Exodus 4:26

So he let him goe: then she said, A bloody husband thou art, because of the Circumcision. Exodus 4:26 (KJV)

In Exodus 4 the narrative begins with God appearing to Moses at the burning bush, commissioning him to confront Pharaoh and demand the release of Israel. Moses expresses hesitation, questioning his ability and fearing the response of the Israelites. God reassures him and provides miraculous signs—turning the staff into a serpent, leprosy and its healing, and other wonders—to authenticate his authority.

After receiving these signs, Moses sets out for Egypt accompanied by his wife Zipporah and their sons, as recorded in Exodus 4:20. The journey marks the transition from divine commissioning to the fulfillment of God’s plan for deliverance.

The text of Exodus 4:24‑26 records a startling episode. While on the way, the LORD meets Moses and seeks to kill him. Zipporah quickly takes a sharp stone, circumcises their son, and throws the foreskin at Moses’ feet, declaring, “Surely a bloody husband art thou to me.” The LORD then lets Moses go. This brief account highlights Zipporah’s decisive action in the face of divine threat.

Circumcision is presented elsewhere (Genesis 17:9‑14) as the sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, signifying the people’s consecration and identity as God’s chosen. The incident therefore underscores the covenant’s importance; neglect of the rite could provoke severe consequences.

Interpretations offered in the drafts suggest several points. First, Moses, raised in Pharaoh’s household, may have been unaware that his son required circumcision, prompting Zipporah’s urgent response. Second, her act demonstrates recognition of the covenant’s weight and a desperate effort to save Moses. Third, some scholars view the shedding of blood and Zipporah’s words as symbolic of the blood of the covenant, prefiguring the later centrality of blood in Israel’s sacrificial system.

The passage applies to believers today by emphasizing covenant obedience. Even those called to great tasks must honor God’s commands and remain faithful to the commitments they have made. It reminds readers to examine their own relationship with God, ensuring that they do not overlook essential obligations.

In conclusion, Exodus 4:26 records a brief yet profound incident of circumcision during Moses’ journey to Egypt. It serves as a reminder of the necessity of covenant fidelity and the seriousness with which God regards obedience. Through this narrative, believers are encouraged to be steadfast in their covenant relationship with God, honoring the promises they have undertaken.