Exodus 2:17

And when some shepherds came along and drove them away, Moses rose up to help them and watered their flock.

Study Bible

Then some shepherds came along
This phrase introduces the antagonists in this narrative. The shepherds represent a common occupational group in ancient Near Eastern societies, often associated with both pastoral care and, at times, unruly behavior. Historically, shepherds were known to be protective of their grazing rights, which could lead to conflicts. The Hebrew word for "shepherds" is "רֹעִים" (ro'im), which can also imply leaders or rulers, suggesting a deeper symbolic meaning of those who misuse their power.

and drove them away
The action of driving away, in Hebrew "וַיְגָרְשׁוּם" (vaygarshum), implies a forceful expulsion. This reflects the harsh realities of life in the wilderness, where resources like water were scarce and often contested. The shepherds' actions highlight the vulnerability of the daughters of Reuel, who were without male protection, a significant disadvantage in the patriarchal society of the time.

but Moses got up
The phrase "Moses got up" signifies a decisive action. The Hebrew verb "וַיָּקָם" (vayakam) suggests rising with purpose. Moses' intervention is a pivotal moment, marking the beginning of his role as a deliverer. This act of standing up against injustice foreshadows his future leadership in liberating the Israelites from Egypt.

and came to their rescue
The Hebrew root "יָשַׁע" (yasha) for "rescue" is the same root from which the name "Joshua" and the concept of salvation are derived. Moses' act of deliverance here is a microcosm of his larger mission. It reflects the biblical theme of God raising up deliverers to save His people, a theme that resonates throughout the Scriptures and finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

and watered their flock
Watering the flock, in Hebrew "וַיַּשְׁקְ אֶת־צֹאנָם" (vayashk et-tzonam), is an act of service and provision. In the arid climate of the Sinai Peninsula, water is a precious resource, symbolizing life and sustenance. Moses' willingness to serve in this humble capacity demonstrates his character and foreshadows his future role as a shepherd of God's people. This act of kindness and provision is reminiscent of the Good Shepherd imagery found in the New Testament, where Jesus cares for His flock.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
A Hebrew by birth, raised in Pharaoh's palace, who later becomes a central figure in leading the Israelites out of Egypt. In this verse, he acts as a protector and helper.

2. Shepherds
These are local men who attempt to drive away the daughters of Reuel, showing a lack of respect and justice.

3. Daughters of Reuel
They are the daughters of the priest of Midian, who come to water their father's flock. Their encounter with Moses leads to his integration into their family.

4. Midian
A region where Moses flees after leaving Egypt. It is here that he encounters Reuel's daughters and begins a new chapter in his life.

5. Reuel (Jethro)
The priest of Midian and father of the daughters. He later becomes Moses' father-in-law.

Teaching Points

Courage in the Face of Injustice
Moses' actions demonstrate the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it involves personal risk.

Servant Leadership
Moses exemplifies servant leadership by taking action to help those in need, a model for Christian leadership today.

God's Preparation
This event is part of God's preparation of Moses for his future role. God often uses everyday situations to prepare us for His purposes.

Hospitality and Community
The daughters' acceptance of Moses into their family highlights the importance of hospitality and community in God's plan.

Divine Appointments
Moses' encounter with the daughters of Reuel was not by chance but a divine appointment that led to significant developments in his life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' intervention for the daughters of Reuel reflect his character and foreshadow his future role as a leader of Israel?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate courage and stand up for justice in our own communities, as Moses did?

3. How does the concept of servant leadership, as demonstrated by Moses, apply to our roles in family, church, and work?

4. Reflect on a time when God used an ordinary situation in your life to prepare you for something greater. How did you respond?

5. How can we practice hospitality and build community in our own lives, following the example of Reuel's family?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 7:24-25
Stephen recounts Moses' actions, highlighting his sense of justice and his role as a deliverer, even before his divine calling.

Genesis 29:10
Jacob also helps water a flock, drawing a parallel between Moses and Jacob as protectors and providers.

John 4:7-14
Jesus speaks to the Samaritan woman at the well, offering "living water," which can be seen as a spiritual parallel to Moses' act of providing water.