Exodus 2:21

Arabic Bible ERV 2009

فَوافَقَ مُوسَى أنْ يَعِيشَ مَعَهُ. وَأعطَى رَعُوئِيلُ ابْنَتَهُ صَفُّورَةَ زَوجَةً لِمُوسَى.

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells us that Moses lived with Reuel, who was Zipporah's father, and he agreed to give Moses his daughter Zipporah in marriage. It shows that Moses found a new home and family in Midian.

Explained for Children

Imagine Moses was like a lost puppy that found a nice family to live with. The family, led by a man named Reuel, welcomed Moses and even let him marry their daughter, Zipporah. It's like finding a new loving family to live with.

Historical Background

The book of Exodus was written by Moses himself, around 1446-1406 BC, and the audience was the Israelites who were about to leave Egypt. This verse takes place in Midian, where Moses lived after fleeing from Egypt, and it shows the cultural norms of arranged marriages and hospitality.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse can remind us to be open to new opportunities and relationships. Like Moses, sometimes we have to leave our familiar situations and find new communities and families where we can thrive.

Topics

• marriage
• hospitality
• new beginnings
• family
• cultural norms
• divine providence

Related Verses

• Genesis 29:20-21
• Ruth 4:10-11
• 1 Corinthians 7:39
• Exodus 18:2
• Judges 14:2

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Reuel in Exodus 2:21?

Reuel was a priest of Midian who welcomed Moses after he fled Egypt and gave his daughter Zipporah to Moses in marriage.

Why did Reuel give his daughter to Moses?

Reuel likely saw Moses as a capable and trustworthy man after he helped Reuel's daughters, and he agreed to give his daughter Zipporah to Moses in marriage.

What does this verse tell us about Moses?

This verse shows that Moses was able to build a new life and family in Midian, finding both a wife and a new home after he had fled from Egypt.

How does this verse relate to themes of hospitality?

This verse demonstrates the ancient Near Eastern practice of hospitality where Reuel welcomed Moses into his home and family, showing the importance of welcoming strangers and providing for them.