“And when Pharaoh heard this thing, he sought to slay Moses. But Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh, and dwelt in the land of Midian: and he sat down by a well.”
Context: The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and provides an account of the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. Exodus 2:15 occurs in the early narrative of Moses’ life, specifically after he had grown up in Pharaoh’s palace but had fled Egypt due to an incident where he killed an Egyptian taskmaster who was mistreating an Israelite.
Pharaoh’s Reaction: Upon hearing about Moses killing the Egyptian, Pharaoh sought to kill Moses. Pharaoh, who was the ruler of Egypt, saw Moses as a threat to his authority. This response highlights the tension and conflict that would ultimately lead to the liberation of the Israelites from Egypt.
Moses’ Flight: In response to Pharaoh’s threat, Moses fled from Egypt. He sought refuge in the land of Midian, which was located in the northwest Arabian Peninsula, east of Egypt. This decision marked a significant turning point in Moses’ life, as he left behind the comforts and privileges of Pharaoh’s palace to embark on a new journey.
Dwelling in Midian: Moses settled in the land of Midian, finding a place to reside. The fact that he sat down by a well implies that he was weary and seeking rest. This detail foreshadows the events that would unfold, as it was at this well that Moses would meet his future wife, Zipporah, and her father, Jethro, who played significant roles in Moses’ life.
Themes and Lessons:
- God’s Sovereignty: Throughout the story of Moses, we see God’s hand at work, guiding events and circumstances. Despite Moses’ exile from Egypt, God was orchestrating His plan for Moses to eventually return and lead the Israelites out of slavery.
- Divine Providence: Moses’ flight to Midian was not a random occurrence. It was part of God’s plan to prepare and train Moses for the monumental task ahead. Often, God works in our lives, even in difficult or unexpected circumstances, to shape and mold us for His purposes.
- God’s Faithfulness: Even in Moses’ exile, God did not abandon him. As we continue reading the story, we see how God revealed Himself to Moses through the burning bush, commissioning him to deliver His people. This demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His promises and His willingness to use imperfect individuals to accomplish His purposes.
- Human Responses: Pharaoh’s reaction reveals the sinful nature of human rulers who fear losing power. Moses’ flight highlights the consequences and challenges of standing up against injustice. These elements remind us of the fallen nature of humanity and the need for divine intervention and redemption.
