And his sister stood at a distance to see what would happen to him. And his sisterThis phrase introduces Miriam, the sister of Moses, who plays a crucial role in the early life of Moses. The Hebrew word for "sister" is "אָחוֹת" (achot), which signifies a familial bond and responsibility. Miriam's presence here is significant as it highlights the protective and watchful role she assumes over her brother. In the broader scriptural context, Miriam is later recognized as a prophetess and leader among the Israelites (Exodus 15:20), indicating her importance in God's plan. stood at a distance to see what would happen to him Persons / Places / Events 1. Moses' Sister (Miriam)The sister of Moses, who is later identified as Miriam. She plays a crucial role in watching over her brother and later becomes a prophetess and leader among the Israelites. 2. Moses The infant in the basket, who is destined to become the deliverer of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. 3. The Nile River The place where Moses' mother placed him in a basket to save him from Pharaoh's decree to kill all Hebrew male infants. 4. Pharaoh's Decree The backdrop of this event, where Pharaoh ordered all Hebrew male infants to be thrown into the Nile to control the population of the Israelites. 5. The Basket A small ark made of papyrus, coated with tar and pitch, symbolizing both vulnerability and divine protection. Teaching Points Faith in ActionMiriam's vigilance demonstrates active faith. She did not just leave her brother's fate to chance but took steps to watch over him. This teaches us to combine faith with action in our own lives. God's Providence The account illustrates God's providential care. Despite the dire circumstances, God had a plan for Moses. We can trust that God is at work even when situations seem bleak. Role of Family Miriam's role highlights the importance of family support and protection. Families today can draw strength from this example to support and protect one another. Courage in Adversity Miriam's courage to stand by and watch over Moses, despite the danger, is a testament to the bravery required to stand firm in difficult times. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Miriam's action in Exodus 2:4 demonstrate faith and courage, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing challenges?2. In what ways does the account of Moses' early life reflect God's providence, and how can this encourage us in times of uncertainty? 3. How does the role of family in Moses' account inspire us to support and protect our own families today? 4. What other biblical figures demonstrate a similar combination of faith and action, and what can we learn from their accounts? 5. How can we discern God's hand at work in our lives, even when circumstances seem dire, as seen in the account of Moses' preservation? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 15:20-21Miriam is later identified as a prophetess and leader, showing her continued importance in the account of Israel's deliverance. Numbers 26:59 Provides genealogical context, identifying Miriam as the sister of Moses and Aaron. Hebrews 11:23 Highlights the faith of Moses' parents in hiding him, which is part of the larger account of faith in God's protection and providence. Psalm 91:11-12 Speaks of God's protection, which can be seen in the way Moses was safeguarded in the basket. People Gershom, Isaac, Israelites, Jacob, Levi, Moses, Pharaoh, Reuel, ZipporahPlaces Egypt, Midian, Nile RiverTopics Afar, Distance, Herself, Sister, Stationeth, Stood, WitDictionary of Bible Themes Exodus 2:1-6 5652 babies Library The Ark among the Flags'And there went a man of the house of Levi, and took to wife a daughter of Levi. 2. And the woman conceived, and bare a son: and when she saw him that he was a goodly child, she hid him three months. 3. And when she could not longer hide him, she took for him an ark of bulrushes, and daubed it with slime and with pitch, and put the child therein; and she laid it in the flags by the river's brink. 4. And his sister stood afar off, to wit what would be done to him. 5. And the daughter of Pharaoh came … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Home as a Stewardship. The Upbringing of Jewish Children The Secret of Its Greatness Motives to Holy Mourning The Faith of Moses. Jesus Sets Out from Judæa for Galilee. Consolations against Impatience in Sickness. Man's Misery by the Fall Genealogy According to Luke. Adoption Appendix xii. The Baptism of Proselytes Appendix ii. Philo of Alexandria and Rabbinic Theology. John the Baptist's Person and Preaching. Exodus Links Exodus 2:4 NIVExodus 2:4 NLT Exodus 2:4 ESV Exodus 2:4 NASB Exodus 2:4 KJV Exodus 2:4 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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