“And she bare him a son, and he called his name Gershom: for he said, I have been a stranger in a strange land.”
Context: The book of Exodus is the second book in the Old Testament and tells the story of the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. In Exodus 2, we find the account of Moses’ early life. After killing an Egyptian who was mistreating an Israelite, Moses fled from Egypt and settled in the land of Midian.
Moses’ Son: In Exodus 2:22, it is mentioned that Moses’ wife, Zipporah, bore him a son and they named him Gershom. The name “Gershom” means “a stranger there.” Moses gave him this name because he considered himself a stranger in a foreign land. It reflected his own experience of being an outsider in Midian.
Moses’ Sojourn in Midian: After fleeing from Egypt, Moses found refuge in Midian, where he encountered a group of women at a well. Moses helped them water their flocks, and their father, Jethro (also known as Reuel), welcomed Moses into his household and gave him his daughter, Zipporah, in marriage.
Moses’ Identity: Moses’ time in Midian marked a significant period of his life. He went from being a prince in Egypt to living as a shepherd in Midian. Through this experience, Moses grew and matured, learning important lessons and acquiring the skills he would later use to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
Reflection on Identity: Moses naming his son Gershom reflects his own feelings of being a stranger and an alien in a foreign land. It reveals a sense of displacement and a reminder of his past life in Egypt. This name carried a personal meaning for Moses and likely served as a constant reminder of his identity and the calling God had placed upon him.
Symbolic Significance: The naming of Gershom not only represented Moses’ personal experiences but also foreshadowed the Israelites’ own journey. They would become strangers in a strange land-slaves in Egypt-before God liberated them and led them through the wilderness toward the Promised Land.
Application: Like Moses, many believers may find themselves in unfamiliar situations or places, feeling like strangers in a strange land. However, just as God was with Moses throughout his journey, He promises to be with us wherever we go (Joshua 1:9). We can find comfort in knowing that God is our constant companion, guiding us through every season of life.
This study provides insight into the historical and personal significance of Exodus 2:22, highlighting Moses’ experiences and the symbolism within the passage. By understanding the context and the broader narrative of the Bible, we can gain valuable lessons and find spiritual encouragement in our own lives.
