Introduction:
The account of Moses in the basket is a pivotal narrative found in the Book of Exodus, which details the early life of Moses, the future leader and prophet of Israel. This account is significant as it sets the stage for the deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage and highlights God's providential care and sovereignty.

Biblical Account:
The account of Moses in the basket is recorded in Exodus 2:1-10. During a time when the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt, Pharaoh issued a decree that all newborn Hebrew boys were to be thrown into the Nile River to control the population of the Israelites (Exodus 1:22). In this context, a Levite woman named Jochebed gave birth to a son and, seeing that he was a fine child, hid him for three months (Exodus 2:2).

When she could no longer hide him, Jochebed crafted a basket made of papyrus reeds, coated it with tar and pitch to make it waterproof, and placed the child inside. She then set the basket among the reeds along the bank of the Nile River (Exodus 2:3). The child's sister, Miriam, stood at a distance to see what would happen to him (Exodus 2:4).

Divine Intervention:
Pharaoh's daughter came down to bathe at the river and noticed the basket among the reeds. Upon opening it, she saw the crying baby and felt compassion for him, recognizing him as one of the Hebrew children (Exodus 2:5-6). Miriam approached Pharaoh's daughter and offered to find a Hebrew woman to nurse the child. Pharaoh's daughter agreed, and Miriam brought Jochebed, the child's mother, to nurse him (Exodus 2:7-9).

Pharaoh's daughter eventually adopted the child as her own son and named him Moses, saying, "I drew him out of the water" (Exodus 2:10).

Theological Significance:
The account of Moses in the basket is rich with theological themes. It demonstrates God's providence and protection over Moses, who would later become the deliverer of Israel. The narrative underscores the faith and courage of Jochebed, who trusted in God's plan despite the perilous circumstances. Additionally, the account highlights the unexpected ways in which God can work, using Pharaoh's own household to preserve the life of the one who would lead His people out of Egypt.

Typology and Foreshadowing:
Moses' deliverance from the waters of the Nile can be seen as a typological foreshadowing of Israel's deliverance through the Red Sea. Just as Moses was saved from death and drawn out of the water, so too would the Israelites be saved from the pursuing Egyptians and brought through the waters to safety. This typology points to the greater deliverance found in Jesus Christ, who leads His people from the bondage of sin to the promised eternal life.

Cultural and Historical Context:
The use of a basket made of papyrus and sealed with tar and pitch reflects the common materials and techniques of the time for making small boats and containers. The Nile River, a central feature of Egyptian life and culture, becomes the setting for this act of faith and divine intervention. The account also provides insight into the social and political climate of ancient Egypt, where the Israelites were subjected to harsh oppression and population control measures.

Conclusion:
The account of Moses in the basket is a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan for His people. Through the courage of a mother and the compassion of Pharaoh's daughter, God preserved the life of Moses, setting the stage for the liberation of the Israelites and the fulfillment of His covenant promises.