Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, hospitality is a recurring theme that reflects the values of kindness, generosity, and community. One of the notable examples of hospitality in the Old Testament is the interaction between Jethro, the priest of Midian, and his son-in-law, Moses. This account is primarily found in the book of Exodus and provides insight into the cultural and spiritual significance of hospitality in ancient times.Background Jethro, also known as Reuel, was the father-in-law of Moses and a priest of Midian. He first encountered Moses when the latter fled from Egypt after killing an Egyptian. Moses arrived in Midian and sat by a well, where he defended Jethro's daughters from shepherds who were harassing them. In gratitude, Jethro invited Moses into his home, an act of hospitality that would have significant implications for Moses' life and mission. Exodus 2:20-21 : "So where is he?” their father asked. “Why did you leave the man behind? Invite him to have something to eat.” Moses agreed to stay with the man, and he gave his daughter Zipporah to Moses in marriage." Jethro's invitation to Moses to "have something to eat" is a simple yet profound gesture of hospitality. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, sharing a meal was a sign of acceptance and friendship. By welcoming Moses into his home, Jethro not only provided for his immediate needs but also offered him a place in his family through the marriage to his daughter Zipporah. Jethro's Visit to Moses Years later, after Moses had led the Israelites out of Egypt, Jethro visited him in the wilderness. This visit is recorded in Exodus 18 and highlights the continued relationship between the two men, as well as Jethro's role as a wise counselor. Exodus 18:5-7 : "Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, came with Moses’ sons and wife to him in the wilderness, where he was camped at the mountain of God. He sent word to Moses, 'I, your father-in-law Jethro, am coming to you with your wife and her two sons.' So Moses went out to meet his father-in-law and bowed down and kissed him. They greeted each other and went into the tent." The meeting between Moses and Jethro is marked by mutual respect and affection. Moses' act of bowing and kissing Jethro signifies honor and gratitude, while Jethro's journey to the wilderness to see Moses demonstrates his continued support and concern for his family. Jethro's Counsel During his visit, Jethro observed Moses' leadership over the people and offered him valuable advice on governance. He suggested that Moses appoint capable men to serve as judges for the people, thus easing Moses' burden and ensuring justice for the Israelites. Exodus 18:17-19 : "But Moses’ father-in-law said to him, 'What you are doing is not good. You will surely wear out—both yourself and these people with you—because the task is too heavy for you. You cannot handle it alone. Now listen to me; I will give you some advice, and may God be with you.'" Jethro's counsel is an example of how hospitality extends beyond physical provision to include wisdom and guidance. By offering practical advice, Jethro contributed to the well-being of the entire Israelite community. Spiritual Significance The hospitality shown by Jethro to Moses underscores the biblical principle of caring for others, especially those in need. It reflects the broader scriptural mandate to love one's neighbor and to extend kindness to strangers. Jethro's actions demonstrate that hospitality is not merely a social duty but a spiritual practice that honors God and strengthens communal bonds. In the New Testament, the theme of hospitality is reiterated as a virtue for believers. Hebrews 13:2 states, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." This echoes the spirit of Jethro's hospitality, reminding Christians of the importance of welcoming and serving others in love. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 2:20And he said to his daughters, And where is he? why is it that you have left the man? call him, that he may eat bread. Nave's Topical Index Library The Seven Deacons The Marvels of Holy Scripture, --Moral and Physical. --Jael's Deed ... Rom. xv. 25-27 Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility The Nations of the South-East The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Who were the three men who visited Abraham in Genesis 18? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is New Monasticism? | GotQuestions.org What is Celtic Christianity? | GotQuestions.org Hospitality: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Hospitality: A Test of Christian Character Hospitality: Abimelech to Abraham Hospitality: Abraham to the Angels Hospitality: David to Mephibosheth Hospitality: Elisha to the Syrian Spies Hospitality: General Scriptures Concerning Hospitality: Isaac to Abimelech Hospitality: Joseph to his Brothers Hospitality: Laban to Abraham's Servant Hospitality: Lydia to Paul and Silas Hospitality: Man of Gibeah to the Levite Hospitality: Melchizedek to Abraham Hospitality: Onesiphorus to Paul Hospitality: Pharaoh to Abraham Hospitality: Pharisees to Jesus Hospitality: Rahab to the Spies Hospitality: Required in Ministers Hospitality: Rewarded: Rahab's Hospitality: Rewarded: Widow of Zarephath's Hospitality: Simon the Tanner to Peter Hospitality: Sons of Heth to Abraham Hospitality: Specially to be Shown to Enemies Hospitality: Specially to be Shown to Strangers Hospitality: Specially to be Shown to The Poor Hospitality: The Shunammite Woman to Elisha Hospitality: The Widow of Zarephath to Elijah Hospitality: Zacchaeus to Jesus Inhospitableness: Ammonites and Moabites Inhospitableness: Men of Gibeah Toward a Levite Inhospitableness: Nabal Toward David Inhospitableness: some Samaritans Toward Jesus Related Terms |
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