Qualities of Jochebed in the Bible: A Deep Dive into Her Life and Legacy
Please note that this article may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. You can read more at the bottom of this page or read my full disclosure on my Affiliate Disclosure Page
Jochebed, the mother of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, stands as one of the unsung heroines in the Bible. Her story may not occupy a vast amount of text, but her actions speak volumes about her character, faith, and the incredible role she played in the salvation of Israel. In this post, we’re going to explore the qualities of Jochebed in the Bible and what we can learn from her life.
Through the lens of both Christian and Jewish traditions, we’ll uncover her remarkable courage, her unwavering faith, and her deep wisdom—qualities that continue to inspire believers today.
Be sure to grab your FREE printable Bible Study and Reflection questions for your study binder at the end of this post!
Also, if you prefer to listen to the audio version of this post, you can find it below at the end of the post!
Who Was Jochebed? A Biblical Overview
Jochebed’s Role in the Bible
Jochebed is first introduced in the book of Exodus, and though her story is brief, it is filled with significance. She was a Levite, a member of the tribe set apart for service to God, which immediately places her in a context of spiritual importance.
The Bible tells us she married Amram, another Levite, and became the mother of three important figures: Moses, Aaron, and Miriam (Exodus 6:20, Numbers 26:59).
Exodus 2:1-10 tells the story of Jochebed’s courageous act to save her infant son Moses from Pharaoh’s decree to drown every Hebrew male child in the Nile. She hid Moses for three months and, when she could no longer keep him hidden, crafted a basket from papyrus, waterproofed it with tar and pitch, and placed it among the reeds of the Nile River. This act of placing him in the river was not just an act of desperation but a profound expression of trust in God’s will.
The Birth of Moses and Jochebed’s Daring Plan
To fully appreciate the qualities of Jochebed in the Bible, we need to dive deeper into the circumstances surrounding the birth of Moses and the extraordinary steps she took to save him.
A Time of Persecution
The Israelites had been living in Egypt for several generations since the time of Joseph. Over time, they had grown in number and strength, becoming a significant population within Egypt. The new Pharaoh, who “did not know Joseph” (Exodus 1:8), felt threatened by their presence.
To curb their growth and their potential power, he enslaved the Israelites and subjected them to harsh labor. When this oppression did not diminish their numbers, Pharaoh resorted to a more brutal measure: he commanded that all Hebrew male infants be killed at birth.
The Torah records in Exodus 1:22, “Then Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, ‘You are to cast every son that is born into the river, but let every daughter live.’” This decree was a direct attempt to weaken the Hebrew people by cutting off their future generations. Jochebed gave birth to Moses during this dangerous time.
The Birth of Moses
Jochebed must have been filled with anxiety and fear during her pregnancy. She knew that if her baby was a boy, his life would be in grave danger.
When Moses was born, the Torah describes him as a “fine child” (Exodus 2:2). The Hebrew word used here, tov (טוֹב), means “good” or “beautiful,” suggesting not just physical beauty but a sense of something divinely special about the child.
This language echoes the Creation narrative where God saw all He created and called it tov, “good.” Jochebed’s recognition of Moses’ specialness was not just a mother’s instinct but a spiritual insight, seeing something of God’s divine purpose in her newborn son.
Hiding Moses: An Act of Faith and Defiance
For three months, Jochebed managed to hide Moses. Imagine the tension and fear she must have felt every day. A newborn’s cry could easily give them away, and the consequences would be disastrous.
But Jochebed and her family chose to trust in God rather than give in to fear. Her actions were a profound act of faith in God’s purpose for Moses.
When it became impossible to keep him hidden any longer, Jochebed devised a plan that was both bold and creative. She crafted the basket which is described as an ark or teivah in Hebrew (תֵּבָה), connecting this story to the narrative of Noah’s ark, another vessel of salvation that protected its occupants from the waters of chaos and destruction (Genesis 6-9).
This parallel is rich in symbolism; just as Noah’s ark preserved humanity through the flood, so Jochebed’s ark would preserve the future deliverer of Israel.
Placing Moses in the Nile: A Calculated Risk
As I mentioned earlier, Jochebed’s decision to place Moses in the Nile was not a desperate act of abandonment but a calculated risk. The Nile River, a symbol of life in Egypt, was ironically the place of potential death because of Pharaoh’s decree. Yet, Jochebed placed Moses among the reeds along the bank of the river, a strategic location where she knew that Pharaoh’s daughter would come to bathe.
By placing Moses in the Nile, Jochebed was putting her trust in God’s care. She may have known the Egyptian princess had a compassionate heart, or at least hoped that seeing a helpless Hebrew baby would stir her compassion rather than make her follow her father’s cruel decree.
Miriam, Moses’ older sister, stood at a distance to watch over the basket, ready to intervene if necessary (Exodus 2:4). This move indicates Jochebed’s thorough planning and wisdom—she didn’t just leave Moses to fate; she took every possible measure to ensure his safety.
Divine Intervention and the Compassion of Pharaoh’s Daughter
God’s hand is clearly seen in what happens next. Pharaoh’s daughter came to bathe at the river and noticed the basket among the reeds. When she opened it and saw the crying baby, her heart was moved with compassion. Despite knowing he was a Hebrew child, she decided to adopt him, saying, “This is one of the Hebrew children” (Exodus 2:6).
Miriam, showing quick thinking and courage, stepped forward and offered to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the baby (Exodus 2:7). When the princess agreed, Miriam went to get her mother, Jochebed, who was then given the opportunity to nurse and care for her own son under the protection of Pharaoh’s household.
This arrangement not only ensured Moses’ survival but also allowed Jochebed to instill in him his Hebrew identity and knowledge of the God of Israel during his formative years.
Jochebed’s Faith Rewarded
This story shows how human actions and God’s plan work together. Jochebed’s faith, courage, and careful planning were met with God’s care. Placing Moses in the Nile wasn’t about giving up; it was a deep act of faith, trusting God to take care of her son’s future.
Her faith was rewarded in a way she never could have imagined: not only was Moses saved, but he was also raised in Pharaoh’s own household, getting the best education and training, all while staying connected to his roots.
Jochebed in Jewish Tradition
The Meaning of Jochebed’s Name and Its Significance
Names in the Bible are often significant, and Jochebed’s is no exception. Her name, יוכבד (Yokheved), means “Adonai is glory” or “the glory of Adonai.” This is notable because Jochebed is the first person in the Bible whose name contains a reference to the divine name, יהוה. This indicates not just a personal piety but a life that is intertwined with the glory and purposes of God.
Midrashic Insights: A Deeper Look into Jochebed’s Character
Jewish tradition provides even more depth to our understanding of Jochebed. In the Midrash, a form of rabbinic literature that explores the deeper meanings of biblical texts, Jochebed is portrayed as a woman of incredible wisdom and spiritual insight.
According to one tradition, she was among the midwives mentioned earlier in Exodus 1—Shiphrah and Puah—who defied Pharaoh’s orders to kill the Hebrew male infants (Exodus 1:15-21 Sotah 11b). Whether or not she was one of the midwives, the tradition highlights her association with acts of faith and defiance against unjust orders, driven by a higher allegiance to God’s law.
Another Midrash tells us that Jochebed was 130 years old when Moses was born, yet God restored her youthfulness so that she could nurse Moses herself. This story underscores the miraculous nature of Moses’ birth and God’s special favor upon Jochebed. It also speaks to her perseverance and dedication, even in her advanced years, reinforcing her qualities of faithfulness and resilience.
The sages also taught that Pharaoh had an additional motive for wanting the Israelite males killed. They explain that his astrologers had predicted the birth of a deliverer for the Jewish people, prompting Pharaoh to order the killing of all newborn boys. This mirrors the events surrounding the birth of another deliverer, Yeshua, who came to save all the nations of the earth.
Key Qualities of Jochebed and Their Relevance Today
Courage in the Face of Danger
Jochebed’s courage is not just about the physical act of hiding Moses but also about her ability to maintain hope in a seemingly hopeless situation. Imagine the fear of hiding a crying infant from Egyptian soldiers.
Yet, she did it—day after day, week after week. Her courage challenges us today to be bold in our faith, to stand up against injustices, and to protect the vulnerable, even when it requires great personal risk.
Unwavering Faith in God’s Providence
Faith is a cornerstone of Jochebed’s story. The Bible doesn’t tell us she had a detailed plan for Moses’ future, only that she trusted God with the outcome.
Hebrews 11:23 says,
This passage highlights Jochebed’s faith as an act of defiance against the powers that sought to destroy her family. It teaches us that faith often involves stepping out in trust, even when we do not see the whole picture.
Wisdom and Strategic Planning
Jochebed’s wisdom shines through in how she handled her difficult situation. Her plan to place Moses in the Nile, using a basket that would float, positioned him to be found by Pharaoh’s daughter—a move that seems almost divinely orchestrated.
Her actions reflect a deep understanding of human nature and the workings of her environment. In the same way, we are called to use wisdom and discernment in our daily decisions, combining our faith with practical actions.
Nurturing and Influence as a Mother
Even though Moses was raised in Pharaoh’s palace, Jochebed’s early influence on him was deep and lasting. She likely instilled in him a sense of Hebrew identity and a knowledge of the God of Israel that remained with him throughout his life.
When Moses fled Egypt and encountered God at the burning bush (Exodus 3), he responded not as an Egyptian prince, but as an Israelite aware of his people’s suffering. This reflects the deep spiritual and cultural foundation Jochebed must have laid in his early years.
For parents today, Jochebed’s story is a reminder of the vital role we play in shaping our children’s faith and identity. The early years are critical, and the lessons we teach them can have a lasting impact, even in environments that might seem spiritually hostile.
The Legacy of Jochebed: Lessons for Today’s Mothers
Impact on Moses and the Future of Israel
Jochebed’s influence extended far beyond her immediate family. Moses became one of the greatest prophets and leaders in history, Aaron became the first high priest of Israel, and Miriam was a prophetess who led the women in worship (Exodus 15:20).
Jochebed’s faith and courage directly contributed to their development and leadership. Her story reminds us that our actions, particularly those rooted in faith and love, can have a profound impact on future generations.
Jochebed’s Enduring Lessons for Modern Parents
Jochebed’s story offers timeless lessons for today’s parents. She teaches us to be courageous in the face of fear, to have unwavering faith in God’s promises, and to use wisdom in navigating difficult situations. Her life is a testament to the power of nurturing and the lasting impact a faithful parent can have on their children.
Bridging Jewish and Christian Perspectives on Jochebed
Commonalities and Differences in Interpretation
Jewish and Christian traditions both recognize Jochebed as a model of faith and courage, but they offer unique insights into her story.
Jewish interpretations typically often focus on her role within the broader narrative of Israel’s corporate deliverance and her actions as expressions of emunah (faith) and bitachon (trust). Christian perspectives tend to emphasize her personal trust in God’s providence and her example of godly parenting. Both views are important and both enrich our understanding and appreciation of her character and actions.
Looking at Jochebed’s story from both Jewish and Christian perspectives can deepen our faith and understanding. Her life shows how learning from both traditions can give us a richer view of biblical figures and the lessons they teach.
Jochebed and Other Women in the Bible: A Legacy of Faith and Courage
Jochebed shares many qualities with other notable women in the Bible. While each of these women faced different challenges and circumstances, they are united by their faith, courage, and wisdom.
Let’s explore how Jochebed’s story connects with the stories of other biblical women.
Faith in Uncertain Times
Jochebed’s unwavering faith, demonstrated in her courageous decision to hide Moses and place him in the Nile, echoes the faith of other biblical women. Consider Hannah, who prayed fervently for a child and then dedicated her son Samuel to God’s service (1 Samuel 1:9-11).
Both Jochebed and Hannah placed their trust in God’s plan, even when the future seemed uncertain. Similarly, Sarah, the mother of Isaac, trusted in God’s promise to make her a mother of nations despite her old age (Genesis 18:10-15). These women’s stories remind us that faith often requires us to trust in God’s timing and purposes, even when we do not see the immediate outcome.
Courage to Act
Jochebed’s boldness in defying Pharaoh’s order to kill Hebrew male infants mirrors the courage of other biblical heroines. Deborah, a prophetess and judge of Israel, displayed similar bravery by leading her people into battle against their oppressors (Judges 4:4-10).
Likewise, Jael showed extraordinary courage when she killed the enemy general Sisera to deliver Israel (Judges 4:17-22).
These women’s actions required a deep sense of purpose and a willingness to take risks for the sake of God’s people. Jochebed’s story, like those of Deborah and Jael, inspires us to act boldly and trust in God’s protection when faced with difficult choices.
Wisdom and Strategic Planning
Jochebed’s strategic decision to place Moses in the Nile at a location where Pharaoh’s daughter might find him shows her wisdom and careful planning. This reminds us of Esther, who wisely approached King Ahasuerus to save her people from destruction (Esther 4:15-16).
Both Jochebed and Esther demonstrated a keen understanding of their circumstances and used their positions and resources to influence outcomes in favor of God’s people.
Like them, Abigail showed great wisdom when she intervened to prevent David from taking vengeance on her foolish husband Nabal, ultimately saving her household (1 Samuel 25:23-35). These women teach us the importance of using wisdom and discernment to navigate complex situations.
Nurturing and Influential Mothers
Jochebed’s role as a nurturing and influential mother is echoed in the stories of several biblical women who shaped their children’s futures.
Rebekah influenced the course of her son Jacob’s life by helping him secure Isaac’s blessing (Genesis 27). Rachel was instrumental in the birth of Joseph, who would later become a key figure in Egypt (Genesis 30:22-24).
Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, was also a strong influence on her son’s prophetic mission (Luke 1:57-66). These women highlight the profound impact a mother’s guidance can have on their children’s lives and destinies.
Divine Favor and Unexpected Roles
Jochebed, like Mary, the mother of Jesus, was chosen for a divine purpose. Mary’s humble acceptance of her role as the mother of the Messiah (Luke 1:38) parallels Jochebed’s acceptance of the challenge to protect and raise a future deliverer of Israel.
Similarly, Rahab, a Canaanite woman, played a crucial role in Israel’s conquest of Jericho by hiding the spies and aligning herself with the God of Israel (Joshua 2). Both Jochebed and Rahab were women who found themselves in unexpected roles, chosen to fulfill God’s purposes. Their stories remind us that God often works through unlikely individuals to achieve His divine plans.
Hospitality and Service
Martha and Mary of Bethany are well known for their hospitality and service to Jesus (Luke 10:38-42, John 12:1-3). While Martha was busy with serving, Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, listening to His teachings.
This story highlights the balance between action and contemplation. Like Martha, Jochebed was active and pragmatic in her approach to saving Moses, but like Mary, she also demonstrated a deep trust and reliance on God. Their stories encourage us to find a balance between doing and being—serving actively while maintaining a posture of faith and trust.
Endurance and Hope
Finally, Jochebed shares a spirit of endurance and hope with Ruth, who remained faithful to Naomi and her God despite personal loss (Ruth 1:16-17).
Ruth’s determination to stay with Naomi and build a new life in Israel mirrors Jochebed’s determination to save her son and protect his future.
Similarly, Eve, the first woman, represents the beginning of the human story and the endurance of life through many trials. Jochebed’s story, like those of Eve and Ruth, reflects the enduring hope that God’s promises will be fulfilled, no matter the circumstances.
Jochebed’s life and actions are woven into the larger narrative of women in the Bible who demonstrated faith, courage, wisdom, nurturing care, and hope. These women, from various backgrounds and circumstances, each played a vital role in God’s unfolding story.
Whether through quiet faith, bold action, or wise decision-making, their stories remind us of the power and influence of women in God’s plan. Jochebed stands among these remarkable women, encouraging us to trust God, act courageously, and live faithfully in whatever circumstances we find ourselves.
By reflecting on Jochebed’s qualities and comparing her to other women in the Bible, we see a pattern of God using ordinary individuals to accomplish extraordinary purposes. Let their stories inspire you to step into your own role with faith and courage, trusting that God can use your life in ways beyond what you might imagine.
FAQ about Jochebed in the Bible
Q: What is the significance of Jochebed’s actions in hiding Moses?
A: Jochebed’s decision to hide Moses was an act of profound faith and courage. She was defying Pharaoh’s cruel decree, trusting in God’s protection and plan for her son. Her actions not only saved Moses but also set the stage for Israel’s deliverance from Egypt.
Q: How does Jochebed’s story inspire modern believers?
A: Jochebed’s story is an example of trusting God even when the situation seems impossible. Her courage, faith, and wisdom inspire believers to stand firm in their faith, protect their families, and trust in God’s providence.
Q: What does Jewish tradition say about Jochebed’s role as a mother?
A: In Jewish tradition, Jochebed is celebrated not only for her bravery but also for her role in raising three significant leaders—Moses, Aaron, and Miriam. Her influence as a mother who nurtured faith and identity in her children is highly esteemed.
Q: Are there lessons from Jochebed’s life that are particularly relevant to parents today?
A: Absolutely. Jochebed’s example teaches parents the importance of faith, courage, and wisdom in raising their children. It also highlights the impact of early spiritual and cultural education, even when children are exposed to outside influences.
Q: How does Jochebed’s story reflect God’s plan for Israel?
A: Jochebed’s story is intricately connected to God’s plan for the deliverance of Israel. Her actions directly led to Moses being placed in a position to become Israel’s leader, showing how God uses the faithfulness of ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes.
My Final Thoughts on Jochebed in the Bible
Jochebed’s life is a powerful reminder of the impact one person’s faith and courage can have on history. Her qualities—courage, faith, wisdom, and nurturing—continue to inspire believers today. Let her story encourage you to stand firm in your beliefs, trust God’s plan, and nurture those around you with love and wisdom.
What qualities of Jochebed resonate most with you? How has her story inspired your own faith journey? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Please share your reflections in the comments below and engage with us on this journey of exploring women of the Bible.
Don’t forget to share this post with friends and family who might find Jochebed’s story inspiring, and consider subscribing to our newsletter for more insights and reflections on biblical figures and lessons for our lives today!
Don’t forget to grab your free printable Bible Study and Reflection Questions below!
Tree of Life (TLV) – Scripture taken from the Holy Scriptures, Tree of Life Version*. Copyright © 2014,2016 by the Tree of Life Bible Society. Used by permission of the Tree of Life Bible Society.