Exodus 2:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 2:19
19 And they said, An Egyptian delivered us out of the hand of the shepherds, and also drew water enough for us, and watered the flock.
Chapter Context
Exodus 2 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, redemption, covenant. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 2:19
19 And they said, An Egyptian delivered us out of the hand of the shepherds, and also drew water enough for us, and watered the flock.
Analysis
And they said, An Egyptian delivered us out of the hand of the shepherds, and also drew water enough for us, and watered the flock (וַתֹּאמַרְנָה אִישׁ מִצְרִי הִצִּילָנוּ מִיַּד הָרֹעִים, vatomarnah ish Mitsri hitsilanu miyad haro'im)—The daughters call Moses an Egyptian (אִישׁ מִצְרִי) based on appearance, dress, or speech. Moses appears to be what he fled from—identity in transition. Delivered us (הִצִּילָנוּ, hitsilanu, from נָצַל, natsal, "rescue/snatch away") again uses salvation language. Drew water enough (וְגַם־דָּלֹה דָלָה לָנוּ) shows Moses didn't just fight off shepherds but completed the work, serving practically. This act of service and deliverance foreshadows Moses' calling—misidentified rescuer who draws water (salvation imagery) for God's flock.
Historical Context
Moses' Egyptian appearance resulted from 40 years of palace life—clothing, grooming, accent, bearing. This misidentification shows cultural assimilation's depth and perhaps Moses' own identity confusion. His Hebrew heritage remained, but outward markers were Egyptian. The 40-year Midian sojourn would further transform his identity before God's commission at age 80.
Reflection
- How does Moses' misidentification as Egyptian reflect the complexity of cultural identity and God's shaping of our character through multiple contexts?
- What does Moses' servant-hearted drawing of water teach about leadership combining courage with practical service?
Cross-References
- References Egypt: Genesis 50:11
- Parallel theme: Genesis 29:10