Introduction
Moses’ wife is Zipporah, a Midianite woman traditionally identified as the daughter of Jethro (also called Reuel), the priest of Midian. Her exact date of birth, birthplace, and profession are not recorded in the Bible.
Moses was one of the most important prophets in the Bible, best known for leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, receiving the Ten Commandments, and guiding God’s people toward the Promised Land.
If you’re searching who was Moses wife, the answer is Zipporah. Although the Bible shares only limited details about her life, she played a significant role during Moses’ journey. She supported him during his years in Midian, became the mother of his children, and is remembered for a remarkable act that likely saved Moses’ life. This article explores everything known about Zipporah, including her background, marriage to Moses, children, and her lasting biblical legacy.
Who Was Zipporah?
Zipporah was the wife of Moses and the daughter of Jethro, also known as Reuel, the priest of Midian. She belonged to the Midianite people, descendants of Midian, one of Abraham’s sons through Keturah.
The Bible does not reveal Zipporah’s exact birth date, birthplace, or age. Most biblical scholars believe she was born and raised in the land of Midian, located east of the Gulf of Aqaba in present-day northwestern Saudi Arabia and southern Jordan.
Zipporah first appears in Exodus 2 after Moses fled Egypt. Having killed an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew slave, Moses escaped Pharaoh’s punishment by traveling to Midian. There, he met seven sisters at a well, including Zipporah, when he defended them from local shepherds who were preventing them from watering their flock.
Grateful for Moses’ kindness, Jethro invited him into his home. Moses remained with the family, and Jethro later gave his daughter Zipporah to Moses in marriage.
Although the Bible does not mention her education, she likely grew up in a household with strong religious traditions because her father served as the priest of Midian.
Zipporah’s Career & Professional Life
Unlike many modern public figures, Zipporah did not have a recorded profession. Instead, her life was centered around her family and community.
As the daughter of a priest, Zipporah probably helped care for her family’s livestock and household. The Bible specifically describes her and her sisters tending their father’s sheep, showing that they played an active role in their family’s daily work.
One of Zipporah’s most significant moments occurs in Exodus 4:24–26. While Moses was returning to Egypt to confront Pharaoh, God sought to kill him because one of his sons had not been circumcised according to God’s covenant with Abraham.
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Zipporah quickly circumcised her son with a flint knife and touched Moses’ feet with the foreskin, saying, “Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me.” Her immediate action ended the crisis and allowed Moses to continue his divine mission.
Because of this event, many scholars regard Zipporah as a courageous and spiritually aware woman whose decisive action preserved Moses’ life.
Since she lived during biblical times, there are no reliable estimates of her personal wealth or net worth.
How Did Moses and Zipporah Meet?
Moses and Zipporah met in Midian after Moses fled Egypt around the age of forty.
According to Exodus 2, Moses arrived at a well where Jethro’s daughters had come to draw water for their father’s flock. Some shepherds attempted to drive the women away, but Moses intervened and protected them.
The sisters returned home earlier than usual, surprising their father. After learning about the Egyptian man who had helped them, Jethro invited Moses to his home.
Moses accepted the invitation and eventually settled with Jethro’s family. Over time, he developed a relationship with Zipporah.
The Bible does not describe a courtship or engagement. Instead, it simply states that Jethro gave Zipporah to Moses as his wife after Moses chose to remain in Midian.
Their marriage took place before God called Moses from the burning bush to return to Egypt. During those years, Moses worked as a shepherd, caring for Jethro’s flocks while building a quiet family life with Zipporah.
Although Scripture provides few romantic details, their relationship appears to have been built on trust, hospitality, and shared experiences during Moses’ exile.
Marriage & Wedding Details
The Bible briefly records Moses’ marriage in Exodus 2:21.
After living with Jethro’s family, Moses agreed to remain in Midian permanently. Jethro then gave his daughter Zipporah to Moses as his wife.
Unlike modern weddings, Scripture does not describe a ceremony, wedding feast, or special traditions associated with their marriage.
Their union marked a turning point in Moses’ life. Before becoming Israel’s leader, he spent approximately forty years living as a shepherd in Midian with Zipporah.
Their marriage remained an important part of Moses’ life even after God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
Children & Family Life
Moses and Zipporah had two sons.
Their first son was Gershom, whose name means “I have become a foreigner in a foreign land.” Moses chose this name because he was living as an exile in Midian after fleeing Egypt.
Their second son was Eliezer, meaning “My God is helper,” reflecting Moses’ gratitude that God had protected him from Pharaoh.
The Bible suggests that Zipporah and her sons returned temporarily to Jethro during part of Moses’ mission in Egypt. Later, after the Israelites left Egypt, Jethro brought Zipporah and the children back to reunite with Moses in the wilderness.
Although little else is recorded about their family life, the biblical account portrays them as a supportive family during one of history’s greatest spiritual journeys.
Zipporah on Social Media
Since Zipporah lived thousands of years before the invention of modern technology, she naturally has no social media accounts.
Today, however, she remains a widely discussed biblical figure. Her story is frequently explored through church teachings, Bible study groups, documentaries, podcasts, and educational videos.
Many Christian and Jewish organizations regularly share insights about Zipporah’s life, particularly her faith, courage, and role in supporting Moses during his calling from God.
Quick Facts About Zipporah
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zipporah |
| Date of Birth | Unknown |
| Nationality | Midianite |
| Profession | Shepherd; daughter of the priest of Midian |
| Married to | Moses |
| Marriage Year | Unknown (during Moses’ exile in Midian) |
| Children | Two sons: Gershom and Eliezer |
| Net Worth | Unknown |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Moses’ wife name?
A: Moses’ wife was Zipporah, the daughter of Jethro (Reuel), the priest of Midian. She is mentioned primarily in the Book of Exodus.
Q: How old was Zipporah?
A: The Bible does not record Zipporah’s birth date or age. Therefore, her exact age remains unknown.
Q: What did Zipporah do for a living?
A: Zipporah helped care for her father’s sheep in Midian. She is also remembered for protecting Moses through her faithful actions in Exodus 4.
Q: When did Moses and Zipporah get married?
A: Moses married Zipporah while living in Midian after fleeing Egypt. The Bible does not provide an exact year.
Q: How many children did Moses and Zipporah have?
A: Moses and Zipporah had two sons, Gershom and Eliezer.
Conclusion
For anyone wondering who was Moses wife, the answer is Zipporah, the faithful Midianite woman who stood beside one of the Bible’s greatest leaders. Although Scripture records only a handful of events from her life, those moments reveal her courage, wisdom, and devotion to her family. As the mother of Moses’ two sons and the daughter of Jethro, Zipporah played an important role in biblical history. Her story continues to inspire readers who value faith, commitment, and strength during challenging times.