Exodus 2:18

Authorized King James Version

And when they came to Reuel their father, he said, How is it that ye are come so soon to day?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בֹּ֖א
And when they came
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#2
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
רְעוּאֵ֖ל
to Reuel
reuel, the name of moses' father-in-law, also of an edomite and an israelite
#4
אֲבִיהֶ֑ן
H1
their father
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#5
וַיֹּ֕אמֶר
he said
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
מַדּ֛וּעַ
How
what (is) known?; i.e., (by implication) (adverbially) why?
#7
מִֽהַרְתֶּ֥ן
so soon
properly, to be liquid or flow easily, i.e., (by implication)
#8
בֹּ֖א
And when they came
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#9
הַיּֽוֹם׃
to day
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Exodus. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Exodus Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources