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Hebrew · Strong's H4872

מֹשֶׁה

(moh-SHEH)

proper noun

Moses was the greatest prophet and leader of Israel, who delivered them from Egyptian bondage, mediated the covenant at Sinai, and led them to the border of the promised land.

Mosheh is the Hebrew name for Moses, the central figure in the Torah and a pivotal character in the Old Testament narrative. His life is characterized by divine calling, unwavering leadership, and profound intercession on behalf of his people. Moses’ early life is marked by miraculous preservation from Pharaoh’s decree to kill all male Israelite infants, followed by his upbringing in the Egyptian court. This background provided him with a unique blend of Egyptian education and a connection to his Israelite heritage, preparing him for the monumental task of leading a nascent nation.

The theological weight of Moses is immense; he is the instrument through whom God reveals His law and establishes His covenant with Israel. His leadership is not merely political but deeply spiritual, as he continually mediates between God and the people, conveying divine commands and pleading for their forgiveness. Moses’ role as lawgiver is fundamental to Israelite identity, with the Mosaic Law forming the bedrock of their religious and social life for centuries. He is consistently depicted as conversing directly with God, reflecting a unique intimacy and authority.

Throughout the biblical narrative, Moses embodies faithfulness, humility, and obedience, even when faced with the people’s rebellion and his own personal struggles. He is a type of Christ, foreshadowing the ultimate deliverer and mediator of a new covenant. His leadership culminates with guiding the Israelites to the edge of the Promised Land, though he himself is not permitted to enter. The enduring legacy of Moses is his unwavering commitment to God’s will and his instrumental role in shaping the identity and destiny of the nation of Israel.

Common English renderings

  • Moses
  • Mosheh
  • Mose

Key verses

"And Moses numbered them according to the word of Jehovah, as he was commanded."

Numbers 3:16
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"And Jehovah said unto Moses, Is Jehovah’s hand waxed short? now shalt thou see whether my word shall come to pass unto thee or not."

Numbers 11:23
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"And Jehovah spake unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh, and say unto him, Thus saith Jehovah, Let my people go, that they may serve me."

Exodus 8:1
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"And Moses took the breast, and waved it for a wave-offering before Jehovah: it was Moses’ portion of the ram of consecration; as Jehovah commanded Moses."

Leviticus 8:29
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"And Moses said unto the children of Gad, and to the children of Reuben, Shall your brethren go to the war, and shall ye sit here?"

Numbers 32:6
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"Wherefore the people strove with Moses, and said, Give us water that we may drink. And Moses said unto them, Why strive ye with me? wherefore do ye tempt Jehovah?"

Exodus 17:2
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