Exodus 2:7 - Sister saves Moshe's destiny?

The Role of Miriam in Moshe's Salvation

The verse describes Miriam, Moshe's sister, approaching Pharaoh's daughter with a suggestion to find a Hebrew wet nurse for the infant Moshe. Rashi (Shemot 2:7) explains that Miriam demonstrated wisdom by phrasing her suggestion as a question ("Shall I go...") rather than a command, showing respect to royalty. This reflects the principle of derech eretz (proper conduct) even in urgent situations.

Miriam's Strategic Intervention

The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:25) elaborates that Miriam waited nearby to see what would happen to her brother, demonstrating her deep concern. When Pharaoh's daughter found Moshe, Miriam seized the opportunity to ensure he would be nursed by his own mother, Yocheved. The Talmud (Sotah 12b) notes that Miriam's words were carefully chosen—she said "from the Hebrew women" rather than specifying her mother, allowing for this reunion while maintaining discretion.

Divine Providence in the Narrative

Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 8:1) would later discuss how this episode demonstrates hashgacha pratit (divine providence), where Hashem orchestrates events to fulfill His plan. The Maharal (Gevuros Hashem ch. 14) explains that Miriam's presence at this critical moment was no coincidence, but part of the divine plan to preserve Moshe, the future redeemer of Israel.

The Significance of Nursing from a Hebrew Woman

• The Kli Yakar (Shemot 2:7) emphasizes that having a Hebrew wet nurse ensured Moshe would be raised with proper values and identity, rather than Egyptian influences.
• The Ohr HaChaim (Shemot 2:7) notes that this arrangement allowed Moshe to be nursed by his own mother, creating the mother-child bond crucial for his development.
• Malbim explains that Pharaoh's daughter's immediate agreement ("Go") shows her genuine concern for the child's wellbeing, contrasting with her father's cruelty.