Exodus 2:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 2:20
20 And he said unto his daughters, And where is he? why is it that ye have left the man? call him, that he may eat bread.
Chapter Context
Exodus 2 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, wisdom, salvation. 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 guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 2:20
20 And he said unto his daughters, And where is he? why is it that ye have left the man? call him, that he may eat bread.
Analysis
And he said unto his daughters, And where is he? why is it that ye have left the man? call him, that he may eat bread (וַיֹּאמֶר אֶל־בְּנֹתָיו וְאַיּוֹ לָמָּה זֶּה עֲזַבְתֶּן אֶת־הָאִישׁ קִרְאֶן לוֹ וְיֹאכַל לָחֶם, vayomer el-benotav ve'ayo lamah zeh azavten et-ha'ish kir'en lo veyokhal lachem)—Reuel's rebuke—why is it that ye have left the man?—shows proper hospitality (Genesis 18:1-8, Hebrews 13:2). Call him, that he may eat bread (קִרְאֶן לוֹ וְיֹאכַל לָחֶם) extends covenant hospitality: breaking bread creates social bond and obligation. This invitation becomes Moses' entry into Midianite life and Jethro's family. God uses hospitality as a means of providential provision and relationship formation. Moses, the fugitive with no prospects, finds refuge, family, and 40 years of preparation.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern hospitality customs required sheltering strangers, especially those who rendered service. Eating together established relationship and mutual protection. Reuel's invitation suggests recognition of Moses' nobility or character despite refugee status. This hospitality tradition would later be codified in Torah (Leviticus 19:33-34, Deuteronomy 10:18-19).
Reflection
- How does Reuel's hospitality demonstrate the biblical value of welcoming strangers and showing gratitude?
- In what ways might God be calling you to extend hospitality that could provide refuge and purpose for someone in transition?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Genesis 18:5, 31:54, 43:25, Job 31:32, 42:11, 1 Timothy 5:10