Exodus 18:7

So Moses went out to meet his father-in-law and bowed down and kissed him. They greeted each other and went into the tent.

Study Bible

So Moses went out to meet his father-in-law
The phrase highlights Moses' respect and honor towards Jethro, his father-in-law. In the Hebrew context, family relationships were deeply valued, and the act of going out to meet someone was a sign of respect and hospitality. The Hebrew root for "went out" (יָצָא, yatsa) implies a deliberate action, indicating Moses' eagerness and willingness to honor Jethro. This reflects the biblical principle of honoring one's elders and family, a value deeply embedded in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:12).

and bowed down
Bowing down was a common gesture of respect and reverence in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The Hebrew word used here is "שָׁחָה" (shachah), which often denotes worship or deep respect. While Moses was a leader chosen by God, he still demonstrated humility and respect towards Jethro. This act serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and respect in relationships, regardless of one's status or position.

and kissed him
The act of kissing, in this context, is a cultural expression of affection and greeting. In the Hebrew tradition, a kiss was a sign of peace and goodwill. The Hebrew word "נָשַׁק" (nashaq) conveys a sense of warmth and familial love. This gesture underscores the importance of maintaining loving and peaceful relationships within the family, reflecting the biblical call to love one another (John 13:34).

They greeted each other
This phrase indicates a mutual exchange of pleasantries and respect. The Hebrew root "שָׁאַל" (sha'al) can mean to inquire or ask, suggesting that their greeting involved a genuine interest in each other's well-being. This mutual respect and concern are foundational to strong relationships and community, aligning with the biblical principle of loving one's neighbor as oneself (Leviticus 19:18).

and went into the tent
The tent, in this context, symbolizes a place of hospitality and fellowship. In the nomadic culture of the Israelites, the tent was not just a dwelling but a place of meeting and sharing. The Hebrew word "אֹהֶל" (ohel) signifies a temporary dwelling, reminding us of the transient nature of life and the importance of community and fellowship. This act of going into the tent together signifies a deeper level of communion and discussion, reflecting the biblical value of fellowship and unity among believers (Acts 2:42).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The central figure in the Book of Exodus, chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. In this passage, he demonstrates humility and respect.

2. Jethro
Moses' father-in-law, also known as Reuel, a priest of Midian. He visits Moses in the wilderness, bringing Moses' wife and sons.

3. The Tent
Represents a place of meeting and hospitality. It is where Moses and Jethro engage in conversation and share wisdom.

4. Midian
The region where Jethro is from, and where Moses spent years in exile before returning to Egypt to lead the Israelites.

5. Greeting Rituals
The act of bowing and kissing was a customary greeting, showing respect and familial affection in ancient Near Eastern culture.

Teaching Points

Respect and Humility
Moses, despite his leadership role, shows humility and respect to Jethro. We are called to honor and respect those in our lives, regardless of our status.

Value of Family
The reunion of Moses and Jethro underscores the importance of maintaining strong family ties and relationships.

Hospitality and Fellowship
The act of going into the tent signifies the importance of hospitality and fellowship in building and maintaining relationships.

Wisdom from Elders
Jethro, as an elder and priest, brings wisdom to Moses. We should seek and value the counsel of those who have walked before us in faith.

Reconciliation and Peace
The greeting between Moses and Jethro is a model of reconciliation and peace, encouraging us to pursue harmony in our relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' greeting of Jethro reflect the biblical principle of honoring one's elders, and how can we apply this in our daily interactions?

2. In what ways does the reunion of Moses and Jethro illustrate the importance of family relationships, and how can we prioritize these in our own lives?

3. How does the concept of hospitality in this passage relate to the New Testament teachings on welcoming others, and what practical steps can we take to be more hospitable?

4. What can we learn from Moses' willingness to listen to Jethro's advice, and how can we cultivate a spirit of teachability in our own spiritual journey?

5. How does the theme of reconciliation in this passage connect with Jesus' teachings on forgiveness and peace, and how can we actively pursue reconciliation in our relationships today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 33:4
The reunion of Jacob and Esau, where they embrace and weep, parallels the warm greeting between Moses and Jethro, emphasizing reconciliation and familial bonds.

1 Samuel 20:41
The farewell between David and Jonathan, where they kiss and weep, highlights the deep respect and love in relationships, similar to Moses and Jethro.

Luke 15:20
The prodigal son's return, where the father runs to embrace and kiss him, reflects the theme of reconciliation and acceptance seen in Moses' greeting of Jethro.