Exodus 4:20Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The previous discussion regarding Moses placing his wife and children on wagons to accompany him to Egypt, followed by the arrival of his father-in-law Jethro with them after the Israelites' exodus (Ex. 18:1-22), may raise questions about the compatibility of these events. It is crucial to recognize that Jethro remained with the children following the thwarted attack on Moses or the child that the angel purportedly struck down (Ex. 4:24-27). Indeed, some individuals have suggested that the angel caused fear to prevent the women from joining Moses, thus impeding his divinely appointed mission.

An outsider may also accompany him, as even through external knowledge, there exists the possibility of sharing in the cultivation of virtue. The principles of inherent goodness and those who aspire to noble living can sometimes provide companionship, as long as their influence does not introduce any corrupting elements.

Moses set out for Egypt accompanied by his wife and sons, bringing along the rod with him.

Moses quickly understood God’s purpose, as if a spirit of deep humility regarding His power was instantly created within him (Ex. 3:11-12). Undoubtedly inspired by the thought, 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me' (Phil. 4:13), he traveled from Midian to Egypt to awaken that very same spirit among the people. Righteous faith

Moses set out for Egypt accompanied by his wife and two sons. However, as noted in Exodus 18:2, 5, after the Israelites had departed from Egypt, his father-in-law Jethro brought Zipporah, Moses' wife, and their children to him. Initially, during the journey, Moses decided to send his wife and sons to her father, Raguel, fearing that her possible fearfulness and frailty could hinder him in his divinely appointed mission.

The travelers' journey involved the use of donkeys; according to the structure of the Hebrew language, it is evident that this specific animal facilitated their travels. However, one cannot assume that they were satisfied with just a single donkey, as seen in the account of Jacob's sons traveling to Egypt for sustenance (see 2 Chronicles, Genesis 42:26). Furthermore, it is noteworthy that depictions of camels are absent from Egyptian artifacts, suggesting that while camels were recognized during the XVIII dynasty, their prevalence in Arabia at that time may not have been as significant as it is in present-day contexts.