Exodus 4:18

KJV

¶ And Moses went and returned to Jethro his father in law, and said unto him, Let me go, I pray thee, and return unto my brethren which [are] in Egypt, and see whether they be yet alive. And Jethro said to Moses, Go in peace.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses {H4872} went {H3212} and returned {H7725} to Jethro {H3500} his father in law {H2859}, and said {H559} unto him, Let me go {H3212}, I pray thee, and return {H7725} unto my brethren {H251} which are in Egypt {H4714}, and see {H7200} whether they be yet {H5750} alive {H2416}. And Jethro {H3503} said {H559} to Moses {H4872}, Go {H3212} in peace {H7965}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe left, returned to Yitro his father-in-law and said to him, "I beg you to let me go and return to my kinsmen in Egypt, to see if they are still alive." Yitro said to Moshe, "Go in peace."

Berean Standard Bible

Then Moses went back to his father-in-law Jethro and said to him, “Please let me return to my brothers in Egypt to see if they are still alive.” “Go in peace,” Jethro replied.

American Standard Version

And Moses went and returned to Jethro his father-in-law, and said unto him, Let me go, I pray thee, and return unto my brethren that are in Egypt, and see whether they be yet alive. And Jethro said to Moses, Go in peace.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
[Exodus 4:18](/exodus/4-18 "Moses' Departure from Midian") marks Moses' first tangible step in obedience to God's divine commission. Following his encounter at the burning bush, Moses respectfully seeks permission from his father-in-law, Jethro, to return to Egypt under the guise of checking on his family, a request Jethro grants with a blessing of peace, setting the stage for the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

### CONTEXT
This verse immediately follows a profound and transformative encounter between Moses and God at the burning bush, where God revealed His name and commissioned Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage ([Exodus 3:10](/exodus/3-10 "God's call to Moses")). Despite Moses' initial hesitations, objections, and pleas for another to be sent ([Exodus 4:1-17](/exodus/4-1 "Moses' initial doubts and arguments with God")), this verse shows his decisive shift from debate to action. His request to Jethro, framed as a desire to ascertain the well-being of his kin, demonstrates both his prudence in handling personal affairs and his respect for established familial authority, even as he embarks on a divinely mandated mission.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
[Exodus 4:18](/exodus/4-18 "Moses' Departure from Midian") begins with a simple yet profound statement of action: "And Moses went and returned to Jethro his father in law." This phrase signifies Moses' immediate and obedient response to God's detailed instructions and assurances. After a period of profound spiritual revelation and wrestling with his calling, Moses does not delay but takes the practical steps necessary to fulfill his divine mandate.

Moses then addresses Jethro, saying, "Let me go, I pray thee, and return unto my brethren which [are] in Egypt, and see whether they be yet alive." This request highlights several important aspects. First, Moses' deferential language ("I pray thee") underscores his respect for Jethro's authority as his father-in-law and the head of the household. This demonstrates a commitment to human relationships and proper social conduct, even when under direct divine guidance. Second, his stated reason for returning—to "see whether they be yet alive"—is a natural and understandable human concern. While God's true purpose for Moses' return was the liberation of Israel, Moses' humble explanation for his departure serves as a wise and diplomatic approach, avoiding unnecessary conflict or suspicion. It allows him to transition smoothly from his life in Midian to his new, monumental task.

Jethro's response is equally significant: "And Jethro said to Moses, Go in peace." This concise blessing signifies Jethro's acceptance and approval of Moses' departure. It is not merely a permission but a benediction, ensuring a harmonious transition for Moses as he embarks on his challenging journey. **The Meaning of "Go in Peace"**: The phrase "Go in peace" translates from the Hebrew word *shalom* (שָׁלוֹם), which is far richer than a simple farewell. *Shalom* encompasses concepts of wholeness, completeness, well-being, prosperity, harmony, and the absence of conflict. Jethro's blessing is therefore a comprehensive wish for Moses' safety, success, and overall welfare on his journey and the mission that lies ahead, reflecting a deep blessing for his future endeavors. This blessing from Jethro, a priest of Midian, may also carry a spiritual weight, acknowledging the divine hand at work, even if its full scope was not yet apparent to him. For other uses of *shalom*, see [Judges 18:6](/judges/18-6 "Meaning of Shalom") or [1 Samuel 1:17](/1_samuel/1-17 "Elkanah's blessing to Hannah").

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
* **Obedience to Divine Calling**: Moses' immediate action after God's command signifies his growing obedience and willingness to step into his divinely appointed role, marking the transition from divine instruction to human initiation.
* **Respect for Authority and Relationships**: By seeking Jethro's permission, Moses demonstrates deference to his father-in-law, highlighting the importance of respecting established human relationships and authority, even when under direct divine guidance.
* **Divine Providence and Human Prudence**: Moses' stated reason for returning, though a natural concern, also serves as a diplomatic explanation for his departure, aligning with God's broader plan for His people. This illustrates how God works through human prudence and natural circumstances.
* **The Significance of _Shalom_**: Jethro's blessing of "Go in peace" (shalom) is more than a simple farewell; it is a profound wish for wholeness, well-being, and divine favor, underscoring the spiritual nature of Moses' journey.
* **Peaceful Transitions**: The harmonious departure from Midian, facilitated by Jethro's blessing, is crucial for Moses as he embarks on a challenging mission, symbolizing the peace that can accompany steps taken in alignment with God's will.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Exodus 4:18](/exodus/4-18 "Moses' Departure from Midian") offers timeless lessons for believers today. Even when called by God to a significant work, it is wise to handle earthly affairs responsibly and respectfully, as Moses did not abruptly abandon his family or responsibilities. There is value in seeking the blessing or respectful permission of those in authority over us, fostering good relationships and a peaceful transition into new phases of life. Moses' obedience, though seemingly a small step in this verse, is a critical piece in God's much larger plan for the [deliverance of Israel from Egypt](/exodus/12-31 "The Exodus from Egypt"), reminding us that every act of obedience, no matter how small, contributes to God's grand design. When we are aligned with God's will, even challenging paths can begin with a sense of peace and blessing from those around us, much like Jethro's farewell to Moses.

### FAQ
**Why did Moses ask Jethro for permission if God had already commanded him?**

Answer: Moses' request to Jethro demonstrates wisdom, respect, and prudence. While God's command was absolute, Moses still operated within the social and familial structures of his time. Seeking Jethro's permission honored his father-in-law's authority and ensured a peaceful, orderly departure, avoiding unnecessary conflict or suspicion. It shows that divine calling does not negate the importance of human relationships and and responsibilities.

**What is the significance of Jethro's blessing, "Go in peace"?**

Answer: Jethro's blessing, "Go in peace," translates from the Hebrew word *shalom*, which is a comprehensive term meaning wholeness, well-being, prosperity, and harmony. It is more than a simple farewell; it is a profound benediction for Moses' safety, success, and overall welfare on his journey. This blessing from a respected figure like Jethro would have provided spiritual encouragement and validation for Moses as he embarked on a daunting mission.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Moses' departure from Midian, blessed by Jethro, foreshadows the ultimate mission of Christ. Just as Moses was called by God to leave a comfortable life and embark on a perilous journey to deliver His people, so too did Jesus Christ leave the glory of heaven to enter a fallen world, fulfilling His divine commission to redeem humanity. Moses' obedience and his peaceful, blessed departure prefigure Christ's perfect obedience to the Father's will, even unto death, and His ultimate "going forth in peace" through His resurrection and ascension, securing the eternal deliverance and *shalom* for all who believe. Christ is the greater deliverer, whose mission was not merely to free a nation from physical bondage, but to liberate all people from the spiritual bondage of sin and 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.