Exodus 2:21

KJV

And Moses was content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses {H4872} was content {H2974} to dwell {H3427} with the man {H376}: and he gave {H5414} Moses {H4872} Zipporah {H6855} his daughter {H1323}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe was glad to stay on with the man, and he gave Moshe his daughter Tzipporah in marriage.

Berean Standard Bible

Moses agreed to stay with the man, and he gave his daughter Zipporah to Moses in marriage.

American Standard Version

And Moses was content to dwell with the man: and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 2:21 marks a pivotal moment in Moses' life, detailing his decision to settle in Midian and the establishment of his new family. After fleeing Egypt, Moses finds refuge and purpose in the household of Reuel, the priest of Midian, where he willingly agrees to dwell. This contentment leads to Reuel giving his daughter, Zipporah, to Moses in marriage, cementing his place within the Midianite community and initiating a crucial period of preparation for his divine calling.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 2:21 follows immediately after Moses' dramatic flight from Egypt, precipitated by his killing of an Egyptian and the subsequent discovery of this act by Pharaoh. Verses 15-20 describe Moses' arrival in Midian, his encounter with Reuel's seven daughters at a well, and his courageous intervention to protect them from hostile shepherds. His kindness and strength impressed Reuel, who, upon hearing of Moses' actions, invited him into his home. This verse, therefore, signifies the culmination of this initial interaction, transitioning Moses from a fugitive seeking temporary refuge to a settled member of a new household and community. It sets the stage for the next forty years of Moses' life, a period of quiet preparation before his encounter with God at the burning bush in [Exodus 3](/exodus/3 "Exodus 3 - The Burning Bush").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Midian was a region east of the Gulf of Aqaba, inhabited by nomadic or semi-nomadic tribes, possibly related to Abraham through Keturah ([Genesis 25:1-2](/genesis/25-1-2 "Genesis 25:1-2 - Abraham's Descendants through Keturah")). The practice of a man being welcomed into a family and marrying a daughter as a sign of acceptance and integration was common in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Reuel, identified as a "priest of Midian," suggests a respected tribal leader who also held religious authority, indicating the spiritual and social standing of the family Moses was joining. Moses' transition from the sophisticated, polytheistic court of Egypt to the simpler, possibly monotheistic or henotheistic, pastoral life in Midian would have been a profound cultural shift, shaping his understanding of God and leadership.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Exodus. It highlights **Divine Providence**, demonstrating God's unseen hand guiding Moses to a safe haven and providing for his needs, even in exile, preparing him for his future role as Israel's deliverer. The theme of **Preparation and Formation** is central, as Moses' forty years in Midian as a shepherd, a seemingly ordinary existence, would hone the patience, humility, and leadership skills necessary to shepherd a rebellious nation through the wilderness. Furthermore, it introduces the theme of **New Beginnings** for Moses, signifying a fresh start after a traumatic past, and foreshadows God's faithfulness in establishing new covenants and relationships, as seen later with Israel at Sinai [Exodus 19](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - Israel at Mount Sinai").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **content (Hebrew, _yâʼal'_):** From H2974, this word signifies more than passive acceptance; it denotes a willingness, a positive assent, or even an undertaking as an act of volition. Moses was not merely resigned but actively pleased or willing to settle. This suggests a deep sense of peace and acceptance of his new circumstances, a stark contrast to his tumultuous past and flight from Egypt. It implies a conscious decision to embrace the stability offered by Reuel's household.
* **dwell (Hebrew, _yâshab'_):** From H3427, this root means "to sit down," "to remain," or "to inhabit." In this context, it implies settling permanently, establishing a home, and becoming a resident. Coupled with "content," it indicates a profound sense of belonging and the formation of roots in Midian, signifying a long-term commitment rather than a temporary stay. It also carries the nuance of "marrying," which is fulfilled in the latter part of the verse.
* **gave (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** From H5414, this is a very broad verb meaning "to give," "to put," or "to place." Here, it specifically refers to the act of giving a daughter in marriage, a formal and binding arrangement in ancient Near Eastern culture. This act by Reuel signifies the complete acceptance of Moses into his family and the establishment of a formal covenant relationship through marriage.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Moses was content to dwell with the man":** This clause reveals Moses' emotional and practical state. After his dramatic flight from Egypt and the uncertainty of his future, Moses finds a measure of peace, security, and belonging in Reuel's household. The term "content" (Hebrew, _yâʼal'_) implies a willing and agreeable disposition, suggesting that Moses actively chose to embrace this new life. His decision to "dwell" (Hebrew, _yâshab'_) signifies a commitment to settle down and establish roots, moving beyond his status as a mere refugee. "The man" refers to Reuel, the priest of Midian, who had welcomed Moses into his home after the incident at the well.
* **"and he gave Moses Zipporah his daughter":** This second clause describes the formalization of Moses' integration into Reuel's family through marriage. Reuel, in an act of hospitality and perhaps recognition of Moses' character and assistance, bestowed his daughter Zipporah upon Moses. This act of "giving" (Hebrew, _nâthan'_) signifies a binding marital covenant, solidifying Moses' new identity and place within the Midianite community. This union with Zipporah would become foundational for Moses' personal life and would later play a significant role in his return to Egypt ([Exodus 4:24-26](/exodus/4-24-26 "Exodus 4:24-26 - Zipporah Saves Moses")).

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Narrative Progression** to mark a significant turning point in Moses' life, moving him from a state of flight and uncertainty to one of stability and integration. The use of **Contrast** is implicit, juxtaposing Moses' former life as an Egyptian prince and his recent traumatic escape with the newfound peace and domesticity in Midian. This shift highlights God's **Providence**, subtly indicating His unseen hand guiding Moses to this specific place and family for future purposes. The naming of **Zipporah** introduces a new character who will play a role in the unfolding narrative, contributing to the development of Moses' personal story.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 2:21 powerfully illustrates God's sovereign care and meticulous preparation of His chosen instruments. Even in what appears to be a period of exile and obscurity, God is actively at work, shaping Moses' character, providing for his needs, and establishing the foundational relationships necessary for his future leadership. Moses' contentment in Midian demonstrates the spiritual principle of finding peace and purpose in God's present provision, even when it deviates from human expectations or previous life experiences. This period of quiet, domestic life, far from the grandeur of Pharaoh's court, served as a crucial training ground, teaching Moses humility, patience, and the practical skills of shepherding, which would prove invaluable in leading the Israelites through the wilderness.

* [Psalm 37:23-24](/psalms/37-23-24 "Psalm 37:23-24 - The Steps of a Good Man")
* [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "Proverbs 16:9 - Man Plans His Way, God Directs His Steps")
* [Philippians 4:11-13](/philippians/4-11-13 "Philippians 4:11-13 - Contentment in All Circumstances")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 2:21 offers profound lessons for believers navigating seasons of transition, waiting, or apparent insignificance. Moses' journey reminds us that God's preparation often occurs in unexpected places and through seemingly ordinary circumstances. We are encouraged to cultivate a spirit of contentment and trust in God's sovereign plan, even when our lives take unforeseen turns or when our current circumstances seem far removed from our aspirations. This verse challenges us to embrace the present moment, recognizing that God is always at work, shaping our character and preparing us for His purposes, even in periods of quiet obscurity. It also underscores the divine provision of community and relationships, reminding us to cherish those God brings into our lives as sources of support, growth, and stability.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you struggling to find contentment, and how might Moses' example encourage you to trust God's provision in your current circumstances?**
* **How has God used unexpected seasons or seemingly insignificant roles in your life to prepare you for greater purposes?**
* **What new relationships or communities has God brought into your life, and how might they be part of His divine plan for your growth and service?**

### FAQ
**Who was "the man" Moses was content to dwell with?**

Answer: "The man" refers to Reuel, also known as Jethro, the priest of Midian and father of Zipporah. He is first identified as Reuel in [Exodus 2:18](/exodus/2-18 "Exodus 2:18 - Reuel, the Priest of Midian"), and later, he is predominantly referred to as Jethro, particularly when he advises Moses on judicial matters in [Exodus 18](/exodus/18 "Exodus 18 - Jethro's Counsel to Moses").

**Why was Moses "content" to dwell in Midian after being a prince in Egypt?**

Answer: Moses' contentment (Hebrew, _yâʼal'_) was a profound shift from his previous life. After fleeing Egypt as a fugitive, fearing for his life following his act of defending an Israelite ([Exodus 2:11-15](/exodus/2-11-15 "Exodus 2:11-15 - Moses Flees Egypt")), finding a safe haven, a welcoming family, and a sense of belonging in Reuel's household offered immense peace and stability. This new, simpler existence provided a much-needed respite and a foundation for a new chapter, allowing him to willingly embrace his new circumstances, far from the dangers and pressures of Pharaoh's court.

**What is the significance of Moses marrying Zipporah?**

Answer: The marriage to Zipporah was profoundly significant. It formally integrated Moses into the Midianite community, providing him with a family and a home for the next forty years. This union was not merely a social arrangement but part of God's sovereign plan, establishing a domestic foundation for Moses and preparing him through the quiet, humble work of shepherding for his future role as the leader of Israel. Zipporah herself would later play a crucial, life-saving role during Moses' return to Egypt ([Exodus 4:24-26](/exodus/4-24-26 "Exodus 4:24-26 - Zipporah Intervenes to Save Moses")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Moses' journey in Exodus 2:21, marked by a period of exile, humble service, and the establishment of a new family in a foreign land, profoundly foreshadows aspects of Christ's life and redemptive work. Just as Moses, a deliverer, was rejected by his own people and found refuge outside the familiar, so too Christ "came to His own, and His own did not receive Him" ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - Christ's Rejection")). Yet, in His "hidden years" and humble beginnings in Nazareth, Jesus was being prepared for His ultimate mission, much like Moses' forty years in Midian honed him for leadership. Furthermore, Moses' new family with Zipporah in Midian can be seen as a beautiful type of the new spiritual family, the Church, that Christ establishes through His redemptive work. Through faith in Him, believers from every tribe and nation are brought into a new covenant relationship with God, transcending earthly distinctions ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Jew or Gentile in Christ")). In Christ, we find true contentment, not in earthly circumstances, but in our secure identity as children of God, members of His eternal household, and co-heirs with Him ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")).

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

Hebrews 13:5

[Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

Genesis 31:38

This twenty years [have] I [been] with thee; thy ewes and thy she goats have not cast their young, and the rams of thy flock have I not eaten.

Genesis 31:40

[Thus] I was; in the day the drought consumed me, and the frost by night; and my sleep departed from mine eyes.

Philippians 4:11

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content.

Philippians 4:12

I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

Hebrews 11:25

Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;

Exodus 18:2

Then Jethro, Moses' father in law, took Zipporah, Moses' wife, after he had sent her back,