Topical Encyclopedia Zipporah is a significant yet often understated figure in the biblical narrative, known primarily as the wife of Moses, the great prophet and leader of Israel. Her account is interwoven with the early life and mission of Moses, providing insight into the personal and familial aspects of his life.Background and Family Zipporah was the daughter of Jethro, also known as Reuel, the priest of Midian (Exodus 2:16-21). The Midianites were descendants of Abraham through his wife Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2), and they lived in the region east of the Sinai Peninsula. Jethro, her father, is depicted as a man of wisdom and hospitality, who welcomed Moses into his home after Moses fled from Egypt. Marriage to Moses Moses met Zipporah during his exile in Midian. After defending Jethro's daughters from shepherds at a well, Moses was invited to stay with Jethro's family. In gratitude, Jethro gave his daughter Zipporah to Moses in marriage (Exodus 2:21). Zipporah bore Moses two sons, Gershom and Eliezer (Exodus 18:3-4). The Circumcision Incident One of the most enigmatic episodes involving Zipporah occurs in Exodus 4:24-26. As Moses was on his way back to Egypt, the LORD confronted him, seeking to kill him. Zipporah quickly circumcised their son and touched Moses' feet with the foreskin, saying, "Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me" (Exodus 4:25). This act appeased the LORD, and Moses' life was spared. This incident highlights Zipporah's decisive action and her role in fulfilling the covenantal requirement of circumcision, which was crucial for Moses' mission to lead the Israelites. Reunion with Moses After the Exodus from Egypt, Zipporah and her sons were reunited with Moses in the wilderness. Jethro brought them to Moses at the mountain of God, where they were warmly received (Exodus 18:1-6). This reunion underscores the importance of family ties and support in Moses' life and leadership. Cultural and Theological Significance Zipporah's account provides a glimpse into the cultural and familial dynamics of the time. As a Midianite, her marriage to Moses represents a union that transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God's work through diverse peoples. Her actions in the circumcision incident demonstrate her understanding of and commitment to the covenantal relationship with God, even as a non-Israelite. Zipporah's presence in the biblical narrative, though brief, is marked by moments of critical intervention and support. Her life and actions contributed to the unfolding of God's plan for Israel through Moses, highlighting the often-overlooked role of women in biblical history. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 2:16-22Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters: and they came and drew water, and filled the troughs to water their father's flock. Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 6855. Tsipporah -- "bird," Moses' wife... Zipporah. Feminine of tsippowr; bird; Tsipporah, Moses' wife -- Zipporah. see HEBREW tsippowr. 6854, 6855. Tsipporah. 6856 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/6855.htm - 6k Library Here Next Followeth the History of Moses The Blessing of God on Filial Piety. Moses in Midian. The Boyhood and Training of Moses Appendix viii. Rabbinic Traditions About Elijah, the Forerunner of ... Letter Lii. To Nepotian. Come Rest, and be Still in the Bosom of Thy Mother, Son of the ... Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Resources Why was God going to kill Moses in Exodus 4:24-26? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Kenites? | GotQuestions.org Who was Moses in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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