Exodus 2:12

After looking this way and that and seeing no one, he struck down the Egyptian and hid his body in the sand.

Study Bible

After looking this way and that
This phrase indicates Moses' awareness and caution. The Hebrew root for "looking" (נבט, nabat) suggests a deliberate and careful observation. Moses is not acting impulsively; he is fully aware of the gravity of his actions. This moment of hesitation reflects the internal conflict Moses faces, torn between his Egyptian upbringing and his Hebrew identity. Historically, this act of looking around signifies a moment of decision, where Moses weighs the consequences of his actions, a theme that resonates with the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by believers today.

and seeing no one
The phrase underscores the isolation Moses feels in this moment. The Hebrew word for "seeing" (ראה, ra'ah) implies perception and understanding. Moses perceives not just the absence of witnesses but also the absence of justice for his people. This moment highlights the loneliness of leadership and the burden of acting righteously when no one else is watching. It serves as a reminder that God sees all, even when human eyes do not, encouraging believers to act justly regardless of human oversight.

he struck down the Egyptian
The action of striking down (נכה, nakah) is significant, as it denotes a decisive and forceful act. Moses' choice to intervene reflects his emerging role as a deliverer, foreshadowing his future leadership. Historically, this act of violence is a turning point, marking Moses' break from his Egyptian identity and aligning himself with the Hebrews. It challenges believers to consider the cost of standing up for justice and the complexities of righteous anger.

and hid his body in the sand
The act of hiding (טמן, taman) the body in the sand is symbolic of Moses' attempt to cover his actions and the consequences of sin. Sand, being a temporary and unstable covering, suggests that human efforts to conceal wrongdoing are ultimately futile. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the need for repentance and the futility of hiding sin from God. It calls believers to seek God's forgiveness and to live transparently before Him, trusting in His grace and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
A Hebrew by birth, raised in Pharaoh's household, who becomes a central figure in the deliverance of Israel from Egypt. At this point in the account, Moses is beginning to identify with his Hebrew heritage.

2. Egyptian
An unnamed taskmaster who was beating a Hebrew slave, prompting Moses to intervene.

3. Hebrew Slave
The oppressed individual whom Moses sought to defend, representing the broader suffering of the Israelites in Egypt.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved, and where Moses was raised. It serves as the backdrop for Moses' early life and the initial acts of deliverance.

5. The Sand
The place where Moses hid the body of the Egyptian, symbolizing his attempt to cover up his actions and the beginning of his journey into exile.

Teaching Points

Righteous Anger vs. Sinful Action
Moses' anger at the injustice he witnessed was righteous, but his method of dealing with it was not. Believers must discern how to respond to injustice in a way that aligns with God's will.

The Consequences of Impulsive Decisions
Moses' decision to kill the Egyptian led to significant consequences, including his flight from Egypt. This teaches the importance of seeking God's guidance before acting.

God's Sovereignty in Our Failures
Despite Moses' failure, God used this event to begin shaping him into the leader he would become. Our mistakes do not thwart God's plans; He can redeem them for His purposes.

Identity and Calling
Moses' actions reflect his emerging identity as a deliverer of his people. Believers are encouraged to seek and embrace their God-given identity and calling.

The Hiddenness of Sin
Moses attempted to hide his sin by burying the Egyptian in the sand. This illustrates the futility of trying to conceal sin from God, who sees all.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' action in Exodus 2:12 reflect his internal struggle with his identity as both an Egyptian prince and a Hebrew? How can we relate this to our own struggles with identity?

2. In what ways does Moses' impulsive action serve as a warning for us today? Can you think of a time when acting impulsively led to unintended consequences in your life?

3. How does the account of Moses in Exodus 2:12 connect with the broader biblical theme of God using imperfect people for His purposes? Can you identify other biblical figures who experienced similar situations?

4. Reflect on a time when you witnessed injustice. How did you respond, and how might you respond differently in light of Moses' account and biblical teachings on justice?

5. Considering Proverbs 3:5-6, how can we cultivate a habit of seeking God's guidance before making decisions, especially in situations that provoke strong emotions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 7:23-29
Stephen recounts Moses' actions, providing insight into Moses' motivations and the consequences of his actions.

Hebrews 11:24-25
Highlights Moses' faith and his choice to identify with the people of God rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin in Pharaoh's court.

Genesis 4:8-10
The account of Cain and Abel, which parallels the theme of murder and the consequences of taking justice into one's own hands.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord rather than relying on one's own understanding, contrasting Moses' impulsive action.