If the Jews “made up” the story of Moses, why would they give him an Egyptian name instead of a more Jewish one?

 The story of Moses is a significant part of Jewish tradition and is also present in Christian and Islamic traditions. The name "Moses" itself is of Egyptian origin, but its inclusion in the narrative is not evidence of the story being "made up." Instead, it reflects the historical and cultural context in which the biblical narrative is situated.

Here are a few considerations:

1. **Historical Context:** According to the biblical narrative, Moses was born during a time when the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt. The use of an Egyptian name for Moses could be seen as a reflection of the historical and cultural setting in which the events took place.

2. **Adoption of Names:** Throughout history, individuals and groups have often adopted names from the cultures or societies in which they lived. This could be due to various reasons, such as integration, assimilation, or, in Moses's case, his upbringing in the Egyptian royal household.

3. **Symbolic Significance:** The name "Moses" may have symbolic significance within the narrative. In the Bible, Moses is said to have been drawn out of the water, a reflection of the circumstances of his birth and the events that unfolded as he became a leader of the Israelites.

4. **Cultural Exchange:** The biblical narrative of Moses involves elements of cultural exchange, as Moses is initially raised in the Egyptian royal court. This setting contributes to the use of an Egyptian name.

It's important to approach discussions about biblical figures with an understanding of the historical and cultural contexts in which these stories were written. The use of names, including Moses's Egyptian name, is a reflection of the narrative's setting rather than evidence of the story being fabricated. The biblical narrative has theological, moral, and historical dimensions that have been interpreted and revered by various religious traditions.