Topical Bible: Fear of God: The Midwives of Egypt, in Refusing to Take the Lives of the Hebrew Children

◄ Fear of God: The Midwives of Egypt, in Refusing to Take the Lives of the Hebrew Children ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The account of the Hebrew midwives in Egypt is a profound illustration of the fear of God manifesting in courageous and righteous action. This narrative is found in the Book of Exodus, specifically in Exodus 1:15-21. The midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, are central figures in this account, demonstrating a reverence for God that surpasses their fear of earthly authority.

Context and Background

The Israelites had been living in Egypt since the time of Joseph, and they had grown exceedingly numerous. A new Pharaoh, who did not know Joseph, came to power and perceived the burgeoning Hebrew population as a threat to national security. In an attempt to curb their growth, Pharaoh commanded the Hebrew midwives to kill all newborn Hebrew boys at birth. This decree was a direct assault on the sanctity of life and an attempt to undermine God's promise to Abraham of making his descendants a great nation (Genesis 12:2).

The Midwives' Fear of God

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." The fear of God, in this context, is understood as a profound respect and reverence for God's authority and commandments, which supersedes any human edict. The midwives' actions were not merely acts of civil disobedience but were rooted in a deep-seated belief in the sanctity of life as ordained by God.

Moral Courage and Divine Favor

The midwives' decision to let the Hebrew boys live was an act of moral courage. By defying Pharaoh's orders, they risked their own lives, yet their fear of God empowered them to choose righteousness over compliance with evil. Their actions align with the biblical principle that obedience to God takes precedence over obedience to human authorities when the two are in conflict (Acts 5:29).

God's response to the midwives' faithfulness is significant. 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." This divine favor underscores the biblical theme that God honors those who honor Him (1 Samuel 2:30). The midwives' fear of God not only preserved the lives of many Hebrew children but also resulted in blessings for themselves.

Theological Implications

The account of the midwives highlights the concept of the fear of God as a guiding principle for ethical decision-making. It serves as a reminder that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). The midwives' actions exemplify how the fear of God can lead to life-affirming choices, even in the face of oppressive regimes.

Furthermore, this narrative foreshadows the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, as the preservation of the Hebrew boys, including Moses, was integral to God's redemptive plan. The midwives' fear of God played a crucial role in the unfolding of this divine narrative, demonstrating that God often uses seemingly ordinary individuals to accomplish His extraordinary purposes.

In summary, the account of the Egyptian midwives is a testament to the power of the fear of God to inspire acts of righteousness and courage. Their account is a timeless example of how reverence for God can lead to the preservation of life and the fulfillment of His promises.