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Exodus 1:19 (BSB)
The midwives answered Pharaoh, “The Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women, for they are vigorous and give birth before a midwife arrives.”
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“The midwives answered Pharaoh, “The Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women, for they are vigorous and give birth before a midwife arrives.”” — Exodus 1:19
Imagine a room buzzing with tension as two midwives stand before Pharaoh, the most powerful man in Egypt. They boldly explain, with a mix of pride and disbelief, that Hebrew women are incredibly strong and often give birth before they even arrive. This moment captures their bravery and their cleverness in outsmarting a king who wanted to control their people. It’s a snapshot of defiance and resilience, showing how ordinary women can stand up against the odds and protect life in the face of oppression.
The book of Exodus was traditionally attributed to Moses, a guy with a remarkable story of his own. He was raised in Pharaoh’s palace but later became a leader for the oppressed Hebrew people. Moses included this detail about the midwives to show that even in a world filled with power struggles, there are individuals who choose courage and compassion over fear. It’s a reminder that everyone has a role to play in the fight for justice.
This story takes place in ancient Egypt, around 1400-1200 BC, a time when the Hebrew people were enslaved. Pharaoh’s fear of their growing population led to drastic measures, reflecting a society where power and control often overshadowed human life. Understanding this historical backdrop helps you see the real stakes involved. The midwives’ actions weren’t just about defiance; they were acts of rebellion against a system that devalued their lives and families.
This verse matters today because it reminds you that courage can come from unexpected places. The midwives' bravery teaches you that standing up for what is right, even in small ways, can have significant impacts. It’s about making choices that reflect your values, especially when faced with tough situations. You may not be dealing with a Pharaoh, but in your life, you might face moments where you need to choose between what’s easy and what’s right.
This week, think about a situation where you can stand up for someone who is being overlooked or mistreated. Maybe it’s a friend who needs support or a cause that needs your voice. You can start small—like speaking up in a conversation or helping someone in need. Remember, just like the midwives, your actions can make a difference, no matter how small they seem at the time.
In this chapter, things are tense for the Hebrew people. They’re growing in number, and Pharaoh feels threatened. So, he orders the midwives to kill every Hebrew boy born. But instead of obeying, the midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, choose to save lives. This particular verse shows their clever excuse to Pharaoh, illustrating their bravery and quick thinking. It’s a pivotal moment in the story, highlighting the growing conflict between the oppressor and those who stand for life and freedom. Their actions set the stage for the bigger story of liberation that follows.
What does it mean to you to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s hard? How can you apply the courage of the midwives in your own life?
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