Exodus: Gods and Kings

In **1300 BC**, Moses, a general of the Egyptian royal family, gets ready to lead an attack against the formidable Hittite army. This moment marks the intersection of his life as a military leader and the trials that lie ahead as he grapples with his identity.

A high priestess interprets a prophecy that predicts one of the two young men, Moses or Prince Ramesses, will ultimately save the other and rise as a leader. This prophecy sets the stage for the unfolding events that will challenge both men significantly.

During the fierce battle with the Hittites, Moses saves Ramesses' life, which leads to deep emotional turmoil for both men. This act of bravery ultimately sows the seeds of conflict between their fates as they confront the harsh realities of their world.

Moses heads to the city of **Pithom** to meet with the viceroy overseeing the Hebrew slaves, only to be horrified by their brutal living conditions. This eye-opening experience leads him to witness the plight of people he never knew were his kin.

Moses meets Nun, who reveals to him that he is of Hebrew descent. Raised by Pharaoh's daughter, this shocking revelation sends Moses into a rage, as he grapples with his identity and the consequences of his lineage.

Following his return to Memphis, tragedy strikes as Seti I passes away, and Ramesses ascends as Pharaoh. This shift in power exacerbates tensions as the treatment of Hebrew slaves becomes increasingly dire.

Hegep reveals Moses' true identity to Ramesses, who is conflicted over this truth. As Queen Tuya pressures for Moses' execution, he boldly steps forward to defend his sister Miriam, revealing his Hebrew identity publicly.

Moses, facing banishment from Egypt, seeks refuge in the desert. He eventually finds solace in **Midian**, where he embraces a humble life as a shepherd and marries Zipporah, ultimately becoming a father.

After nine years, while recovering from a rockslide injury, Moses encounters a burning bush, symbolizing God's presence. This pivotal moment ignites his divine mission which strains his relationship with Zipporah.

Moses returns to Egypt to confront Ramesses and demand the liberation of the Hebrew slaves. Ramesses flatly denies his request, leading to heightened tensions and tragic consequences for the Hebrew community.

As Moses leads the charge for freedom, **ten plagues** begin to ravage Egypt, starting with water turning into blood and escalating to the death of firstborn children. These catastrophic events ultimately bring Ramesses to concede to Moses' demands.

The freed Hebrews embark on their Exodus from Egypt, led by Moses towards the **Red Sea**. As they journey, they are pursued by Ramesses and his army, heightening the stakes of their escape.

Reaching the Red Sea, Moses makes the dramatic decision to part the waters with his sword. As the Egyptian army pursues them, the waters close back, drowning the soldiers and allowing Moses to lead his people to safety.

At **Mount Sinai**, amidst the chaos of the Hebrews' idolatry, Moses transcribes the **Ten Commandments**. This landmark event cements the foundation of moral and religious law for the Hebrew people.

In his elderly years, Moses carries the **Ark of the Covenant** as he observes the Hebrews on their journey through the desert. His legacy is solidified as a leader and prophet, having guided his people from slavery to freedom.