Exodus 1:15 – “The king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, whose names were Shiphrah and Puah,”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 1:15 introduces us to two Hebrew midwives named Shiphrah and Puah. These women play a significant role in the story of the Israelites’ oppression in Egypt. Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, directly addresses them with an evil plan that he hopes will curb the growing population of the Israelites. This verse sets the stage for a moral and spiritual conflict, as these midwives are faced with a command from Pharaoh that goes against their conscience and the value of human life. The mention of their names in Scripture highlights their importance and the critical decision they would soon have to make.
Historical Context
The historical context of Exodus 1:15 is one of increasing tension and fear in Egypt. The Israelites, once welcomed during Joseph’s time, had grown so numerous that Pharaoh saw them as a potential threat. To control their population and prevent them from becoming too powerful, Pharaoh devised a plan to have all male Hebrew infants killed at birth. The midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, were likely leaders among the midwives who served the Hebrew women, and Pharaoh sought to use them to carry out his genocidal plan.
This event occurs during a time when life was often devalued, and rulers like Pharaoh had absolute power over life and death. The request to the midwives reflects the extent of Pharaoh’s fear and the lengths he would go to maintain control over the Israelite population.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 1:15 introduces the concept of moral courage and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of powerful opposition. Shiphrah and Puah were placed in a position where they had to choose between obeying the most powerful man in their world or doing what they knew was right in the sight of God. Their story is a reminder that God values life and that He honors those who choose to protect it, even when it is dangerous to do so.
This verse also highlights the theme of God’s providence. Despite Pharaoh’s plans to destroy the Israelite males, God was at work preserving His people, often using the most unlikely individuals to carry out His will. The inclusion of the midwives’ names suggests that their actions were significant in God’s eyes, and it foreshadows the deliverance that God would eventually bring to His people.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, Exodus 1:15 serves as the introduction to a critical moment in the narrative. The verse is structured to draw attention to the impending moral dilemma that the midwives will face. The specific mention of their names, Shiphrah and Puah, is unusual in ancient texts, where women’s names were often omitted. This detail emphasizes their importance and sets them up as key figures in the unfolding story.
The verse also creates a sense of foreboding, as the reader knows that Pharaoh’s intentions are evil, yet we see two ordinary women standing at the center of God’s plan to protect His people. This contrast between Pharaoh’s power and the midwives’ courage builds tension and prepares the reader for the choices that will define the next part of the narrative.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 1:17: This verse shows the midwives’ response to Pharaoh’s command, where they choose to fear God rather than obey the king’s wicked order.
- Psalm 82:3-4: These verses call for the defense of the weak and the fatherless, urging the protection of the vulnerable, a theme seen in the actions of Shiphrah and Puah.
- Acts 5:29: Peter and the apostles declare, “We must obey God rather than human beings!” echoing the sentiment that guided the midwives in their decision.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 1:15 is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing firm in one’s convictions, even when faced with opposition from authority figures. The example of Shiphrah and Puah encourages believers to prioritize God’s commands over human orders, especially when those orders conflict with moral and ethical principles. This verse challenges Christians to have the courage to defend life and to act justly, regardless of the potential consequences.
It also speaks to the value that God places on individuals who may seem insignificant in the world’s eyes but are vital in His plans. The midwives were not powerful or influential by worldly standards, yet their faithfulness had a lasting impact on God’s people.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 1:15 shows that God is deeply concerned with justice and the protection of life. His love is evident in the way He works through individuals like Shiphrah and Puah to safeguard the vulnerable, even in the face of great evil. This verse reminds us that God’s love extends to the smallest and most defenseless among us, and He often uses ordinary people to accomplish His extraordinary purposes.
God’s love is also seen in the way He honors those who act in accordance with His will, even when it requires great personal sacrifice. This verse is a testament to the fact that God is with those who choose righteousness over convenience or safety.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The connection between Exodus 1:15 and Jesus Christ can be found in the theme of protecting the innocent and standing against evil. Just as Shiphrah and Puah took a stand to protect the lives of Hebrew infants, Jesus came into the world to protect and save those who are spiritually vulnerable and lost. In Matthew 2:16, we see a similar situation where King Herod, much like Pharaoh, orders the massacre of innocent children in an attempt to eliminate a perceived threat—Jesus, the newborn King.
Jesus’ life and ministry reflect the same values seen in the midwives’ actions: the protection of life, standing up for the vulnerable, and the triumph of God’s will over the forces of evil.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the example of Shiphrah and Puah challenge you to stand firm in your convictions, even when faced with difficult choices?
- In what ways can you act to protect the vulnerable in your community, following the example of the Hebrew midwives?
- How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s plan, even when it involves taking risks or standing against powerful opposition?
- What parallels can you draw between the actions of the midwives and the mission of Jesus to protect and save the lost?
- How can you apply the lessons from this verse in your own life when faced with moral or ethical dilemmas?