Exodus 18:14
And when Moses father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people? Why sittest thou thy selfe alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning vnto euen? Exodus 18:14 (KJV)
In the book of Exodus Jethro, Moses’ father‑in‑law, arrives in the wilderness bringing Moses’ wife Zipporah and their two sons. Observing that Moses sits alone while the whole congregation stands from morning until evening, Jethro questions the method of leadership. He asks, “What is this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?”
Moses answers that the people come to him to inquire of God, and that when they have a matter they approach him so that he may judge between one and another and teach them the statutes and laws of God (Exodus 18:15‑16, KJV). Jethro replies that this arrangement is not good, warning that both Moses and the people will wear themselves out because the burden is too heavy for one man alone (Exodus 18:17‑18, KJV).
He then offers counsel: “Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee… Provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens… Let them judge the people at all seasons: every great matter they shall bring unto thee, but every small matter they shall judge” (Exodus 18:19‑23, KJV). This structured hierarchy would allow Moses to focus on representing the people before God while capable leaders handle lesser disputes.
The narrative underscores the importance of wise counsel and the delegation of responsibilities. By appointing trustworthy leaders over groups of varying size, Moses could prevent burnout, ensure justice, and establish a more efficient system of governance. The passage serves as a timeless lesson on seeking advice, sharing the load of leadership, and maintaining the well‑being of both leaders and the community they serve.
