Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Shiphrah and Puah are two Hebrew midwives mentioned in the Book of Exodus, known for their pivotal role in the early narrative of the Israelites' oppression in Egypt. Their account is a testament to faith, courage, and the fear of God, which led them to defy the orders of a powerful king. Biblical Account: The account of Shiphrah and Puah is found in Exodus 1:15-21. During a time when the Israelites were multiplying and becoming exceedingly strong, the new Pharaoh, who did not know Joseph, felt threatened by their growing numbers. In an attempt to curb their population, Pharaoh commanded the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all newborn Hebrew boys at birth. However, the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had told them; they let the boys live. Scripture Reference: "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 on the delivery stool. If it 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) Fear of God: The fear of God is a central theme in the narrative of Shiphrah and Puah. Their reverence for God and His commandments outweighed their fear of the earthly king. This fear of God is not merely terror but a profound respect and acknowledgment of His sovereignty and righteousness. Their actions demonstrate a deep commitment to preserving life, aligning with the biblical principle that life is sacred. Divine Reward: Because of their faithfulness and courage, God dealt well with the midwives. The Bible records that He gave them families of their own as a reward for their actions. This divine blessing underscores the biblical principle that God honors those who honor Him, even in the face of great personal risk. Scripture Reference: "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." (Exodus 1:20-21) Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, midwives played a crucial role in childbirth, a time of great vulnerability and danger. The naming of Shiphrah and Puah in the biblical text highlights their importance and the significance of their actions. Their defiance of Pharaoh's edict is one of the earliest recorded acts of civil disobedience, motivated by a higher moral law. Theological Significance: Shiphrah and Puah's account is a powerful example of how God uses seemingly insignificant individuals to accomplish His purposes. Their faith and courage set the stage for the eventual deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. Their actions remind believers of the importance of standing firm in faith and righteousness, even when faced with oppressive and unjust demands. Legacy: The legacy of Shiphrah and Puah is one of faithfulness and courage. Their account has inspired countless believers to trust in God's providence and to act righteously, regardless of the consequences. They are remembered as heroines of faith who played a crucial role in the preservation of the Israelite people, ultimately contributing to the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for humanity. ATS Bible Dictionary Shiphrah and PuahMidwives in Egypt, who through the fear of God spared the newborn sons of the Hebrews, contrary to the orders of the king. God rewarded their kindness to his people, though condemning no doubt the untruthfulness of their excuse to the king. He "made them houses," that is, probably gave each of them a numerous family, Exodus 1:15 21. Library Some General Matters and Some Biblical Characters. The Bible Book ... Appeal to the Christian Women of the South Resources Should the Hebrew midwives be commended for lying? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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