Old Testament
Exodus 18:6
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He sent word to Moses: "I, your father-in-law Jethro, am coming to you, along with your wife and her 2 sons."
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And he said unto Moses, I thy father in law Jethro am come unto thee, and thy wife, and her two sons with her.
What Exodus 18:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, is reaching out to Moses to inform him of his visit. Jethro is not coming alone; he is bringing Moses' wife and their two sons along with him. This moment highlights the importance of family connections and support. Jethro's arrival signifies a reunion and the strengthening of family ties, which can be crucial during challenging times. It also shows that even leaders like Moses need the love and support of their families. The mention of Jethro's family coming to visit Moses emphasizes the value of relationships and the comfort they can bring. This simple message reminds us that we are not alone in our journeys; our loved ones are often there to support us, even when we are focused on our responsibilities. It encourages us to cherish our family bonds and recognize their importance in our lives, especially during significant moments of change or challenge. Family can provide guidance, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
How to apply Exodus 18:6 to your life
Consider reaching out to family members you haven't connected with in a while. Make an effort to strengthen those bonds, as they can provide support and encouragement in your life. Remember, family can be a source of strength during challenging times. Cherish these relationships and nurture them regularly to create lasting connections that uplift you. They can help you navigate life's challenges more easily. They can help you navigate life's challenges more easily.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Jethro Visits Moses (Exodus 18:1–27)
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Moses

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Exodus 18:6
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 18:6 mean?
Exodus 18:6 describes Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, informing Moses of his visit. It emphasizes the importance of family support and connections, highlighting that even leaders like Moses benefit from the presence of loved ones.
What is the significance of Jethro's visit in Exodus 18:6?
Jethro's visit signifies a reunion and the strengthening of family ties. It shows that family can provide essential support during challenging times, reminding us of the value of relationships.
Who are the characters mentioned in Exodus 18:6?
In Exodus 18:6, the characters mentioned are Moses, his father-in-law Jethro, Moses' wife, and their two sons. This highlights the family dynamic and the importance of their relationships.
What does the phrase 'father-in-law' mean in Exodus 18:6?
The phrase 'father-in-law' in Exodus 18:6 refers to Jethro's relationship to Moses through marriage. It indicates a familial bond that underscores the significance of family support.
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