Final answer:
Moses led the Hebrews out of slavery in Egypt, an event central to Jewish tradition known as the Exodus. While archaeological evidence is sparse, the Merneptah inscription from 1207 BCE is the earliest Egyptian reference to a group known as Israel living in Canaan. The Exodus and resulting monotheistic covenant with Yahweh are commemorated during Passover.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Hebrew tradition, Moses is credited with leading the Hebrews out of slavery in Egypt. This event, known as the Exodus, is a foundational narrative in Judaism detailing the escape from Egypt and journey to the Promised Land. After a series of divine plagues inflicted upon Egypt, the Pharaoh finally relented and allowed the Hebrews, under Moses' leadership, to depart. Their journey culminated with the Hebrew general Joshua leading military campaigns in Canaan, enabling the Hebrews to settle the land. There is little archaeological evidence to support the complete enslavement of the Hebrews in Egypt, but certain Egyptian texts, like the inscription by Pharaoh Merneptah from around 1207 BCE, mention a people known as 'Israel' living in Canaan. This inscription is noteworthy as it is the earliest Egyptian record to reference the early Jews. The biblical account also claims that it was during this period that the Hebrews made a covenant to exclusively worship the monotheistic god Yahweh and abide by his laws, including the Ten Commandments. The story of Passover commemorates the Exodus and is a central part of Jewish cultural and religious tradition, signifying not only the physical liberation from slavery but also their spiritual commitment to monotheism under Moses' guidance.