Exodus 4:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 4:24
24 And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that the LORD met him, and sought to kill him.
Chapter Context
Exodus 4 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, hope, fellowship. 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 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 4:24
24 And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that the LORD met him, and sought to kill him.
Analysis
And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that the LORD met him, and sought to kill him (וַיְהִי בַדֶּרֶךְ בַּמָּלוֹן וַיִּפְגְּשֵׁהוּ יְהוָה וַיְבַקֵּשׁ הֲמִיתוֹ)—One of Scripture's most enigmatic verses: the LORD met him, and sought to kill him (וַיִּפְגְּשֵׁהוּ יְהוָה וַיְבַקֵּשׁ הֲמִיתוֹ). Who is "him"? Context suggests Moses, though some argue Gershom. The cause: failure to circumcise his son (v. 25-26), violating the Abrahamic covenant sign (Genesis 17:10-14). Moses, called to lead covenant people, neglected covenant obligation—perhaps from accommodation to Zipporah's Midianite background or personal negligence. God's severity shows that covenant representatives must maintain covenant faithfulness. Grace doesn't excuse disobedience; calling intensifies accountability (James 3:1).
Historical Context
Circumcision was the sign of Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 17:10-14), mandatory for all male descendants and household members. Failure to circumcise meant being "cut off from his people" (Genesis 17:14). Moses' ministry required covenant faithfulness—he couldn't lead Israel while violating core covenant markers. This near-death encounter taught Moses the seriousness of God's holiness and covenant stipulations.
Reflection
- How does God's severity with Moses over circumcision challenge modern casual attitudes toward covenant obligations?
- What does this incident teach about the necessity of personal obedience before public ministry, especially for spiritual leaders?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 3:18, Leviticus 10:3, 1 Chronicles 21:16
- Parallel theme: Genesis 17:14, 42:27, 1 Kings 13:24, Hosea 13:8