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Exodus · Old Testament

Moses

Prophet, Lawgiver & Deliverer of Israel

Name meaning
Drawn out (of the water)
Name origin
Hebrew: מֹשֶׁה (Mosheh), traditionally understood as "drawn out"

Quick facts

Occupation
  • Prince of Egypt (early)
  • Shepherd
  • Prophet
  • Lawgiver
  • Leader of Israel
Birthplace
Egypt (in the land of Goshen)
Modern-day location
The Goshen region of the eastern Nile Delta, in present-day Egypt; its ancient boundaries are uncertain.
Family
  • Son of Amram and Jochebed
  • Brother of Aaron and Miriam
  • Husband of Zipporah
  • Father of Gershom and Eliezer
First mention
Exodus 2:1-10
Last mention
Deuteronomy 34:5-12
Key artifacts
  • Staff turned to serpent
  • Tablets of the Law
  • Bronze serpent staff

Key verses

  • “I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.”

    Exodus 3:14

  • “and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land.”

    Exodus 14:21

  • “Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.”

    Numbers 12:3

Biography

Early Life

Moses was born to Hebrew parents during oppression in Egypt, hidden in a basket among reeds and raised in Pharaoh's household. After killing an Egyptian taskmaster, he fled to Midian where he shepherded flocks and encountered God at the burning bush.

Defining Biblical Moments

Moses returned to Egypt to confront Pharaoh, led Israel through the Red Sea, received the Law at Sinai, and guided the people through the wilderness. Though he interceded faithfully, he was not permitted to enter the promised land after striking the rock at Meribah.

Strengths

Moses is portrayed as humble, courageous in confronting power, deeply intercessory, and willing to bear the burdens of a difficult people.

Weaknesses & Lessons

His anger and single act of disobedience at Meribah carried heavy consequences, illustrating that leadership accountability increases with privilege and responsibility.

Life Lessons for Today

God can use reluctant and imperfect people; faithful leadership combines courage, humility, and dependence on God rather than self-reliance.

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Moses appears in Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament, alongside more profiles like this one.

Page #9 in Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament

Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament front cover

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