Topical Bible: Industry: Jethro's Daughters

◄ Industry: Jethro's Daughters ►

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Biblical Context:
Jethro, also known as Reuel, was the priest of Midian and the father-in-law of Moses. His daughters play a significant role in the narrative found in the Book of Exodus. The account of Jethro's daughters is primarily located in Exodus 2:16-22.

Scriptural Account:
The Bible introduces Jethro's daughters when Moses flees from Egypt to Midian. In Exodus 2:16-17 , it is written: "Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters, and they came to draw water and fill the troughs to water their father’s flock. And when some shepherds came along and drove them away, Moses got up and came to their rescue and watered their flock."

Role and Responsibilities:
Jethro's daughters were responsible for tending their father's flock, a task that required both diligence and courage. This responsibility indicates that they were industrious and capable, managing significant duties typically associated with shepherding. Their work involved drawing water and ensuring the flock was adequately cared for, which was essential for the family's livelihood.

Cultural and Historical Insights:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, women often participated in various labor-intensive tasks, including shepherding. The account of Jethro's daughters highlights the active role women played in pastoral and agricultural societies. Their involvement in such work reflects the necessity of family cooperation in sustaining economic stability and survival.

Moses' Intervention:
The narrative of Moses intervening on behalf of Jethro's daughters underscores themes of justice and protection. Moses' actions in defending the daughters from the shepherds who sought to drive them away demonstrate his emerging character as a leader and protector. This event leads to Moses being welcomed into Jethro's household, eventually marrying one of the daughters, Zipporah.

Theological Implications:
The account of Jethro's daughters illustrates God's providence and care for His people. Through Moses' intervention, God provides protection and support for the vulnerable. This account also foreshadows Moses' future role as a deliverer of the Israelites, as he begins to act in defense of those in need.

Legacy and Influence:
Jethro's daughters, through their industrious nature and the subsequent relationship with Moses, play a pivotal role in the unfolding of the Exodus narrative. Their account is a testament to the importance of family, work, and divine intervention in the biblical tradition. The account serves as an example of how God uses ordinary circumstances and individuals to fulfill His greater purposes.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 2:10
And the child grew, and she brought him to Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son. And she called his name Moses: and she said, Because I drew him out of the water.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Chapter xxix
... tends her father's flock, like Jethro's daughters near Mt. ... Now Laban had two daughters;
the name of ... His faithfulness and his industry were immediately apparent ...
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