Topical Encyclopedia Jochebed is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, known primarily as the mother of three pivotal leaders in Israel's history: Miriam, Aaron, and Moses. Her account is primarily found in the Book of Exodus, with additional references in Numbers and other parts of the Old Testament.Lineage and Family Jochebed was a member of the tribe of Levi, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. She was married to Amram, who was also a Levite. This tribal affiliation is significant, as the Levites were later set apart for religious duties and service to God. The Book of Exodus introduces Jochebed in the context of her family: "Now a man of the house of Levi married a daughter of Levi, and she conceived and bore a son" (Exodus 2:1-2). This son would later be known as Moses, one of the most prominent figures in the Bible. Courage and Faith Jochebed's faith and courage are most vividly demonstrated in the account of Moses' birth. At the time, the Israelites were living in Egypt and had become numerous, causing Pharaoh to fear their potential power. In response, he decreed that all newborn Hebrew boys were to be thrown into the Nile River (Exodus 1:22). Despite this edict, Jochebed took a bold step to preserve her son's life. She hid Moses for three months, and when she could no longer conceal him, she crafted a basket of papyrus, coated it with tar and pitch, and placed it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile (Exodus 2:3). Jochebed's actions were not only a testament to her maternal instincts but also to her deep trust in God's providence. Her faith was rewarded when Pharaoh's daughter discovered the basket and, moved with compassion, decided to adopt the child. In a providential turn of events, Miriam, Moses' sister, who had been watching from a distance, offered to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the child. Jochebed was thus able to nurse her own son and instill in him the faith and heritage of his people during his formative years (Exodus 2:7-9). Legacy Jochebed's legacy is reflected in the lives and leadership of her children. Miriam became a prophetess and played a crucial role in the Exodus narrative, leading the women of Israel in song and dance after the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 15:20-21). Aaron, her eldest son, was appointed by God as the first high priest of Israel, serving as Moses' spokesman and playing a key role in the establishment of the priesthood (Exodus 28:1). Moses, her youngest, was chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage and to receive the Law on Mount Sinai, becoming one of the greatest prophets in biblical history. Jochebed's influence is seen in the faith and leadership qualities of her children, who each played vital roles in the history of Israel. Her account is a powerful example of a mother's faith and the impact it can have on future generations. Her life and actions are a testament to the importance of trusting in God's plan, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 6:20And Amram took him Jochebed his father's sister to wife; and she bore him Aaron and Moses: and the years of the life of Amram were an hundred and thirty and seven years. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 26:59 Library The Child Moses. The Finding of Moses Resources What does the Bible say about adoption? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Miriam in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What are practical ways to depend on God alone? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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