How did Pharaoh Know Moses Was a Hebrew?

Throughout history, the tale of Moses and his adoption by Pharaoh's daughter has captivated many. However, many questions still linger, especially concerning the identity of Moses as a Hebrew. Did Pharaoh truly discern the truth, or was it only a matter of time before he uncovered the secret?

It's well documented that Moses was dark-skinned, just like many Egyptians of the time. His sister, Miriam, played a crucial role in ensuring the secret remained. She cleverly kept the knowledge of Moses' true origins to herself and only revealed the truth when the circumstances made it impossible to conceal.

The Historical Context of Circumcision

The concept of circumcision is a significant aspect of the story. While some might assume that Pharaoh would have recognized Moses as a Hebrew based on circumcision, the practice was not unique to the Jews. In fact, circumcision was practiced by several groups long before the establishment of the Israelite nation.

Canaanite nomadic tribes, including the ancestors of the Israelites, began to settle and form distinct communities in the 13th century B.C. By this time, circumcision was already a common ritual in various cultures, including the Egyptians, Moabites, Ammonites, and Edomites. Additionally, archaeological evidence, such as Egyptian mummies and wall paintings, suggests that circumcision was practiced long before the rise of Judaism.

Public Knowledge and the Rumor Mill

Despite Pharaoh's initial ignorance, it's highly likely that the secrets of Moses' origins would have spread among the people. The princess' maids and family members, knowing the truth, would have shared the information. Considering the tight-knit nature of ancient Egyptian society, information spreads quickly, making it almost impossible to contain.

Moreover, the identity of Moses as a Hebrew would have been a source of pride for the Egyptians. The princess's sister, Miriam, would have been eager to highlight his heritage, reinforcing it both privately and publicly.

Moses' Circumcision and the Timing

The notion that Moses was indeed circumcised is supported by various texts. However, the timing of this event is crucial. When Moses fled Egypt and traveled to Midian, he encountered a different reality. According to the Bible, after his wife, Zipporah, and their son, Moses circumcised their son in response to divine instruction.

It's notable that the Israelites were not circumcised for 40 years in the wilderness, which is a period covered in the Bible. However, it was imperative that the tradition be restored before entering the Promised Land. This highlights the historical context and cultural practices of the time, further emphasizing the role of circumcision within this narrative.

Symbols and Leadership

According to some historians, including Josephus, the priests of Egypt might have recognized Moses as a spiritual leader among the Hebrews. They viewed him through the lens of divination and prophecy, which would have been a significant factor in their perception of his true identity. Josephus' notes suggest that these priests foresaw Moses' potential and warned Pharaoh about his leadership capabilities.

Furthermore, the incident where Moses came to the aid of Zipporah and her sisters in Midian demonstrates how his true identity was not immediately apparent. The Hebrews, recognizing Moses as a leader, emphasized his role as a deliverer and a prophet, both of which are attributes associated with a Hebrew leader.

Conclusion

The story of Moses and Pharaoh's knowledge of his true identity is rich with historical and cultural nuances. While Pharaoh's initial ignorance is understandable, the eventual discovery of the truth is a testament to the intricate and multifaceted nature of ancient Egyptian society. The practice of circumcision, the spread of information, and the symbolic significance of leadership all contributed to the unfolding of this remarkable narrative.