Moses is widely regarded as one of the most significant spiritual leaders in the history of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Across these major world religions, Moses stands out as a foundational figure—especially within the Old Testament, where his journey forms the backbone of key religious teachings. And when we look at how Moses is portrayed in the anime adaptation In the Beginning: The Bible Stories (Tezuka Osamu no Kyuuyaku Seisho Monogatari), it becomes even clearer just how profound his impact truly is.
From the very start, Moses’ story captures attention. Born during a time of great oppression, he narrowly escapes death as an infant and is raised in the Pharaoh’s own household—a twist of fate that sets the stage for his future role. As he grows into adulthood, Moses begins to embrace his destiny, transitioning from a privileged prince to a devoted leader of the Israelites. His mission? To liberate his people from years of enslavement in Egypt. This isn’t just a physical journey—it’s deeply spiritual, emotional, and at times, incredibly personal.
Throughout the series, Moses faces immense challenges. He confronts Pharaoh with divine authority, brings about the ten plagues, and leads the Israelites through the parted Red Sea in one of the most iconic moments of faith and deliverance. But beyond the miracles and dramatic events, what really defines Moses is his inner struggle. Despite being chosen by God, he often wrestles with self-doubt, insecurity, and the weight of responsibility. Yet, time and again, Moses chooses faith over fear. That kind of resilience speaks volumes about who he is—not just as a prophet, but as a human being.
Interestingly, when we analyze Moses’ character through modern psychological frameworks, certain patterns emerge. In terms of personality type, Moses aligns closely with the INFJ profile—Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging. These individuals are known for their deep sense of purpose, empathy, and quiet strength. And sure enough, throughout the series, Moses consistently demonstrates these qualities. Even in his early life in Egypt, he shows compassion for the suffering Israelites, stepping in to defend them despite the personal risk. That instinct—to protect the vulnerable and stand up for justice—is central to the INFJ nature.
Moreover, Moses is deeply introspective. He frequently turns inward, seeking guidance through prayer and reflection. This isn’t someone driven by ego or ambition; rather, Moses listens—to God, to his conscience, and to the unspoken needs of his people. His leadership style is rooted in understanding and emotional intelligence, helping him unite a diverse and often quarrelsome group under a shared vision. It’s not always easy, but Moses remains committed, showing patience, wisdom, and an unwavering moral compass.
Now, if we shift our focus to the Enneagram system, another layer of insight comes into view. Moses strongly reflects the traits of a Type 1—the Reformer, also known as The Perfectionist. This type is guided by a powerful internal sense of right and wrong, a desire for integrity, and a commitment to doing things the “right” way. And honestly, that fits Moses like a glove. Think about how seriously he takes God’s commandments, especially when delivering the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. For Moses, rules aren’t arbitrary—they’re sacred principles meant to guide a righteous life.
But being a Type 1 isn’t without its struggles. Perfectionists often grapple with high expectations—both for themselves and others. We see this when Moses becomes frustrated with the Israelites’ disobedience, particularly during the incident with the Golden Calf. His anger flares, not out of cruelty, but because he feels they are betraying everything they’ve been called to. That moment reveals the shadow side of his type: the tendency toward rigidity and judgment when ideals are compromised.
Still, despite these flaws, Moses never abandons his people. He continues to intercede on their behalf, advocating for mercy even when they fall short. That balance between principle and compassion is what makes his character so compelling. Whether viewed through the lens of INFJ or Type 1, Moses emerges as someone driven by a higher purpose—one who leads not for glory, but out of duty, love, and faith.
So, while we can’t assign personality types with absolute certainty, especially to historical or religious figures, analyzing Moses through these frameworks helps us better understand his motivations and actions. In In the Beginning: The Bible Stories, Moses isn’t just a legendary prophet—he’s a complex, relatable figure who embodies courage, conviction, and the ongoing struggle to do what’s right. And that’s why, centuries later, the name Moses still resonates so deeply across cultures, faiths, and generations.
Let my people go!