Jethro and Moses in dialogue (Exodus 18: 8–26) : ethics of communitarian responsibility

Abstract

Jethro’s dialogue with his son-in-law, Moses, in the Book of Exodus 18: 8–26 can be summarised according to the four-fold elements of subsidiarity, communitarian responsibility, delegation, and synodality, which lead to focus in life. The Elder priest of Midian, in north-western Arabia, advises his son-in-law to practise subsidiarity and communitarian ethical responsibility by undertaking the fundamental task of teaching the precepts, statutes, and instructions that would form the backbone of the twelve-tribe nation of Israel. Subsidiarity and delegation were to be exercised by different levels of leadership, together with Moses himself, in the choice of the exemplary leaders who would both teach Israel and judge minor issues among its people. Finally, synodality is advised by Jethro so that the People of Israel and their leaders can reach their ultimate aim in the Promised Land in peace. Subsidiarity, communitarian responsibility, delegation and synodality would bring Israel as a nation gathered around their one God, YHWH, according to the aim for which they were called from slavery in Egypt to freedom in Canaan.