Old Testament
Exodus 2:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Now the priest of Midian had 7 daughters. They came to the well, drew water, and filled the troughs to water their father's flock.
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Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters: and they came and drew water, and filled the troughs to water their father’s flock.
What Exodus 2:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about the priest of Midian who had seven daughters. These daughters were responsible for taking care of their father's flock, which involved drawing water from a well. This task was essential for the animals' survival, especially in a dry region. The daughters worked together to fill the troughs, showing teamwork and dedication. Their actions highlight the importance of family roles and responsibilities. This scene sets the stage for a significant encounter that will change the course of their lives. It also reflects the cultural norms of the time, where women played vital roles in daily life. The daughters' commitment to their family duties is commendable and serves as a reminder of the value of hard work and cooperation in achieving common goals. Their story is a precursor to the larger narrative of Moses, who will soon enter their lives and lead them toward a new destiny. This moment emphasizes the significance of seemingly ordinary tasks in the unfolding of extraordinary events.
How to apply Exodus 2:16 to your life
Consider how you can contribute to your family or community through teamwork and responsibility. Reflect on the importance of supporting one another in daily tasks. Small actions can lead to significant changes in the lives of those around you, just as they did for the daughters of Midian. Embrace your role and make a difference today. Every effort counts in building a better future together.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: At the Well in Midian (Exodus 2:15–22)
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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 2:16
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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 2:16 teach about family roles?
Exodus 2:16 highlights the importance of family roles, particularly how the seven daughters of the Midian priest took on the responsibility of caring for their father's flock. This reflects the cultural norms of the time, where women played significant roles in daily life and contributed to the family's well-being. Their teamwork in drawing water emphasizes the value of cooperation and shared responsibilities within a family.
Why is the act of drawing water significant in this verse?
Drawing water in Exodus 2:16 is significant because it illustrates the essential task of providing for the family's livestock, which is crucial for survival in a dry region. This act symbolizes the hard work and dedication required to sustain life and highlights the daughters' commitment to their family duties. It also sets the stage for the encounter with Moses, showing how ordinary tasks can lead to extraordinary events.
How does Exodus 2:16 relate to teamwork?
Exodus 2:16 showcases teamwork as the seven daughters work together to draw water and fill the troughs for their father's flock. This collaboration not only emphasizes the importance of supporting one another in daily tasks but also demonstrates how collective efforts can lead to achieving common goals. Their united actions serve as a reminder of the strength found in working together, which is applicable in both family and community settings.
What cultural norms are reflected in Exodus 2:16?
Exodus 2:16 reflects cultural norms of the ancient Near East, where women often took on significant roles in managing household responsibilities, including caring for livestock. The fact that the priest of Midian had seven daughters who actively participated in drawing water illustrates the expectations placed on women in that society. It highlights their contributions to family life and the importance of their roles in sustaining the household.
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