Exodus 1:19
And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women; for they are lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them.
Exodus 1:19 (KJV)
Context
Exodus 1 describes the oppression of the Israelites in Egypt. Despite Pharaoh’s attempts to control their population, their numbers increased. Pharaoh commanded the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all male Hebrew babies at birth. However, the midwives chose to disobey this command and let the male babies live.
Meaning
When Pharaoh questioned the midwives about their disobedience, they answered that the Hebrew women were not like the Egyptian women. The word “lively” means vigorous and strong. The Hebrew women gave birth quickly, before the midwives could arrive. Some translations render this as “vigorous” or “strong.” The Wycliffe translation notes that the Hebrew women had knowledge of midwifery themselves. The midwives’ statement, while perhaps not the full truth, reflects their courage and their commitment to preserve life rather than obey Pharaoh’s wicked decree.
Biblical connections
The midwives’ actions demonstrate a fear of God that overrides the fear of human authority. Their decision to spare the Hebrew babies revealed God’s faithfulness in preserving His chosen people. God honored the midwives’ courage and rewarded their act of faith by granting them families of their own, as recorded in Exodus 1:20-21. This shows that God honors those who honor Him.
Application
The story of the midwives teaches us the importance of valuing human life and standing up against injustice. As Christians, we should always prioritize doing what is right and upholding the dignity of every person, even if it means going against societal norms or facing potential repercussions.
The midwives’ response to Pharaoh also reminds us that wisdom and discernment are essential when faced with difficult situations. They chose a wise course of action that allowed them to protect the Hebrew babies while avoiding direct conflict.
This passage also encourages us to trust in God’s faithfulness and provision. Just as God blessed the midwives for their faithfulness, He will reward those who honor Him and act according to His principles.
Reflection
Exodus 1:19 highlights the courageous actions of the Hebrew midwives in defying Pharaoh’s command to kill the male Hebrew babies. Their faithfulness to God, their clever response to Pharaoh, and God’s faithfulness in turn teach us important lessons about valuing human life, exercising wisdom, and trusting in God’s provision. The midwives’ example encourages us to fear God above all human authority, knowing that He sees our choices and rewards those who honor Him.
