Exodus 4:26
So he let him go: then she said, A bloody husband thou art, because of the circumcision.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּ֖רֶף
So he let him go
H7503
וַיִּ֖רֶף
So he let him go
Strong's:
H7503
Word #:
1 of 7
to slacken (in many applications, literal or figurative)
מִמֶּ֑נּוּ
H4480
מִמֶּ֑נּוּ
Strong's:
H4480
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
אָ֚ז
H227
חֲתַ֥ן
husband
H2860
חֲתַ֥ן
husband
Strong's:
H2860
Word #:
5 of 7
a relative by marriage (especially through the bride); figuratively, a circumcised child (as a species of religious espousal)
Historical Context
The incident's placement between Moses' commission and arrival in Egypt emphasizes that personal consecration precedes public ministry. Moses would later enforce circumcision for all males before Passover (12:48) and for the generation entering Canaan (Joshua 5:2-9). His own near-death experience over this issue gave him authority and urgency to maintain covenant distinctiveness among Israel.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this near-death experience teach that God takes covenant signs and obedience seriously, especially among leaders?
- What areas of your life require immediate obedience to avoid discipline or disqualification from ministry?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
So he let him go: then she said, A bloody husband thou art, because of the circumcision (וַיִּרֶף מִמֶּנּוּ אָז אָמְרָה חֲתַן דָּמִים לַמּוּלֹת)—So he let him go (וַיִּרֶף מִמֶּנּוּ, "and He released him")—God withdraws the threat once circumcision occurs. Immediate obedience averts judgment. Zipporah repeats bloody husband, clarifying because of the circumcision (לַמּוּלֹת, lamulot). The crisis passes, but the family dynamic is strained. This incident establishes a crucial principle: covenant markers matter, especially for covenant leaders. Moses learned that God's grace doesn't nullify obedience requirements. Covenant relationship demands covenant faithfulness. This painful encounter prepared Moses for leading Israel into covenant at Sinai.