Zipporah is a significant yet somewhat enigmatic figure in the Hebrew Bible, known primarily as the wife of Moses. Her account is interwoven with the early narrative of Moses' life and mission to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Zipporah is introduced in the Book of Exodus, and her presence provides insight into the personal and familial aspects of Moses' life.

Background and Family

Zipporah is identified as the daughter of Jethro, also known as Reuel, the priest of Midian (Exodus 2:18). The Midianites were a nomadic people, and Jethro's role as a priest suggests a position of considerable influence and respect within his community. Zipporah's marriage to Moses occurs after Moses flees Egypt, having killed an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew slave. Moses finds refuge in Midian, where he encounters Zipporah at a well, assisting her and her sisters in watering their father's flock (Exodus 2:15-17).

Marriage to Moses

Impressed by Moses' actions, Jethro invites him to stay with their family, and eventually, Moses marries Zipporah. They have two sons, Gershom and Eliezer. The naming of Gershom, which means "a foreigner there," reflects Moses' sense of being a sojourner in a foreign land (Exodus 2:22). Eliezer's name, meaning "My God is help," signifies Moses' acknowledgment of divine assistance (Exodus 18:4).

The Circumcision Incident

One of the most intriguing episodes involving Zipporah occurs in Exodus 4:24-26. As Moses is on his way back to Egypt with his family, the LORD confronts him, seeking to kill him. The text is cryptic, but it is understood that the issue relates to the circumcision of their son. Zipporah decisively intervenes by circumcising their son and touching Moses' feet with the foreskin, declaring, "Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me" (Exodus 4:25). This act appeases the LORD, and Moses' life is spared. This incident highlights Zipporah's quick thinking and her role in fulfilling the covenantal requirement of circumcision, underscoring the importance of obedience to God's commands.

Reunion with Moses

After the circumcision incident, Zipporah's presence in the narrative diminishes until Exodus 18, where she is reunited with Moses. Jethro brings Zipporah and their sons to Moses at the mountain of God, where the Israelites are encamped. This reunion occurs after the Exodus from Egypt and the crossing of the Red Sea. Jethro's visit is marked by his acknowledgment of the LORD's greatness and his offering of sacrifices (Exodus 18:10-12).

Legacy and Significance

Zipporah's account, though brief, is rich with cultural and theological implications. As a Midianite, her marriage to Moses represents a union that transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God's plan extending beyond Israel. Her decisive action in the circumcision incident demonstrates her commitment to the covenant and her vital role in Moses' life and mission.

Zipporah's presence in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of women in the unfolding of God's redemptive history. Her account invites reflection on themes of faith, obedience, and the complexities of family life within the context of divine calling.Zippo'rah (3 Occurrences)

Exodus 2:21
And Moses was content to dwell with the man; and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter.
(See RSV)

Exodus 4:25
Then Zipporah took a flint, and cut off the foreskin of her son, and cast it at his feet; and she said: 'Surely a bridegroom of blood art thou to me.'
(See RSV)

Exodus 18:2
And Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, took Zipporah, Moses' wife, after he had sent her away,
(See RSV)

Zippo'rah (3 Occurrences)
Zippo'rah. Zipporah, Zippo'rah. Zither . Multi-Version Concordance
Zippo'rah (3 Occurrences). Exodus 2:21 And Moses was content ...
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Zipporah (3 Occurrences)

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Zither (3 Occurrences)

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