What is the meaning of Exodus 2:16? Now the priest of Midian “Now the priest of Midian…” • Scripture introduces Reuel (also called Jethro, Exodus 3:1), a priest—one who led his people in worship. Genesis 25:1-4 traces Midian back to Abraham, so this priest likely preserved fragments of true worship even amid surrounding idolatry. • God positions Moses under the influence of a man who honors Him, preparing Moses spiritually for future leadership (cf. Proverbs 27:17; Exodus 18:12). • The title “priest” also foreshadows Israel’s own priesthood that will soon emerge (Exodus 19:6). had seven daughters “…had seven daughters…” • Seven, often linked with completeness (Genesis 2:2-3), hints at a well-ordered family life. • The absence of sons meant these young women carried duties normally assigned to men—an early picture of God valuing and using both sexes in His purposes (Judges 4:4; Galatians 3:28). • Their number underscores the future blessing Moses will experience through marriage into this household (Exodus 2:21). and they came to draw water “…and they came to draw water…” • Drawing water at a well is a recurring stage for divine appointments—Rebekah with Abraham’s servant (Genesis 24:15-20), Rachel with Jacob (Genesis 29:9-12), the Samaritan woman with Jesus (John 4:7). • God meets people in ordinary routines; faithful diligence becomes the setting for extraordinary grace (Colossians 3:23). and fill the troughs “…and fill the troughs…” • These daughters not only draw water but labor to fill large stone troughs. Their initiative shows industrious character (Proverbs 31:17). • Providing for animals reflects godly stewardship of creation (Proverbs 12:10). • Their work sets the scene for Moses to step in when shepherds drive them away (Exodus 2:17), spotlighting his emerging sense of justice. to water their father’s flock “…to water their father’s flock.” • Their service is motivated by filial obedience—honoring their father by keeping his livelihood healthy (Ephesians 6:2). • Shepherd imagery echoes throughout Scripture, preparing readers for Moses’ role as shepherd of Israel and pointing ultimately to Christ, the Good Shepherd (Psalm 77:20; John 10:11). • By caring for the flock, they unwittingly open the door for Moses’ introduction to the family and, through marriage, to decades of humility-building wilderness experience (Exodus 3:1). summary Exodus 2:16 shows God weaving ordinary details—an Abrahamic priest, seven hardworking daughters, a daily chore at a desert well—into His grand design. Through their faithful service, the daughters encounter Moses, God’s chosen deliverer. The verse reminds us that when we honor the roles God assigns, even routine tasks become pivotal points in His redemptive plan. |
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