Puah is one of the two Hebrew midwives mentioned in the Book of Exodus, who played a crucial role in the survival of the Israelite male infants during their time of oppression in Egypt. Her account is found in Exodus 1:15-21, where she is mentioned alongside Shiphrah, the other midwife. These women are remembered for their courageous defiance of Pharaoh's orders and their fear of God, which led to the preservation of many lives.

Biblical Account

In the narrative of Exodus, the Israelites had become numerous in Egypt, which caused concern for the new Pharaoh who did not know Joseph. Fearing that the Israelites might join Egypt's enemies in the event of war, Pharaoh sought to suppress their population growth. He commanded the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all newborn Hebrew boys during childbirth. However, the midwives feared God and did not comply with the king's orders. Instead, they allowed the boys to live.

When Pharaoh confronted them about their disobedience, the midwives explained, "The Hebrew women are vigorous and give birth before the midwife arrives" (Exodus 1:19). Their fear of God and their commitment to preserving life were rewarded by God, who "dealt well with the midwives, and the people multiplied and became very strong" (Exodus 1:20). Furthermore, "because the midwives feared God, He gave them families of their own" (Exodus 1:21).

Significance

Puah's actions, along with those of Shiphrah, are significant for several reasons. Firstly, they demonstrate the importance of fearing God above human authority, especially when human commands contradict divine principles. The midwives' civil disobedience is an early biblical example of choosing to obey God rather than men, a theme that recurs throughout Scripture.

Secondly, Puah's account highlights the role of women in God's redemptive history. Despite their low social status, the midwives' faith and courage had a profound impact on the future of the Israelite nation. Their actions set the stage for the birth and preservation of Moses, who would later lead the Israelites out of Egypt.

Lastly, the account of Puah and Shiphrah underscores the sanctity of life. Their refusal to participate in the destruction of innocent lives aligns with the biblical principle that life is a sacred gift from God, deserving of protection and care.

Legacy

Puah's legacy is one of faith, courage, and obedience to God. Her account serves as an enduring testament to the power of righteous actions in the face of evil. Through her fear of God and her commitment to preserving life, Puah played a pivotal role in the unfolding of God's plan for His people, demonstrating that even seemingly small acts of faithfulness can have far-reaching consequences in the divine narrative.Exodus 1:15
And the king of Egypt spoke to the Hebrew midwives, of which the name of the one was Shiphrah, and the name of the other Puah:
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