This verse from Exodus 18:15 is part of a larger narrative where Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, observes Moses tirelessly judging disputes among the Israelites. Here's a breakdown of the verse and its meaning within the context:
"Moses said to his father-in-law..." This sets the scene. Moses is explaining his actions to Jethro.
"...“Because the people come to me..." The people are actively seeking Moses out.
"...to inquire of God." This is the core of the verse. It means the people are coming to Moses to:
Seek guidance on matters of law and justice.
Understand God's will regarding their specific situations.
Receive a divine verdict or judgment on disputes.
In essence, the verse highlights Moses' role as an intermediary between God and the people. They see him as the person who can access God's wisdom and apply it to their daily lives.
Significance and Context:
Theocracy: The verse illustrates the theocratic nature of the Israelite society at this time. God was their ultimate ruler, and Moses was his representative, interpreting and applying God's laws.
Moses' Burden: It shows that Moses was carrying a heavy burden. He was constantly dealing with the people's problems and trying to discern God's will in each situation.
Jethro's Wisdom: This leads directly to Jethro's advice in the following verses. Jethro recognizes that Moses is overworking himself and suggests a more efficient system of delegating authority, which is considered a crucial development in Israelite governance.
In simple terms, the verse means that people went to Moses so that he could speak with God on their behalf and tell them what God's answer was to their problems and questions.
This verse from Exodus 18:15 is part of a larger narrative where Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, observes Moses tirelessly judging disputes among the Israelites. Here's a breakdown of the verse and its meaning within the context:
"Moses said to his father-in-law..." This sets the scene. Moses is explaining his actions to Jethro.
"...“Because the people come to me..." The people are actively seeking Moses out.
"...to inquire of God." This is the core of the verse. It means the people are coming to Moses to:
Seek guidance on matters of law and justice.
Understand God's will regarding their specific situations.
Receive a divine verdict or judgment on disputes.
In essence, the verse highlights Moses' role as an intermediary between God and the people. They see him as the person who can access God's wisdom and apply it to their daily lives.
Significance and Context:
Theocracy: The verse illustrates the theocratic nature of the Israelite society at this time. God was their ultimate ruler, and Moses was his representative, interpreting and applying God's laws.
Moses' Burden: It shows that Moses was carrying a heavy burden. He was constantly dealing with the people's problems and trying to discern God's will in each situation.
Jethro's Wisdom: This leads directly to Jethro's advice in the following verses. Jethro recognizes that Moses is overworking himself and suggests a more efficient system of delegating authority, which is considered a crucial development in Israelite governance.
In simple terms, the verse means that people went to Moses so that he could speak with God on their behalf and tell them what God's answer was to their problems and questions.