Exodus 2:7 (KJV)

What does Exodus 2:7 mean?

Exodus 2:7 describes how Moses’ sister spoke to Pharaoh’s daughter, offering to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the baby Moses for her. This verse shows the quick thinking of Moses’ sister and sets up how Moses’ own mother would be chosen to care for him.

In this scene, Moses’ sister (later known as Miriam) is watching as Pharaoh’s daughter discovers the baby Moses in the basket among the reeds. She approaches Pharaoh’s daughter and suggests finding a Hebrew nurse, which was a practical solution since the baby was Hebrew and would need care. This moment is a turning point, as it allows Moses’ family to remain connected to him even while he is raised in the Egyptian royal household.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 2:7

• "Nurse" (יָנַק, yanak): This word means to breastfeed or nurse a child. The verse uses it twice, emphasizing the practical need for a woman who can feed the infant Moses.
• "Hebrew" (עִבְרִי, ivri): This word identifies the ethnic group, highlighting that Moses is from the Hebrews, which would have mattered to Pharaoh’s daughter and to the story’s readers.
• "Call" (קָרָא, qara): This word means to call or summon. Moses’ sister is offering to actively bring someone, not just suggest it, showing her involvement and initiative.

Why Exodus 2:7 matters

• This verse highlights the courage and resourcefulness of Moses’ sister, who steps forward to help her brother and family in a dangerous situation.
• The verse sets up the reunion of Moses and his mother, showing how God’s providence works through ordinary actions and decisions.
• By specifying a "Hebrew woman," the verse keeps Moses’ identity as a Hebrew central, even as he is about to be raised in an Egyptian context.