Moses is one of the most important figures in biblical history, known for leading the Israelites out of Egypt and guiding them through the desert to the Promised Land. His story, filled with miraculous events, also revolves around significant moments in his life that shaped the course of history for his people.\
One such pivotal point is when Moses left Egypt, which happened twice in his life — the first time as a fugitive, and the second time as a leader. Understanding his age during these events gives insight into the timeline of Moses’ life and the journey he undertook.
Moses Was 40 Years Old When He Left Egypt for Midian
Moses’ first departure from Egypt occurred when he was 40 years old. Born into a Hebrew family, Moses was raised as an Egyptian prince after being adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter.
Despite his royal upbringing, Moses always felt a connection to his Hebrew roots, and this connection played a crucial role in the events that led to his first departure from Egypt.
At the age of 40, Moses witnessed the harsh treatment of a Hebrew slave by an Egyptian overseer. In a moment of anger and righteous indignation, Moses killed the overseer and attempted to hide the body.
Word of the incident quickly spread, and Moses feared for his life, knowing Pharaoh would seek to kill him for his actions. Fleeing Egypt was the only option for Moses to escape certain death, so he left for the land of Midian.
In Midian, Moses started a new life, far removed from his royal upbringing. He married Zipporah, the daughter of Jethro, a Midianite priest, and became a shepherd. During this time, Moses lived a quiet life, working as a shepherd for 40 years.
This period of his life was significant as it prepared him for the role he would later assume as the leader of the Israelites. The experiences he gained in Midian were crucial to his ability to lead a nation through the wilderness.
Stephen Mentions Moses’ Age
In the New Testament, Stephen, the first Christian martyr, refers to Moses’ age when he left Egypt. In Acts 7:23, Stephen states that Moses was 40 years old when he decided to visit his fellow Israelites.
This reference aligns with the Old Testament account and confirms Moses’ age during this pivotal moment. Stephen’s speech is one of the few places in the New Testament where Moses’ life is discussed in such detail, highlighting the significance of this event.
Stephen’s mention of Moses’ age underscores the importance of the timeline of his life. At 40, Moses was at a critical point where he could no longer ignore the suffering of his people, leading him to take drastic action.
The incident with the Egyptian overseer became a turning point in Moses’ life, propelling him on a path that would eventually lead to the liberation of the Israelites.
Moses Was 80 When He Left Egypt a Second Time
Moses’ second departure from Egypt occurred 40 years after his first. At the age of 80, Moses returned to Egypt with a divine mission. During his time in Midian, Moses had a transformative encounter with God at the burning bush, where he was called to lead the Israelites out of slavery.
Despite his initial reluctance and feelings of inadequacy, Moses accepted this monumental task.
When Moses returned to Egypt, he was no longer the young man who had fled in fear. At 80 years old, he was a mature and seasoned leader, ready to confront Pharaoh and demand the release of the Israelites.
His age at this point is significant because it marks the culmination of 80 years of preparation — 40 years in Egypt and 40 years in Midian — for the task of leading a nation out of bondage.
The Exodus, which is one of the most significant events in biblical history, took place under Moses’ leadership when he was 80. He was tasked with confronting Pharaoh, performing miraculous signs, and leading the Israelites through the Red Sea into freedom.
Moses’ age during this second departure from Egypt highlights the notion that God called him to this mission at a time when many would consider themselves too old for such a demanding task.
Moses’ Age When He Confronts Pharaoh
When Moses returned to Egypt at the age of 80, his confrontation with Pharaoh was one of the most dramatic moments in his life. Armed with the authority of God, Moses repeatedly approached Pharaoh, demanding the release of the Israelites. Each time Pharaoh refused, God sent a plague upon Egypt, ten in total, to demonstrate His power.
Moses’ age during these confrontations is significant because it demonstrates his endurance and perseverance. At 80, he faced the most powerful ruler of the time and stood firm in his demands.
Despite Pharaoh’s stubbornness and the hardships inflicted on Egypt, Moses remained resolute, knowing that he was carrying out a divine mission. His confidence, even in the face of overwhelming opposition, reflects the maturity and wisdom he had gained over his lifetime.
Moses’ confrontations with Pharaoh are a testament to his leadership and faith. At an age when many might have retired from public life, Moses stepped into his most important role, leading his people to freedom and forging a covenant with God that would shape the future of the Israelites for generations.
Moses’ Death and Legacy
Moses’ life did not end with his departure from Egypt. After leading the Israelites out of slavery, Moses spent the next 40 years guiding them through the wilderness. During this time, he faced numerous challenges, including rebellions, hardships, and the burden of leadership. Yet, Moses remained steadfast in his commitment to his people and to the God who had called him to this mission.
Moses’ death occurred when he was 120 years old, marking the end of a remarkable life. According to Deuteronomy 34:7, even at 120, Moses’ “eyes were not dim, nor his natural force abated,” a reflection of his enduring strength and vitality.
Moses died on Mount Nebo, where God allowed him to see the Promised Land, even though he was not permitted to enter it. His death marked the end of an era, but his legacy lived on through Joshua, his appointed successor, who led the Israelites into the Promised Land.
Moses’ legacy is monumental. He is remembered not only as the leader who freed the Israelites from slavery but also as the lawgiver who received the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai.
His leadership, faith, and devotion to God are celebrated throughout the Bible, and his impact on the Jewish faith, as well as Christianity and Islam, is profound.
Throughout his life, Moses demonstrated a deep commitment to his people and to God. From his first departure from Egypt at the age of 40 to his second departure at the age of 80, Moses’ life was marked by moments of courage, faith, and leadership.
His legacy continues to inspire countless individuals, and his story remains one of the most powerful narratives in religious history.