Exodus 1 recounts the descendants of Jacob, also known as the Israelites, who had migrated to Egypt following Joseph’s rise to power. Over time, a new Pharaoh came to rule who did not know Joseph and his contributions. Fearing the growing numbers and potential strength of the Israelites, Pharaoh subjected them to harsh slavery, forcing them into hard labor and oppressive conditions.
Despite their suffering, the Israelites continued to multiply and thrive. In an effort to curb their population growth, Pharaoh commanded the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all male infants born to the Israelites. However, the midwives feared God and refused to carry out the order, claiming that the Israelite women were strong and gave birth before their arrival.
As a result of the midwives’ disobedience, God blessed them and the Israelite population continued to flourish. Growing desperate, Pharaoh instructed all his people to throw every Hebrew baby boy into the Nile River.
Exodus 1 sets the stage for the subsequent events in the book, highlighting the oppression faced by the Israelites in Egypt and the beginning of their struggle for liberation. It introduces key characters and themes that will be further explored in the following chapters.