The Biblical Moses: An Egyptian Name or a Purposeful Punning?

The name of the Exodus hero, Moses, has long been a subject of linguistic and cultural debate. This article delves into the origins of the name, examining whether it is truly Egyptian or if it was a strategic pun, as suggested by some scholars.

Etymology of the Name Moses

The biblical narrative presents Pharaoh's daughter as naming the child Moses because she believed it meant "drawn out," alluding to his origin from the river. However, the etymology of the name Moses is rooted in Egyptian, a language that was in use in ancient Egypt. The suffix -mēs in Egyptian means "authorized by" or "beloved of," which is also reflected in names like Ahmose, Thutmose, and Thutmose.

Language and Cultural Exchange

While Egyptians primarily spoke Egyptian languages during the period of the Exodus, there was significant interaction between Egyptian and Hebrew-speaking peoples. This interaction is evidenced in various names and cultural practices. It is plausible that Pharaoh's daughter used a Hebrew name because she was aware of its meaning and significance, or it could have been a common practice to adopt or adapt names from other cultures. However, the biblical narrative does not provide specific details about this interaction, leading to varied interpretations.

Hebrew Etymology or a Punning Choice?

Some scholars argue that the name Moses does not have a direct Hebrew etymology. They suggest that the name is actually an invention by biblical commentators, who sought to establish Moses as a genuine Hebrew. The name moshe in Hebrew is derived from mashah, meaning "to draw out," which is consistent with the biblical narrative. However, this derivation is seen by many as a later attempt to align the name with Hebrew culture.

The Egyptian Backstory

Moses, as a name, is most likely of Egyptian origin. The Levites, who played significant roles in the biblical narratives, had both Egyptian names and a backstory that explained their connection to Egypt. The Levites were not originally a tribe but a priestly caste who bore Egyptian names and adapted their religious practices to fit the Ugaritic religion of the Hebrew tribes.

The story of Moses in the basket is a prime example of these narrative strategies. This tale drew from the story of Sargon of Akkad, whose mother placed him in a basket and he was later found by a royal official. This narrative was used to explain the origins of the name Moses and the Levites' connection to Egypt. Pharaoh's daughter's naming of Moses was a strategic decision that aligned with the cultural and historical context of the time.

The Levites and the Formation of Hebrew Culture

The Levites played a crucial role in the formation of Hebrew culture. They created a narrative that explained the Hebrews' Egyptian origins, thus integrating foreign cultural elements into their identity. This narrative included the names and practices of the Egyptians, but also a Hebrew derivation for Moses, to legitimate their place within the Hebrew community.

Conclusion

The name Moses, while appearing to have a Hebrew etymology, is most likely of Egyptian origin. The biblical narrative, which presents Moses as a Hebrew, was a result of later interpretations and aims to establish the protagonist as a genuine member of the Hebrew people. The strategic use of both Egyptian and Hebrew elements in the name reflects the complex interplay of cultures and identities during the period of the Exodus.

Understanding the etymology of Moses helps to piece together the cultural and linguistic tapestry of ancient Egypt and the formation of Hebrew culture. Whether it was a pun or a strategic choice, the name Moses remains a fascinating subject in the study of biblical history and language.