Burning Bush (Christian symbol) facts for kids

The Burning Bush is a special object described in the Book of Exodus in the Bible. It was said to be on Mount Horeb. The story says this bush was on fire, but the flames did not burn it up. This is why it's called the "Burning Bush." In this important story, God spoke to Moses through the bush. God chose Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and into a new land called Canaan.

The Story of the Burning Bush

The story of the Burning Bush is found in the Book of Exodus, a part of the Bible. It tells us about a big moment in the life of Moses. At this time, Moses was working as a shepherd near Mount Horeb. This mountain is also known as Mount Sinai.

Moses's Encounter

One day, Moses was leading his sheep. He saw a bush that was on fire. What was amazing was that the bush was not burning away. It stayed green even with the flames. Moses was very curious. He decided to go closer to see this strange sight.

As Moses got closer, a voice called out to him from the bush. The voice told him not to come any closer. It said that the ground where he stood was holy. Moses covered his face because he was afraid to look at God.

God's Important Message

The voice from the bush was God. God told Moses that He had seen the suffering of the Israelites in Egypt. The Israelites were slaves there. God said He had heard their cries for help.

God then gave Moses a very important job. He told Moses to go to the Pharaoh of Egypt. Moses was to tell the Pharaoh to let the Israelites go free. God promised to help Moses. He said He would lead the Israelites out of Egypt. They would go to a land "flowing with milk and honey." This land was Canaan.

Moses was unsure at first. He asked God what he should say if the Israelites asked who sent him. God replied, "I AM WHO I AM." He told Moses to say, "I AM has sent me to you." This name showed God's eternal nature.

Why the Burning Bush is Special

The Burning Bush is a very important symbol in many religions. It shows a special meeting between God and a human. It represents God's presence and power. The bush burning but not being destroyed shows God's amazing nature. It also shows that God can do things that seem impossible.

This event was the start of Moses's journey. He became the leader who freed the Israelites from slavery. The Burning Bush reminds people that God cares about those who suffer. It also shows that God chooses people to do important work.

Images for kids

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  Burning Bush. Seventeenth century painting by Sébastien Bourdon in the Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg

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  Moses and the burning bush. Painting from Dura-Europos synagogue, 3rd century CE

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  Icon of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments. The bush is depicted at his feet, lower left (Saint Catherine's Monastery, c. 1050)

See also

In Spanish: Zarza ardiente para niños