set the stage for the dramatic liberation of the Israelites from Egypt in the chapters that follow. It foreshadows the unfolding of God’s plan to rescue His people and bring them to the promised land. The themes of faith, deliverance, and divine intervention present in this passage echo throughout the Bible, illustrating God’s unwavering commitment to His people and His ability to bring about redemption in the most challenging circumstances. God demonstrates His compassionate nature towards His people in other parts of the Bible, echoing the sentiments expressed in this passage. The Lord hears and delivers the righteous when they cry for help, as stated in Psalm 34:17-18. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” This reaffirms the idea that God is attentive to the cries of His people and is ready to come to their aid in times of distress. Exodus 2:23-25 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Israelites’ journey from slavery to freedom. It showcases the power of prayer, the faithfulness of God to His covenant, and His unwavering commitment to His people. This passage serves as a timeless reminder of God’s compassion, His ability to rescue the oppressed, and His promise to never abandon those who call upon His name.
After Exodus 2
The young man had now grown into a leader, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from their oppression. He heard the voice of the Almighty commanding him to confront Pharaoh and demand the freedom of his people as he stood before the burning bush. With a mixture of trepidation and resolve, Moses accepted the daunting task, knowing that the journey ahead would be fraught with challenges, but also with the promise of divine guidance and intervention. A humble shepherd is transformed into a mighty prophet, leading his people through a series of miraculous events that will forever shape the course of history in the chapters that follow. The stage is set for an epic confrontation between the power of Egypt and the will of the Almighty, as Moses stands firm in his faith and obedience to God’s call.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.