Implications of dialogue – a study on meeting of Jethro and Moses

Abstract

The pericope concerning the meeting of Moses and Jethro (Ex 18, 1–27) provides a number of interesting conclusions about the nature of the interreligious dialogue. Using biblical exegesis, literary analysis, as well as with the comments of Jewish rabbis, the article takes on the task to further examine the nature and consequences of the dialogue. While recognizing the meeting of the Midianite priest and Moses as a “moment of dialog”, the importance of the exchange of gifts in the process of dialogue has been particularly stressed. To make this dialogue possible, Jethro first heard and traveled to the desert, and in turn, Moses stood out in front of his father-in-law and told what God made with Israel. The outcome of this dialogue turned out to be a burning offering by the priest Jethro, participation in cult in honor of God, YAHWEH. Making the exchange of gifts contributed to the development of the living faith of the people in dialogue. The dialogue of Jethro and Moses, which has been based on trust, respect and humble acceptance of good advice, may become a model, or an icon for each interreligious and ecumenical dialogue.

Keywords

• Spotkanie Jetro z Mojżeszem, egzegeza biblijna, dialog międzyreligijny, natura dialogu, moment dialogiczny, wymiana darów, rady Jetro, konwersja na judaizm, kult Boga JHWH, ikona dialogu