Exodus 2:12

After looking this way and that and seeing no one, he struck down the Egyptian and hid his body in the sand.

Study Bible

After looking this way and that and seeing no one
Moses' actions here indicate a premeditated decision. The phrase suggests caution and a desire for secrecy, highlighting Moses' awareness of the potential consequences of his actions. This moment reflects the tension between his Hebrew identity and his Egyptian upbringing. The act of looking around suggests a moment of internal conflict and decision-making, which is a recurring theme in Moses' life. This phrase also foreshadows Moses' future role as a leader who must make difficult decisions, often in isolation.

he struck down the Egyptian
This act of violence is significant as it marks Moses' first recorded action in defense of his Hebrew brethren. It demonstrates his identification with the Israelites and his rejection of Egyptian oppression. The act of striking down the Egyptian can be seen as a precursor to the plagues and judgments that God would later bring upon Egypt. It also reflects the theme of deliverance, as Moses begins to act as a deliverer, albeit prematurely and through his own strength rather than God's guidance.

and hid his body in the sand
The act of hiding the body suggests Moses' awareness of the gravity of his actions and his attempt to conceal them. This reflects the human tendency to cover up sin and wrongdoing, a theme that is prevalent throughout Scripture. The sand of Egypt, a land known for its deserts, serves as a temporary cover, symbolizing the futility of hiding sin from God. This action foreshadows Moses' later flight to Midian, as his attempt to hide the murder ultimately fails. It also connects to the broader biblical narrative of sin and redemption, as Moses' journey from this point leads him to become the leader God uses to deliver His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
A Hebrew by birth, raised in Pharaoh's household, who becomes a central figure in the deliverance of Israel from Egypt. At this point in the account, Moses is beginning to identify with his Hebrew heritage.

2. Egyptian
An unnamed taskmaster who was beating a Hebrew slave, prompting Moses to intervene.

3. Hebrew Slave
The oppressed individual whom Moses sought to defend, representing the broader suffering of the Israelites in Egypt.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved, and where Moses was raised. It serves as the backdrop for Moses' early life and the initial acts of deliverance.

5. The Sand
The place where Moses hid the body of the Egyptian, symbolizing his attempt to cover up his actions and the beginning of his journey into exile.

Teaching Points

Righteous Anger vs. Sinful Action
Moses' anger at the injustice he witnessed was righteous, but his method of dealing with it was not. Believers must discern how to respond to injustice in a way that aligns with God's will.

The Consequences of Impulsive Decisions
Moses' decision to kill the Egyptian led to significant consequences, including his flight from Egypt. This teaches the importance of seeking God's guidance before acting.

God's Sovereignty in Our Failures
Despite Moses' failure, God used this event to begin shaping him into the leader he would become. Our mistakes do not thwart God's plans; He can redeem them for His purposes.

Identity and Calling
Moses' actions reflect his emerging identity as a deliverer of his people. Believers are encouraged to seek and embrace their God-given identity and calling.

The Hiddenness of Sin
Moses attempted to hide his sin by burying the Egyptian in the sand. This illustrates the futility of trying to conceal sin from God, who sees all.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' action in Exodus 2:12 reflect his internal struggle with his identity as both an Egyptian prince and a Hebrew? How can we relate this to our own struggles with identity?

2. In what ways does Moses' impulsive action serve as a warning for us today? Can you think of a time when acting impulsively led to unintended consequences in your life?

3. How does the account of Moses in Exodus 2:12 connect with the broader biblical theme of God using imperfect people for His purposes? Can you identify other biblical figures who experienced similar situations?

4. Reflect on a time when you witnessed injustice. How did you respond, and how might you respond differently in light of Moses' account and biblical teachings on justice?

5. Considering Proverbs 3:5-6, how can we cultivate a habit of seeking God's guidance before making decisions, especially in situations that provoke strong emotions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 7:23-29
Stephen recounts Moses' actions, providing insight into Moses' motivations and the consequences of his actions.

Hebrews 11:24-25
Highlights Moses' faith and his choice to identify with the people of God rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin in Pharaoh's court.

Genesis 4:8-10
The account of Cain and Abel, which parallels the theme of murder and the consequences of taking justice into one's own hands.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord rather than relying on one's own understanding, contrasting Moses' impulsive action.