“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.”– Exodus 6:20
Exodus 6:20 Meaning
This verse introduces us to Amram and Jochebed, who are important figures in the narrative of the Israelites in Egypt. They are the parents of Moses and Aaron, two central characters in the Exodus story. By stating that Amram married his aunt, it highlights the close family ties that existed during that time. This line emphasizes God’s plan and design for Moses’ lineage, which is significant as it leads to the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.
The mention of the years of Amram’s life, 137 years, also reveals the long lifespans of biblical figures, showing God’s blessing upon them during those days. It helps us understand the context of how God worked through families throughout history, preparing the way for His purpose. Understanding these familial ties helps us to appreciate the rich heritage and legacy that the characters in the Bible share. Their lives and relationships contribute to the unfolding plan of redemption for God’s people.
Exodus 6:20 Commentary and Explanation
When we examine this verse closely, we find that it holds more than just a record of genealogy. It serves as a backdrop for understanding the significant roles that Moses and Aaron would play in leading the Israelites out of slavery. Amram takes a wife from within his family, which speaks volumes about the culture and customs of the time. Marriages often occurred within close kin to maintain tribal integrity and heritage. This practice has its roots in the early chapters of Genesis, where we see the same trend among patriarchs like Abraham and Jacob.
The reference to Jochebed as Amram’s father’s sister establishes a familial bond that was significant in biblical times. Family was a cornerstone of society. Amram’s choice reflects the value placed on preserving bloodlines and tribal identities, which would later play a crucial part in the history of Israel. God’s selection of this family for a pivotal role in salvation history speaks to His providence in orchestrating events for the benefit of His chosen people.
Understanding this linkage aids in grasping why Moses and Aaron were chosen. They were not just random individuals; they were products of a family dedicated to God’s purpose. Their parents had raised them in a culture that revered Yahweh, the God of Israel, and this prepared them for the extraordinary tasks ahead.
Moreover, the lifespan of 137 years attributed to Amram provides insight. It indicates that people in the scriptures lived significantly longer lives than we do today. This number may hold symbolic significance, as biblical numerology often associates numbers with particular meanings. For example, the number 7 often symbolizes completion, while 40 denotes a time of testing or trial. While the exact significance of 137 isn’t explicitly defined, we can reflect on the divine blessing of long life and the burdens that come with it.
Each generation in the lineage of Jesus carries with it the stories of faith, struggle, and obedience. Amram and Jochebed were not just parents; they were essential players in God’s overarching narrative that would culminate in the liberation and covenantal nation of Israel.
Context of Exodus 6:20
To fully appreciate Exodus 6:20, we must consider the surrounding context in the Book of Exodus. At this juncture, the Israelites are enduring severe oppression in Egypt, having transitioned from a favorable position to slaves under a new Pharaoh who did not remember Joseph. God has chosen Moses to be the instrument of deliverance, but the narrative eschews Western storytelling conventions by providing genealogical background first.
In the previous chapters, we learn about Moses’ miraculous birth, his being saved from Pharaoh’s decree to kill Hebrew boys, and his upbringing in the palace of Pharaoh. Following the call of God at the burning bush, Moses returns to Egypt to confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of bondage. Lt becomes important to highlight the ancestral lineage of Moses and Aaron to understand the legitimacy of their authority before the people and Pharaoh.
Therefore, Exodus 6:20 is not merely a historical notation; it serves as the genealogical foundation of the leaders God has chosen to liberate His people. This sets a tone of authority and equips the reader with the understanding that God carefully selected the path of deliverance through specific individuals.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Exodus 6:20
Let us break down the key components of this verse. “Amram took him Jochebed his father’s sister to wife” indicates a close familial relationship. Such unions were customary in ancient societies to preserve heritage and lineage. This detail informs us about the cultural norms of the time, where families often married within their own bloodlines to strengthen kinship ties.
Next, when we see “and she bare him Aaron and Moses,” we recognize that the birth of these two prominent figures is integral to the unfolding plan of salvation for God’s chosen people. It alerts us to the roles that Aaron and Moses will soon play in confronting oppression, enacting plagues, and ultimately leading the Exodus!
The concluding section of the verse, “and the years of the life of Amram were an hundred and thirty and seven years,” speaks to God’s favor upon those in His service and emphasizes the legacy Amram left behind. His 137 years become part of the rich tapestry of God’s chosen narrative and add weight to God’s ongoing covenant with the Israelites.
Lessons From Exodus 6:20
Exodus 6:20 offers profound lessons relevant to our lives today. One critical lesson we gather is the idea of legacy. Amram and Jochebed’s legacy is not just their children, Moses and Aaron but the faith they instilled in them. How we live, the values we pass on, and the faith we nurture in our families have lasting implications. We are reminded that our lives will speak long after we are gone.
Another poignant lesson is the significance of family ties. While practices regarding marriage and kinship may have changed, the core values of love, support, and loyalty remain. When we prioritize family, we honor the way God designed relationships. These connections can ground us as a source of strength and encouragement in tough times.
What’s more, each of us is part of a larger story than ourselves. Just as Amram and Jochebed played crucial roles in God’s salvation plan, we too have roles in God’s narrative. We may not lead millions out of slavery, but we can affect those in our immediate circles. Small acts rooted in love can create ripple effects—family, friends, and communities impacted by our choices can make a difference.
Finally, Exodus 6:20 serves as a potent reminder of God’s providence. God chooses specific individuals and family lines, guiding history towards a divine purpose. We can trust that God is working through our situations, too, whether we see it right now or not. His plans are meticulous and purposeful, ultimately leading to fulfillment of His promises.
Final Thoughts
Exodus 6:20 invites us into a rich conversation about identity, purpose, and legacy. We see the significance of family, the intertwined roles in God’s grand plan, and the importance of faithfulness across generations. As we reflect on this verse, let us celebrate the heritage and lineage that has led us to the present. We have a part in this unfolding story, and it reminds us of our greater purpose.
For those seeking to explore more about the fascinating accounts of the Exodus narrative, we encourage you to check out these related passages: Exodus 6:17, Exodus 6:16, and Exodus 6:15. Each verse adds depth to our understanding of God’s grace and guidance throughout history.