Who Found the Baby?
The story of the baby, Moses, being found is one of the most memorable narratives in the Bible. It is a tale of courage, providence, and divine protection, set against the backdrop of a perilous time for the Israelites in Egypt.
Historical Context
During this period, the Israelites were living in Egypt under harsh oppression. Pharaoh, fearing the rapid growth of the Israelite population, decreed that all newborn Hebrew boys were to be killed by being thrown into the Nile River. This created a climate of fear and desperation among the Israelite families, compelling them to take extraordinary measures to protect their children.
Moses’ mother, Jochebed, was determined to save her son from this grim fate. She hid him for three months after his birth. When hiding him was no longer safe, she crafted a small basket, waterproofed it with pitch, and carefully placed the infant among the reeds along the bank of the Nile River. This act of ingenuity and faith set the stage for the miraculous events that followed.
The Discovery of the Baby
It was Pharaoh’s daughter who found the baby. According to the biblical account in Exodus 2:5-6, she went down to the Nile to bathe. Amid the reeds, she noticed the basket and, upon opening it, discovered the crying infant inside. Struck by compassion, she recognized that the child was a Hebrew baby, yet she chose to act with kindness rather than fear or prejudice.
Her discovery was a turning point not only for Moses but for the entire history of Israel. She took the baby into her care, defying the harsh decree of her father, Pharaoh. By rescuing him, she became an instrument of God’s plan, ensuring the survival of the one who would later lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
The Role of Compassion
Pharaoh’s daughter’s actions highlight the power of human compassion even in the face of political and social pressures. She demonstrated courage by adopting the child and providing him with a safe environment within the Egyptian palace. This decision illustrates a profound lesson: acts of kindness can have far-reaching consequences, shaping the course of history in ways that may not be immediately visible.
Moses’ Early Life
After discovering Moses, Pharaoh’s daughter entrusted him to his own mother, Jochebed, to nurse and care for him. This arrangement allowed Moses to grow up with his own people while being raised within the royal household. This unique upbringing provided him with the knowledge, skills, and perspective that would later enable him to become a leader, mediator, and prophet.
Conclusion
In summary, it was Pharaoh’s daughter who found Moses as he lay hidden in the Nile. Her compassion and courage not only saved his life but also played a crucial role in the unfolding of God’s plan for the liberation of the Israelites. This story serves as a timeless reminder of how individual acts of bravery and kindness can shape history in profound ways.