Notable Sources
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Moses and the Well in MidianTANAKH
Moses and the Well in Midian
TANAKH
Moses' act of heroism and compassion in Midian reveals his innate sense of justice and leadership. In the book of Exodus, Moses flees to Midian, where he defends the daughters of the priest of Midian from aggressive shepherds and helps water their flock.
Moses' Integrity in MidianMIDRASH
Moses' Integrity in Midian
MIDRASH
Moses annulled his oath to Yitro in Midian to avoid suspicion of falsehood, emphasizing the importance of integrity. Midrash Shemot Rabbah, a medieval midrashic work on the book of Exodus, offers ethical and legal insights into Moses' return to Egypt and the status of his opponents.
Moses' Midianite MarriageCOMMENTARY
Moses' Midianite Marriage
COMMENTARY
Moses' marriage to a Midianite woman was a deliberate choice by the Torah, highlighting the complexities of his relationships and leadership. Rabbi Francis Nataf explores the significance of this union, especially given the enmity between Israel and Midian as noted in Numbers 25:16-18.
The Changing Dynamics Between Moses and JethroCOMMENTARY
The Changing Dynamics Between Moses and Jethro
COMMENTARY
The relationship between Moses and Jethro evolves, reflecting shifts in their mutual respect and status. Rashi, in his renowned 11th-century commentary on the Torah, provides insights into the changing dynamics between Moses and Jethro in his commentary on Exodus.
The Divine Encounter at the Burning BushCOMMENTARY
The Divine Encounter at the Burning Bush
COMMENTARY
Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush is a pivotal moment of divine revelation and mission in Jewish history. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, in his essays, delves into the profound significance of this encounter, exploring its implications for freedom, responsibility, and identity.
Divine Orchestration in MidianMUSAR
Divine Orchestration in Midian
MUSAR
Moses' flight to Midian and his encounter with Yitro's daughters were divinely orchestrated events. Rabbi Isaiah HaLevi Horowitz, in his 17th-century work Shenei Luchot HaBerit, interprets the biblical narrative to show how Moses' actions were part of a divine plan.
Divine Timing and ReassuranceCOMMENTARY
Divine Timing and Reassurance
COMMENTARY
Moses received divine reassurance to return to Egypt because those who sought his life had died. Rashbam, a medieval Jewish commentator known for his plain meaning approach, explains the significance of God's command to Moses in Exodus 4:19.
Moses' Flight to MidianSECOND TEMPLE
Moses' Flight to Midian
SECOND TEMPLE
Moses' escape from Egypt is a tale of courage and survival, marked by the Egyptians' hatred and the king's deadly intentions. Josephus, in his first-century historical work, provides a detailed account of Moses' perilous journey through the deserts to Midian.
A Stranger in a Foreign LandCOMMENTARY
A Stranger in a Foreign Land
COMMENTARY
Moses' naming of his son Gershom reveals his deep sense of alienation and self-reflection. This narrative from the Book of Exodus describes Moses' arrival in Midian, his marriage to Tzippora, and the naming of his son Gershom.