text: I love the Amplified Bible. It gives insight into things like this. The NIV, which you are quoting, is not very accurate, by the way - use a parallel Bible with several versions beside each other, and it'll help.\n\nMoses neglected to circumcise one of his sons because his wife (Zipporah) was opposed to it. Therefore, he was honoring the will of his wife above the command of God.\n\nIt was very important for Moses to learn that God means what he says at this point, because he was going to be leading the nation of Israel and representing God to them.