Book of Exodus - Chapter 2 - Verse 12

This verse comes from the book of Exodus 2:12 in the Bible. It describes an event in the life of Moses, who, after growing up in the palace of the Egyptian pharaoh, witnessed an Egyptian taskmaster beating a Hebrew slave. In a moment of anger and compassion, Moses looked around to see if anyone was watching, and then proceeded to kill the Egyptian and bury him in the sand. This action ultimately led to Moses fleeing Egypt and eventually becoming the leader of the Israelites. The verse serves as a pivotal moment in Moses' life, showcasing his inner conflict between his loyalty to the Egyptians and his newfound allegiance to the Hebrews. It also highlights the theme of justice and the lengths to which one may go to defend those who are oppressed. Overall, this verse provides valuable insight into the character of Moses and sets the stage for his role in leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt.

In this verse, the theological interpretation focuses on the actions of Moses, who is depicted as a champion of justice and righteousness. Despite being raised as an Egyptian prince, Moses's loyalty lies with his people, the Israelites. When he witnesses an Egyptian taskmaster beating an Israelite slave, he takes matters into his own hands and defends his countrymen by killing the oppressor. This act illustrates Moses's impulsive reaction to injustice and his strong sense of justice. The word "slew" in this context signifies a deliberate and forceful action taken by Moses to protect the oppressed. The hiding of the Egyptian's body further emphasizes Moses's desire to act discreetly and avoid punishment, showcasing his strategic thinking and resourcefulness in difficult situations. Overall, this verse showcases the complex character of Moses and sets the stage for his future role as the leader of the Israelites.