Exodus 2:17 – “Some shepherds came along and drove them away, but Moses got up and came to their rescue and watered their flock.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Exodus 2:17 shows Moses stepping into a role of protector and helper for the daughters of the priest of Midian. When some shepherds arrive and try to drive the women away from the well, Moses intervenes, defending the women and then helping them by watering their flock. This act of kindness and justice is a key moment in Moses’ transition from an Egyptian prince to a humble servant in a foreign land. It reveals his innate sense of justice and foreshadows his future role as the deliverer of the Israelites.
Historical Context
In ancient times, wells were vital communal resources, especially in desert regions like Midian, where water was scarce. Shepherds, often men, typically controlled access to these wells, and it wasn’t uncommon for stronger groups to bully or mistreat those who were weaker, such as women. The daughters of the Midianite priest were likely accustomed to such treatment, but Moses, newly arrived in Midian, was not. Having recently fled Egypt and possibly still reeling from his own actions, Moses reacts by standing up for these women, embodying the sense of justice that would later define his leadership. This event occurs in Midian, a land inhabited by descendants of Abraham through Keturah, where Moses had sought refuge after fleeing Pharaoh.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 2:17 highlights God’s concern for justice and the way He prepares His people for their future roles. Moses’ intervention reflects the heart of God, who cares for the oppressed and marginalized. Although Moses is in a foreign land and without clear direction, this moment is part of God’s training ground for him. By defending the vulnerable and performing a servant’s task of watering the flock, Moses demonstrates qualities that will be essential in his future mission as Israel’s leader. This verse also shows that even in exile, God can use our actions to fulfill His purposes and shape our character.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Exodus 2:17 is an important scene that contrasts Moses’ earlier act of violence with a more constructive and protective use of his strength. The verse is action-packed, moving quickly from conflict to resolution, emphasizing Moses’ decisive nature. The shepherds represent opposition and injustice, while Moses’ defense of the women and his act of watering the flock illustrate his emerging role as a protector and provider. This event also serves as a narrative bridge, leading to Moses’ introduction to the priest of Midian and his eventual marriage to one of the daughters, Zipporah. The well, as a place of encounter and transformation, once again plays a significant role in biblical narrative.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 29:9-10: Jacob, like Moses, meets his future wife at a well and helps water her flock, showing a parallel in how God uses wells as places of significant encounters.
- Isaiah 1:17: “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” This verse reflects the kind of justice Moses sought to enact when he defended the daughters of the Midianite priest.
- James 2:14-17: These verses speak about faith being demonstrated through actions. Moses’ intervention shows his sense of justice not merely in thought but in deed, aligning with the call to live out one’s faith through acts of kindness and justice.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 2:17 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for those who are vulnerable or oppressed. Moses didn’t hesitate to help the daughters of the Midianite priest, even though he was a stranger in a foreign land. This act challenges believers to be courageous and proactive in defending others, even when it may come at a personal cost. The verse also highlights the importance of servant leadership—Moses didn’t just defend the women; he also helped them by doing the humble work of watering their flock. It encourages Christians to seek justice and to serve others in practical, tangible ways.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse illustrates God’s love through the actions of Moses, who reflects God’s concern for justice and care for the oppressed. Although Moses may not have fully understood God’s plan for him at this point, his actions are in line with God’s character. God’s love is often expressed through His people as they act in defense of others and serve those in need. This moment in Moses’ life shows that God’s love is active and protective, reaching out to care for the vulnerable even in the small, everyday situations of life.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Moses’ actions in Exodus 2:17 foreshadow the ultimate protector and servant leader, Jesus Christ. Just as Moses stepped in to defend the daughters of the Midianite priest, Jesus came to defend and save humanity from sin and death. Jesus, too, was a servant leader, as demonstrated in John 13 when He washed His disciples’ feet. Jesus’ life and ministry were marked by defending the oppressed and caring for the marginalized, embodying the justice and love of God perfectly. This verse points forward to Jesus, who not only defended the weak but also gave His life for them, providing living water that eternally satisfies (John 4:14).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Moses’ intervention on behalf of the daughters of the Midianite priest challenge you to stand up for others in your own life?
- What does this verse teach us about the qualities of servant leadership and the importance of taking action in support of justice?
- In what ways can you reflect God’s love through acts of service and protection for those in need?
- How does Moses’ role as a protector in this verse connect to Jesus’ role as the ultimate protector and servant leader?