Jochebed is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, known primarily as the mother of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam. Her account is found in the Book of Exodus, where she plays a crucial role in the early life of Moses, the future leader and lawgiver of Israel.

Background and Family

Jochebed was a member of the tribe of Levi, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. She was married to Amram, and together they had three children: Miriam, Aaron, and Moses. The family lived in Egypt during a time when the Israelites were enslaved and subjected to harsh conditions under Pharaoh's rule.

The Birth of Moses

The narrative of Jochebed's courage and faith is most vividly captured in the account of Moses' birth. At the time, Pharaoh had decreed that all newborn Hebrew boys were to be thrown into the Nile River to control the population of the Israelites (Exodus 1:22). Despite this edict, Jochebed gave birth to a son and saw that he was a "fine child" (Exodus 2:2). Determined to save him, she hid him for three months.

The Basket in the Nile

When she could no longer conceal him, Jochebed crafted a basket made of papyrus reeds, coated it with tar and pitch, and placed her son inside. She then set the basket among the reeds along the bank of the Nile River (Exodus 2:3). This act of faith and ingenuity was a pivotal moment in the preservation of Moses' life.

Pharaoh's Daughter and Jochebed's Role as Nurse

The basket was discovered by Pharaoh's daughter, who had come to bathe in the river. Upon seeing the crying infant, she felt compassion for him and recognized him as one of the Hebrew children (Exodus 2:6). At this moment, Miriam, Moses' sister, who had been watching from a distance, approached Pharaoh's daughter and offered to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the child. Pharaoh's daughter agreed, and Miriam brought Jochebed to her (Exodus 2:7-8).

Pharaoh's daughter instructed Jochebed to nurse the child, offering her wages for this service. Thus, Jochebed was able to care for her own son during his early years, instilling in him the faith and heritage of the Hebrew people (Exodus 2:9). This arrangement allowed Moses to be nurtured by his biological mother while being raised in the Egyptian royal household.

Significance in Biblical History

Jochebed's actions demonstrate her deep faith and trust in God's providence. By placing Moses in the Nile, she not only obeyed the letter of Pharaoh's decree but also entrusted her son's future to God's care. Her role as Moses' nurse ensured that he was grounded in his Hebrew identity, which would later influence his leadership and mission to deliver the Israelites from bondage.

Jochebed's account is a testament to the courage and resourcefulness of a mother who, in the face of dire circumstances, took bold steps to protect her child. Her faith and determination played a crucial part in the unfolding of God's plan for the deliverance of His people.Exodus 2:1-9
And there went a man of the house of Levi, and took to wife a daughter of Levi.
Nave's Topical Index

Who was Moses' mother? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Moses' father? | GotQuestions.org

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