Introduction:
Shiph'rah is a notable figure in the Hebrew Bible, recognized for her role as a midwife during a critical period in Israelite history. Her account is primarily found in the Book of Exodus, where she is depicted as a woman of courage and faith, playing a pivotal role in the preservation of the Israelite people during their time of oppression in Egypt.

Biblical Account:
Shiph'rah is introduced in Exodus 1:15-21, where she, along with another midwife named Puah, is commanded by the Pharaoh of Egypt to kill all newborn Hebrew boys. The Pharaoh, fearing the growing population and potential power of the Israelites, sought to suppress them through this brutal decree. However, Shiph'rah and Puah, described as God-fearing women, chose to defy the king's orders. Exodus 1:17 states, "The midwives, however, feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had told them; they let the boys live."

When questioned by Pharaoh about their disobedience, Shiph'rah and Puah cleverly responded that the Hebrew women were vigorous and gave birth before the midwives could arrive. Their actions not only saved countless lives but also demonstrated their reverence for God over the edicts of man. As a result of their faithfulness, God blessed the midwives. Exodus 1:20-21 records, "So God was good to the midwives, and the people multiplied and became even more numerous. And because the midwives feared God, He gave them families of their own."

Theological Significance:
Shiph'rah's account is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it highlights the theme of civil disobedience in the face of unjust laws, emphasizing the moral imperative to obey God above human authorities when the two are in conflict. Her actions exemplify the biblical principle found in Acts 5:29 , "We must obey God rather than men."

Secondly, Shiph'rah's fear of God is a central element of her narrative. Her reverence for the divine over earthly power underscores the biblical teaching that true wisdom and courage stem from a proper relationship with God. Her account serves as an early example of the biblical motif of God using seemingly insignificant individuals to accomplish His purposes, a theme that recurs throughout Scripture.

Cultural and Historical Context:
The account of Shiph'rah occurs during a time when the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt, a period marked by harsh oppression and forced labor. The Pharaoh's decree to kill Hebrew male infants was a desperate attempt to curb the growth and influence of the Israelite population. In this context, the actions of Shiph'rah and Puah stand out as acts of defiance and faith, challenging the oppressive structures of their time.

Legacy:
Shiph'rah's legacy is one of faith, courage, and the sanctity of life. Her account has been an inspiration to countless believers throughout history, serving as a reminder of the power of individual acts of righteousness in the face of systemic evil. Her fear of God and commitment to preserving life continue to resonate as timeless virtues within the Christian tradition.Shiph'rah (1 Occurrence)

Exodus 1:15
And the king of Egypt spoke to the Hebrew midwives, of whom the name of the one was Shiphrah, and the name of the other Puah;
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Shiph'rah (1 Occurrence)
Shiph'rah. Shiphrah, Shiph'rah. Shiphtan . Multi-Version Concordance
Shiph'rah (1 Occurrence). Exodus 1:15 And the king of Egypt ...
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Shiphrah (1 Occurrence)

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Shiphtan (1 Occurrence)

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