Sep 18, 2014

The Birth of Moses and the Birth of Jesus

Recently while working through Exodus, it struck me that there are a number of similarities between the birth narratives of Moses and Jesus. Consider the following list.
  • Both birth narratives are associated with Egypt
  • Both birth narratives occur during times of oppression (Egypt, Rome)
  • Both birth narratives involve potential infanticide
  • Both birth narratives involve a non-biological parent (Pharaoh’s daughter, Joseph)
  • Both birth narratives highlight the role of the mother
  • Both birth narratives involve a baby who will deliver his people
  • Both birth narratives involve population concerns (growth of the Israelites and the census in Luke)
  • Both birth narratives note the placement of the child (Moses in a basket, Jesus in a manger
  • Both birth narratives highlight the etymological significance of the naming of the child (Exod 2:10; Matt 1:23-25)
  • Although not strictly part of the birth narrative, the accounts of both Moses and Jesus move quickly from birth to adulthood (little is said related to childhood and adolescence)

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