Meaning of Exodus 2:19

This verse presents a pivotal moment where the daughters of Jethro, a priest of Midian, describe their encounter with Moses. Having been driven away by other shepherds, they found themselves unable to water their flock, a task crucial for their livelihood and the sustenance of their community. Moses, an outsider to their society, intervenes, defends them, and then performs the laborious task of drawing water for their sheep, a significant act of kindness and capability in an arid environment. This narrative highlights divine providence at work, as Moses, fleeing Egypt and seeking refuge, unexpectedly steps into a role of protector and benefactor, thus setting the stage for his future leadership and marriage into the Midianite community.

Context and Background

The daughters of Jethro are at the well in Midian, a common gathering place for shepherds and a crucial resource in the desert. They are tending their father's flock, a responsibility that falls to them in this patriarchal society. Their predicament arises when other shepherds arrive and, through force or intimidation, prevent them from accessing the water, a clear injustice. Moses, who had recently escaped Egypt after killing an Egyptian overseer for mistreating a Hebrew slave, is living as a stranger in Midian. He witnesses this act of aggression and steps in to defend the women, an action that reveals his inherent sense of justice and his latent leadership qualities.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Providence and Unexpected Encounters: The verse underscores how God orchestrates events, even in the midst of human flight and distress. Moses' presence in Midian and his intervention at the well are not coincidental but part of a larger divine plan.
• Justice and Protection of the Vulnerable: Moses' actions demonstrate a commitment to defending those who are being oppressed or wronged, even when they are strangers. This foreshadows his later role as the liberator of Israel.
• The Value of Kindness and Service: The act of drawing water is a practical and essential service. Moses' willingness to undertake this strenuous task for unknown women speaks to a generous and helpful spirit, which is highly valued in ancient cultures.
• The Role of Strangers and Outsiders: Moses, an alien in Midian, becomes the unexpected savior, challenging the typical social dynamics where outsiders might be marginalized.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this event illustrates God's care for individuals even when they feel lost or are in exile. Moses, who is in a period of self-imposed exile, is being prepared for his life's work. His act of compassion reflects a principle of love and service that is central to biblical teaching. For believers today, it encourages us to be attentive to opportunities to act justly and to offer practical help to those in need, recognizing that such actions can be instruments of God's grace. It also reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their background or current circumstances, to fulfill His purposes.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This encounter is a crucial stepping stone in Moses' life, bridging his past as an Egyptian prince and his future as the deliverer of Israel. His marriage to Zipporah, Jethro's daughter, connects him to the Midianite lineage and provides him with a family and a period of pastoral life that grounds him before his divine calling. This period of relative obscurity and service in Midian is essential for his spiritual and emotional maturation, preparing him for the immense challenges of leading the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

Analogies

• A Lifeboat in a Storm: Moses' intervention is like a lifeboat appearing for shipwrecked sailors. The daughters of Jethro were in a vulnerable and helpless situation, and Moses provided immediate rescue and relief.
• A Shepherd's Staff: Just as a shepherd's staff protects and guides the flock, Moses' intervention protected the daughters and their flock, guiding them out of their predicament.
• A Wellspring in the Desert: The well itself represents life and sustenance. Moses' willingness to draw water for them is akin to bringing a life-giving resource to those who are parched and desperate.

Relation to Other Verses

• Exodus 3:1-10: This passage details Moses' calling at the burning bush, where God commissions him to deliver the Israelites from Egypt. His experiences in Midian, including this interaction, undoubtedly contributed to his readiness and understanding of hardship and leadership.
• Deuteronomy 33:16: This verse, a blessing on Joseph, speaks of "the desire of him who was separated from his brothers." While interpreted in various ways, some scholars see a connection to Moses' time of separation and his eventual leadership, perhaps alluding to his exile in Midian.
• Matthew 25:35-40: Jesus' teachings on serving the least of these, where feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, and welcoming strangers are acts of service to Christ Himself, resonate with Moses' selfless act of drawing water.