What does Exodus 2:15 mean?
What is the meaning of Exodus 2:15?

When Pharaoh heard about this matter

“Pharaoh heard about this matter”. The “matter” is Moses’ slaying of the Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew (Exodus 2:11–12).

• Pharaoh’s knowledge signals that hidden sin is quickly exposed (Numbers 32:23; Luke 12:2).

• God is already beginning to pull back Egyptian power, yet the king still seeks to crush any hint of rebellion (Exodus 1:15–22; 5:7–9).

• Moses’ identification with his people places him squarely in the line of faith-filled ancestors who chose God’s covenant over worldly privilege (Hebrews 11:24–25).


He sought to kill Moses

“he sought to kill Moses”. Pharaoh’s intent mirrors Satan’s ongoing opposition to God’s deliverers (Revelation 12:4–5).

• Just as Herod later sought the infant Jesus (Matthew 2:13), Pharaoh aims to end the mission before it begins.

• The king’s murderous resolve hardens his heart further (Exodus 7:13; Romans 9:17).

• God allows this threat to move Moses out of Egypt, advancing the larger plan (Genesis 50:20; Acts 7:24–25).


But Moses fled from Pharaoh

“But Moses fled”. Flight is not cowardice here; it is obedience to the instinct God plants for preservation until the appointed hour (Hebrews 11:27).

• David later fled Saul but remained God’s anointed (1 Samuel 19:10–12; Psalm 59 superscription).

• Jesus urged His followers, “When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next” (Matthew 10:23).

• Sometimes retreat is the path God uses to shape character away from public view (James 1:2–4).


And settled in the land of Midian

“and settled in the land of Midian”. Midian lies east of Egypt, a wilderness classroom.

• Midianites descend from Abraham through Keturah (Genesis 25:1–4), reminding us that God’s covenant line has branches beyond Israel.

• Forty years here will train Moses as shepherd—perfect preparation to shepherd Israel (Exodus 3:1; Psalm 78:70–72).

• God often relocates His servants before releasing them into fuller ministry (1 Kings 17:3–4; Galatians 1:17–18).


Where he sat down beside a well

“where he sat down beside a well”. Wells in Scripture mark turning points.

• Rebekah was found for Isaac at a well (Genesis 24:11–27); Jacob met Rachel at one (Genesis 29:1–12); Jesus revealed Himself to a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well (John 4:6–26).

• The well signifies provision in desolation, foreshadowing God’s sustaining grace for Moses and, ultimately, for Israel in the desert (Isaiah 43:19–20; 1 Corinthians 10:4).

• Moses will soon defend Jethro’s daughters here, leading to marriage and a new household (Exodus 2:16–22).


summary

Exodus 2:15 shows God steering events through apparent crisis. Pharaoh’s murderous fury cannot thwart divine purpose; it simply propels Moses into the wilderness where God will refine, equip, and reveal Himself. The verse traces a clear progression—exposure, threat, flight, relocation, and provision—each step orchestrated by the Lord who prepares deliverance long before His people cry out.

How does Exodus 2:14 illustrate the theme of fear and accountability?
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