Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Exodus - Chapter 2 - Verse 8

2:8
And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, Go. And the maid went and called the child's mother.

Meaning

In this verse from the Book of Exodus, Pharaoh's daughter discovers a baby boy floating in a basket in the Nile River. When the baby's sister offers to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the child, Pharaoh's daughter agrees and tells her to go. The maid promptly goes and brings back the baby's own mother to care for him. This act of compassion and kindness from Pharaoh's daughter towards a Hebrew child is significant in the context of the Israelites' oppression in Egypt. It shows a moment of humanity amidst a time of turmoil and cruelty, highlighting the unexpected ways in which God's will can be carried out. This event ultimately sets the stage for the child, who is revealed to be Moses, to be raised within the royal household and later become the central figure in the Exodus story, leading his people to freedom.

Theological Overview

Pharaoh's daughter's command to Moses' mother, to take care of Moses and nurse him, holds significant theological implications. The act of Pharaoh's daughter following her instincts and allowing Moses' mother to care for him reveals God's providential hand at work even in the midst of difficult circumstances. This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God's calling, as Moses' mother was given a chance to not only nurture her own child but also play a key role in God's plan to deliver the Israelites from slavery. It also emphasizes the power of motherhood and the deep bond between a mother and child that transcends any cultural or political barriers. Furthermore, this verse showcases God's ability to use unlikely people and situations to bring about His purposes, demonstrating His sovereignty and wisdom in all things.

American Standard Version

And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, Go. And the maiden went and called the child's mother.
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