Moses
- Born:
- Date uncertain, potentially 13th century BCE, Egypt
- Died:
- Date uncertain, possibly 13th century BCE, Mount Nebo, Moab (present-day Jordan)
- Nationality:
- Hebrew
- Profession(s):
- Prophet, Lawgiver, Leader
Early Life and Education
- Born into a Hebrew family during a period of oppression in Egypt.
- Raised by Pharaoh's daughter after being placed in a basket in the Nile River.
- Received an Egyptian education, likely gaining knowledge of Egyptian customs and governance.
Career and Major Achievements
- Fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian taskmaster who was abusing a Hebrew slave.
- Encountered God at Mount Horeb and was commanded to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
- Led the Israelites through the ten plagues against Egypt.
- Led the Exodus from Egypt, crossing the Red Sea.
- Received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai.
- Led the Israelites through the wilderness for forty years.
- Established a covenant between God and the Israelites.
Notable Works
- Attribution of authorship or influence on the first five books of the Hebrew Bible (Torah/Pentateuch): Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy.
Legacy and Impact
Moses is a central figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, revered as a prophet, lawgiver, and leader. His leadership in the Exodus and the reception of the Ten Commandments are foundational events in these religions. The profound impact of his teachings and leadership continues to be felt across cultures and generations. The story of Moses offers a powerful example, and images depicting key moments are often used as illustrations in the "biography of moses the prophet pictures" section of religious studies materials.