Exodus 2:16

Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters, and they came to draw water and fill the troughs to water their father's flock.

Study Bible

Now the priest of Midian
This phrase introduces us to a significant figure in the narrative, the priest of Midian. The Hebrew word for "priest" is "kohen," which indicates a person who performs religious duties. Midian was a region located in the northwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula. Historically, the Midianites were descendants of Abraham through his wife Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2). The priest of Midian, therefore, represents a connection to the broader Abrahamic tradition, even outside the direct line of Isaac. This highlights God's work beyond the immediate family of Israel, suggesting His sovereignty and involvement in the wider world.

had seven daughters
The mention of "seven daughters" is significant in biblical numerology, where the number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection. In the context of the narrative, these daughters are responsible for tending to their father's flock, which indicates a family structure where women actively participate in essential daily tasks. This detail sets the stage for Moses' interaction with them and underscores the cultural norms of the time, where shepherding was a common occupation.

They came to draw water
Drawing water was a daily necessity and a task often performed by women in ancient cultures. The act of drawing water is symbolic of life and sustenance, as water is essential for survival. In the biblical context, wells are often places of divine encounters and significant events (e.g., Rebekah at the well in Genesis 24). This phrase sets the scene for an encounter that will change the course of Moses' life, as he will soon intervene on behalf of these women.

and fill the troughs to water their father’s flock
The troughs were containers used to hold water for the animals, indicating the practical aspects of shepherding life. The phrase "their father's flock" emphasizes the familial responsibility and the daughters' role in supporting their household. This task reflects the agrarian lifestyle of the time and the importance of livestock as a source of wealth and sustenance. The mention of the flock also foreshadows Moses' future role as a shepherd of God's people, Israel, highlighting the theme of leadership and care.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priest of Midian
This refers to Jethro (also known as Reuel), who is a significant figure in Moses' life. He is a priest, indicating a position of spiritual and social leadership in Midian.

2. Seven Daughters
These daughters are responsible for tending to their father's flock, showcasing the role of women in pastoral societies. One of these daughters, Zipporah, later becomes Moses' wife.

3. Midian
A region located in the northwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula. It is significant as a place of refuge for Moses after fleeing Egypt.

4. Drawing Water
This event highlights the daily life and responsibilities of women in ancient times, as well as the importance of water as a resource.

5. Flock
The flock represents wealth and sustenance, crucial for survival in a pastoral society.

Teaching Points

Role of Women in Scripture
The daughters of the priest of Midian are active participants in their community, highlighting the value and contribution of women in biblical accounts.

Divine Providence
Moses' arrival in Midian and his subsequent meeting with Jethro's daughters is a demonstration of God's providence and preparation for his future leadership role.

Hospitality and Service
The act of drawing water and caring for the flock reflects the biblical virtues of hospitality and service, which are central to Christian living.

God's Preparation
Just as Moses was prepared in Midian for his future role, God often uses our current circumstances to prepare us for future purposes.

Community and Relationships
The interaction at the well underscores the importance of community and relationships in God's plan, as Moses' connection with Jethro's family becomes pivotal in his life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Jethro as a priest in Midian influence Moses' understanding of leadership and spirituality?

2. In what ways do the actions of Jethro's daughters reflect the biblical theme of service, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

3. How does the setting of Midian serve as a place of preparation for Moses, and what does this teach us about God's timing and purpose?

4. What parallels can we draw between the account of Moses at the well and other biblical accounts of divine encounters at wells?

5. How can we see God's providence in the seemingly ordinary events of our lives, as demonstrated in Moses' encounter with Jethro's daughters?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24
The account of Rebekah drawing water for Abraham's servant and his camels parallels the scene in Exodus 2:16, emphasizing hospitality and service.

John 4
Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well draws a thematic connection to the role of wells as places of divine encounter and revelation.

Exodus 3
Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush occurs after he has settled in Midian, showing the significance of this region in his spiritual journey.