Exodus 2:14

KJV

And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and said, Surely this thing is known.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he said {H559}, Who made {H7760} thee {H376} a prince {H8269} and a judge {H8199} over us? intendest {H559} thou to kill {H2026} me, as thou killedst {H2026} the Egyptian {H4713}? And Moses {H4872} feared {H3372}, and said {H559}, Surely {H403} this thing {H1697} is known {H3045}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He retorted, "Who appointed you ruler and judge over us? Do you intend to kill me the way you killed the Egyptian?" Moshe became frightened. "Clearly," he thought, "the matter has become known."

Berean Standard Bible

But the man replied, “Who made you ruler and judge over us? Are you planning to kill me as you killed the Egyptian?” Then Moses was afraid and thought, “This thing I have done has surely become known.”

American Standard Version

And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? thinkest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and said, Surely the thing is known.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 2:14 serves as a pivotal moment in Moses's early life, abruptly exposing his premature and self-initiated attempts at leadership and revealing that his secret act of killing an Egyptian was, in fact, widely known. This confrontation, arising from his attempt to mediate a dispute between two Hebrews, shatters his illusion of secrecy and directly precipitates his flight from Egypt, initiating a forty-year period of divine preparation and humbling in the wilderness before his true calling.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 2:14 is nestled within the narrative of Moses's early life, immediately following his birth, miraculous preservation, and upbringing in Pharaoh's household. Prior to this verse, Moses, now grown, has begun to identify with his oppressed Hebrew kinsmen, witnessing their harsh labor. In a moment of intense indignation and misplaced zeal, he intervenes to defend a Hebrew, killing an Egyptian taskmaster and attempting to conceal the body in the sand. The very next day, he encounters two Hebrews fighting and attempts to mediate, asking, "Why do you strike your companion?" It is the response from one of these Hebrews that forms the core of this verse, revealing the critical truth that Moses's violent act was known, challenging his self-appointed authority, and forcing a dramatic shift in his life's trajectory. This incident marks the end of Moses's life in Pharaoh's court and the beginning of his wilderness preparation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical setting is ancient Egypt, a powerful empire that had enslaved the Israelites for generations. The Egyptians were known for their rigid social hierarchy and brutal treatment of slaves, particularly in large-scale construction projects. Pharaoh's authority was absolute, and any act of violence against an Egyptian, especially by a slave or one associated with slaves, would be met with severe punishment, likely death. Moses, though raised as an Egyptian prince, was acutely aware of his Hebrew identity and the plight of his people. His act of killing the Egyptian was a capital offense, placing him in direct opposition to Pharaoh's law. The Hebrew's challenge to Moses's self-appointed "prince and judge" status reflects the lack of any legitimate, recognized authority Moses held within their community, highlighting the cultural expectation that leadership was either inherited, divinely appointed, or sanctioned by the ruling power.

* **Key Themes:** This verse is rich with themes central to the book of Exodus and biblical theology. It powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Timing vs. Human Initiative**, showing Moses acting out of zeal but ahead of God's perfect timing and method for deliverance. It underscores the theological principle of the **Exposure of Hidden Deeds**, emphasizing that nothing is truly hidden from God, and often, human secrets are brought to light, as seen in [Numbers 32:23](/numbers/32-23 "Numbers 32:23 - Your Sin Will Find You Out"). The immediate consequence of Moses's fear and flight introduces the theme of **God's Preparatory Providence**, where adversity and periods of obscurity are used by God for spiritual formation and to humble His chosen instruments. Furthermore, the Hebrew's challenge to Moses's authority highlights the theme of **Legitimate Authority**, contrasting Moses's premature, self-appointed role with the divinely sanctioned leadership that would later be bestowed upon him. This incident sets the stage for God to meticulously prepare Moses for the monumental task of leading Israel out of bondage, a task far too great for human strength or self-appointed zeal alone, as seen in [Exodus 3](/exodus/3 "Exodus 3 - The Burning Bush and Moses's Call").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
The KJV text of Exodus 2:14 reads: "And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and said, Surely this thing is known." This verse unfolds in three distinct yet interconnected parts, revealing Moses's flawed human attempt at deliverance and its immediate consequences.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **kill (Hebrew, _hârag'_):** This word (H2026) signifies "to smite with deadly intent," encompassing acts of murder, slaughter, and putting to death. Its use here by the Hebrew accuser is precise and damning, directly referencing Moses's premeditated act against the Egyptian. It highlights the gravity of Moses's action, not as an accidental death, but as an intentional slaying, which carries severe legal and moral implications in any society, especially under Pharaoh's rule.
* **feared (Hebrew, _yârêʼ'_):** The term (H3372) denotes a deep sense of dread or being afraid, often implying a moral reverence, but here, it is clearly a response to imminent danger. Moses's fear is not a reverential awe of God, but a very human, visceral reaction to the exposure of his capital crime. This fear is a critical turning point, prompting his flight and demonstrating his reliance on human instinct rather than divine protection at this stage.
* **known (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** This versatile word (H3045) means "to know," implying ascertainment by seeing, understanding, or being aware. Its use here signifies that Moses's secret act was not only observed but had become common knowledge among his own people. The revelation that "this thing is known" is devastating for Moses, confirming that his attempt at concealment was futile and that his life is now in jeopardy. It underscores the biblical truth that hidden actions often come to light.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us?"**: This rhetorical question from the Hebrew man is a direct challenge to Moses's self-appointed authority. The terms "prince" (שַׂר, *sar*, H8269) and "judge" (שֹׁפֵט, *shofet*, H8199) denote roles of leadership, rule, and the administration of justice. By asking this, the Hebrew highlights that Moses had no legitimate standing among them, either by human decree or divine appointment, to intervene in their disputes or to assume a position of authority. Moses's zeal, though perhaps divinely inspired in its ultimate aim, was out of sync with God's timing and method, acting on human impulse and strength, not yet under divine commission. This question exposes Moses's presumption and the people's resistance to a leader not chosen by God.
* **"intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian?"**: This direct accusation shatters Moses's illusion of secrecy regarding the killing of the Egyptian taskmaster. His hidden deed, committed in a moment of passionate indignation, was not hidden from his own people. This powerfully illustrates the biblical principle that hidden sins often come to light, as [Numbers 32:23](/numbers/32-23 "Numbers 32:23 - Your Sin Will Find You Out") reminds us: "your sin will find you out." The Hebrew's question reveals a deep distrust and fear, suggesting that Moses's violent act, intended to help, had instead alienated him from the very people he sought to deliver, viewing him as a potential threat rather than a savior.
* **"And Moses feared, and said, Surely this thing is known."**: The immediate consequence of this revelation is profound fear. Moses's fear was not unfounded, as the knowledge of his act would inevitably reach Pharaoh, who would indeed seek to kill him ([Exodus 2:15](/exodus/2-15 "Exodus 2:15 - Pharaoh Seeks to Kill Moses")). This fear prompts his flight from Egypt, initiating a crucial period of exile and divine preparation in Midian. This period of humbling and obscurity was essential for Moses's spiritual formation, preparing him for the true divine calling that would come decades later ([Exodus 3:10](/exodus/3-10 "Exodus 3:10 - Moses's Divine Calling")). Moses's realization that "this thing is known" marks a turning point from self-reliance to a forced reliance on God's providential leading.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 2:14 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. **Dramatic Irony** is evident as Moses believed his act of killing the Egyptian was secret, yet the Hebrew's question reveals it was common knowledge, creating a stark contrast between Moses's perception and reality. This also serves as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the future challenges Moses will face in gaining the trust and respect of the Israelites, who initially resist his leadership. The Hebrew's question, "Who made thee a prince and a judge over us?" is a form of **Rhetorical Question**, designed not to elicit an answer but to challenge Moses's presumed authority and highlight his lack of legitimate mandate. Furthermore, the verse contributes significantly to Moses's **Characterization**, portraying him as zealous but impulsive, acting in human strength rather than divine wisdom, and ultimately vulnerable to fear. His immediate reaction of fear and flight underscores his human limitations, setting the stage for God's transformative work in his life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 2:14 is a foundational text for understanding the themes of divine sovereignty, human responsibility, and God's unique methods of preparation. It demonstrates that God's plans are not contingent on human impatience or flawed initiatives, but unfold according to His perfect timing and through His chosen means. Moses's premature attempt to deliver Israel, though perhaps well-intentioned, highlights the danger of acting outside of God's anointing and the necessity of legitimate, divinely appointed authority for true leadership within God's people. The exposure of Moses's secret act also reinforces the biblical truth that all things are open before God, and that hidden sins often come to light, leading to consequences that serve God's greater purposes. This incident, born of failure and fear, ultimately becomes a crucial step in God's providential plan to humble and equip Moses for the monumental task of leading Israel, showcasing God's ability to use human weakness and missteps for His glory.

* [Numbers 32:23](/numbers/32-23 "Numbers 32:23 - Your Sin Will Find You Out")
* [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "Proverbs 16:9 - Man Plans, God Directs")
* [Hebrews 11:24-27](/hebrews/11-24-27 "Hebrews 11:24-27 - Moses's Faith and Choice")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 2:14 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, reminding us that while zeal for God's purposes is commendable, acting outside of His timing and anointing can lead to unintended consequences and setbacks. It underscores the importance of patience, seeking divine guidance, and relying on God's strength rather than our own human cleverness or might. Moses's initial failure teaches us that true spiritual leadership is not self-appointed but divinely bestowed, requiring a process of humbling and preparation. Furthermore, the verse serves as a powerful reminder of accountability, illustrating that our actions, even those done in secret, have consequences and can ultimately be brought to light, urging us towards integrity and transparency in all aspects of life. Finally, Moses's subsequent period of fear and flight, leading to a long season of preparation in the wilderness, teaches us that God often uses adversity, humbling experiences, and periods of obscurity to refine and equip us for the greater responsibilities He has planned, shaping our character and deepening our reliance on Him. We are called to wait on the Lord, trust His process, and allow Him to mold us into the instruments He desires.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might you be acting out of human zeal or impatience rather than waiting for God's timing and anointing?**
* **How does the exposure of Moses's secret act challenge your understanding of accountability and integrity in your own life?**
* **Can you identify a period of "wilderness" or obscurity in your life that God used for your spiritual formation, similar to Moses's experience?**
* **What does this passage teach you about the nature of true leadership within God's kingdom?**

### FAQ
**Why was Moses's act of killing the Egyptian revealed, despite his efforts to hide it?**

Answer: The narrative in [Exodus 2:14](/exodus/2-14 "Exodus 2:14 - Moses Confronted by a Hebrew") demonstrates that despite Moses's attempt to conceal the body, the act was known among his own people. This serves as a powerful biblical illustration of the principle that hidden deeds, especially those involving serious transgressions, often come to light. It underscores the reality that nothing is truly hidden from God, and often, human actions have a way of being exposed, leading to natural consequences and divine accountability. This revelation was a crucial part of God's plan to humble Moses and prepare him for his true calling, as it forced him to confront the limits of his own strength and secrecy.

**Why did Moses flee Egypt instead of trusting God for protection?**

Answer: Moses's flight in [Exodus 2:15](/exodus/2-15 "Exodus 2:15 - Pharaoh Seeks to Kill Moses") was a direct response to fear, as he realized his secret was known and Pharaoh sought his life. At this stage in his life, Moses had not yet received his divine commission or the full revelation of God's power and presence that would later empower him. His actions were driven by human fear and self-preservation, reflecting a lack of the mature faith and divine reliance that would characterize his later leadership. His flight was a necessary part of God's sovereign plan to humble and prepare him over 40 years in the wilderness, stripping away his Egyptian identity and self-reliance to prepare him for a life of complete dependence on God.

**What is the significance of the Hebrew asking, "Who made thee a prince and a judge over us?"**

Answer: This question highlights the Hebrew's challenge to Moses's self-assumed authority. The terms "prince" (שַׂר, *sar*) and "judge" (שֹׁפֵט, *shofet*) signify legitimate leadership and judicial power. By asking this, the Hebrew points out that Moses had no official or divine mandate to intervene in their affairs. It underscores the theme that true leadership among God's people must stem from divine appointment and not from human initiative or zeal, no matter how well-intentioned. This challenge reveals the Israelites' skepticism and resistance to a leader not chosen or sanctioned by God, foreshadowing the challenges Moses would face even after his divine commissioning, as seen in [Exodus 5:21](/exodus/5-21 "Exodus 5:21 - The Israelites Blame Moses").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Moses's premature and flawed attempt at deliverance in [Exodus 2:14](/exodus/2-14 "Exodus 2:14 - Moses Confronted by a Hebrew") serves as a poignant foreshadowing of the need for a perfect Deliverer who would not act out of human zeal, fear, or self-appointed authority, but solely by divine appointment and power. Moses, though a significant type of Christ in his role as a mediator and deliverer, ultimately failed in his own strength, highlighting the insufficiency of human leadership and the absolute necessity of God's perfect timing and method. Jesus Christ, by contrast, is the truly appointed "Prince of Peace" ([Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Christ as Prince of Peace")) and the ultimate "Judge" ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Has Committed All Judgment to the Son")), whose authority is not self-assumed but divinely bestowed by the Father. His deliverance is not achieved through violence or hidden deeds, but through perfect obedience, sacrificial love on the cross, and the open triumph over sin and death, fulfilling the ultimate need for a deliverer who is both fully human and fully divine. Unlike Moses, who fled in fear, Jesus willingly laid down His life ([John 10:18](/john/10-18 "John 10:18 - Jesus Lays Down His Life Voluntarily")) and rose again, perfectly executing God's plan without flaw or fear, providing salvation for all who believe ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")).

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

Luke 12:14

And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?

Matthew 21:23

¶ And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?

Genesis 37:19

And they said one to another, Behold, this dreamer cometh.

Genesis 37:20

Come now therefore, and let us slay him, and cast him into some pit, and we will say, Some evil beast hath devoured him: and we shall see what will become of his dreams.

Genesis 19:9

And they said, Stand back. And they said [again], This one [fellow] came in to sojourn, and he will needs be a judge: now will we deal worse with thee, than with them. And they pressed sore upon the man, [even] Lot, and came near to break the door.

Luke 19:14

But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this [man] to reign over us.

Psalms 2:2

The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, [saying],