The Setting of Moses’ Basket
The story of Moses’ infancy is one of the most iconic in biblical history, highlighting faith, providence, and divine protection. According to the Book of Exodus, Moses was born during a time when the Pharaoh of Egypt had decreed the death of all newborn Hebrew boys. His mother, Jochebed, seeking to protect him from this fate, devised a remarkable plan involving a basket.
The Basket and Its Construction
Moses’ mother fashioned a special basket, described in Hebrew as a “tevah”—a term also used to describe Noah’s ark. This basket was made of bulrushes, a type of reed, and coated with pitch to make it waterproof. The choice of materials ensured that the basket could float safely in water without sinking, which was critical for its purpose.
The Location of the Basket
After placing Moses in the basket, Exodus 2:3-5 recounts that Jochebed set the basket among the reeds along the bank of the Nile River. This location was carefully chosen:
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Proximity to Water: The Nile was Egypt’s lifeline, providing a natural transportation route. Placing the basket in the water allowed it to float safely, concealing it while making it accessible to passersby.
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Cover of Reeds: The basket was hidden among the tall reeds, providing natural camouflage. The reeds not only obscured the basket from view but also protected it from the strong sun and potential dangers of the river.
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Near the Palace: By setting the basket in a place where Pharaoh’s daughter would eventually bathe, Moses’ mother ensured that divine providence would guide him to safety. Exodus 2:5 notes that Pharaoh’s daughter came down to the Nile to bathe and noticed the basket.
Symbolism of the Setting
The basket’s placement in the Nile among the reeds is rich with symbolic meaning:
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Divine Providence: The seemingly random location was a part of God’s plan, illustrating how divine intervention can work through ordinary circumstances.
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Protection and Exposure: The reeds shielded Moses from immediate danger while simultaneously exposing him to the right person—Pharaoh’s daughter—who would rescue and adopt him.
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A River of Life: The Nile, a source of life for Egypt, became a channel for the survival of Israel’s future leader. It represents the paradox of danger and salvation intertwined in Moses’ early life.
Conclusion
In summary, Moses’ basket was set in the Nile River, among the reeds along its bank. This location was crucial for ensuring his safety, hiding him from danger, and orchestrating the circumstances by which he would be discovered by Pharaoh’s daughter. The careful placement reflects both human ingenuity and divine orchestration, making it a powerful example of faith, hope, and providential care in biblical narrative.