Exodus 18:11

KJV

Now I know that the LORD [is] greater than all gods: for in the thing wherein they dealt proudly [he was] above them.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now I know {H3045} that the LORD {H3068} is greater {H1419} than all gods {H430}: for in the thing {H1697} wherein they dealt proudly {H2102} he was above them.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now I know that ADONAI is greater than all other gods, because he rescued those who were treated so arrogantly."

Berean Standard Bible

Now I know that the LORD is greater than all other gods, for He did this when they treated Israel with arrogance.”

American Standard Version

Now I know that Jehovah is greater than all gods; yea, in the thing wherein they dealt proudly against them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 18:11 captures Jethro's profound declaration of Yahweh's unparalleled supremacy, a conviction forged after hearing Moses recount the miraculous deliverance of Israel from Egypt. This verse articulates the foundational theological truth that the LORD God is sovereign over all supposed deities and human powers, having unequivocally demonstrated His ultimate authority and righteous justice by triumphing over the prideful oppression of Pharaoh and the Egyptian pantheon.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jethro's declaration is strategically placed within a pivotal interlude in the Exodus narrative, bridging the dramatic events of the Red Sea crossing and the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. Chapter 18 opens with Jethro, Moses' Midianite father-in-law, hearing "of all that God had done for Moses, and for Israel his people" ([Exodus 18:1](/exodus/18-1 "Exodus 18:1 - Jethro Hears of God's Deeds")). He then journeys to Moses in the wilderness, bringing Zipporah and their two sons. Moses provides a detailed account of "all that the LORD had done to Pharaoh and to the Egyptians for Israel's sake, and all the travail that had come upon them by the way, and how the LORD delivered them" ([Exodus 18:8](/exodus/18-8 "Exodus 18:8 - Moses Recounts God's Deliverance")). Jethro's response is one of immediate worship, offering burnt offerings and sacrifices to God, and sharing a meal with the elders of Israel in God's presence ([Exodus 18:12](/exodus/18-12 "Exodus 18:12 - Jethro Worships God")). This declaration thus serves as the theological climax of Jethro's encounter with the God of Israel, preceding his practical and wise counsel to Moses regarding judicial administration for the burgeoning nation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jethro, identified as a priest of Midian, belonged to a nomadic people descended from Abraham through Keturah ([Genesis 25:1-2](/genesis/25-1-2 "Genesis 25:1-2 - Abraham's Descendants Through Keturah")). While not part of the direct Abrahamic covenant line through Isaac and Jacob, Jethro demonstrates a spiritual receptiveness, perhaps even a prior acquaintance with divine revelation, as evidenced by his initial counsel to Moses at the burning bush ([Exodus 4:18](/exodus/4-18 "Exodus 4:18 - Moses Returns to Jethro")). His visit to Moses occurs shortly after Israel's dramatic escape from Egypt and their encampment at Mount Sinai. The events Moses recounts—the ten plagues, particularly the [death of the firstborn](/exodus/12-29 "Exodus 12:29 - The Tenth Plague") and the [crossing of the Red Sea](/exodus/14-21 "Exodus 14:21 - The Red Sea Crossing")—were not merely historical occurrences but profound demonstrations of Yahweh's absolute supremacy over the gods of Egypt. The Egyptians revered numerous deities, and Pharaoh himself was considered a divine king. His defeat was a direct indictment of the entire Egyptian pantheon and their perceived power, as well as a judgment on Pharaoh's [stubborn pride and refusal to obey God](/exodus/9-16 "Exodus 9:16 - God's Purpose in Raising Up Pharaoh"). Jethro's declaration, therefore, is a monumentally significant acknowledgment from an "outsider" that the God of Israel is truly unique and sovereign above all.

* **Key Themes:** Exodus 18:11 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Supremacy**, asserting Yahweh's absolute rule over all creation, nations, and false deities. The Exodus narrative consistently portrays God as actively engaged in history, demonstrating His power to deliver His people and judge their oppressors, often through miraculous and undeniable means. This verse also highlights the theme of **Revelation and Recognition**, showing that God's mighty acts are not hidden but are revealed to all, prompting even those outside the covenant community to acknowledge His truth. Jethro's response underscores the **Contrast Between True and False Gods**, vividly illustrating the impotence of human-made idols and the vibrant, active power of the living God. Finally, it reinforces the theme of **God's Justice and Retribution**, demonstrating that God responds to human pride and oppression with precise and fitting judgment, ensuring that those who exalt themselves against Him are ultimately brought low, as seen in Pharaoh's [rebellion and subsequent downfall](/exodus/14-28 "Exodus 14:28 - Destruction of Pharaoh's Army").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **know (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** (H3045) This verb signifies more than mere intellectual apprehension; it denotes an experiential, intimate, and often transformative knowledge. Jethro's "Now I know" (עַתָּה יָדַעְתִּי, _ʿattāh yādaʿtî_) indicates a newfound conviction born from observing God's powerful acts. It's a recognition that moves beyond hearsay to a deeply held understanding of God's character and power, leading to worship and affirmation.
* **greater (Hebrew, _gâdôwl'_):** (H1419) This adjective means "great" in any sense, encompassing magnitude, power, importance, or even insolence. In this context, it unequivocally declares Yahweh's superior power and preeminence. Jethro proclaims that the LORD is not merely *a* great god, but *greater* than all other gods, asserting His incomparable might and singular authority over all other perceived divine or human forces.
* **dealt proudly (Hebrew, _zûwd'_)::** (H2102) This primitive root means "to seethe" or, figuratively, "to be insolent," "to act presumptuously," or "to be proud." It perfectly describes Pharaoh's arrogant defiance of God's commands and his oppressive, self-exalting treatment of the Israelites. The use of this word highlights the hubris of human power and authority that dares to set itself against the divine will, setting the stage for inevitable divine judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now I know that the LORD [is] greater than all gods":** Jethro's opening declaration, "Now I know," marks a pivotal moment of personal theological conviction. Having heard Moses' detailed account of the Exodus, Jethro, a priest of Midian, moves from a general understanding of deity to a specific, experiential recognition of Yahweh's unique and absolute supremacy. The phrase "the LORD [is] greater than all gods" is a bold theological statement of monotheistic truth, asserting Yahweh's absolute sovereignty not only over the Egyptian pantheon but over every conceivable power or deity. It is a testament to the undeniable, self-evident power of God's mighty acts.
* **"for in the thing wherein they dealt proudly [he was] above them":** This clause provides the irrefutable justification for Jethro's declaration of God's supremacy. The "thing wherein they dealt proudly" refers directly to the Egyptians' oppressive actions, particularly their enslavement, brutalization, and Pharaoh's arrogant refusal to release Israel. This included Pharaoh's decree to drown Israelite male children in the Nile ([Exodus 1:22](/exodus/1-22 "Exodus 1:22 - Pharaoh's Decree to Drown Hebrew Boys")). The phrase "he was above them" (literally, "over them") signifies Yahweh's decisive triumph and overwhelming superiority in the very arena of their pride. God's judgment was not arbitrary but a precise, divinely orchestrated response that turned the oppressors' methods against them, demonstrating His perfect justice.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 18:11 employs several profound literary devices. The verse functions as a powerful **Declaration**, a solemn and emphatic statement of theological truth pronounced by an unexpected character—an "outsider" priest—which significantly amplifies its universality and weight. There is a clear **Contrast** established between "the LORD" and "all gods," highlighting Yahweh's singular omnipotence against the impotence and falsity of pagan deities. Furthermore, the phrase "in the thing wherein they dealt proudly [he was] above them" exemplifies a potent **Retribution Motif**, where the divine punishment perfectly and poetically fits the human crime. Pharaoh's arrogant use of water to destroy Israelite children ([Exodus 1:22](/exodus/1-22 "Exodus 1:22 - Pharaoh's Decree to Drown Hebrew Boys")) is directly mirrored by God's use of the Red Sea waters to destroy Pharaoh's proud army ([Exodus 14:28](/exodus/14-28 "Exodus 14:28 - Destruction of Pharaoh's Army")). This demonstrates profound divine **Irony** and perfect **Justice**, where the very instruments and methods of human arrogance are turned back upon the perpetrators by the sovereign hand of God, showcasing His ultimate control over all circumstances.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jethro's declaration in Exodus 18:11 serves as a foundational theological statement about the uniqueness and absolute sovereignty of Yahweh. It affirms that the God of Israel is not merely one deity among many, but the one true God, whose power transcends all human and spiritual opposition. This profound truth is not an abstract concept but is powerfully demonstrated through concrete, historical acts of deliverance and judgment, revealing God's character as both mighty and perfectly just. It underscores the pervasive biblical theme that God's glory is revealed through His triumph over those who oppose Him and His people, often in ways that directly counter the methods of the oppressors. This revelation is not limited to Israel but is intended for all who are willing to see and believe, inviting universal recognition of His unrivaled power.

* [Psalm 96:4-5](/psalms/96-4-5 "Psalm 96:4-5 - The LORD is Great and Worthy of Praise")
* [Isaiah 45:5-6](/isaiah/45-5-6 "Isaiah 45:5-6 - God is the Only Savior")
* [Jeremiah 10:10-11](/jeremiah/10-10-11 "Jeremiah 10:10-11 - The Living God vs. Idols")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 18:11 offers profound reassurance and a compelling call to worship for believers today. In a world still filled with "gods"—whether they manifest as ideologies, political powers, the pursuit of wealth, technological advancements, or the insidious worship of self—Jethro's declaration serves as an enduring reminder that the LORD remains utterly supreme. No human system, no oppressive regime, and no personal struggle can ultimately stand against the God who delivered Israel from the mightiest empire of their day. This verse encourages us to place our trust not in fleeting human strength or deceptive false securities, but in the unwavering power, perfect justice, and unfailing faithfulness of the Almighty. It challenges us to critically examine what "gods" might subtly compete for our allegiance in our own lives and to reaffirm Yahweh's rightful place as sovereign. Furthermore, Jethro's transformative response highlights the profound power of testimony; when we faithfully share how God has delivered us and demonstrated His power, it can lead others, even those outside our immediate faith community, to acknowledge and worship the one true God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "gods" or false securities do I sometimes place my trust in, instead of the LORD?**
* **How have I personally experienced God's "being above" situations where pride, opposition, or overwhelming challenges seemed insurmountable?**
* **What is my "now I know" moment regarding God's supremacy, and how can I share that testimony effectively with others?**
* **How does God's precise justice, as seen in His triumph over Pharaoh's pride, encourage me when I witness injustice and oppression in the world today?**

### FAQ
**Who was Jethro, and why is his declaration significant?**

Answer: Jethro was Moses' father-in-law, identified as a priest of Midian. His declaration in [Exodus 18:11](/exodus/18-11 "Exodus 18:11 - Jethro's Declaration of God's Supremacy") is highly significant because he was an "outsider" to the covenant people of Israel. As a Midianite priest, he likely had his own religious traditions, but upon hearing Moses recount the detailed story of the Exodus and God's mighty acts against Egypt, he was compelled to acknowledge the unparalleled supremacy of Yahweh. His conversion from a potential polytheist to a worshipper of the one true God underscores the universal nature of God's revelation and the undeniable power of His works. It demonstrates that God's glory is not confined to Israel but is evident to all who genuinely observe His actions, leading even those from other cultures to confess His truth.

**What does it mean that God "was above them" in the thing wherein they "dealt proudly"?**

Answer: This phrase refers to God's precise and just retribution against Pharaoh and the Egyptians. "Dealt proudly" (Hebrew _zûwd_) describes Pharaoh's arrogant defiance of God's commands and his oppressive actions against Israel, particularly his decree to drown Israelite male infants in the Nile ([Exodus 1:22](/exodus/1-22 "Exodus 1:22 - Pharaoh's Decree to Drown Hebrew Boys")). God's response, that He "was above them," means He demonstrated His superior power by turning their own methods of oppression against them. For instance, Pharaoh used water to oppress Israel, and God used the waters of the Red Sea to destroy Pharaoh's army ([Exodus 14:28](/exodus/14-28 "Exodus 14:28 - Destruction of Pharaoh's Army")). This demonstrates God's perfect justice, where the very instrument of the oppressor's pride and cruelty becomes the means of their judgment, showcasing His ultimate sovereignty over all human arrogance and power.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jethro's declaration that "the LORD is greater than all gods" and that "in the thing wherein they dealt proudly he was above them" finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The Exodus narrative, culminating in God's decisive triumph over Pharaoh and the Egyptian pantheon, serves as a powerful foreshadowing of Christ's definitive victory over sin, death, and all spiritual powers that hold humanity captive. Just as Yahweh defeated the proud and oppressive empire of Egypt, so too did Christ, through His crucifixion and resurrection, conquer the ultimate oppressors: sin, which enslaved humanity ([Romans 6:6](/romans/6-6 "Romans 6:6 - Our Old Self Crucified with Christ")), and death, which reigned as king ([Romans 5:17](/romans/5-17 "Romans 5:17 - Reign of Life Through Christ")). The "pride" of the enemy, personified by Satan and his demonic forces, was utterly defeated by Christ's humble obedience unto death ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). The Cross, which appeared to be the ultimate defeat, was in fact the very "thing wherein they dealt proudly" (believing they had triumphed over God's Son), yet it was precisely through this act that God "was above them," disarming the principalities and powers and [triumphing over them by the cross](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Spiritual Powers"). Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), is the ultimate revelation of God's supremacy, demonstrating His power not merely over earthly rulers but over the spiritual forces of evil, securing eternal deliverance for all who believe ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory Over Death")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 95:3

For the LORD [is] a great God, and a great King above all gods.

Exodus 15:11

Who [is] like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who [is] like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful [in] praises, doing wonders?

2 Chronicles 2:5

And the house which I build [is] great: for great [is] our God above all gods.

Psalms 135:5

¶ For I know that the LORD [is] great, and [that] our Lord [is] above all gods.

Luke 1:51

He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

Daniel 4:37

Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, all whose works [are] truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase.

Psalms 97:9

For thou, LORD, [art] high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods.