Exodus 18:15
And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God:
Original Language Analysis
לְחֹֽתְנ֑וֹ
unto his father in law
H2859
לְחֹֽתְנ֑וֹ
unto his father in law
Strong's:
H2859
Word #:
3 of 9
to give (a daughter) away in marriage; hence (generally) to contract affinity by marriage
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
4 of 9
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
הָעָ֖ם
Because the people
H5971
הָעָ֖ם
Because the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
7 of 9
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
Historical Context
Moses' role as sole mediator before Sinai gave way to distributed priesthood and eldership after. This transition shows God's organizational development through Israel's growing needs.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Moses' view of his role (making known God's statutes) show proper motivation even if method is flawed?
- What does the combination of judging and teaching roles teach about leadership's comprehensive nature?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God—Moses' defense shows his heart: people seek divine guidance, and Moses provides it. The verb 'enquire' (לִדְרֹשׁ, lidrosh, 'to seek, consult') indicates serious spiritual seeking, not trivial matters. Moses sees himself as mediator between God and people, a role God has given him (Ex 4:15-16). His explanation 'When they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another' shows judicial function. The addition 'and I do make them know the statutes of God, and his laws' reveals teaching role beyond merely deciding cases. Moses' multi-faceted ministry (mediator, judge, teacher) is commendable but unsustainable at current scale.