Exodus 18:4

And the name of the other was Eliezer: for the God of my father, said he, was mine helpe, and deliuered me from the sword of Pharaoh. Exodus 18:4 (KJV)

The verse records the name of the younger son, Eliezer, and includes the declaration that the God of my father is my help and delivered me from the sword of the king of Egypt. This statement appears in Exodus 18, a chapter that describes the visit of Moses’ father‑in‑law, Jethro, to the Israelite camp in the wilderness. Jethro arrives with his wife Zipporah and their two sons: the older named Gershom and the younger named Eliezer. The explanation of the name highlights Jethro’s gratitude for divine protection in his own family.

To understand the significance of this verse, it is helpful to recall the broader narrative that precedes it. In earlier chapters of Exodus, Moses is presented as the chosen leader who led the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage, guided them across the Red Sea, and directed their journey toward Mount Sinai. Throughout that journey the Lord’s presence is manifested as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, providing continual guidance and reassurance.

When Jethro reaches the camp, he observes that Moses is personally handling all the disputes and judgments among the people, a burden that is exhausting him. Recognizing the unsustainable workload, Jethro advises Moses to appoint capable men to share the judicial responsibilities, allowing Moses to focus on leading the nation. This counsel leads to the establishment of a system of delegated leadership that eases Moses’ strain.

The naming of Eliezer, meaning “God is my help” or “God’s help,” serves as a tangible reminder of the recurring biblical theme that God’s assistance and deliverance are acknowledged by many leaders throughout Israel’s journey. The verse thus underscores both personal gratitude for past rescue and the broader reliance on divine help in the ongoing mission of the people of Israel.