Old Testament
Exodus 2:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When the daughters returned to their father Reuel, he asked, "How did you get back so early today?"
Compare translations
And when they came to Reuel their father, he said, How is it that ye are come so soon to day?
What Exodus 2:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, we see a father, Reuel, who is curious about his daughters' early return. Their day must have been different from the usual, prompting his question. This simple inquiry reflects a caring relationship, where a parent is interested in the lives of his children. It shows that Reuel values their experiences and wants to understand what happened. The daughters likely had an interesting story to share, which could reveal their character and the challenges they faced. This interaction highlights the importance of communication within families, where questions can lead to deeper connections. It reminds us that taking the time to ask about each other's day can strengthen our bonds and show that we care. In a busy world, these moments of curiosity can make a significant difference in our relationships, encouraging openness and trust. Reuel's question is a gentle reminder that being present and engaged with our loved ones is essential for nurturing strong family ties.
How to apply Exodus 2:18 to your life
Take a moment each day to ask your family members about their day. Show genuine interest in their experiences and feelings. This simple act can strengthen your relationships and create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Remember, communication is key to connection and understanding in any relationship. “,”chapter_summary_teaser”: “In this chapter, we see the importance of family connections and communication. Reuel's curiosity about his daughters' early return highlights the value of being
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Moses's story: At the Well in Midian (Exodus 2:15–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Exodus 2:18
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Exodus 2:18
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 2:18 mean?
Exodus 2:18 shows Reuel, the father of the daughters, expressing curiosity about their early return home. This reflects a caring relationship where a parent is interested in the daily experiences of his children.
What is the significance of Reuel's question in Exodus 2:18?
Reuel's question highlights the importance of communication within families. It emphasizes how asking about each other's day can strengthen bonds and show care for one another's experiences.
How does Exodus 2:18 relate to family communication?
Exodus 2:18 illustrates the significance of open communication in families. Reuel's interest in his daughters' day encourages a supportive environment where family members feel valued and heard.
What themes are present in Exodus 2:18?
Key themes in Exodus 2:18 include family relationships, curiosity, and the importance of communication. The verse emphasizes care and connection within the family unit.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.