King James Bible
"Then Jethro, Moses’ father in law, took Zipporah, Moses’ wife, after he had sent her back,"
Jethro, a Midianite priest, is identified by his relationship to Moses, emphasizing the family connection that motivates his actions. His role as father-in-law positions him as a mediator who will reunite Moses with his family after their separation. Jethro takes custody of his daughter Zipporah, exercising his patriarchal authority to care for her during Moses' absence. This action demonstrates ancient Near Eastern family dynamics where women often returned to their father's household during times of separation. Moses had previously sent Zipporah away, likely for her safety during the dangerous confrontations with Pharaoh in Egypt. This phrase reveals a temporary family separation necessitated by Moses' divine mission, which Jethro now seeks to resolve through reunion.