Exodus 2:14Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

To Stagirius the ascetic, concerned with despair, the Judaean confronted Moses with the threat, "Do you think to kill me?" Yet, even this served a purpose, orchestrated by God, so that Moses could be honored with a vision in the wilderness, that the appointed time might be realized, enabling him to gain wisdom in solitude and secure safety. Despite the afflictions imposed upon him by the children of Israel, he emerged even more glorious. Moses, out of love for his people, chose to abandon wealth and abundant treasures, opting instead to endure suffering alongside the people of God, and even prior to his anointing, he demonstrated through his actions his leadership over them. For this reason, a Hebrew foolishly questioned him, "Who made you a ruler and judge over us?" What do you argue? You observe the actions but doubt the authority? It is akin to someone watching a skilled doctor perform surgery to mend a sick limb and asking, "Who appointed you as a physician to operate?" The response would be, "My skills, and your affliction." Likewise, Moses was called to his role through his understanding. For leadership is not merely a title but an art, indeed one that surpasses all others. While civil leadership requires skill and knowledge, spiritual leadership demands even greater depth. This man questioned Moses, expressing disbelief in his authority, and who would not be disturbed by such remarks? If the prior action stemmed from anger and reckless impulsiveness, then Moses could have harmed this man too. The reason for the reproach was their relation; however, Moses, being offended, refrained from such statements, wondering why they did not voice such doubts the day before. It was their offense and cruelty that elevated him to prince and judge. Today, some even direct similar thoughts toward God, wishing Him to be harsh towards those who wrong them, while accusing Him of being patient with them, even as they act unjustly toward others. What could be more offensive than such claims? Yet, even in the face of ingratitude and unrecognition, Moses went forth, undeterred in his mission.

Even Moses, the revered servant, faced accusations of having slain the Egyptian, who had cruelly tormented and oppressed the Israelites. In contrast, Christ cast the malevolent spirits into the abyss, liberating those afflicted by them from their torment, yet He still faced condemnation from those quick to criticize. It was they who, transforming His miraculous deeds into grounds for accusation, had the audacity to claim, “He casts out demons only by Beelzebub, the prince of demons” (Matthew 12:24).

It is reasonable to assume Moses shared insights that might have led them to this understanding, and the severity of the oppression they endured under Pharaoh likely made them anticipate divine intervention, prompting them to notice every peculiar event related to their suffering and to question whether such occurrences signified God's favor.

However, Moses was troubled, exclaiming, “Why is this word revealed?” What was the source of his fear? Was he concerned that the news of the murder would become known among the Hebrews? One might think he would welcome such exposure, since he struck down the Egyptian to persuade the Hebrews of his divine appointment to lead them to freedom. Indeed, Moses desired to publicize his act, but he was taken aback by the negative perceptions held by his people. He realized that their long-standing captivity had extinguished their hope for liberation, breeding skepticism toward the very one chosen to deliver them; they may have even been inclined to report him to the Egyptian authorities as a threat. This reaction from the Hebrews caught Moses off guard, leading to his fear and astonishment when such unexpected outcomes arose. Thus, he lamented, “If this verb be revealed,” expressing dismay that a deed done through divine inspiration for the benefit of his fellow Israelites was misunderstood, with word of it spreading carelessly and unfavorably about him, potentially reaching the Egyptians. The term "verb," understood in the context of action, is also found in Scripture (Luke 2:15).