TRV
Translation
King James 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 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.
World English Bible Messianic
Moses went and returned to Jethro his father-in-law, and said to him, “Please let me go and return to my brothers who are in Egypt, and see whether they are still alive.” Jethro said to Moses, “Go in peace.”
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore Moses went and returned to Iethro his father in lawe, and said vnto him, I pray thee, let me goe, and returne to my brethren, which are in Egypt, and see whether they be yet aliue. Then Iethro said to Moses, Go in peace.
Young's Literal Translation
And Moses goeth and turneth back unto Jethro his father-in-law, and saith to him, `Let me go, I pray thee, and I turn back unto my brethren who are in Egypt, and I see whether they are yet alive.' And Jethro saith to Moses, `Go in peace.'
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Commentary on Exodus 4 verses 18–23
18 ¶ 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.
19 And the LORD said unto Moses in Midian, Go, return into Egypt: for all the men are dead which sought thy life.
20 And Moses took his wife and his sons, and set them upon an ass, and he returned to the land of Egypt: and Moses took the rod of God in his hand.
21 And the LORD said unto Moses, When thou goest to return into Egypt, see that thou do all those wonders before Pharaoh, which I have put in thine hand: but I will harden his heart, that he shall not let the people go.
22 And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn:
23 And I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn.
Here, I. Moses obtains leave of his father-in-law to return into Egypt, Exo 4:18. His father-in-law had been kind to him when he was a stranger, and therefore he would not be so uncivil as to leave his family, nor so unjust as to leave his service, without giving him notice. Note, The honour of being admitted into communion with God, and of being employed for him, does not exempt us from the duties of our relations and callings in this world. Moses said nothing to his father-in-law (for aught that appears) of the glorious manifestation of God to him; such favours we are to be thankful for to God, but not to boast of before men.
II. He receives from God further encouragements and directions in his work. After God had appeared to him in the bush to settle a correspondence, it should seem, he often spoke to him, as there was occasion, with less overwhelming solemnity. And, 1. He assures Moses that the coasts were clear. Whatever new enemies he might make by his undertaking, his old enemies were all dead, all that sought his life, Exo 4:19. Perhaps some secret fear of falling into their hands was at the bottom of Moses's backwardness to go to Egypt, though he was not willing to own it, but pleaded unworthiness, insufficiency, want of elocution, etc. Note, God knows all the temptations his people lie under, and how to arm them against their secret fears, Psa 142:3. 2. He orders him to do the miracles, not only before the elders of Israel, but before Pharaoh, Exo 4:21. There were some alive perhaps in the court of Pharaoh who remembered Moses when he was the son of Pharaoh's daughter, and had many a time called him a fool for deserting the honours of that relation; but he is now sent back to court, clad with greater powers than Pharaoh's daughter could have advanced him to, so that it might appear he was no loser by his choice: this wonder-working rod did more adorn the hand of Moses than the sceptre of Egypt could have done. Note, Those that look with contempt upon worldly honours shall be recompensed with the honour that cometh from God, which is the true honour. 3. That Pharaoh's obstinacy might be no surprise nor discouragement to him, God tells him before that he would harden his heart. Pharaoh had hardened his own heart against the groans and cries of the oppressed Israelites, and shut up the bowels of his compassion from them; and now God, in a way of righteous judgment, hardens his heart against the conviction of the miracles, and the terror of the plagues. Note, Ministers must expect with many to labour in vain: we must not think it strange if we meet with those who will not be wrought upon by the strongest arguments and fairest reasonings; yet our judgment is with the Lord. 4. Words are put into his mouth with which to address Pharaoh, Exo 4:22, Exo 4:23. God had promised him (Exo 4:12), I will teach thee what thou shalt say; and here he does teach him. (1.) He must deliver his message in the name of the great Jehovah: Thus saith the Lord; this is the first time that preface is used by any man which afterwards is used so frequently by all the prophets: whether Pharaoh will hear, or whether he will forbear, Moses must tell him, Thus saith the Lord. (2.) He must let Pharaoh know Israel's relation to God, and God's concern for Israel. Is Israel a servant? is he a home-born slave? Jer 2:14. "No, Israel is my son, my firstborn, precious in my sight, honourable, and dear to me, not to be thus insulted and abused." (3.) He must demand a discharge for them: "Let my son go; not only my servant whom thou hast no right to detain, but my son whose liberty and honour I am very jealous for. It is my son, my son that serves me, and therefore must be spared, must be pleaded for," Mal 3:17. (4.) He must threaten Pharaoh with the death of the first-born of Egypt, in case of a refusal: I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn. As men deal with God's people, let them expect to be themselves dealt with; with the froward he will wrestle.
III. Moses addresses himself to this expedition. When God had assured him (Exo 4:19) that the men were dead who sought his life, immediately it follows (Exo 4:20), he took his wife, and his sons, and set out for Egypt. Note, Though corruption may object much against the services God calls us to, yet grace will get the upper hand, and will be obedient to the heavenly vision.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 18–23. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Moses records a pivotal moment where Moses, having received his divine commission at the burning bush, takes the first tangible step towards fulfilling God's redemptive plan for Israel. With respectful deference to his father-in-law, Jethro, Moses requests permission to return to Egypt, ostensibly to check on his family, a request Jethro grants with a profound blessing of peace, thereby setting the immediate stage for the Exodus narrative to unfold.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse immediately follows the profound and transformative encounter between Moses and God at the burning bush, detailed in Exodus 3 and Exodus 4:1-17. In this preceding narrative, God reveals His sacred name, YHWH, and commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. Moses, however, raises a series of objections regarding his inadequacy, the people's unbelief, and his lack of eloquent speech. God patiently addresses each concern, providing signs, assurances, and even appointing Aaron as Moses' spokesman. Therefore, Exodus 4:18 marks a crucial transition from divine instruction and Moses' initial reluctance to his decisive action and obedience, signifying his acceptance of the formidable task ahead. It is the practical, human step taken after a profound spiritual encounter.
Historical & Cultural Context: Moses had spent forty years in Midian, having fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian (Exodus 2:11-15). During this time, he had integrated into Jethro's family, marrying his daughter Zipporah and becoming a shepherd. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the father-in-law (or patriarch) held significant authority within the extended family unit. Seeking permission from Jethro was not merely a courtesy but a culturally expected act of respect and submission to the head of the household, especially when contemplating a significant journey or departure. Midian was located in the Arabian Peninsula, east of the Gulf of Aqaba, a region known for its nomadic and semi-nomadic peoples. Moses' return to Egypt, a powerful, centralized empire, would have been a significant and potentially dangerous undertaking, making Jethro's blessing all the more meaningful in that cultural milieu.
Key Themes: Exodus 4:18 contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of Divine Commission and Human Obedience. Despite his earlier hesitations, Moses' action here demonstrates his growing obedience to God's call, a motif central to the narrative of Israel's liberation. Secondly, it underscores the theme of Respect for Authority and Relationships, as Moses honors his familial obligations to Jethro, even when under direct divine mandate. This illustrates that divine calling does not negate the importance of human prudence and social order. Thirdly, the verse subtly introduces the theme of Divine Providence, as Moses' seemingly mundane request for departure is part of God's larger, intricate plan for the deliverance of His people. Finally, Jethro's blessing of "peace" (shalom) introduces a significant theological concept, foreshadowing the ultimate peace and well-being God desires for His people, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative, from the covenant promises in Genesis 15:18 to the prophetic visions of peace in Isaiah 9:6-7.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices. Narrative Progression is evident as the text moves from Moses' spiritual encounter with God to his practical steps in preparation for the Exodus. The Dialogue between Moses and Jethro is concise yet highly significant, revealing Moses' respect and Jethro's blessing. There is a subtle use of Irony or Dramatic Irony in Moses' stated reason for going to Egypt ("to see whether they be yet alive"), as the reader knows the true, much grander purpose of his return is to deliver his people from slavery, not merely to check on their health. This also functions as a form of Diplomacy on Moses' part. Finally, Jethro's blessing, "Go in peace," carries deep Symbolism, as "peace" (shalom) in Hebrew encapsulates a holistic sense of well-being, wholeness, and divine favor, foreshadowing the ultimate peace and rest God intends for His people.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Moses' departure from Midian, marked by his respectful request and Jethro's blessing, serves as a powerful illustration of how divine calling intersects with human responsibility and wisdom. It demonstrates that obedience to God does not necessarily mean abandoning all human conventions or relationships. Rather, it often involves navigating them with prudence and respect. This moment highlights the importance of peaceful transitions and the power of a blessing, even from those outside the immediate covenant community, as God orchestrates circumstances for the fulfillment of His grand redemptive plan.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 4:18 offers profound lessons for believers navigating their own callings and transitions. Moses' example teaches us that even when we receive a clear divine mandate, it is wise and respectful to manage our earthly affairs responsibly and to honor those in authority over us, fostering good relationships rather than causing unnecessary disruption. His diplomatic approach to Jethro reminds us that prudence and wisdom are not antithetical to faith but can be instruments in God's hands. Every act of obedience, no matter how small or seemingly mundane, contributes to God's grand design. When we align our steps with God's will, even daunting paths can begin with a sense of peace and the blessing of those around us, much like Jethro's farewell to Moses. This verse encourages us to seek harmonious transitions in life, trusting that God will honor our respect for others as we pursue His purposes.
Questions for Reflection
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 responsibilities, but rather often calls us to integrate our faith with practical wisdom, as seen in Moses' respectful interaction with his father-in-law before embarking on his monumental mission to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
What is the significance of Jethro's blessing, "Go in peace"?
Answer: Jethro's blessing, "Go in peace," translates from the Hebrew word shalom (שָׁלוֹם), which is a comprehensive term meaning wholeness, well-being, prosperity, and harmony. It is far 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, signifying a harmonious departure and a wish for divine favor. The concept of shalom is deeply embedded in biblical theology, representing the flourishing life God intends for His people, as seen in the promises of peace found throughout the Old Testament.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Moses' obedient departure from Midian, sanctioned by Jethro's blessing, profoundly foreshadows the ultimate mission of Jesus Christ. Just as Moses was called by God to leave a settled life and embark on a perilous journey to deliver His people from physical bondage, so too did Jesus Christ, the greater Moses, leave the glory of heaven to enter a fallen world, fulfilling His divine commission to redeem humanity. Moses' act of seeking permission and receiving a blessing for his journey prefigures Christ's perfect obedience to the Father's will, an obedience that led Him to the cross and ultimately secured the eternal deliverance and shalom for all who believe. Christ's "going forth in peace" through His resurrection and ascension (John 14:27) signifies the completion of His redemptive work, not merely freeing a nation from physical slavery, but liberating all people from the spiritual bondage of sin and death, establishing a new covenant of peace with God (Ephesians 2:14-16). He is the true Lamb of God, whose sacrifice brings the ultimate peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).