Exodus 2:16 (KJV)

What does Exodus 2:16 mean?

Exodus 2:16 introduces the priest of Midian, who has seven daughters that come to draw water and fill troughs to provide for their father’s flock. This verse sets the scene for an encounter at a well, highlighting the daily life and responsibilities of these women.

The verse is part of the story of Moses after he flees Egypt and arrives in Midian. The focus shifts to the family of the Midianite priest, showing his daughters performing the task of watering livestock—work that would have been physically demanding and often done by men in other cultures. This sets up the context for Moses’s involvement in their story in the following verses.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 2:16

• "Priest" (כֹּהֵן, kohen): This word refers to a religious leader or official. Here, it identifies the father of the seven daughters as someone with spiritual authority in Midian, which is significant for understanding his social standing.
• "Midian" (מִדְיָן, Midyan): This is the region east of Egypt where Moses finds refuge. The mention of Midian connects the story to a people related to Abraham through his wife Keturah, giving the setting historical and relational depth.
• "Seven" (שֶׁבַע, sheva): The number of daughters is specifically noted. In the Hebrew Bible, the number seven often suggests completeness or fullness, though here it is simply a factual detail.
• "Troughs" (רְהָטִים, rehatim): This word refers to channels or basins used for watering animals. The mention of troughs shows the practical, hands-on work the daughters are doing and sets up the action that follows.

Why Exodus 2:16 matters

• Exodus 2:16 prepares the reader for Moses’s first interaction with the Midianites, which will lead to his marriage and new life outside Egypt.
• The verse highlights the unusual independence and responsibility of the priest’s daughters, which contrasts with typical gender roles in ancient societies.
• By introducing the Midianite priest and his family, the verse connects Moses to a broader network of people descended from Abraham, showing God’s ongoing work beyond Egypt and Israel.