King James Version

What Does Exodus 18:27 Mean?

Exodus 18:27 in the King James Version says “And Moses let his father in law depart; and he went his way into his own land.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Moses let his father in law depart; and he went his way into his own land.”

Exodus 18:27 · KJV

Context

25

And Moses chose able men out of all Israel, and made them heads over the people, rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens.

26

And they judged the people at all seasons: the hard causes they brought unto Moses, but every small matter they judged themselves.

27

And Moses let his father in law depart; and he went his way into his own land.

Read Exodus 18 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Moses let his father in law depart; and he went his way into his own land—Jethro's departure after giving counsel shows he came to help, not control. The verb 'let depart' (וַיְשַׁלַּח, vay'shalach, 'sent away') indicates Moses' releasing Jethro with honor. The phrase 'he went his way into his own land' shows Jethro returns to Midian—his mission complete. Numbers 10:29-32 records Moses later inviting Hobab (apparently Jethro's son or another name for Jethro) to stay as guide, suggesting warm relationship continued. Jethro's return despite witnessing impending Sinai revelation shows contentment with his role: give wisdom, then leave. This models healthy advisory relationships—counsel without controlling, help without hovering. Jethro doesn't demand permanent position or recognition; he serves and departs.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Jethro's departure before the Sinai covenant-making shows his role was preparatory, not participatory in Israel's covenant. His wisdom prepared Israel for what God would do, then he stepped aside.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does Jethro departing after counsel show about healthy advisory relationships?
  2. How does Jethro returning to Midian rather than joining Israel teach about fulfilling your calling without demanding others' callings?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וַיְשַׁלַּ֥ח1 of 8

“depart”

H7971

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

מֹשֶׁ֖ה2 of 8

“And Moses”

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

אֶת3 of 8
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

חֹֽתְנ֑וֹ4 of 8

“let his father in law”

H2859

to give (a daughter) away in marriage; hence (generally) to contract affinity by marriage

וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ5 of 8
H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

ל֖וֹ6 of 8

“and he went”

H3212

to walk (literally or figuratively); causatively, to carry (in various senses)

אֶל7 of 8
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

אַרְצֽוֹ׃8 of 8

“his way into his own land”

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Study Guide

Historical Context

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.

Theological Significance

Exodus 18:27 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 18:27 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 10:29-30Judges 19:9Genesis 31:55Genesis 24:59

Test Your Knowledge

Exodus 18 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterExodus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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