Definition: And when she had opened [it], she saw the child: and, behold, the babe wept. And she had compassion on him, and said, This [is one] of the Hebrewsâ children.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 2:6. It’s a really important moment in the story of Moses and his encounter with a baby. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: “And when she had opened [it], she saw the child…” – Imagine someone carefully opening a box or container. This refers to Moses opening a large, often mysterious, compartment within the Ark of God. “…and, behold, the babe wept.” – This is key. The baby wept . It’s a natural reaction - sadness and distress are common in babies. What Happens Next: “And she had compassion on him…” – This shows Moses’s empathy. He feels sorry for the baby's suffering. “…and said, This [is one] of the Hebrewsâ children.” - This is where it gets a little more nuanced. “Hebrews” is a term used in ancient Hebrew texts to refer to Israelites – the people who were enslaved by Pharaoh. So, Moses says, "This is one of our children." The Meaning and Significance: This verse isn’t just about a baby; it's a crucial moment that sets the stage for God’s plan: God’s Mercy: It shows that God is willing to show mercy even to those who are suffering. Understanding & Acceptance: Moses recognizes that this child is an Israelite – a member of his people, despite their difficult situation. He understands that he's not just seeing a baby; he's recognizing a person with a connection to the divine. In short, it’s a story about God’s compassion and recognition of humanity even in times of hardship. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage (like why it's important in the story)?