Refuting the Myth: Unveiling "Moses with Horns"

In the annals of biblical history, one of the most intriguing and long-standing misconceptions is the portrayal of Moses sporting horns during his divine conversation on Mount Sinai. This image, inaccurately portrayed in various religious and artistic depictions, has roots in an ancient mistranslation of the Hebrew text, which ultimately has far-reaching implications for understanding the true meaning of biblical narratives.

Origins of the Misunderstanding

The verse in Exodus 34:29 states, in the Jewish Publication Society (JPS) 1917 translation: "And when Moses came down from mount Sinai, with the two tables of the testimony in Moses’ hand, when the came down from the mount, Moses knew not that the skin of his face shone exceedingly while he talked with Him."

The term "skin of his face" or "skin of Moses' face" (deror kol pane’i Mosheh in Hebrew) has been misinterpreted to mean "horns." Early translators and artists, influenced by this mistranslation, began to depict Moses with horns, shaping a misconstrued image that has persisted through the centuries.

Understanding the Correct Translation

The key to resolving this misunderstanding lies in the Hebrew word "shini," which is often translated as "shining" or "sparkling." This word, in context, refers to the intensity and brilliance of light emanating from Moses' face, not horns. This phenomenon, known as 'aurora' in Hebrew, typically refers to the divine radiance or divine light that Moses encountered during his conversation with God.

God's presence and His instructions often accompanied a display of divine light, as seen in the narrative of the burning bush (Exodus 3:2) and in Moses' encounter in the tent of meeting (Exodus 34:29-35). This divine radiance is more accurately described as divine glory or light, not physical horns.

Exploring Other Misrepresentations in Biblical Texts

The mistranslation of "Moses with horns" is not the only instance where a biblical text has been misinterpreted. Other mistranslations include:

the Tower of Babel

The biblical narrative in Genesis 11:1-9 describes the construction of the Tower of Babel. The Hebrew phrase 'ba‘al hin ha-ketubbim' (or 'ba‘al hin ha-ketavim') is mistranslated as 'founder of cities.' However, the term 'hin' refers to a 'buzz' or 'noise,' indicating the confusion of tongues and the chatter of the people. Translating it as 'founder of cities' omits the essential nuance of the chaotic and disruptive nature of the event.

the Flood of Noah

The story of the Great Flood in Genesis 6-9 has also been mistranslated. The term 'ere?' (earth) is often mistakenly interpreted as 'the world.' In reality, 'ere?' specifically refers to 'land' or 'earth,' as seen in the phrase 'Eretz Yisrael' (Land of Israel). The rabbis have also stated that Canaan was not submerged during the flood.

Correcting Misconceptions and Embracing Truth

The persistence of these mistranslations can hinder our understanding of biblical narratives and their true meanings. By addressing and rectifying these misunderstandings, we can gain a more accurate and nuanced appreciation of the biblical texts.

Properly interpreting and translating these passages can lead to a richer comprehension of the divine interactions and sacred events described in the Torah. It is essential for scholars, religious leaders, and educators to work together to ensure that these important texts are accurately represented and understood by future generations.

A Call for Precision in Translation

Translators and interpreters play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of biblical texts. It is imperative to engage in rigorous study and careful consideration of linguistic and cultural contexts to avoid perpetuating misconceptions. By doing so, we can prevent the distortion of important messages and ensure that the divine revelations remain accessible and meaningful to all.

Through a deep understanding of the Hebrew language and a commitment to accurate translation, we can uncover the true meanings behind biblical passages and offer a more accurate perspective on the divine stories that have shaped human history.