The Hebrew midwives, named Shiphrah and Puah, were women who served in Egypt during Israel’s time of bondage. Pharaoh commanded them to kill all Hebrew male infants at birth, a direct attempt to weaken Israel’s future strength. However, these women feared God more than they feared Pharaoh and refused to carry out his orders.
Exodus 1:15–17 says:
“Then the king of Egypt spoke to the Hebrew midwives, of whom the name of one was Shiphrah and the name of the other Puah; and he said, ‘When you do the duties of a midwife for the Hebrew women… if it is a son, then you shall kill him; but if it is a daughter, then she shall live.’ But the midwives feared God, and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the male children alive.”
Their fear of God led them to courageously defy Pharaoh’s wicked decree. When questioned, they explained that Hebrew women gave birth quickly, before the midwives could arrive (Exodus 1:19). Whether this was entirely true or a partial excuse, the text makes clear that God honored their reverence for Him.
Exodus 1:20–21 declares:
“Therefore God dealt well with the midwives… and He provided households for them.”
This blessing likely included families of their own and favor in the community. Their story shows that obedience to God takes precedence over obedience to man (Acts 5:29). These women became examples of faith under pressure, proving that God honors those who stand for righteousness even in hostile circumstances.
