Moses, one of the most prominent figures in the Old Testament, is often celebrated for his leadership and his role in delivering the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. However, less frequently discussed is his personal life, including his marriage. Moses' wife, Zipporah, is a fascinating character who provides significant insights into Moses' life and the broader narrative of the Exodus.
The primary source of information about Moses' wife is found in the Book of Exodus. Zipporah is introduced in Exodus 2:16-22. Moses, after fleeing from Egypt, arrives in the land of Midian. There, he encounters the seven daughters of Reuel, also known as Jethro, the priest of Midian. Moses helps them draw water and fend off shepherds who harass them. In gratitude, Reuel invites Moses to stay with him, and eventually, Moses marries Reuel's daughter Zipporah. They have two sons, Gershom and Eliezer (Exodus 2:22; 18:3-4).
Zipporah's role in Moses' life becomes more complex and intriguing in Exodus 4:24-26. As Moses is on his way back to Egypt, the Lord seeks to kill him. Zipporah quickly circumcises their son and touches Moses' feet with the foreskin, saying, "Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me." This act appeases God's wrath, and Moses' life is spared. This enigmatic passage has been the subject of much scholarly debate, but it underscores Zipporah's crucial role in Moses' mission and her deep understanding of the covenantal requirements of the God of Israel.
Zipporah's Midianite heritage is also significant. The Midianites were descendants of Abraham through his second wife, Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2). This connection places Zipporah within the broader Abrahamic family, even though she and her people did not share the same covenantal relationship with God as the Israelites. This background adds a layer of complexity to Moses' family dynamics, especially considering the later tensions between the Israelites and the Midianites (Numbers 25:6-18; 31:1-18).
In Numbers 12, we encounter another intriguing aspect of Moses' marital life. Miriam and Aaron, Moses' siblings, criticize him because of his "Cushite" wife. The term "Cushite" has sparked considerable debate among scholars. Some suggest that this refers to Zipporah, proposing that "Cushite" could be a derogatory term or a reference to her dark complexion. Others argue that Moses may have taken a second wife from Cush (modern-day Ethiopia), which would have been a source of contention. Regardless of the specifics, this incident highlights the familial and ethnic tensions that Moses navigated as a leader.
The story of Moses and Zipporah also invites reflection on the broader themes of marriage and family in the biblical narrative. Moses' marriage to a Midianite woman challenges the later Israelite prohibitions against intermarriage with foreign nations (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). It suggests that God's purposes can transcend ethnic and cultural boundaries, emphasizing the inclusivity of God's covenantal promises.
Moreover, Zipporah's presence in Moses' life underscores the importance of partnership in fulfilling God's mission. Moses, despite his extraordinary calling, needed the support and wisdom of his wife. Zipporah's quick thinking and decisive action in Exodus 4:24-26 exemplify the vital role she played in Moses' journey. Her actions were instrumental in ensuring that Moses could continue his mission to liberate the Israelites.
In Christian literature, Zipporah's story is often overshadowed by the more dramatic events of the Exodus. However, her role has been acknowledged by various scholars and theologians. For instance, in "The Women of the Bible" by Edith Deen, Zipporah is recognized for her bravery and her critical role in saving Moses' life. Deen's work highlights Zipporah's significance as a partner and a mother, offering a more comprehensive understanding of her contribution to the biblical narrative.
Zipporah's story also invites us to consider the broader implications of marriage within the context of faith. In Ephesians 5:22-33, Paul speaks of marriage as a profound mystery that reflects the relationship between Christ and the Church. While this New Testament passage focuses on the Christian understanding of marriage, it resonates with the partnership seen in Moses and Zipporah's relationship. Their marriage, marked by mutual support and shared purpose, offers a model of a covenantal partnership that transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries.
Furthermore, Zipporah's story challenges us to reflect on the role of women in the biblical narrative. Often, women's contributions are overlooked or minimized, but Zipporah's decisive actions and her role in Moses' life remind us of the indispensable contributions of women in God's redemptive plan. Her story encourages us to recognize and celebrate the diverse ways in which women have shaped and advanced the biblical narrative.
In conclusion, Moses' wife, Zipporah, is a complex and multifaceted character whose story enriches our understanding of the Exodus narrative. Her Midianite heritage, her decisive actions, and her partnership with Moses offer valuable insights into the themes of marriage, family, and inclusivity in the biblical narrative. Zipporah's story challenges us to look beyond the more dramatic events of the Exodus and to appreciate the vital contributions of individuals who played crucial roles in God's redemptive plan. Through her story, we are reminded of the importance of partnership, the transcending of cultural and ethnic boundaries, and the indispensable contributions of women in the unfolding of God's purposes.
