Exodus 18:2 (KJV)

What does Exodus 18:2 mean?

Exodus 18:2 describes how Jethro, who is Moses’ father-in-law, took care of Zipporah, Moses’ wife, after Moses had sent her back to her family. The verse notes that Jethro brought Zipporah back, highlighting a moment when Moses’ family was separated and then reunited.

In the story, Moses had previously sent Zipporah away, likely for her safety or because of the demands of his mission in Egypt. Now, as Moses leads the Israelites out of Egypt, Jethro brings Zipporah and their children to meet him again. This sets the stage for the family’s reunion and for Jethro’s later advice to Moses about leadership.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 18:2

• "Took" (לָקַח, laqach): This word often means to take, grasp, or bring. Here, it shows Jethro’s active role in caring for Zipporah and bringing her back to Moses, not just a passive transfer.
• "After" (אַחַר, achar): This word signals a sequence of events, clarifying that Jethro’s action happened after Moses had sent Zipporah away, not at the same time.
• "Back" (שִׁלּוּחַ, shilluach): This word is related to sending away or dismissal. It emphasizes that Moses had intentionally sent Zipporah away, rather than her leaving on her own.

Why Exodus 18:2 matters

• This verse clarifies that Moses’ family was not with him during the dramatic events in Egypt, but was cared for by Jethro and later reunited.
• The mention of Jethro’s role highlights his importance and sets up his later influence on Moses’ leadership.
• Understanding that Moses sent Zipporah away, rather than her leaving for another reason, helps explain the family dynamics and the context for their reunion.