Charles Ellicott Commentary Exodus 4:14

Charles Ellicott Commentary

Exodus 4:14

1819–1905
Anglican
Charles Ellicott
Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott Commentary

Exodus 4:14

1819–1905
Anglican
SCRIPTURE

"And the anger of Jehovah was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is there not Aaron thy brother the Levite? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart." — Exodus 4:14 (ASV)

The Levite. —Aben-Ezra and Rosenmüller think that this was the usual designation of the brother of Moses among the Israelites, who in this way distinguished him from other Aarons. But as a distinguishing mark, the term would be superfluous here, since “your brother” prevented the possibility of any other Aaron being thought of. Probably, the term is a title of honour, the priestly character already attaching to the tribe in God’s counsels.

I know that he can speak well. —Heb., I know that speaking he can speak. Facility of utterance, rather than excellence of speech, is intended.

And also, i.e., not only does his ready speech make him a suitable person to appoint, but he is coming to join you, so that he and you may arrange your respective parts at once.