Moses: His Early Life and Education

Moses, one of the most significant figures in the Bible, was born and raised in Egypt. His early life and education played crucial roles in shaping him into the man whom God chose to lead the Israelites out of slavery. This article explores where and how Moses was born and educated, and how these early experiences influenced his later journey.

Where was Moses Born?

The specific location of Moses' birth is often associated with the land of Goshen, which lies in the eastern part of the Nile Delta. This region was inhabited by the Children of Israel, and Moses was born amidst this community. Born into a family of Jewish heritage, Moses was initially destined to live a privileged life within the Egyptian palace.

Where was Moses Raised?

Moses was raised in the palace of the Pharaoh, where he would have received an education comparable to that of any other royal son of Egypt. This upbringing was marked by luxury and privilege, but it was not one of blissful ignorance. Moses also had a unique opportunity to learn about the stories of the Hebrew patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, through his mother, who was likely his wet nurse and likely told him these stories.

How Did Moses Get an Education?

Despite the privilege of a royal education, Moses' early life was not without its challenges. His birth posed a significant threat to the Pharaoh's decree that all Hebrew male infants be killed. According to the Bible, Moses was saved by the intervention of the Hebrew midwives and was then placed in a reed basket, which was floated down the Nile. It was there that he was found by the daughter of Pharaoh, who adopted him and raised him in the palace.

Moses' education in the palace would have been extensive and thorough. He likely studied hieroglyphics, mathematics, and other subjects that the pharaoh's sons would have learned. However, such an education would not have been complete without the stories and teachings imparted by his mother, who undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping his worldview and identity as a Hebrew.

According to the biblical narrative, Moses' education extended beyond the rigid structure of the Egyptian palace. He was able to witness the oppression and suffering of his fellow Hebrews, which eventually led him to flee Egypt at the age of forty. His escape was precipitated by his witnessing an act of injustice: he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew worker, and in a moment of impulsive anger, Moses killed the Egyptian.

What Happened After Moses' Flight from Egypt?

Moses fled to the land of Midian, where he lived for forty years, tending to the flocks of Jethro, a Midianite priest. During this time, Moses encountered the Lord at the burning bush, which marked the beginning of his divine mission. The Lord revealed his plans for Moses to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt and into the Promised Land.

Ancient traditions suggest that Moses and Rameses may have had a comical rivalry in hieroglyphics class, adding a human touch to his otherwise divine journey. However, the core narrative remains that Moses' early life and education laid the foundation for the monumental task he would later undertake.

Despite not being permitted to enter the Promised Land himself, Moses was able to view it from a nearby mountain and later pass the mantle of leadership to Joshua, ensuring the continuation of the journey his people had initiated.