Exodus 6:20 – “Amram married his father’s sister Jochebed, who bore him Aaron and Moses. Amram lived 137 years.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 6:20 is a significant verse because it details the family lineage of two of the most prominent figures in the Bible—Moses and Aaron. The verse tells us that Amram, a Levite, married his aunt Jochebed, and together they had two sons, Aaron and Moses. These two sons would go on to play critical roles in the story of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt, with Moses leading the people out of slavery and Aaron serving as the first high priest. The mention of Amram’s age, 137 years, underscores the importance of his role in the lineage of the Levitical priesthood.
Historical Context
The historical context of Exodus 6:20 is deeply rooted in the early history of the Israelite people, during their time of enslavement in Egypt. The Levites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and Amram’s family line was particularly significant because it produced the leaders who would guide Israel through the Exodus and establish the religious practices that would define their worship for generations. The marriage between Amram and Jochebed is an example of endogamy, a practice common in ancient times where marriages often occurred within extended families to preserve tribal and family identity.
This verse comes at a time when the Israelites are suffering under harsh conditions in Egypt, and God is preparing to deliver them through Moses. The genealogy provided here not only connects Moses and Aaron to their Levitical heritage but also serves to legitimize their leadership roles by showing that they come from a respected and divinely chosen family line.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 6:20 highlights the sovereignty of God in choosing specific individuals and families to fulfill His purposes. The fact that Moses and Aaron come from the line of Amram and Jochebed is not incidental; it reflects God’s deliberate plan to raise up leaders from among the Levites to guide His people. This verse also speaks to the importance of family and heritage in the biblical narrative, showing how God works through generations to accomplish His divine will.
Moreover, the mention of Amram’s long life can be seen as a sign of God’s blessing and favor upon this family line. It also underscores the continuity of God’s promises across generations, as Amram’s life spanned significant periods in Israel’s history, from the time of the patriarchs to the cusp of the Exodus.
Literary Analysis
From a literary perspective, Exodus 6:20 functions as a key link in the genealogical chain that connects the patriarchal narratives of Genesis with the story of the Exodus. The verse is concise yet packed with information that ties together important elements of the Israelite story. The inclusion of both Jochebed and Amram’s names, along with their offspring, serves to highlight the importance of this family within the broader narrative.
The structure of the verse is straightforward, listing the familial relationships in a manner typical of genealogical records in the Bible. The mention of Amram’s age serves to anchor the narrative in a historical context, giving readers a sense of the longevity and stability of this key family line.
Biblical Cross-References
Exodus 6:20 can be cross-referenced with several other passages that provide additional context for the characters mentioned:
- Numbers 26:59: Where Jochebed is mentioned as the daughter of Levi, born in Egypt, and the mother of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.
- Exodus 2:1-10: Which recounts the birth of Moses and how he was hidden by his mother to protect him from Pharaoh’s decree.
- Hebrews 11:23: Where the faith of Moses’ parents is commended, highlighting their role in God’s plan.
- 1 Chronicles 6:3: Which lists the descendants of Levi, including Amram, Aaron, Moses, and Miriam.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Exodus 6:20 serves as a reminder of the importance of family and heritage in God’s plan. It shows that God is not only concerned with individuals but also with the families and communities they belong to. This verse encourages believers to value their spiritual heritage and to recognize that God can work through their family lines to accomplish His purposes. It also reminds us that God’s plans often unfold over generations, and our faithfulness today can have a lasting impact on future generations.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 6:20 reflects God’s love in His careful planning and selection of the family through whom He would bring about the deliverance of His people. God’s choice of Amram and Jochebed as the parents of Moses and Aaron shows His intimate involvement in the details of His people’s lives. His love is evident in the way He orchestrates events, ensuring that the right leaders are raised up at the right time to fulfill His promises. This verse demonstrates that God’s love is not just for the immediate moment but extends across generations, working through families to bring about His redemptive plan.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ in that it highlights the importance of family lineage in God’s redemptive plan, a theme that is also evident in the genealogy of Jesus. Just as God chose Moses and Aaron from the line of Levi to lead His people, He chose Jesus from the line of David to be the Savior of the world. In Matthew 1:1-17, the genealogy of Jesus is carefully recorded to show His rightful place as the Messiah. Additionally, Moses is often seen as a type of Christ—a deliverer who foreshadows the ultimate deliverance that Jesus would bring. This connection reminds us that God’s plan for salvation has been unfolding since the beginning, with each step carefully prepared and executed.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does understanding the genealogical connections in the Bible help you appreciate the continuity of God’s plans across generations?
- In what ways can you value and honor your own spiritual heritage, recognizing God’s work in your family line?
- How does this verse challenge you to see your role in God’s plan as part of a larger story that spans generations?
- What does it mean to you that Jesus, like Moses, was chosen by God to lead His people, and how does that shape your faith today?
- How can you ensure that your life and actions today contribute positively to the legacy of faith in your family and community?
Exodus 6:20 is a powerful reminder of the continuity of God’s purposes through families and generations. It challenges us to be faithful in our roles, knowing that we are part of a larger story that God is writing, a story that ultimately leads to the fulfillment of His promises through Jesus Christ.