Interesting Facts

• Jochebed is identified as the sister of Gershon, Kehath, and Merari, who were the children of Levi.
• She was born to them in their going down to Egypt. This detail marks her birth as significant in the context of the Israelites’ migration.

Genealogy

• Jochebed was the daughter of Levi.
• She had three brothers: Gershon, Kehath, and Merari.
• The source does not provide information regarding Jochebed’s mother, nor does it mention any marital connections or offspring of Jochebed.

Historical Context

Jochebed’s birth occurred during a pivotal moment in the history of the Israelites: their descent into Egypt. This migration was prompted by famine in Canaan and facilitated by Joseph’s high position in the Egyptian government. The context of this period was one of initial prosperity and security for the Israelites in the land of Goshen under Joseph’s administration. The text indicates that the family of Jacob, including Levi and his children, migrated to Egypt and dwelt there. Jochebed’s birth “in their going down to Egypt” situates her life within this early period of the Israelite sojourn, before the later oppression by the Egyptians that is hinted at after Joseph’s death.

Narrative

The narrative concerning Jochebed within the provided excerpts is brief but significant. Her existence is noted in the genealogy of the sons of Israel who dwelt in Egypt. Importantly, her birth is specifically placed “in their going down to Egypt”. This detail suggests that her arrival into the world was directly linked to the momentous event of the family of Jacob entering a foreign land that would become their home for several generations. While the text does not elaborate on her life or actions, the mention of her birth at this specific time serves as a marker within the historical account of the Israelites’ presence in Egypt. It establishes her as belonging to the generation that directly experienced the transition from life in Canaan to dwelling in Egypt alongside Joseph and his brethren.