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Book of Exodus - Chapter 6 - Verse 20

6:20
And Amram took him Jochebed his father's sister to wife; and she bare him Aaron and Moses: and the years of the life of Amram were an hundred and thirty and seven years.

Meaning

In this verse, we learn about the family lineage of Moses, one of the most prominent figures in the Bible. Amram, Moses' father, married his father's sister, Jochebed. This marriage was not considered taboo in ancient times, as the laws prohibiting such unions had not yet been established. Together, Amram and Jochebed had two sons, Aaron and Moses, who would go on to play pivotal roles in Israelite history. Amram lived to the impressive age of 137, which was considered a long life in those times. This verse highlights the importance of family and lineage in biblical narratives, as well as the significant roles that individuals like Moses played in the biblical story. The mention of these details adds depth and context to the story of Moses and his family, contributing to a greater understanding of the historical and cultural context of the events described in the Bible.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of this verse is the significance of the family lineage in the Old Testament. In this particular verse, we see Amram, the father of Aaron and Moses, marrying his father's sister, Jochebed. The intermarriage within the family may be seen as a way to preserve the purity of the Abrahamic line, ensuring that Aaron and Moses are born from a devoutly religious family with a strong connection to their heritage. This could also be interpreted as a way to emphasize the importance of family ties in carrying out God's plan. Additionally, the long life of Amram, living to the age of 137, could be seen as a blessing from God, allowing him to witness the birth and upbringing of two of the most important figures in the history of the Israelites.

American Standard Version

And Amram took him Jochebed his father's sister to wife; and she bare him Aaron and Moses: and the years of the life of Amram were a hundred and thirty and seven years.
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