Person

Moses

The leader who brought Israel out of Egypt and mediated the covenant at Sinai.

DatesAbout 1526–1406 BC on the early-date framework (debated; the late-date view places him about 100 years later)
Primary regionEgypt & Sinai
TimelineExodus & Sinai
Key textsExodus 2–4; Exodus 19–20; Deuteronomy 34
Covered in classSession 2, Session 9

What the sources say, and how sure we are

The text says
Moses is born in Egypt, raised in Pharaoh’s household, and called at the burning bush. He leads Israel out of Egypt, receives the law at Sinai, and dies on Mount Nebo at age 120 before Israel enters the land.Exod 2–4; Exod 19–20; Deut 34:1–7
Outside evidence
No Egyptian record is known that names Moses. His name is Egyptian in form, as in Thutmose and Ramose, which fits an Egyptian upbringing.
Debated
The dates depend on the Exodus date, and scholars disagree on how much of the Pentateuch Moses wrote. See the era page and the book pages.Exod 17:14; Deut 31:9
Christian conclusion
The New Testament presents Jesus as the prophet like Moses and the mediator of a better covenant.Deut 18:15; Acts 3:22; Heb 3:1–6