King James Version
What Does Exodus 4:19 Mean?
“And the LORD said unto Moses in Midian, Go, return into Egypt: for all the men are dead which sought thy life.”
Context
17
And thou shalt take this rod in thine hand, wherewith thou shalt do signs.
18
And Moses went and returned to Jethro his father in law, and said unto him, Let me go, I pray thee, and return unto my brethren which are in Egypt, and see whether they be yet alive. And Jethro said to Moses, Go in peace. Jethro: Heb. Jether
19
And the LORD said unto Moses in Midian, Go, return into Egypt: for all the men are dead which sought thy life.
20
And Moses took his wife and his sons, and set them upon an ass, and he returned to the land of Egypt: and Moses took the rod of God in his hand.
21
And the LORD said unto Moses, When thou goest to return into Egypt, see that thou do all those wonders before Pharaoh, which I have put in thine hand: but I will harden his heart, that he shall not let the people go.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(19) **In Midian.**—Moses appears to have delayed his departure after he obtained permission to go from Jethro. Hence the address “Go, return,” which is peremptory.
**All the men which sought thy life.**—Not only the Pharaoh (Exodus 2:23), but the kindred of the murdered man, and the officials empowered by the Pharaoh to arrest Moses. As forty years had elapsed since the homicide, this is readily conceivable.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 4:19 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 4:19
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge