Zipporah, the wife of Moses and daughter of Jethro, played a pivotal yet understated role in the story of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt. As a Midianite, Zipporah came from a culture distinct from Moses’ Hebrew heritage, yet she embraced her role alongside him as he followed God’s call. Her courage, decisiveness, and support during critical moments reveal her influence on Moses’ life and mission, underscoring the vital contributions of those who work quietly in the background of God’s redemptive plan.
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Meeting Moses and Becoming His Wife
Zipporah first encountered Moses when he fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian who was mistreating a Hebrew slave. Arriving in Midian, Moses found himself at a well where he witnessed Zipporah and her sisters being harassed by shepherds as they attempted to water their father’s flocks. Moses intervened, defending them and ensuring they could complete their task (Exodus 2:15–17).
Impressed by Moses’ kindness and bravery, Jethro (also known as Reuel), the priest of Midian and Zipporah’s father, invited him to stay with their family. In time, Moses married Zipporah, marking the beginning of a partnership that would sustain him through years of exile. During this period, Zipporah bore Moses two sons: Gershom and Eliezer. Gershom’s name, meaning “a foreigner there,” reflected Moses’ life as a sojourner in Midian, while Eliezer’s name, meaning “My God is my helper,” acknowledged God’s deliverance and faithfulness (Exodus 18:3–4).
Zipporah’s Role in Moses’ Mission
Zipporah’s most significant act is recorded during Moses’ journey back to Egypt following God’s call at the burning bush. As Moses set out to obey God’s command to lead Israel out of bondage, a mysterious and critical event unfolded. God confronted Moses, seeking to kill him because he had neglected to circumcise his son, violating the covenant established with Abraham (Exodus 4:24–26).
Zipporah acted decisively, taking a flint knife and circumcising their son herself. Her swift action fulfilled the covenantal requirement and saved Moses’ life, allowing him to continue his God-ordained mission. Declaring, “Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me,” Zipporah acknowledged the covenant’s significance and her role in ensuring Moses’ obedience to God’s commands.
This incident underscores Zipporah’s spiritual insight and courage. Her willingness to intervene at such a crucial moment demonstrates her understanding of the gravity of the covenant and her commitment to supporting Moses’ divine calling, even at personal cost.
Complexities in Zipporah’s Journey
Zipporah’s journey with Moses was not without its challenges. While she initially accompanied him to Egypt, it appears that she and her sons later returned to Midian, remaining under Jethro’s care during the tumultuous period of Moses’ confrontation with Pharaoh and the plagues (Exodus 18:2–4).
Their separation may reflect the dangers and hardships of Moses’ mission or practical considerations for the safety of his family. Zipporah and her sons later reunited with Moses in the wilderness when Jethro brought them to him after the Exodus (Exodus 18:5–6). This reunion suggests Zipporah’s enduring support and her continued role in Moses’ life during Israel’s formative period as a nation.
Zipporah’s Legacy and Significance
Though her story is brief, Zipporah’s influence on Moses and her role in God’s plan are profound. Her decisive actions during the circumcision episode demonstrated her spiritual insight, courage, and commitment to ensuring Moses’ readiness to lead Israel.
Zipporah’s presence provided stability and support during Moses’ formative years as a leader, and her actions reflected the critical role of those who work quietly yet significantly in God’s redemptive plan. Her legacy is one of quiet strength, resilience, and unwavering loyalty, reminding us that even seemingly small acts of faith and obedience can have lasting impacts on God’s purposes.
Spiritual Lessons from Zipporah’s Life
Zipporah’s life offers valuable lessons for believers today:
- Courage in Crisis: Zipporah’s swift intervention during the circumcision episode underscores the importance of courage and decisiveness in moments of spiritual and physical danger.
- Obedience to God’s Commands: Her actions emphasize the necessity of obedience to God’s covenant, even when it requires personal sacrifice or discomfort.
- Support in Leadership: Zipporah’s role as Moses’ wife highlights the vital contributions of those who support and sustain leaders in their calling.
- God’s Use of Diverse People: As a Midianite, Zipporah’s inclusion in the story reflects God’s ability to work through individuals from diverse backgrounds to fulfill His purposes.
Zipporah’s story encourages believers to trust in God’s sovereignty, act with faith and courage, and recognize the significance of roles that may seem hidden but are integral to His plans.
Conclusion
Zipporah, the wife of Moses and daughter of Jethro, played a crucial yet understated role in the story of Israel’s deliverance. Her courage, spiritual insight, and commitment to Moses were vital during key moments of his journey to fulfill God’s calling.
Though much of her life remains in the background, Zipporah’s legacy serves as a powerful example of quiet strength and faithful support. Her story reminds us of the importance of obedience to God’s commands and the value of those who contribute to His work in ways that may not always be seen but are no less significant.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
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