Old Testament
Exodus 2:15
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When Pharaoh heard about this, he sought to kill Moses. But Moses fled from Pharaoh and settled in the land of Midian, where he sat down by a well.
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Now when Pharaoh heard this thing, he sought to slay Moses. But Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh, and dwelt in the land of Midian: and he sat down by a well.
What Exodus 2:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
Moses, raised in Pharaoh's palace, found himself in a dangerous situation after he intervened to help a Hebrew slave. When Pharaoh learned of Moses' actions, he wanted to kill him. Fearing for his life, Moses fled to Midian, a place far from Egypt. There, he found a well, a symbol of refreshment and new beginnings. This moment marked a significant turning point in Moses' life. He left behind his past and the comforts of royalty to seek safety and a new identity. In Midian, he would eventually encounter God and discover his true purpose. This story reminds us that sometimes we must leave our familiar surroundings to grow and find our path. It also highlights the importance of making choices that align with our values, even when they come with risks and consequences. Moses' journey teaches us about resilience and the search for belonging, as well as the courage it takes to start anew in unfamiliar territory. His experience is a powerful reminder that our past does not define our future.
How to apply Exodus 2:15 to your life
When faced with difficult choices, remember that it's okay to seek safety and a fresh start. Like Moses, you may need to step away from your past to discover your true purpose. Embrace change and trust that new opportunities await you, even in unfamiliar places. Your journey can lead to growth and transformation if you remain open to it. Take that first step today towards your new beginning, no matter how daunting it may seem.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Moses Kills an Egyptian (Exodus 2:11–15)
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Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Exodus 2:15
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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
Why did Moses flee to Midian?
Moses fled to Midian to escape Pharaoh's wrath after he killed an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew slave. Fearing for his life, he sought safety in a distant land, leaving behind his life of privilege in Egypt.
What does the well symbolize in Exodus 2:15?
The well in Exodus 2:15 symbolizes refreshment and new beginnings for Moses. It represents a turning point in his life where he leaves behind his past and prepares for a new chapter, ultimately leading to his encounter with God.
What can we learn from Moses' flight to Midian?
Moses' flight to Midian teaches us about the importance of making difficult choices for our safety and well-being. It highlights the courage needed to leave behind familiar surroundings in search of a new identity and purpose.
How does Exodus 2:15 relate to themes of resilience?
Exodus 2:15 illustrates resilience as Moses faces danger and uncertainty yet chooses to flee and seek a new life. His journey reflects the strength to overcome challenges and adapt to new circumstances, which is essential for personal growth.
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