Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Pu'ah" is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is often associated with "splendid" or "brilliant." In the context of the Bible, Pu'ah is a name that appears in two distinct narratives, each with its own significance. Biblical References: 1. Pu'ah the Midwife: Pu'ah is one of the two Hebrew midwives mentioned in the Book of Exodus. Alongside Shiphrah, Pu'ah played a crucial role during the time when the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt. The Pharaoh, fearing the growing population of the Israelites, commanded the midwives to kill all newborn Hebrew boys. However, Pu'ah and Shiphrah feared God and defied the king's orders, allowing the boys to live. Their actions are recorded in Exodus 1:15-21: "The king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, whose names were Shiphrah and Puah, 'When you help the Hebrew women give birth, observe them as they deliver. If the child is a son, kill him; but if it is a daughter, let her live.' The midwives, however, feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had told them; they let the boys live." (Exodus 1:15-17) Because of their faithfulness and fear of God, the midwives were blessed by God, and He "gave them families of their own" (Exodus 1:21). Pu'ah's account is a testament to the courage and faith of those who choose to obey God over human authority. 2. Pu'ah the Father of Tola: Another mention of Pu'ah is found in the Book of Judges, where he is identified as the father of Tola, one of the judges of Israel. Tola, the son of Pu'ah, was from the tribe of Issachar and served as a judge for twenty-three years. This reference is found in Judges 10:1: "After the time of Abimelech, Tola son of Puah, the son of Dodo, rose to save Israel. He lived in Shamir, in the hill country of Ephraim." (Judges 10:1) In this context, Pu'ah is noted for his lineage, as his son Tola played a significant role in delivering Israel from its oppressors. The mention of Pu'ah in this genealogical context highlights the importance of family heritage and the continuation of God's work through successive generations. Theological Significance: Pu'ah's account, particularly as a midwife, underscores the theme of divine providence and the importance of fearing God above all else. Her actions, along with those of Shiphrah, demonstrate the power of faith and obedience in the face of oppressive human authority. The narrative also highlights God's protection and blessing upon those who honor Him. In the genealogical mention, Pu'ah's role as the father of a judge signifies the importance of family and heritage in the unfolding of God's plan for His people. Through Tola, Pu'ah's legacy is seen in the deliverance and leadership provided to Israel during a time of need. Cultural and Historical Context: The account of Pu'ah the midwife is set during a period of intense oppression for the Israelites in Egypt, reflecting the broader theme of God's deliverance of His people. The courage of the midwives is a powerful example of civil disobedience motivated by faith. In the time of the judges, the mention of Pu'ah as Tola's father situates him within the tribal and familial structures that were central to Israelite society. The judges were leaders raised by God to deliver Israel from its enemies and to guide the people back to faithfulness. Pu'ah's legacy, both as a midwife and as a father, is a testament to the enduring impact of faith and obedience in the biblical narrative. Concordance Pu'ah (3 Occurrences)Exodus 1:15 Judges 10:1 1 Chronicles 7:1 Thesaurus Pu'ah (3 Occurrences)Pu'ah. Puah, Pu'ah. Public . Multi-Version Concordance Pu'ah (3 Occurrences). Exodus 1:15 The king of Egypt spoke to the Hebrew ... /p/pu'ah.htm - 7k Puah (5 Occurrences) Puvah (2 Occurrences) Is'sachar (40 Occurrences) E'phraim (146 Occurrences) Dyeing Dye (1 Occurrence) Abim'elech (58 Occurrences) Public (99 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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