Background Information
In the Bible, the Hebrew Bible or Old Testament, the parents of Moses are typically identified as Amram and Jochebed. Amram is said to be the son of Kehat, and Jochebed the daughter of Levi. Both were descendants of the Hebrew patriarchs and were members of the Tribe of Levi. Amram and Jochebed were married and had three children, namely Moses, Miriam, and Aaron.
Moses is one of the most well-known and revered figures in the Bible. He is considered a prophet and a leader, with his direct influence on the fate of Israel and the Israelites lasting well beyond his death. According to the Bible, it was Moses who received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai, freeing the Israelites from bondage and leading them to the Promised Land.
The Journey
Moses’ life began in Egypt when his mother, Jochebed, gave birth to him in secret. As Egypt was a place of captivity for the Hebrews at the time, Pharaoh decreed that all Hebrew boys were to be killed to prevent them from growing up to threaten Egypt. Knowing this, Jochebed made a basket and put her baby in it, hiding him among the reeds along the Nile River. Moses was then discovered by Pharaoh’s daughter, and against all odds, she decided to take pity on the baby and adopt him as her own son.
Moses was then raised as a prince in Egypt and was given the best education and training that Egypt had to offer. He was taught in the ways of Pharaoh, which gave him great knowledge and wisdom, as well as power and influence. It was as a young man, having reached the peak of his power and influence, that Moses encountered God at the burning bush. From that moment onwards, Moses’ life was devoted to fulfilling his mission from God; to lead the Hebrew people to freedom from bondage in Egypt.
The Exodus
In order to accomplish his mission, Moses undertook a series of plagues against Egypt, culminating in the Judgement of Egypt and the Exodus. The Exodus was a momentous event in which the Hebrew people were freed from their bondage and were guided through the parted waters of the Red Sea. This was a great victory and an important milestone in history, seen as the ultimate deliverance of the Hebrew people from slavery. It is also seen as a symbol of hope and freedom for oppressed peoples throughout history.
The Covenant
Following the Exodus, Moses and the Israelites journeyed to Mt. Sinai, where they again encountered God. Here, God made a covenant, or a binding agreement, with Moses and the people of Israel. This covenant stipulated that the people of Israel would be a holy people, dedicated to God and his ways, and in return, God promised to protect and watch over the people and be their source of justice. This covenant is seen as being central to the faith of the people of Israel and is still observed to this day.
The Ten Commandments
Whilst on Mt. Sinai, Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. These commandments formed the basis of a moral code, regulating important aspects of behaviour such as honouring God, not taking the name of God in vain, not worshipping any other gods or idols, and not committing murder, adultery or stealing. These commandments formed the basis of the Judeo-Christian law and are still observed by many people in the modern world.
The Legacy
Moses’ legacy is still felt in the modern world, with his actions and words providing an inspirational guide for people of faith. Moses is seen as an embodiment of justice, courage and faith, and is remembered for his unwavering commitment to God and to the people of Israel. He is also remembered for his wisdom, his humility, and his care and compassion towards those who followed him.
Influence
Moses is one of the most influential figures in the Judeo-Christian tradition and his legacy has resonated throughout history and across diverse cultures. He has been seen as a prophet and a hero and is remembered as a great leader, a lawgiver, and a champion of justice and righteousness. His life and example continue to inspire people of all faiths and backgrounds to live a life of faith, courage and service.
Conclusion
In the Bible, Moses’ parents are typically identified as Amram and Jochebed, who were both descendants of the Hebrew patriarchs and members of the Tribe of Levi. Moses’ journey from birth to leader of the Israelites is one marked by courage and dedication to his cause. Through his example, Moses has left a lasting impression on people of faith and is remembered for his unwavering commitment to God and to the people of Israel.
