Why Was Baby Moses Put in a Basket?
The story of baby Moses being placed in a basket is one of the most famous tales from the Bible and highlights the ingenuity and bravery of his mother, Jochebed, during a period of intense oppression in ancient Egypt. When Pharaoh decreed the killing of all Hebrew male infants, Moses' parents took drastic measures to save him from this fate.
According to Exodus 2:2, Moses' mother became pregnant and concealed her pregnancy for three months before giving birth to her son. Recognizing the dangers that lay ahead, she decided to take actions to protect him. In those times, under the rule of Pharaoh, the preservation of male infants of the Israelites was forbidden as the king sought to control their growing population. The story goes that Moses' mother, Jochebed, sewed a waterproof basket to keep her son safe. The basket is often referred to as a reed basket or a papyrus basket, the latter being the most likely material given its prevalence in ancient Egypt. Moses' mother then placed him in the basket and concealed it among the reeds by the bank of the Nile River, while protecting him from the decree of Pharaoh.
Prophecy and Similar Stories
The story of Moses can be seen as a powerful adaptation of the legend of King Sargon of Akkad, who was also placed in a boat on the river to escape a decree. In both stories, the child is placed in a basket, often made of reeds or papyrus, and protected by the river. In the case of Sargon, his 'basket' was made of rushes, and hidden in the river. Through this act of desperation, both Moses and Sargon were rescued. This adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, suggesting that historical experiences, whether factual or legendary, can shape and transform shared cultural memory over time.
Theorical Question: Would You Do It?
Imagine being in a similar situation as Moses' parents. If a government issued an order to murder your child, and you were required to toss your newborn into the Nile, would you comply? The story of baby Moses seems to imply that his mother did something that went against the written law but was also a desperate attempt to save her child. She chose to place the infant in a basket first, reasoning that he might survive or be discovered and rescued. In essence, she disobeyed the law but hoped to show a way that might work in the child's favor.
Theccbination of Legends
The legend of Moses and the biblical Exodus from Egypt is now considered to be a national foundation myth that draws on earlier material such as the story of King Sargon of Akkad. Both stories share the common theme of a child being placed in a boat or basket and surviving against overwhelming odds. These tales reflect the challenges and struggles faced by ancient people and the resilience of humanity in the face of adversities.
The story of Moses and the Sargon legend also serves as a reminder that human history is often interconnected and that seemingly unique events might have their roots in earlier narratives and patterns. By studying these stories, we can gain insights into the times in which they were set and perhaps even learn something valuable about the human condition.
Cultural Significance
The tale of baby Moses in the basket is not just a religious text but also a powerful symbol of resilience, hope, and humanity. Throughout the ages, this story has inspired countless individuals and has been retold in various forms. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of stories that have shaped human culture and history.
By understanding and appreciating these stories, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex and often tragic aspects of human history. Whether in the form of a religious text, a literary work, or a historical document, tales like that of baby Moses and King Sargon continue to capture our imaginations and insights into the human experience.