Exodus 1:15 - Verse Explanation
Verse Spotlight
In this moment, the king of Egypt is commanding two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to carry out a chilling order. The tension is palpable, as you can almost feel the weight of his authority crashing down on them. He’s trying to control the situation, trying to suppress the growing population of Hebrew people. This isn’t just a simple command; it’s a heart-wrenching demand that puts their morals and lives at risk. You can sense their fear, but also their strength, knowing they are in a position to make a choice that could change everything.
Who Wrote It
The book of Exodus was traditionally attributed to Moses, who lived through these events. He wanted to document the struggles of his people and highlight their resilience. By including the names of the midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, Moses is showing us that even in the darkest times, there are ordinary people who stand up for what’s right. Their bravery becomes a beacon of hope, and Moses wants us to remember that it’s often the unsung heroes who make the biggest difference.
What It Means
In this moment, the king of Egypt is commanding two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to carry out a chilling order. The tension is palpable, as you can almost feel the weight of his authority crashing down on them. He’s trying to control the situation, trying to suppress the growing population of Hebrew people. This isn’t just a simple command; it’s a heart-wrenching demand that puts their morals and lives at risk. You can sense their fear, but also their strength, knowing they are in a position to make a choice that could change everything.
Where and When
Exodus was written during a time when the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt, which was a powerful empire around 1500-1200 BC. The Egyptians were afraid of losing their control over the Israelites, who were growing in number. This historical backdrop is essential because it helps us understand the fear and desperation that led Pharaoh to order such horrific acts. It paints a vivid picture of a society where fear drives leaders to oppressive measures, making the midwives’ act of courage all the more remarkable.
Why It Matters
This verse matters for you today because it highlights a moment of moral conflict and bravery. Just like Shiphrah and Puah, you might find yourself in situations where you have to choose between following orders and standing up for what you believe is right. Their story reminds you that your choices can have a profound impact, and that standing up for life and goodness can change the course of events. It encourages you to consider how you respond to injustice in your own life, no matter how small or large.