Old Testament
Exodus 2:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And he asked his daughters, "Where is he? Why did you leave the man? Call him, so he can eat bread."
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And he said unto his daughters, And where is he? why is it that ye have left the man? call him, that he may eat bread.
What Exodus 2:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Moses has just helped the daughters of a Midianite priest at a well. When they return home, their father is curious about the man who assisted them. He asks why they left Moses behind and suggests they invite him for a meal. This shows the importance of hospitality and recognizing kindness. The priest's inquiry highlights the value of community and connection. By inviting Moses, they open the door to a new relationship that will change their lives. This simple act of sharing a meal can lead to significant events in the future. It reminds us that sometimes, the smallest gestures can lead to the biggest changes in our lives. We should be open to welcoming others and appreciating their contributions, just as the priest does with Moses. This moment sets the stage for Moses' future role in leading his people, emphasizing how important it is to acknowledge and nurture relationships that come our way, no matter how small they may seem at first glance. Every encounter has the potential to shape our journey.
How to apply Exodus 2:20 to your life
Consider how you can show kindness to someone today. A simple invitation to share a meal or a conversation can create meaningful connections. Be open to the people you meet; they may play a significant role in your life. Remember, every relationship starts with a small gesture of goodwill. Embrace those moments of connection with others, as they can lead to unexpected blessings and opportunities in your life. Be the one who reaches out.
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 2:20
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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 2:20 teach about hospitality?
Exodus 2:20 highlights the importance of hospitality through the actions of the Midianite priest. By inviting Moses to share a meal, he demonstrates how simple gestures of kindness can foster relationships and community. This verse encourages us to be open to welcoming others into our lives, as these connections can lead to significant changes and blessings.
Why did the priest ask about Moses in Exodus 2:20?
The priest's inquiry about Moses in Exodus 2:20 reflects his curiosity and concern for his daughters' well-being. After they returned home from the well, he wanted to know why they left the man who helped them. This question not only emphasizes the value of recognizing kindness but also sets the stage for inviting Moses into their home, which ultimately leads to important developments in Moses' life.
What is the significance of sharing a meal in Exodus 2:20?
Sharing a meal in Exodus 2:20 symbolizes hospitality and the building of relationships. The priest's suggestion to invite Moses for bread illustrates how communal meals can create bonds and open doors to new opportunities. This act of kindness can lead to transformative experiences, reminding us that even small gestures can have a lasting impact on our lives and the lives of others.
How can we apply the lessons from Exodus 2:20 in our daily lives?
We can apply the lessons from Exodus 2:20 by actively seeking opportunities to show kindness and hospitality to others. This might involve inviting someone for a meal, engaging in conversation, or simply being open to new relationships. By embracing these moments of connection, we can create meaningful bonds that may lead to unexpected blessings and enrich our lives.
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