Exodus 2:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 2:12
12 And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand.
Chapter Context
Exodus 2 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of discipleship, judgment, 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 21-25: 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 2:12
12 And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand.
Analysis
And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand (וַיִּפֶן כֹּה וָכֹה וַיַּרְא כִּי אֵין אִישׁ וַיַּךְ אֶת־הַמִּצְרִי, vayifen koh vakhoh vayar ki ein ish vayakh et-haMitsri)—Looked this way and that way shows furtive guilt, contrasting with the confidence he'll have at the burning bush (3:3). Saw that there was no man—Moses trusted in secrecy rather than God. Slew the Egyptian (וַיַּךְ, vayakh, same verb as "smiting" in v. 11) makes Moses a killer, even if in defense of the innocent. Hid him in the sand—attempted cover-up fails (v. 14). This moral failure humbles Moses, preparing him for Midian's wilderness schooling. God will use even this sin to drive Moses to the place of encounter (3:1).
Historical Context
Killing an Egyptian, even an abusive overseer, would be capital treason for Moses. Discovery meant death or exile (v. 15). The hiding of evidence in sand echoes Cain's attempt to conceal Abel's blood (Genesis 4:10)—sin cannot remain hidden from God. This incident marks Moses' break from Egyptian privilege and beginning of 40 years as fugitive shepherd.
Reflection
- How does Moses' self-reliant attempt at deliverance contrast with God's later empowerment at the burning bush?
- What does this moral failure teach about God's ability to work through imperfect servants and even use their mistakes for His purposes?