King James Version
Exodus 18:15 in the King James Version says “And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God:” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God:”
Exodus 18:15 · King James Version
And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to judge the people: and the people stood by Moses from the morning unto the evening.
And when Moses' father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?
And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God:
When they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another, and I do make them know the statutes of God, and his laws. one: Heb. a man and his fellow
And Moses' father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
“unto his father in law”
H2859to give (a daughter) away in marriage; hence (generally) to contract affinity by marriage
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“Because the people”
H5971a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
“unto me to enquire”
H1875properly, to tread or frequent; usually to follow (for pursuit or search); by implication, to seek or ask; specifically to worship
“of God”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Exodus 18:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Exodus 18:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge