Book of Exodus - Chapter 18 - Verse 3

The verse "And her two sons; of which the name of the one was Gershom; for he said, I have been an alien in a strange land:" comes from the book of Exodus in the Old Testament. This verse describes the naming of one of Moses' sons, Gershom. The name Gershom means "an alien there" or "a sojourner there," reflecting the time when Moses was living in a foreign land as a stranger. This verse is significant as it highlights the experience of displacement and alienation that Moses felt during his years away from his homeland. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those living in unfamiliar surroundings and the sense of not belonging. The naming of Gershom serves as a symbol of Moses' journey and his connection to both his past and his present, showing that even in times of uncertainty, there can be a sense of identity and purpose.

When examining the theological interpretation of Exodus 2:22, where Moses names his son Gershom because he felt like an alien in a strange land, we can uncover several layers of meaning. The act of naming a child in the Bible often carries great significance, reflecting the circumstances of the child's birth or the parent's state of mind. In this case, Moses' choice of the name Gershom not only serves as a reminder of his own experience as a foreigner in Egypt but also foreshadows the Israelites' future journey as strangers in a foreign land during their exodus from Egypt. The term "alien" also carries theological implications, reminding us of the biblical themes of displacement, exile, and the ultimate homecoming in the Promised Land. Furthermore, the concept of being a stranger in a foreign land can symbolize the believer's journey through this world as they await their true home in heaven, emphasizing the transient nature of our earthly existence.