Exodus 18:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 18:3
3 And her two sons; of which the name of the one was Gershom; for he said, I have been an alien in a strange land:
Chapter Context
Exodus 18 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, righteousness, discipleship. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 18:3
3 And her two sons; of which the name of the one was Gershom; for he said, I have been an alien in a strange land:
Analysis
And her two sons; of which the name of the one was Gershom; for he said, I have been an alien in a strange land—Gershom's name (גֵּרְשֹׁם, 'stranger there') memorializes Moses' exile identity in Midian. The naming statement 'I have been an alien' (גֵּר הָיִיתִי, ger hayiti) shows Moses felt displaced in Midian despite marriage and family. This alien identity prepares Moses to lead Israel, themselves aliens in Egypt and now pilgrims in wilderness. The name teaches that God's servants often live as exiles, a theme Christ affirms: 'In the world ye shall have tribulation' (John 16:33). Peter calls believers παρεπίδημοι (parepidēmoi, 'sojourners,' 1 Pet 2:11), echoing Moses' named exile.
Historical Context
Gershom was born during Moses' 40 years in Midian (Exodus 2:22). His name reflects Moses' sense of displacement before God called him to lead Israel from Egyptian exile.
Reflection
- How does Moses naming his son 'stranger' prepare him to lead a people of exiles?
- What does feeling 'alien' even in place of refuge teach about the believer's pilgrim identity?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 2:22, 4:20, Psalms 39:12, Acts 7:29, Hebrews 11:13