Exodus 18:6 - Father-in-law reunites with Moshe

Exodus 18:6 - שמות 18:6

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר אֶל־מֹשֶׁה אֲנִי חֹתֶנְךָ יִתְרוֹ בָּא אֵלֶיךָ וְאִשְׁתְּךָ וּשְׁנֵי בָנֶיהָ עִמָּהּ׃

English Translation

and he said to Moshe, I thy father in law Yitro am come to thee, and thy wife, and her two sons with her.

Transliteration

Va'yomer el-Moshe ani chotencha Yitro ba elecha ve'ishtecha ushnei vaneha imah.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּ֙אמֶר֙ אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה אֲנִ֛י חֹתֶנְךָ֥ יִתְר֖וֹ בָּ֣א אֵלֶ֑יךָ וְאִ֨שְׁתְּךָ֔ וּשְׁנֵ֥י בָנֶ֖יהָ עִמָּֽהּ׃

Parasha Commentary

Introduction to the Verse

The verse (Shemot 18:6) describes Yitro (Jethro), Moshe's father-in-law, announcing his arrival to Moshe along with Moshe's wife, Tzipporah, and their two sons. This event occurs after the Exodus from Egypt and before the giving of the Torah at Har Sinai. The verse is significant in setting the stage for Yitro's subsequent advice to Moshe regarding the judicial system (Shemot 18:13-26).

Yitro's Title: "Chotencha" (Your Father-in-Law)

Rashi notes that Yitro introduces himself as "חֹתֶנְךָ" (your father-in-law) rather than by his name, Yitro. This emphasizes the familial relationship, suggesting that Yitro came not just as a visitor but as a concerned relative. The Midrash (Mechilta) adds that Yitro wanted to strengthen his bond with Moshe and the Jewish people, demonstrating his commitment to their cause.

The Arrival of Tzipporah and Her Sons

The verse mentions that Tzipporah and her two sons accompanied Yitro. Ramban explains that Moshe had sent his family back to Midian during the turmoil of the Exodus and the subsequent battles (e.g., against Amalek). Now that the situation had stabilized, Yitro brought them to rejoin Moshe. The Talmud (Zevachim 102a) discusses why Tzipporah is referred to as "אִשְׁתְּךָ" (your wife) rather than by name, highlighting the respect due to Moshe's household.

The Significance of "Her Two Sons"

The phrasing "וּשְׁנֵי בָנֶיהָ" (and her two sons) rather than "your sons" is addressed by Rashi, who explains that the Torah emphasizes Tzipporah's role in raising them during Moshe's absence. The Midrash Tanchuma adds that this wording hints at the unique upbringing of Gershom and Eliezer, who were raised primarily by their mother in Midian while Moshe was leading Bnei Yisrael.

Yitro's Timing and Purpose

Ibn Ezra suggests that Yitro's arrival was divinely timed to precede Matan Torah, allowing him to witness the greatness of Hashem and the Jewish people. The Sforno adds that Yitro's presence also served as a moral support for Moshe before the monumental event of receiving the Torah.

  • Rashi: Focuses on the familial aspect of Yitro's introduction.
  • Ramban: Explains the historical context of Tzipporah's return.
  • Midrash Tanchuma: Highlights Tzipporah's role in raising her sons.
  • Ibn Ezra and Sforno: Discuss the divine timing of Yitro's visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is Yitro (Jethro) in the Torah?
A: Yitro (Jethro) was Moshe's (Moses') father-in-law and a priest of Midian. He is known for giving Moshe wise advice about setting up a judicial system (Exodus 18:13-26). The Talmud (Sanhedrin 94a) praises Yitro for recognizing Hashem's greatness.
Q: Why did Yitro bring Moshe's wife and sons back to him?
A: Rashi explains (on Exodus 18:2) that Moshe had sent his wife Tzipporah and their two sons back to Midian before confronting Pharaoh. Now that Bnei Yisrael were safely out of Egypt, Yitro brought them back to reunite the family.
Q: What is the significance of Yitro coming to Moshe?
A: This visit marks an important moment where Yitro, a non-Jewish leader, acknowledges Hashem's miracles (Exodus 18:11). The Midrash (Mechilta) sees this as showing that Torah wisdom can influence all people. Yitro's arrival also leads to improvements in how Moshe leads the nation.
Q: Why does the Torah mention Moshe's two sons specifically?
A: The two sons, Gershom and Eliezer (Exodus 18:3-4), represent important aspects of Moshe's life. Rashi explains their names commemorate Moshe's experiences: Gershom means 'a stranger there' (referring to Moshe's time in Midian), and Eliezer means 'my G-d helped' (thanking Hashem for saving him from Pharaoh).
Q: How does this reunion teach us about family values in Judaism?
A: The Torah shows that even while leading the Jewish people, Moshe made time for family. Rambam (Hilchos De'os 6:7) teaches that maintaining proper family relationships is fundamental. This reunion demonstrates balancing communal responsibilities with family obligations.

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