Introduction:
Jochebed is a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, known primarily as the mother of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam. Her account is a testament to faith, courage, and the providence of God in the history of Israel. Jochebed's actions played a crucial role in the survival and eventual deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage.

Biblical References:
Jochebed is mentioned explicitly in the Book of Exodus and the genealogies in Numbers and Chronicles. Her account is primarily found in Exodus 2:1-10, with genealogical references in Exodus 6:20, Numbers 26:59, and 1 Chronicles 6:3.

Family Background:
Jochebed was a member of the tribe of Levi, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. She was married to Amram, also a Levite, making their children part of the priestly lineage. According to Exodus 6:20 , "Amram married his father's sister Jochebed, and she bore him Aaron and Moses." This familial connection underscores the importance of the Levitical line in the religious and cultural life of Israel.

Role in the Exodus Narrative:
Jochebed's most notable act of faith is recorded in Exodus 2. During a time when Pharaoh had decreed that all Hebrew male infants be killed, Jochebed gave birth to a son and hid him for three months. Recognizing the impossibility of keeping him hidden indefinitely, she crafted a basket of papyrus, coated it with tar and pitch, and placed the child in it, setting it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile.

Her daughter, Miriam, watched over the basket from a distance. When Pharaoh's daughter discovered the child and decided to adopt him, Miriam courageously approached her and offered to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the child. Jochebed was then able to nurse her own son until he was old enough to be brought to Pharaoh's daughter, who named him Moses, meaning "drawn out of the water" (Exodus 2:10).

Significance:
Jochebed's faith and ingenuity ensured the survival of Moses, who would become one of the most pivotal figures in biblical history. Her actions demonstrate a profound trust in God's plan and a willingness to take bold steps to protect her child. Through Moses, God would later deliver the Israelites from slavery, give them the Law, and lead them toward the Promised Land.

Legacy:
Jochebed's legacy is reflected in the lives of her children. Aaron became the first high priest of Israel, establishing the Aaronic priesthood. Miriam played a significant role as a prophetess and leader among the women of Israel. Moses, of course, became the great lawgiver and leader of the Exodus. Jochebed's influence is seen in their faith and leadership, which shaped the course of Israelite history.

Conclusion:
While the Bible provides limited details about Jochebed's life, her account is a powerful example of maternal devotion and divine providence. Her faith and courage in the face of danger highlight the role of women in God's redemptive plan and serve as an enduring inspiration for believers.Joch'ebed (2 Occurrences)

Exodus 6:20
And Amram took him Jochebed his father's sister to wife; and she bore him Aaron and Moses. And the years of the life of Amram were a hundred and thirty and seven years.
(See RSV)

Numbers 26:59
And the name of Amram's wife was Jochebed, the daughter of Levi, who was born to Levi in Egypt; and she bore unto Amram Aaron and Moses, and Miriam their sister.
(See RSV)

Joch'ebed (2 Occurrences)
Joch'ebed. Jochebed, Joch'ebed. Jod . Multi-Version Concordance Joch'ebed
(2 Occurrences). Exodus 6:20 And Amram took him Jochebed ...
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Jod (1 Occurrence)

/j/jod.htm - 6k

Jochebed (2 Occurrences)

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