Exodus 4:20

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses {H4872} took {H3947} his wife {H802} and his sons {H1121}, and set {H7392} them upon an ass {H2543}, and he returned {H7725} to the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714}: and Moses {H4872} took {H3947} the rod {H4294} of God {H430} in his hand {H3027}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So Moshe took his wife and sons, put them on a donkey, and started out for Egypt. Moshe took God's staff in his hand.

Berean Standard Bible

So Moses took his wife and sons, put them on a donkey, and headed back to Egypt. And he took the staff of God in his hand.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 4:20 marks the pivotal moment of Moses' obedient departure from Midian, signifying his full acceptance of God's commission to deliver Israel from Egyptian bondage. This verse captures his practical preparations for the daunting mission: gathering his family—his wife and sons—and setting them upon an ass for the journey to Egypt, crucially taking the divinely empowered "rod of God" into his hand as the tangible symbol of God's authority and presence. It encapsulates Moses' transition from a hesitant shepherd to God's chosen leader, ready to confront Pharaoh and lead his people to freedom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows God's detailed and patient persuasion of Moses, who had expressed profound reluctance and self-doubt regarding his fitness for the divine mission. In [Exodus 3](/exodus/3 "Exodus 3 - The Burning Bush and Moses' Call") and [Exodus 4:1-17](/exodus/4-1-17 "Exodus 4:1-17 - Moses' Objections and God's Responses"), God addresses Moses' concerns about his credibility, his speaking ability, and the signs he would perform. He provides Moses with miraculous signs—the rod turning into a serpent, his hand becoming leprous, and water turning to blood—and assures him of Aaron's assistance as his spokesman. By [Exodus 4:18-19](/exodus/4-18-19 "Exodus 4:18-19 - Moses' Departure from Jethro"), Moses has obtained Jethro's permission to return to Egypt, and God reiterates the command, confirming the death of those who sought Moses' life. Thus, Exodus 4:20 serves as the narrative culmination of this divine commissioning, depicting Moses' concrete act of obedience and preparation for the monumental task ahead.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** For forty years, Moses had been living in self-imposed exile in [Midian](/exodus/2-15 "Exodus 2:15 - Moses Flees to Midian"), having fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian taskmaster ([Exodus 2:11-15](/exodus/2-11-15 "Exodus 2:11-15 - Moses Kills an Egyptian")). During this time, he had married Zipporah, the daughter of Jethro, a Midianite priest, and had two sons, Gershom and Eliezer. His life as a shepherd in the wilderness of Midian, particularly around Mount Horeb (Sinai), was a stark contrast to his upbringing in Pharaoh's court. The journey back to Egypt, a powerful empire of the ancient Near East, was not merely a physical relocation but a return to the very land from which he had fled, now as God's representative to confront its formidable ruler. Traveling by ass was a common and practical mode of transport for families in that era, signifying a deliberate and prepared journey rather than a hasty flight.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. It powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Calling and Obedience**, showing Moses' transition from reluctance to active submission to God's will, a pattern seen throughout biblical narratives where God calls and equips His chosen servants. The inclusion of the "rod of God" introduces the theme of **Divine Empowerment and Miraculous Intervention**, emphasizing that the coming deliverance will be achieved not by human might but by God's supernatural power working through His chosen instrument. Furthermore, Moses taking his family highlights the theme of **Integration of Family and Mission**, subtly suggesting that God's call, while demanding, often encompasses and impacts the entirety of one's life and household. This journey also marks the beginning of the **Deliverance Motif**, setting the stage for the dramatic confrontation between God's power and Pharaoh's oppression, leading to the liberation of Israel.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Exodus 4:20 provides a concise yet profound snapshot of Moses' obedient response to God's call, marking his transition from a shepherd in exile to the divinely appointed leader of Israel. The verse details his practical preparations for the journey back to Egypt, emphasizing both his personal commitment and the divine authority vested in him.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **took (Hebrew, _lâqach'_ - H3947):** This verb signifies "to take" in a broad sense, encompassing acquisition, reception, and seizure. In this context, it highlights Moses' deliberate and active engagement with his mission. He "took" his family, indicating a responsible gathering and preparation for a significant journey, and he "took" the rod, signifying his acceptance of the divine instrument and the authority it represented. It's not a passive reception but an active embracing of his new role and the tools provided for it.
* **rod (Hebrew, _maṭṭeh'_ - H4294):** While literally meaning a "branch" or "staff," this word carries significant figurative weight. It can denote a scepter (symbolizing rule), a weapon (for chastisement), or a support (for walking). Here, it is explicitly called the "rod of God," transforming it from an ordinary shepherd's staff into a potent symbol of divine authority and power. This "rod" is the very instrument God had used to perform miraculous signs before Moses ([Exodus 4:2-4](/exodus/4-2-4 "Exodus 4:2-4 - The Rod Becomes a Serpent")), signifying that the power to be wielded in Egypt originates solely from God, not from Moses himself.
* **hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_ - H3027):** This common word for "hand" often signifies power, means, direction, or agency. When Moses takes the rod "in his hand," it conveys more than just physical possession; it implies that the rod, and thus God's power, is now at his disposal, ready to be wielded. It is the instrument through which God's will is enacted. The "hand" here represents the active agency of Moses, empowered by God, to carry out the divine plan.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Moses took his wife and his sons":** This clause emphasizes Moses' commitment to his family even as he embarks on a national mission. It shows him fulfilling his domestic responsibilities, integrating his personal life with his divine calling. The inclusion of his family underscores the profound personal cost and commitment involved in God's service.
* **"and set them upon an ass":** This detail illustrates the practical logistics of their journey. Traveling by ass was a common and necessary mode of transport for families over long distances in that ancient context, indicating a prepared and deliberate expedition rather than a hasty escape. It speaks to Moses' methodical approach to the journey.
* **"and he returned to the land of Egypt":** This phrase marks a pivotal geographical and spiritual turning point. Moses, who had fled Egypt as a fugitive forty years prior, now returns as God's emissary. It signifies the end of his exile and the beginning of his divinely appointed mission to confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites to freedom.
* **"and Moses took the rod of God in his hand":** This final, crucial detail highlights the source of Moses' authority and power. The "rod of God" is not merely a shepherd's staff but a divinely consecrated instrument, signifying that Moses' mission and the miracles to follow would be accomplished by God's power, not his own. It is a tangible symbol of God's enabling presence and the authority He bestowed upon His servant.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Conciseness** and **Symbolism**. The narrative is remarkably concise, packing significant action and theological meaning into a single sentence. This brevity makes each detail stand out, especially the "rod of God." The **Symbolism** of the "rod of God" is paramount; it transforms an ordinary object into a powerful representation of divine authority, power, and presence. It serves as a visual and tangible reminder that Moses' mission is not of human origin but divinely ordained and empowered. The act of Moses taking the rod "in his hand" also carries symbolic weight, signifying his acceptance of this divine enablement and his readiness to act as God's agent.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 4:20 encapsulates Moses' decisive step of obedience, demonstrating that God's call, though met with initial human hesitation, ultimately demands and receives a faithful response. This act of returning to Egypt with his family and the "rod of God" highlights the divine equipping of those whom God calls, emphasizing that the success of the mission rests not on human ability but on God's power working through His chosen instruments. It sets the stage for the unfolding drama of deliverance, where God's sovereignty over all earthly powers will be powerfully displayed.

* [Genesis 12:1-4](/genesis/12-1-4 "Genesis 12:1-4 - The Call of Abraham"): Like Abraham, Moses responds to a divine call to leave a familiar place and embark on a journey of faith, demonstrating that God initiates and directs His redemptive plan through chosen individuals.
* [Joshua 1:9](/joshua/1-9 "Joshua 1:9 - God's Command to Joshua"): God's command to Joshua to "be strong and courageous" echoes the divine assurance given to Moses, reinforcing the theme that God empowers His servants for challenging tasks, urging them not to fear or be dismayed.
* [Isaiah 41:10](/isaiah/41-10 "Isaiah 41:10 - God's Promise of Help"): This prophetic promise, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand," perfectly encapsulates the divine assurance and empowerment Moses received, applicable to all who are called by God.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 4:20 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, serving as a powerful reminder that God's calling often requires a decisive step of obedience, even when the path ahead seems daunting or fraught with danger. Moses, despite his earlier arguments and self-doubt, ultimately takes action, demonstrating that true faith is expressed through movement and commitment. This verse encourages us to embrace our own divine commissions, trusting that God will provide the necessary resources and power, symbolized by the "rod of God," for whatever He calls us to do. It challenges us to rely not on our own strength or wisdom, but on God's enabling presence, understanding that He equips those He calls, transforming ordinary individuals and objects into instruments for extraordinary purposes. Furthermore, Moses' integration of his family into his mission subtly prompts us to consider how our spiritual callings intersect with our personal and familial responsibilities, seeking God's wisdom in balancing and sanctifying all aspects of our lives for His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Egypt" might God be calling you to return to or confront in your own life, requiring a step of obedience despite past fears or failures?**
* **What "rod of God"—what spiritual gift, resource, or divine enablement—has God placed in your hand for His purposes, and how are you actively taking hold of it?**
* **How can you better integrate your personal and family life into your divine calling, seeking God's guidance for a holistic approach to service?**

### FAQ
**Why did Moses take his family with him to Egypt, given the dangers?**

Answer: While the text does not explicitly state Moses' reasoning, his decision to take his family likely reflects his commitment to his domestic responsibilities and the understanding that his mission involved not just a temporary assignment but a new life for his family in the promised land. It also demonstrates his profound faith that God, who called him to this dangerous task, would also protect his household. This journey would, in fact, include a critical moment concerning his son's circumcision ([Exodus 4:24-26](/exodus/4-24-26 "Exodus 4:24-26 - The Circumcision at the Lodging Place")), highlighting the importance of covenant obedience within his family even amidst the grander national mission.

**What is the significance of the "rod of God" in Moses' hand?**

Answer: The "rod of God" is profoundly significant because it is no longer merely a shepherd's staff but a tangible symbol of God's power, authority, and enabling presence with Moses. It signifies that the miracles and judgments Moses would perform in Egypt—from the [plagues](/exodus/7-20 "Exodus 7:20 - The First Plague: Water to Blood") to the [parting of the Red Sea](/exodus/14-16 "Exodus 14:16 - Moses Parts the Red Sea")—would not be by his own might or magic, but by the power of God working through him. It served as a constant reminder to Moses, Pharaoh, and Israel that God Himself was orchestrating the deliverance, distinguishing Moses as God's appointed agent.

**Did Moses still have doubts or fears at this point, despite his obedience?**

Answer: Exodus 4:20 depicts Moses' act of obedience, showing he has moved past his initial, vocal hesitations and arguments with God documented in [Exodus 3](/exodus/3 "Exodus 3 - The Burning Bush and Moses' Call") and [Exodus 4:1-13](/exodus/4-1-13 "Exodus 4:1-13 - Moses' Objections and God's Responses"). While the verse itself doesn't explicitly state his emotional state, the act of taking his family and the rod signifies a resolute step of faith. It is common for even obedient servants of God to experience moments of fear or doubt, but this verse highlights his decisive action in moving forward with God's plan, demonstrating a profound trust in the divine commission he had received.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 4:20, depicting Moses as God's appointed deliverer returning to Egypt with the "rod of God," powerfully foreshadows the person and work of Jesus Christ, the ultimate Deliverer and Mediator. Moses, empowered by a symbolic divine instrument, serves as a type of Christ. While Moses carried a tangible rod of authority, Jesus Christ is the very embodiment of divine power and authority, needing no external object to demonstrate His dominion over creation, sin, and death. Moses' obedient journey to free Israel from physical bondage points to Christ's infinitely greater mission: His obedient journey from heaven to earth, culminating in His sacrificial death and resurrection, to free humanity from the spiritual bondage of sin and death. Just as Moses took the "rod of God" in his hand, Christ, the [Son of God](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), wields all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). His power is inherent, not delegated to an object, as He performs signs and wonders by His own divine nature ([John 2:11](/john/2-11 "John 2:11 - Jesus' First Miracle at Cana")). Moses' return to confront Pharaoh prefigures Christ's decisive victory over Satan, the spiritual oppressor, through His death and resurrection, leading His people to ultimate freedom and eternal life ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")).

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

Exodus 17:9

And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: to morrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in mine hand.

Numbers 20:8

Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.

Numbers 20:9

And Moses took the rod from before the LORD, as he commanded him.

Exodus 4:2

And the LORD said unto him, What [is] that in thine hand? And he said, A rod.

Numbers 20:11

And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts [also].

Exodus 18:3

And her two sons; of which the name of the one [was] Gershom; for he said, I have been an alien in a strange land:

Exodus 18:4

And the name of the other [was] Eliezer; for the God of my father, [said he, was] mine help, and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh: