Moses' hand is a significant symbol in the biblical narrative, representing divine power, authority, and the miraculous intervention of God in the history of Israel. Throughout the Pentateuch, Moses' hand is used by God as an instrument to perform signs and wonders, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant people.

The Call of Moses

The first notable mention of Moses' hand occurs during his encounter with God at the burning bush. In Exodus 4:2-4, God instructs Moses to throw his staff on the ground, turning it into a serpent, and then to take it by the tail, transforming it back into a staff. This miraculous sign is intended to convince the Israelites that God has indeed appeared to Moses. Furthermore, God commands Moses to put his hand into his cloak, and when he removes it, it is leprous. Upon placing it back into his cloak, it is restored (Exodus 4:6-7). These signs underscore the power of God working through Moses' hand.

The Plagues of Egypt

Moses' hand plays a crucial role in the execution of the plagues upon Egypt. In Exodus 7:19, God instructs Moses to tell Aaron to stretch out his hand with the staff over the waters of Egypt, turning them into blood. Similarly, in Exodus 8:5, Aaron stretches out his hand over the waters to bring forth frogs. The plagues demonstrate God's judgment against Pharaoh and the gods of Egypt, with Moses' hand serving as the visible agent of divine action.

The Parting of the Red Sea

One of the most dramatic uses of Moses' hand occurs during the parting of the Red Sea. In Exodus 14:21, Moses stretches out his hand over the sea, and the Lord drives the sea back with a strong east wind, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This miraculous event is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, symbolizing deliverance and salvation through the power of God.

The Battle Against the Amalekites

In Exodus 17:8-13, Moses' hand is again instrumental during the battle against the Amalekites. As long as Moses holds up his hands, Israel prevails, but when he lowers them, the Amalekites gain the advantage. Aaron and Hur support Moses' hands, ensuring Israel's victory. This episode highlights the importance of intercession and reliance on God's strength in the face of adversity.

The Giving of the Law

Moses' hand is also associated with the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. In Exodus 31:18, God gives Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, inscribed by the finger of God. Moses' role as the mediator of the covenant is emphasized through his reception and transmission of the divine commandments to the people of Israel.

The Bronze Serpent

In Numbers 21:8-9, God instructs Moses to make a bronze serpent and set it on a pole, so that anyone bitten by a serpent could look at it and live. Moses' hand, in crafting and raising the serpent, becomes a means of healing and a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work, as referenced in John 3:14-15.

Conclusion

Throughout the biblical narrative, Moses' hand is a powerful symbol of God's presence and action among His people. It serves as a reminder of God's ability to work through human instruments to accomplish His divine purposes, demonstrating His faithfulness and power in the unfolding account of redemption.