Who Was Jochebed in the Bible?

Woman Living at the Time of Egypt and Wilderness

Jochebed is a remarkable figure in the Bible, known for her faith and courage during a time of great peril for the Israelites in Egypt. As a member of the tribe of Levi, Jochebed’s life and actions played a crucial role in the early history of Israel. The story of Jochebed can be found primarily in Exodus 6:20 and Numbers 26:59, where she is mentioned in the genealogical records of the Levites.

Jochebed’s Background and Family

Hebrew Name: יוֹכֶבֶד (Yokheved)

The name Jochebed means “Yahweh is glory” in Hebrew, reflecting her faith and the significance of her life’s work. Jochebed was the daughter of Levi, making her a descendant of one of the patriarchs of the Israelite tribes. She was married to Amram, another Levite, and together they had three notable children: Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.

Children of Jochebed

• Moses: Moses is perhaps the most well-known of Jochebed’s children. He led the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage and received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai.
• Aaron: Aaron, Moses’ older brother, became the first high priest of Israel, establishing the priesthood that would serve in the tabernacle and later in the temple.
• Miriam: Miriam was a prophetess who played a significant role in the Exodus, leading the women of Israel in song and dance after the crossing of the Red Sea.

Jochebed’s Faith and Courage

Exodus 2:1-10

Jochebed’s story is a testament to her faith and bravery. During Pharaoh’s decree to kill all newborn Hebrew boys, Jochebed gave birth to Moses. She hid him for three months, defying the king’s orders. When she could no longer conceal him, she placed him in a basket and set it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile River. Pharaoh’s daughter found Moses and, moved by compassion, decided to adopt him. Jochebed’s daughter, Miriam, offered to find a Hebrew nurse for the baby, cleverly ensuring that Jochebed would be the one to nurse and care for Moses during his early years.

Lessons for the Modern Christian

Trust in God’s Sovereignty

Jochebed’s actions demonstrate profound trust in God’s sovereignty. Despite the dangerous edict, she believed that God would protect her son. Modern Christians are reminded through her story to trust in God’s plan, even when circumstances seem dire or insurmountable.

Courage in Adversity

Jochebed’s courage in the face of Pharaoh’s brutal decree is a powerful example for believers. Her willingness to risk her life to save her son highlights the importance of standing firm in faith and acting righteously, regardless of the consequences.

The Importance of Family and Community

Jochebed’s story also underscores the role of family and community in God’s plans. Her collaboration with Miriam and her husband, Amram, shows how God can use familial relationships to accomplish His purposes. It encourages modern Christians to value and support their families and faith communities.

Connection to a Loving God

God’s Provision and Protection

Jochebed’s life illustrates God’s providential care. By ensuring Moses’ survival and upbringing in Pharaoh’s household, God set the stage for the deliverance of His people. This aspect of her story reassures believers of God’s protective and providential nature, affirming that He cares for His people and orchestrates circumstances for their ultimate good.

God’s Faithfulness to His Promises

The survival and later leadership of Moses demonstrate God’s faithfulness to His covenant promises. Despite the oppression in Egypt, God remained faithful to His promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to make their descendants a great nation. Jochebed’s story reinforces the reliability of God’s promises and His steadfast love.

Connection to Jesus Christ

Foreshadowing Christ’s Deliverance

Jochebed’s preservation of Moses, who would become Israel’s deliverer, foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate deliverer. Just as Moses was saved from death to lead his people out of physical bondage, Jesus was born to save humanity from spiritual bondage and sin.

Faith and Obedience

Jochebed’s faith and obedience prefigure the ultimate faithfulness and obedience of Jesus Christ. Her willingness to follow God’s leading, even at great personal risk, mirrors the obedience of Christ, who submitted to the Father’s will, even unto death on the cross.

Conclusion

Jochebed stands out as a woman of remarkable faith, courage, and wisdom during a perilous time in Israel’s history. Her actions ensured the survival of Moses, who would lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage, and played a significant role in the lives of Aaron and Miriam. Through Jochebed’s story, modern Christians can learn the importance of trusting in God’s sovereignty, demonstrating courage in adversity, and valuing the role of family and community in God’s plan. Her story also connects to the broader narrative of God’s redemptive plan, pointing forward to the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ. Understanding Jochebed’s place in biblical history deepens our appreciation of God’s faithfulness and His meticulous care in guiding His people through history.

References:
– Exodus 6:20
– Numbers 26:59