He looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no one, he killed the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 12. He slew the Egyptian. This he did by a particular inspiration of God; as a prelude to his delivering the people from their oppression and bondage. He thought, says S. Stephen, (Acts 7:25,) that his brethren understood that God by his hand would save them. But such particular and extraordinary examples are not to be imitated. Challoner.—He was inspired, on this occasion, to stand up in defence of the innocent. Menochius. Saint Thomas Aquinas ii. 2, q. 60.—The laws of Egypt required every person to protect the oppressed; or, if unable to do it, he was to call in the aid of the magistrate. Diod. i. Calmet.—Moses looked round to see if there was any help near. He was 40 years old when he was forced to flee.