Exodus 2:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 2:21
21 And Moses was content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter.
Chapter Context
Exodus 2 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, creation, wisdom. 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 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 2:21
21 And Moses was content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter.
Analysis
And Moses was content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter (וַיּוֹאֶל מֹשֶׁה לָשֶׁבֶת אֶת־הָאִישׁ וַיִּתֵּן אֶת־צִפֹּרָה בִתּוֹ לְמֹשֶׁה, vayo'el Mosheh lashevet et-ha'ish vayiten et-Tsiporah vito leMosheh)—Was content (וַיּוֹאֶל, vayo'el, "agreed/was willing") suggests Moses found peace in Midian after Egypt's turmoil. Gave Moses Zipporah his daughter (צִפֹּרָה, Tsiporah, "bird") establishes marriage covenant. Zipporah will play crucial roles: saving Moses' life (4:24-26), being sent away and reunited (18:2-6), and bearing Moses' sons. Marriage into Jethro's priestly family connected Moses to Midianite traditions and wilderness wisdom. These 40 years transform Moses from impulsive prince to humble shepherd ready for God's call.
Historical Context
Marriage sealed social bonds and alliances in patriarchal culture. Moses' marriage to Jethro's daughter made him family, giving him status, protection, and occupation (shepherd). Zipporah's Midianite heritage later creates tension (Numbers 12:1) but also brings Jethro's wisdom into Israel's formation (Exodus 18). The 40-year period mirrors Moses' first 40 years in Egypt, preparing for the final 40 years leading Israel.
Reflection
- How do you see God using seasons of 'dwelling contentedly' in unexpected places to prepare you for future callings?
- What does Moses' marriage to Zipporah teach about God's providence working through cross-cultural relationships?
Cross-References
- References Moses: Exodus 2:10
- Parallel theme: 1 Timothy 6:6, Hebrews 11:25, 13:5, James 1:10