Exodus 18:7

KJV

¶ And Moses went out to meet his father in law, and did obeisance, and kissed him; and they asked each other of [their] welfare; and they came into the tent.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses {H4872} went out {H3318} to meet {H7125} his father in law {H2859}, and did obeisance {H7812}, and kissed {H5401} him; and they asked {H7592} each {H376} other {H7453} of their welfare {H7965}; and they came {H935} into the tent {H168}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe went out to meet his father-in-law, prostrated himself and kissed him. Then, after inquiring of each other's welfare, they entered the tent.

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

And Moses went out to meet his father-in-law, and did obeisance, and kissed him: and they asked each other of their welfare; and they came into the tent.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 18:7 vividly portrays the deeply respectful and affectionate reunion between Moses, Israel's divinely appointed leader, and his father-in-law, Jethro, near the "mount of God." This pivotal verse highlights Moses' profound humility and deference, despite his elevated status, as he initiates the encounter by going out to meet Jethro, performing traditional gestures of obeisance and a warm kiss, and engaging in a sincere mutual inquiry about their well-being before inviting him into his tent for private fellowship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 18:7 is strategically placed within a broader narrative detailing Jethro's visit to the Israelite camp, serving as a crucial interlude between the dramatic deliverance from Egypt and the momentous giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. Preceding this verse, Jethro, having heard of God's mighty acts of salvation, brings Moses' wife, Zipporah, and their two sons, Gershom and Eliezer, to reunite with Moses in the wilderness (cf. [Exodus 18:1-6](/exodus/18-1-6 "Exodus 18:1-6 - Jethro Hears and Brings Moses' Family")). The immediate narrative flow after this reunion (cf. [Exodus 18:8-12](/exodus/18-8-12 "Exodus 18:8-12 - Moses Recounts God's Deliverance and Jethro Praises God")) describes Moses recounting God's miraculous deliverance to Jethro, Jethro's subsequent praise of Yahweh, and their shared covenantal meal. This familial and spiritual communion then transitions into Jethro's indispensable counsel to Moses on delegating judicial responsibilities to alleviate his overwhelming burden (cf. [Exodus 18:13-27](/exodus/18-13-27 "Exodus 18:13-27 - Jethro's Counsel to Moses")), underscoring the practical and administrative significance of this personal reunion for the nascent nation of Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for this encounter is the wilderness journey of the Israelites, a newly liberated nation encamped at the "mount of God," widely understood to be Mount Sinai, where the Mosaic Covenant would soon be established. Moses, as the singular, divinely appointed leader, bore the immense burden of guiding, judging, and interceding for the people, as vividly illustrated in the subsequent account of his daily judicial duties (cf. [Exodus 18:13-16](/exodus/18-13-16 "Exodus 18:13-16 - Moses Judging the People")). Jethro, identified as a priest of Midian, represents a non-Israelite figure who nevertheless acknowledges and praises Yahweh, indicating a broader recognition of God's power beyond Israel's immediate borders. The actions depicted in this verse—Moses going out to meet, doing obeisance, kissing, and inquiring about welfare—were deeply ingrained customs of respect, honor, and hospitality in the ancient Near East. Such gestures were particularly significant when meeting elders, respected figures, or family, emphasizing the importance of familial bonds and social hierarchy, even for a leader of Moses' unparalleled stature. The "tent" served as the primary dwelling and a private space for intimate fellowship and counsel.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. It highlights the theme of **Humility in Leadership**, demonstrating that even God's most exalted servants are called to model deference and respect for others, particularly family and elders, rather than allowing their divine commission to foster arrogance. The reunion also underscores the **Sanctity and Importance of Family Relationships**, portraying a tender moment of familial reconciliation and mutual care amidst the grand narrative of national formation. Furthermore, the mutual inquiry of "welfare" (shalom) introduces the profound theme of **Holistic Well-being and Peace**, a concept central to God's covenantal desire for His people's flourishing, extending beyond mere physical safety to encompass spiritual, social, and material prosperity. This familial interaction sets the stage for the practical wisdom and divine guidance that will flow from Jethro's visit, illustrating the theme of **Divine Provision through Human Counsel**, even from outside the immediate Israelite community.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **went out (Hebrew, _yâtsâʼ'_):** From H3318, this primitive root means "to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively." In this context, Moses' active decision to "go out" from the Israelite camp to meet Jethro, rather than waiting for Jethro to come to him, signifies his initiative, humility, and profound respect. It is a deliberate act of honor, demonstrating that despite his immense authority as Israel's leader, he prioritizes the familial bond and the respect due to his elder.
* **did obeisance (Hebrew, _shâchâh'_):** From H7812, this primitive root means "to depress, i.e. prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or God); bow (self) down, crouch, fall down (flat), humbly beseech, do (make) obeisance, do reverence, make to stoop, worship." While often used in contexts of worship or reverence towards God (e.g., [Exodus 4:31](/exodus/4-31 "Exodus 4:31 - The People Worship God")), here it describes an act of profound respect and deference shown to a human superior or elder. Moses' act of `shachâh` before Jethro underscores his deep humility and the high regard he held for his father-in-law, demonstrating respect for family and age despite his unique divine calling.
* **welfare (Hebrew, _shâlôwm'_):** From H7965, this renowned Hebrew word encompasses far more than a simple greeting of "peace." It signifies a holistic state of completeness, well-being, prosperity, safety, harmony, and flourishing. When Moses and Jethro "asked each other of their welfare," they were not merely inquiring about physical health but about their entire state of being, their circumstances, their journey, and their overall flourishing. This deep inquiry reflects genuine care and a desire for the other's comprehensive good, a concept central to God's covenantal desire for His people's `shalom`.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Moses went out to meet his father in law":** This opening clause immediately establishes Moses' initiative and profound humility. Despite being the leader of a burgeoning nation and the one through whom God performed mighty wonders, Moses does not wait for Jethro to come to him. Instead, he actively goes out of the camp to greet his elder and father-in-law, a gesture of profound respect and honor that sets the tone for the entire reunion.
* **"and did obeisance, and kissed him":** These actions further emphasize Moses' reverence and deep affection. "Doing obeisance" (bowing or prostrating) was a formal act of deep respect and submission to a superior, while kissing was a common familial greeting signifying warmth, affection, and intimate connection in ancient Near Eastern culture. Together, they paint a vivid picture of genuine personal connection and a recognition of Jethro's standing, both as an elder and as family.
* **"and they asked each other of [their] welfare":** This indicates a mutual and sincere inquiry into each other's holistic well-being, utilizing the rich concept of `shalom`. It suggests a period of heartfelt conversation where they exchanged updates on their respective journeys, experiences, and the overall state of their lives, fostering deeper understanding and connection before proceeding. This mutual inquiry highlights a genuine concern for the other's comprehensive flourishing.
* **"and they came into the tent":** The culmination of the initial public greeting, this signifies the transition from the open meeting to a more private, intimate, and hospitable setting. Entering the tent implies an invitation to rest, shelter, and further fellowship, setting the stage for the detailed recounting of God's works and Jethro's subsequent crucial counsel, which will unfold in the privacy of Moses' dwelling.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 18:7 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound meaning and emotional depth. **Imagery** is central, painting a vivid and culturally rich picture of the reunion through Moses' deliberate actions: "went out," "did obeisance," "kissed him," and "came into the tent." These actions are not merely functional but carry significant cultural weight, immediately communicating respect, affection, and hospitality. The verse also utilizes **Parallelism** in the sequence of actions: "Moses went out to meet... and did obeisance, and kissed him; and they asked each other of their welfare; and they came into the tent." This creates a rhythmic flow that emphasizes the deliberate and respectful nature of each step in the reunion. Furthermore, the scene is rich in **Symbolism**. The "tent" symbolizes not just a physical dwelling but a sacred space of intimacy, refuge, and counsel, foreshadowing the important discussions and the giving of wise advice that will occur within its confines. Moses' profound humility, despite his unparalleled divine commission, serves as a powerful **Exemplum**, providing a compelling model of how even the greatest leaders should honor family and elders, a timeless virtue for all believers.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 18:7 beautifully illustrates the profound biblical importance of honor, humility, and the sanctity of family relationships, even amidst monumental divine work. Moses, God's chosen leader and the deliverer of Israel, does not allow his unique status or the immense pressures of his calling to diminish his respect and affection for his father-in-law. This act foreshadows and embodies the spirit of the Fifth Commandment to honor one's parents, demonstrating that reverence for elders and family is a foundational virtue woven into the very fabric of God's design for humanity. The mutual inquiry of "welfare" (shalom) underscores God's desire for holistic well-being and genuine concern within human relationships, reflecting His own comprehensive care for His people and calling them to live in harmony and mutual support.

* [Exodus 20:12](/exodus/20-12 "Exodus 20:12 - The Fifth Commandment")
* [Leviticus 19:32](/leviticus/19-32 "Leviticus 19:32 - Respect for the Aged")
* [Romans 12:10](/romans/12-10 "Romans 12:10 - Brotherly Love and Honor")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The poignant scene in Exodus 18:7 offers a timeless blueprint for cultivating healthy and honorable relationships in our own lives. Moses, burdened with the monumental task of leading an entire nation through the wilderness, still prioritizes the personal and familial. His actions remind us that true leadership, and indeed true Christian character, is often characterized by profound humility and a willingness to honor those who have poured into our lives, regardless of our achieved status or public recognition. In a world that frequently prioritizes individual achievement, self-promotion, and the pursuit of power, Moses' example challenges us to intentionally seek out, honor, and genuinely connect with our elders, family members, and those who have mentored us. Taking the time to truly inquire about another's "welfare," to listen with empathy, and to offer sincere hospitality, cultivates the kind of deep, meaningful relationships that reflect God's love and bring `shalom` into our communities and homes. It calls us to be present, to be respectful, and to cherish the bonds that God has given us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Moses' humility in this verse challenge my own understanding of leadership, authority, and respect in my personal and professional life?**
* **In what practical and intentional ways can I show greater honor and genuine concern for the "welfare" of my elders, family members, or mentors today?**
* **What does "hospitality" truly look like in my life, and how can I intentionally create spaces for deeper connection and fellowship with others, mirroring the welcome into Moses' tent?**

### FAQ
**Why was Jethro visiting Moses at this particular time?**

Answer: Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, had heard of all the extraordinary things that God had done for Moses and for Israel, His people, specifically how the Lord had miraculously brought Israel out of Egyptian bondage ([Exodus 18:1](/exodus/18-1 "Exodus 18:1 - Jethro Hears of God's Deeds")). He came to reunite Moses with his wife, Zipporah, and their two sons, Gershom and Eliezer, who had apparently been sent back to Jethro's home earlier, likely during the critical events surrounding Moses' call and the circumcision incident (cf. [Exodus 4:24-26](/exodus/4-24-26 "Exodus 4:24-26 - The Circumcision at the Lodging Place")). His visit was thus a deeply personal family reunion, providentially timed, which then led to his crucial and wise counsel regarding the administration of justice within the burgeoning nation of Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 18:7, with its depiction of Moses' profound humility and the warm welcome into the tent, beautifully foreshadows the ultimate condescension and hospitality of Christ. Moses, the human deliverer and a type of the coming prophet, bows before his elder, demonstrating a model of honor and respect. Yet, Christ, the divine Deliverer and the greater Moses ([Deuteronomy 18:15](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - A Prophet Like Moses")), did not merely bow but emptied Himself, taking the very form of a servant, even to the point of death on a cross, demonstrating unparalleled humility and obedience (cf. [Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6-8 "Philippians 2:6-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). The mutual inquiry of "welfare" and the subsequent entry into the tent prefigure the `shalom` that Christ embodies and offers to humanity. He is our peace ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")), who not only inquires about our well-being but actively provides it through His atoning work, reconciling us to God. Moreover, the welcoming into the tent symbolizes God's profound desire to dwell with His people, a desire ultimately fulfilled in the Incarnation of Christ ("God with us," [Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel")), and fully realized when He welcomes us into His eternal dwelling, the new heavens and new earth, where He will tabernacle with humanity forever (cf. [Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with His People")).

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

Genesis 29:13

And it came to pass, when Laban heard the tidings of Jacob his sister's son, that he ran to meet him, and embraced him, and kissed him, and brought him to his house. And he told Laban all these things.

Genesis 19:1

¶ And there came two angels to Sodom at even; and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: and Lot seeing [them] rose up to meet them; and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground;

Genesis 14:17

¶ And the king of Sodom went out to meet him after his return from the slaughter of Chedorlaomer, and of the kings that [were] with him, at the valley of Shaveh, which [is] the king's dale.

1 Kings 2:19

Bathsheba therefore went unto king Solomon, to speak unto him for Adonijah. And the king rose up to meet her, and bowed himself unto her, and sat down on his throne, and caused a seat to be set for the king's mother; and she sat on his right hand.

2 Samuel 11:7

And when Uriah was come unto him, David demanded [of him] how Joab did, and how the people did, and how the war prospered.

Genesis 18:2

And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him: and when he saw [them], he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground,

Numbers 22:36

¶ And when Balak heard that Balaam was come, he went out to meet him unto a city of Moab, which [is] in the border of Arnon, which [is] in the utmost coast.