Exodus 6:20 (KJV)

What does Exodus 6:20 mean?

Exodus 6:20 states that Amram married Jochebed, who was his father’s sister, and together they had two sons, Aaron and Moses. The verse also records that Amram lived to be 137 years old.

This verse appears in a section where God is speaking to Moses, recounting the genealogy of the Israelite leaders. The verse provides important family background for Moses and Aaron, showing their direct descent from Levi and highlighting the close family ties within the tribe. It also sets the stage for understanding the leadership roles of Moses and Aaron in the story of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 6:20

• "sister" (אָחוֹת, ’achot): The word used for "sister" here clarifies that Jochebed was Amram’s aunt, making their marriage a union within the extended family, which was not uncommon in early biblical times.
• "wife" (אִשָּׁה, ishah): This word simply means "woman" or "wife," indicating the formal marriage relationship between Amram and Jochebed.
• "bare" (יָלַד, yalad): This verb means "to give birth," showing that Jochebed was the biological mother of both Aaron and Moses, which is significant for their priestly and prophetic lineage.

Why Exodus 6:20 matters

• This verse clarifies the exact family relationship between Moses, Aaron, and their parents, which is important for understanding the priestly line in Israel.
• By naming Amram’s age at death, the verse connects the story of Moses and Aaron to the longer lifespans of the patriarchal period, showing continuity with earlier generations.
• The genealogy helps readers follow the narrative flow from the ancestors of Israel to the leaders God chose to deliver the Israelites from Egypt.