### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Môsheh**, represented by `{{H4872}}`, is the name of the Israelite lawgiver, Moses. Its definition, "drawing out (of the water), i.e. rescued," is derived from the root verb `{{H4871}}` **mâshâh**, meaning to "draw(out)". The name's origin is explicitly given in the narrative of his birth [[Exodus 2:10]]. The word appears **766 times** across **704 unique verses**, establishing Moses as a central figure in the biblical account.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4872}}` is the primary agent through whom God delivers Israel from bondage in Egypt ([[Exodus 13:3]], [[Micah 6:4]]). He acts as God's instrument to perform wonders, such as parting the sea [[Exodus 14:21]], bringing water from a rock [[Exodus 17:6]], and making a bronze serpent to heal the people [[Numbers 21:9]]. God established a unique relationship with Moses, speaking with him "face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend" [[Exodus 33:11]] and beholding the "similitude of the LORD" [[Numbers 12:8]]. Moses is frequently called "the servant of the LORD" [[Joshua 1:1]], and it was through his hand that the law and covenant were given to Israel ([[Exodus 24:8]], [[Daniel 9:13]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to understanding the life and role of Moses:
* `{{H175}}` **'Ahărôwn** (Aaron): As Moses' brother, Aaron served as his prophet before Pharaoh [[Exodus 7:1]] and stood beside him in leadership, though at times he was also the recipient of God's instruction through Moses [[Leviticus 10:3]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (servant): This title defines Moses' primary identity in relation to God. The phrase "Moses the servant of the LORD" establishes his authority as one who acts on God's behalf ([[Joshua 1:1]], [[1 Kings 8:56]], [[Malachi 4:4]]).
* `{{H8451}}` **tôwrâh** (law): Moses is the quintessential lawgiver, and "the law of Moses" is the foundation of Israel's covenant with God, containing the statutes and judgments the people were commanded to obey ([[Joshua 1:7]], [[Malachi 4:4]]).
* `{{H3091}}` **Yᵉhôwshûwaʻ** (Joshua): As Moses' minister `{{H8334}}` and successor, Joshua was commissioned to lead Israel after Moses' death. God affirmed Joshua's leadership by promising to be with him just as He had been with Moses ([[Joshua 1:1]], [[Joshua 1:5]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4872}}` is immense, establishing patterns of divine interaction and leadership.
* **Divine Lawgiver:** Moses is the channel through whom God delivers His law `{{H8451}}` and commandments `{{H4687}}` to humanity, setting a standard for divine revelation ([[Joshua 22:5]], [[Malachi 4:4]]).
* **Covenant Mediator:** He facilitates the formal covenant between God and Israel, ratifying it with blood [[Exodus 24:8]] and receiving the tablets of stone written by the finger of God [[Exodus 31:18]].
* **Prophetic Intercessor:** Moses' role highlights the importance of intercession, as he stands before God on behalf of a sinful people [[Numbers 21:7]] and communicates directly with Him [[Numbers 12:8]].
* **Model of Meekness:** Despite his powerful position, the scriptures explicitly state that Moses was "very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth" [[Numbers 12:3]].
### Summary
In summary, **Môsheh** `{{H4872}}` signifies more than just a name; it represents a foundational pillar of Old Testament faith and theology. His name, meaning "drawing out," foreshadows his life's work of leading Israel out of bondage. As the servant of the LORD, lawgiver, and mediator, Moses establishes the pattern for prophetic leadership and defines Israel's covenant relationship with God. His story is a testament to how God works through a chosen individual to reveal His power, deliver His people, and establish His law.
TRV