Boy · Hebrew · Old Testament

Moses

MOH-ziz · from Moshe · means “Drawn out (of the water)”

Moses is a Hebrew name traditionally understood as "drawn out," given by Pharaoh's daughter after she pulled him from the Nile. Moses grew up to lead Israel out of slavery in Egypt, part the Red Sea, and receive God's law at Mount Sinai. He remains one of Scripture's greatest figures of deliverance.

“Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today."”

The story behind the name

To save him from Pharaoh's order to kill Hebrew baby boys, Moses's mother hid him in a basket among the reeds of the Nile. Pharaoh's own daughter found him, named him Moses because she drew him out of the water, and raised him in the Egyptian palace (Exodus 2).

Decades later, God spoke to Moses from a burning bush and sent him back to Egypt to demand Pharaoh let His people go. Through plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, and forty years in the wilderness, Moses led Israel with a mix of trembling and boldness, often talking with God face to face as a friend.

At Mount Sinai, Moses received the law that would shape Israel for generations, and Deuteronomy says no prophet since has known the Lord face to face like Moses (Deuteronomy 34:10). A boy named Moses carries a name of deliverance, a reminder that God draws His people out of bondage and into freedom.

Middle names that sing with Moses

Chosen for rhythm and meanings that speak to each other.

You might also love