This posuk refers to the marriage of Moshe‘s parents, Amram and Yocheved. Why doesn’t the Torah mention their names. It isn’t until later that their names are revealed. What do we learn from this omission? Often, when parents are blessed with a very bright child who possesses very special qualities and capabilities, they immediately take credit for everything this child accomplishes. This is wrong, for we can not be sure how a child will mature.
In Pirkei Avos it is stated, “Do not trust yourself until the day of death” (2:5). This is especially true if a person lives in the midst of an environment totally estranged and opposed to Torah values. It is only when a child matures and independently acts virtuously, performing righteous deeds with a sense of pride and honor, can parents deserve some praise. When Moshe was born, the Torah does not mention his parents’ names since they were not yet praiseworthy. It is only after Moshe had grown up spiritually and responded successfully to the various tests of his ability to lead the Jewish people, that the Torah rightfully mentions his parents’ names. This should serve as a motivation for all parents not to be overconfident in their children’s abilities and never be lax in devoting all their energies to their children’s upbringing.
