This verse from Exodus 2:13 describes an encounter Moses (though unnamed here) has after he has already killed an Egyptian overseer. Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
"He went out the second day...": This means that on the day following his previous action (killing the Egyptian), Moses went out again to observe his fellow Hebrews.
"...and behold, two men of the Hebrews were fighting with each other.": This shows the internal conflict within the Israelite community. Instead of just being oppressed by the Egyptians, they were also engaging in disputes amongst themselves. This highlights the complex social dynamics and the potential for internal division even amongst a group facing shared hardship.
"He said to him who did the wrong...": This indicates that Moses quickly assessed the situation and determined who was the aggressor or at fault. This demonstrates his inclination towards justice and fairness.
"...“Why do you strike your fellow?”": This is the key part. Moses's question challenges the man's behavior. It's a direct accusation that he is wronging a member of his own community. The phrase "your fellow" emphasizes the shared identity and kinship that should prevent such violence. It implies a sense of responsibility and solidarity that the man is violating.
In essence, this verse is a turning point in the Exodus narrative. It demonstrates Moses's concern for his people, his ability to discern right from wrong, and his willingness to intervene in their affairs. However, it also hints at the difficulties he will face in leading a people prone to internal conflict and challenges his authority. This intervention, as the following verses show, does not go as planned for Moses.
This verse from Exodus 2:13 describes an encounter Moses (though unnamed here) has after he has already killed an Egyptian overseer. Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
"He went out the second day...": This means that on the day following his previous action (killing the Egyptian), Moses went out again to observe his fellow Hebrews.
"...and behold, two men of the Hebrews were fighting with each other.": This shows the internal conflict within the Israelite community. Instead of just being oppressed by the Egyptians, they were also engaging in disputes amongst themselves. This highlights the complex social dynamics and the potential for internal division even amongst a group facing shared hardship.
"He said to him who did the wrong...": This indicates that Moses quickly assessed the situation and determined who was the aggressor or at fault. This demonstrates his inclination towards justice and fairness.
"...“Why do you strike your fellow?”": This is the key part. Moses's question challenges the man's behavior. It's a direct accusation that he is wronging a member of his own community. The phrase "your fellow" emphasizes the shared identity and kinship that should prevent such violence. It implies a sense of responsibility and solidarity that the man is violating.
In essence, this verse is a turning point in the Exodus narrative. It demonstrates Moses's concern for his people, his ability to discern right from wrong, and his willingness to intervene in their affairs. However, it also hints at the difficulties he will face in leading a people prone to internal conflict and challenges his authority. This intervention, as the following verses show, does not go as planned for Moses.