Exodus 18:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 18:14
14 And when Moses' father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?
Chapter Context
Exodus 18 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, creation, obedience. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 18:14
14 And when Moses' father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?
Analysis
And when Moses' father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people?—Jethro's question 'What is this thing?' shows his concern at the unsustainable system. His observation 'thou sittest thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee' identifies the problem: centralized leadership without delegation. The phrase 'from morning unto even' emphasizes the exhaustion for both Moses and people. Jethro's willingness to question Moses' methods models the proper role of advisors—speaking truth to leadership. His approach is respectful (asking questions) rather than presumptuous (demanding change). The fact that God validates Jethro's advice shows that wisdom can come from outside covenant community, and leaders should welcome counsel.
Historical Context
Jethro's outsider perspective gave him clarity that those within the situation lacked. His Midianite governance experience equipped him to identify organizational problems Moses missed.
Reflection
- How does Jethro's questioning approach model how to offer counsel to leaders respectfully?
- What does God validating Jethro's advice teach about receiving wisdom from unexpected sources?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter