“And Moses went and returned to Jethro his father in law, and said unto him, Let me go, I pray thee, and return unto my brethren which are in Egypt, and see whether they be yet alive. And Jethro said to Moses, Go in peace.”
This verse takes place after God had spoken to Moses through the burning bush, commissioning him to confront Pharaoh and deliver the Israelites from their bondage in Egypt.
Here are a few key points to consider in this verse:
Moses’ return to Jethro:After receiving God’s call, Moses goes back to Jethro, his father-in-law. Jethro was a Midianite priest and the father of Zipporah, Moses’ wife. This highlights Moses’ obedience and respect for his family relationships.
Moses’ request to return to Egypt:Moses informs Jethro of his intention to go back to Egypt and reunite with his brethren, the Israelites. This demonstrates Moses’ willingness to follow God’s command and take on the task of leading the Israelites out of Egypt.
Concern for the well‑being of the Israelites:Moses expresses his concern about the welfare of his brethren, wanting to ascertain whether they are still alive. This reveals Moses’ compassion for his people and his desire to see their condition firsthand.
Jethro’s response:Jethro, Moses’ father‑in‑law, responds positively, granting him permission to go in peace. This highlights Jethro’s understanding and support for Moses’ mission, allowing him to fulfill his divine calling.
This verse captures a pivotal moment in Moses’ journey as he prepares to undertake the monumental task of leading the Israelites out of Egypt. It highlights Moses’ obedience to God’s call and his care for his people. It also reveals the support he receives from his family, symbolized by Jethro’s approval and blessing.
Overall, this verse sets the stage for the subsequent events in Exodus, showcasing Moses’ commitment to God’s purpose and the beginning of his journey back to Egypt to fulfill his role as the deliverer of the Israelites.
