King James Version
Exodus 18:17 in the King James Version says “And Moses' father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And Moses' father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good.”
Exodus 18:17 · KJV
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.
Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone. Thou wilt: Heb. Fading thou wilt fade
Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to God-ward , that thou mayest bring the causes unto God:
KJV Study — Public Domain
“father in law”
H2859to give (a daughter) away in marriage; hence (generally) to contract affinity by marriage
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“is not good”
H2896good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
“unto him The thing”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
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 18:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.