mosheh

Mosheh is a transliteration of the Hebrew name משה, most commonly associated with Moses, the central figure in Judaism and a prominent prophet in Christianity and Islam. In scholarly and liturgical contexts, the form Mosheh is used to emphasize the final Hebrew letters and vocalization, while other renderings such as Moshe, Moses, or Moyshe appear in various languages and traditions.

Etymology and meaning: The name derives from the Hebrew root mashah, meaning “to draw out” or “to pull forth.” In the biblical account, the infant Moses is drawn out of the Nile by Pharaoh’s daughter, and she names him Mosheh, saying, “Because I drew him out of the water” (Exodus 2:10). Thus the name carries the sense of being drawn out or delivered.

Religious significance: In Jewish tradition, Moses is the leader who liberates the Israelites from Egypt, receives the Torah at Mount Sinai, and guides the people through the wilderness. In Christianity, Moses is a foundational figure who appears in the Old Testament and is seen as a precursor to Jesus in certain typologies. In Islam, Musa is regarded as a prophet and messenger who conveys God’s guidance to the Israelites.

Variants and usage: Modern Hebrew typically uses Moshe as the standard transliteration. The English form Moses reflects Latin and Greek adaptations of the same name. Yiddish and other Jewish languages often render it Moyshe or Moishe. The name remains common in Hebrew-speaking communities and, through biblical influence, across the wider religious world.

Legacy: Beyond its use as a given name, Mosheh/Moses has shaped religious law, ethics, liturgy, and art, reflecting its enduring role in religious and cultural history.