Exodus 1:19 – “The midwives answered Pharaoh, ‘Hebrew women are not like Egyptian women; they are vigorous and give birth before the midwives arrive.'”
Extended Explanation
In Exodus 1:19, we see the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, responding to Pharaoh’s inquiry about why they had not followed his orders to kill the male infants born to the Israelites. The midwives tell Pharaoh that Hebrew women are strong and give birth quickly, often before the midwives can arrive. This explanation provided the midwives with a plausible reason for not carrying out Pharaoh’s command, allowing them to continue preserving the lives of the Hebrew children. Their response shows both wisdom and courage, as they find a way to avoid directly disobeying Pharaoh while still honoring their commitment to God and protecting innocent lives.
Historical Context
The historical context of this verse is rooted in the period of intense oppression the Israelites faced in Egypt. Pharaoh, fearing the growing population of the Israelites, had ordered that all male Hebrew infants be killed at birth. Shiphrah and Puah, the midwives, were tasked with carrying out this horrific command. However, out of fear and reverence for God, they chose to defy Pharaoh’s orders. The explanation they provided to Pharaoh—that the Hebrew women gave birth before they could arrive—was a way to protect themselves from Pharaoh’s wrath while continuing to save the lives of the Hebrew children.
In the ancient world, childbirth was a critical and often dangerous time, and midwives played an essential role in ensuring the safety of both mother and child. By claiming that the Hebrew women gave birth too quickly, the midwives were able to justify their actions without directly confronting Pharaoh, which could have led to severe consequences.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 1:19 highlights the theme of moral courage and the importance of fearing God above all else. The midwives’ decision to protect the Hebrew children, despite the risk to their own lives, demonstrates a profound trust in God’s sovereignty and justice. Their fear of God led them to act with integrity, even in the face of immense pressure from Pharaoh.
This verse also illustrates the wisdom that God grants to those who seek to do His will. The midwives’ response was not only courageous but also clever, allowing them to continue their work of preserving life without directly defying Pharaoh in a way that would immediately endanger them.
Literary Analysis
From a literary perspective, Exodus 1:19 is a pivotal moment in the narrative, where the midwives outmaneuver Pharaoh’s oppressive plan with a simple yet effective explanation. The verse uses the dialogue between the midwives and Pharaoh to emphasize the tension and danger they faced. The phrase “vigorous and give birth before the midwives arrive” serves to highlight the strength and resilience of the Hebrew women, contrasting with the Egyptian perception of them as a subjugated people.
This verse also serves to build the character of the midwives as wise and resourceful, showing that they were able to navigate a dangerous situation with tact and courage.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This reflects the midwives’ trust in God and His guidance in their response to Pharaoh.
- 1 Samuel 16:7: “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” God saw the heart and intentions of the midwives, valuing their reverence for Him above their fear of Pharaoh.
- Acts 5:29: “We must obey God rather than human beings!” This verse echoes the midwives’ decision to follow God’s will over Pharaoh’s command.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 1:19 serves as a powerful example of how to act with wisdom and courage when faced with moral dilemmas. The midwives’ response to Pharaoh teaches believers that it is possible to uphold God’s standards and protect life, even in challenging situations. This verse encourages Christians to trust in God’s guidance and to use the wisdom He provides to navigate difficult circumstances with integrity.
It also challenges believers to consider how they can stand up for what is right in their own lives, especially when doing so may require courage and creativity.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 1:19 shows God’s loving care for His people through the actions of the midwives. Their decision to protect the Hebrew infants reflects God’s own heart for the vulnerable and the oppressed. This verse reminds us that God’s love is often demonstrated through the courageous actions of those who fear Him and choose to do what is right, even at great personal risk.
God’s love is also evident in how He provides wisdom and protection to those who seek to honor Him. The midwives’ successful deflection of Pharaoh’s command shows that God was with them, guiding their steps and protecting them as they carried out His will.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The connection between Exodus 1:19 and Jesus Christ is seen in the theme of protecting the innocent and standing against evil. Just as the midwives acted to save the Hebrew infants from death, Jesus came into the world to save humanity from the consequences of sin and death. His ministry was marked by compassion for the vulnerable and a commitment to righteousness, even in the face of opposition from powerful authorities.
Furthermore, the midwives’ wisdom and courage in the face of danger can be seen as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ own wisdom and courage as He confronted the religious leaders of His time, ultimately laying down His life to bring salvation to all who believe in Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the example of the midwives in Exodus 1:19 challenge you to stand up for what is right, even in difficult situations?
- In what ways can you rely on God’s wisdom and guidance when faced with moral or ethical dilemmas?
- How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s protection when you are faced with opposition or danger?
- What parallels can you draw between the midwives’ actions and the ministry of Jesus Christ?
- How can you apply the lessons from this verse in your own life, particularly when confronted with choices that test your faith and integrity?