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Translation
King James Version
But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive.
Complete Jewish Bible
However, the midwives were God-fearing women, so they didn't do as the king of Egypt ordered but let the boys live.
Berean Standard Bible
The midwives, however, feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had instructed; they let the boys live.
American Standard Version
But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men-children alive.
World English Bible Messianic
But the midwives feared God, and didn’t do what the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the baby boys alive.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Notwithstanding ye midwiues feared God, and did not as the King of Egypt commanded them, but preserued aliue the men children.
Young's Literal Translation
And the midwives fear God, and have not done as the king of Egypt hath spoken unto them, and keep the lads alive;
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In the KJVVerse 1,550 of 31,102
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Commentary on Exodus 1 verses 15–22
15 ¶ And the king of Egypt spake to the Hebrew midwives, of which the name of the one was Shiphrah, and the name of the other Puah:
16 And he said, When ye do the office of a midwife to the Hebrew women, and see them upon the stools; if it be a son, then ye shall kill him: but if it be a daughter, then she shall live.
17 But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive.
18 And the king of Egypt called for the midwives, and said unto them, Why have ye done this thing, and have saved the men children alive?
19 And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women; for they are lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them.
20 Therefore God dealt well with the midwives: and the people multiplied, and waxed very mighty.
21 And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses.
22 And Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, Every son that is born ye shall cast into the river, and every daughter ye shall save alive.
The Egyptians' indignation at Israel's increase, notwithstanding the many hardships they put upon them, drove them at length to the most barbarous and inhuman methods of suppressing them, by the murder of their children. It was strange that they did not rather pick quarrels with the grown men, against whom they might perhaps find some occasion: to be thus bloody towards the infants, whom all must own to be innocents, was a sin which they had to cloak for. Note, 1. There is more cruelty in the corrupt heart of man than one would imagine, Rom 3:15, Rom 3:16. The enmity that is in the seed of the serpent against the seed of the woman divests men of humanity itself, and makes them forget all pity. One would not think it possible that ever men should be so barbarous and blood-thirsty as the persecutors of God's people have been, Rev 17:6. 2. Even confessed innocence is no defence against the old enmity. What blood so guiltless as that of a child new-born? Yet that is prodigally shed like water, and sucked with delight like milk or honey. Pharaoh and Herod sufficiently proved themselves agents for that great red dragon, who stood to devour the man-child as soon as it was born, Rev 12:3, Rev 12:4. Pilate delivered Christ to be crucified, after he had confessed that he found no fault in him. It is well for us that, though man can kill the body, this is all he can do. Two bloody edicts are here signed for the destruction of all the male children that were born to the Hebrews.
I. The midwives were commanded to murder them. Observe, 1. The orders given them, Exo 1:15, Exo 1:16. It added much to the barbarity of the intended executions that the midwives were appointed to be the executioners; for it was to make them, not only bloody, but perfidious, and to oblige them to betray a trust, and to destroy those whom they undertook to save and help. Could he think that their sex would admit such cruelty, and their employment such base treachery? Note, Those who are themselves barbarous think to find, or make, others as barbarous. Pharaoh's project was secretly to engage the midwives to stifle the men-children as soon as they were born, and then to lay it upon the difficulty of the birth, or some mischance common in that case, Job 3:11. The two midwives he tampered with in order hereunto are here named; and perhaps, at this time, which was above eighty years before their going out of Egypt, those two might suffice for all the Hebrew women, at least so many of them as lay near the court, as it is plain by Exo 2:5, Exo 2:6, many of them did, and of them he was most jealous. They are called Hebrew midwives, probably not because they were themselves Hebrews (for surely Pharaoh could never expect they should be so barbarous to those of their own nation), but because they were generally made use of by the Hebrews; and, being Egyptians, he hoped to prevail with them. 2. Their pious disobedience to this impious command, Exo 1:17. They feared God, regarded his law, and dreaded his wrath more than Pharaoh's and therefore saved the men-children alive. Note, If men's commands be any way contrary to the commands of God, we must obey God and not man, Act 4:19; Act 5:29. No power on earth can warrant us, much less oblige us, to sin against God, our chief Lord. Again, Where the fear of God rules in the heart, it will preserve it from the snare which the inordinate fear of man brings. 3. Their justifying themselves in this disobedience, when they were charged with it as a crime, Exo 1:18. They gave a reason for it, which, it seems, God's gracious promise furnished them with - that they came too late to do it, for generally the children were born before they came, Exo 1:19. I see no reason we have to doubt the truth of this; it is plain that the Hebrews were now under an extraordinary blessing of increase, which may well be supposed to have this effect, that the women had very quick and easy labour, and, the mothers and children being both lively, they seldom needed the help of midwives: this these midwives took notice of, and, concluding it to the finger of God, were thereby emboldened to disobey the king, in favour of those whom Heaven thus favoured, and with this justified themselves before Pharaoh, when he called them to an account for it. Some of the ancient Jews expound it thus, Ere the midwife comes to them they pray to their Father in heaven, and he answereth them, and they do bring forth. Note, God is a readier help to his people in distress than any other helpers are, and often anticipates them with the blessings of his goodness; such deliverances lay them under peculiarly strong obligations. 4. The recompence God gave them for their tenderness towards his people: He dealt well with them, Exo 1:20. Note, God will be behind-hand with none for any kindness done to his people, taking it as done to himself. In particular, he made them houses (Exo 1:21), built them up into families, blessed their children, and prospered them in all they did. Note, The services done for God's Israel are often repaid in kind. The midwives kept up the Israelites' houses, and, in recompence for it, God made them houses. Observe, The recompence has relation to the principle upon which they went: Because they feared God, he made them houses. Note, Religion and piety are good friends to outward prosperity: the fear of God in a house will help to build it up and establish it. Dr. Lightfoot's notion of it is, That, for their piety, they were married to Israelites, and Hebrew families were built up by them.
II. When this project did not take effect, Pharaoh gave public orders to all his people to drown all the male children of the Hebrews, Exo 1:22. We may suppose it was made highly penal for any to know of the birth of a son to an Israelite, and not to give information to those who were appointed to throw him into the river. Note, The enemies of the church have been restless in their endeavours to wear out the saints of the Most High, Dan 7:25. But he that sits in heaven shall laugh at them. See Psa 2:4.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 15–22. Public domain.
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Methodius of OlympusAD 311
BANQUET OF THE TEN VIRGINS 4.2
Thus too it has been said that the Pharaoh of Egypt was a type of the devil, in that he cruelly ordered the males to be cast into the Nile and permitted the females to live. So too the devil, ruling over the great Egypt of the world “from Adam unto Moses,” made an effort to carry off and destroy the male and rational offspring of the soul in the flood of the passions, while he takes delight in seeing the carnal and sensual offspring increase and multiply.
Ambrose of MilanAD 397
FLIGHT FROM THE WORLD 8.47
Indeed, in regard to other Hebrew women you find it written that the Hebrew women give birth before the midwives arrive. This is so because the souls of the just do not wait upon branches of learning arranged according to kinds of knowledge, nor do they require assistance in parturition, but they bring forth their offspring spontaneously and anticipate the expected time.
Augustine of HippoAD 430
EXPLANATION OF THE PSALMS 5.7
Many lies indeed seem to be for someone's safety or advantage, spoken not in malice but in kindness: such was that of those midwives in Exodus, who gave a false report to Pharaoh, to the end that the infants of the children of Israel might not be slain. But even these are praised not for the fact but for the disposition shown; since those who only lie in this way will attain in time to a freedom from all lying.
Augustine of HippoAD 430
QUESTIONS ON EXODUS 1
On the midwives' lie, by which they deceived Pharaoh and kept him from killing the Israelite males when they were born: The midwives said that Hebrew women did not give birth as Egyptian women did. It is usual to ask whether such lies have been approved by divine authority. Scripture says that God favored the midwives. It is unclear whether God, in his mercy, pardoned the lie or judged that the lie itself deserved a reward. For the midwives did one thing by letting the infant boys live and another by lying to Pharaoh. In letting them live they performed a work of mercy; but they used that lie for their own ends, to keep Pharaoh from harming the infants. This act could be the occasion not for praise but for pardon. It does not seem to me that the authority to lie has been given to those of whom it is said, "And a lie has not been found in their mouths." For if the lives of certain people, being far below the level of the saints' lives, include these sins of lying, these people are living in accord with their natural abilities, especially if they do not yet know that they should expect heavenly gifts but busy themselves with earthly things. As for those who live in such a way that their conversation, as the apostle says, is in heaven, I do not think that they should regulate the style of their speech, insofar as it affects speaking the truth and avoiding falsehood, on the example of the midwives. But we should consider this question more carefully, on account of the other examples that are found in Scripture.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Exodus 1:17 powerfully illustrates the courageous faith of the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, who, driven by a profound reverence for God, defied Pharaoh's genocidal decree to murder all Israelite male infants. Their righteous act of civil disobedience, prioritizing divine command over tyrannical human authority, was instrumental in preserving the lives of the Hebrew boys, thereby safeguarding God's covenant people and advancing His sovereign plan for their survival and eventual deliverance.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Exodus 1:17 is rich with literary devices that amplify its theological significance. Contrast is paramount, setting the midwives' God-fearing obedience against Pharaoh's tyrannical command and his godless ambition. This highlights the fundamental conflict between divine will and human evil. There is also profound Irony at play: the most powerful man on earth, Pharaoh, is thwarted not by a mighty army, but by two seemingly powerless women. This underscores God's ability to use the weak and unexpected to dismantle the plans of the strong, a recurring biblical motif. The verse also employs Foreshadowing, subtly hinting at God's larger plan of deliverance and His sovereign protection over His people. The preservation of these infants, particularly Moses, sets the stage for the dramatic events of the Exodus, where God's power will be fully revealed in rescuing His chosen nation.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 1:17 profoundly articulates the supremacy of the fear of God over the fear of man as the ultimate guide for moral action and righteous living. The midwives' decision to obey God rather than Pharaoh establishes a foundational biblical precedent for righteous civil disobedience, demonstrating that when human laws directly contradict divine commands, particularly those concerning the sanctity of life, obedience to God takes precedence. This act of faith also highlights God's sovereign providence and protection of His covenant people, often through unexpected and seemingly weak instruments, ensuring the continuation of His redemptive plan despite human opposition. Their actions underscore the inherent value and sanctity of human life, particularly in its most vulnerable stages, as a divine principle that must be upheld.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 1:17 stands as a timeless beacon of courage and conviction for believers across generations. It challenges us to cultivate a profound and active "fear of God"—a reverential awe that translates into unwavering obedience to His moral will, even when it places us at odds with prevailing cultural norms or powerful human authorities. This narrative encourages us to recognize that God often chooses ordinary individuals to accomplish extraordinary acts of faith, reminding us that our perceived weakness is no barrier to being used mightily by Him. It calls us to uphold the sanctity of human life in all its stages, to stand for truth and righteousness, and to trust in God's sovereign provision and protection, even in the face of daunting opposition or personal risk. The midwives' story inspires us to live out our faith boldly, knowing that our allegiance to God will never go unnoticed or unrewarded by Him.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "feared God" mean in this context?
Answer: In the context of Exodus 1:17, "feared God" (Hebrew: yare' Elohim) signifies a profound reverence, awe, and moral conviction towards God, rather than a cowering terror. It implies that the midwives held God in such high regard that His will and principles took precedence over any human command, including that of the most powerful earthly ruler, Pharaoh. This fear compelled them to act righteously, prioritizing the preservation of life as God's design.
Was the midwives' disobedience to Pharaoh justified?
Answer: Yes, the midwives' disobedience is presented as righteous and divinely approved. Biblical principles consistently affirm that when human laws or commands directly contradict God's moral standards, especially regarding the sanctity of life, obedience to God takes precedence. Their actions are explicitly commended by God, who subsequently blessed them for their faithfulness, as detailed in Exodus 1:20-21. This act established a crucial precedent for prioritizing divine authority over human authority when the two conflict.
What happened to the midwives after this event?
Answer: Exodus 1:20-21 states that "God dealt well with the midwives" and "made them houses." This indicates divine favor and blessing upon them for their obedience and courage. The phrase "made them houses" is often interpreted as God granting them prosperity, security, and the establishment of their own families or households, including children. This was a significant blessing in ancient Israelite culture, affirming God's reward for those who honor Him, even at personal risk.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 1:17, while directly detailing God's preservation of His people through the courageous midwives, profoundly foreshadows the ultimate preservation of life found in Jesus Christ. The midwives' act of saving the "men children alive" points forward to Christ, the true "Lamb of God" (as proclaimed in John 1:29) who would ultimately lay down His life to give eternal life to all who believe. Their righteous defiance of Pharaoh's death decree prefigures Christ's perfect obedience to the Father's will, even unto death on the cross (as described in Philippians 2:8), which secured salvation for humanity and triumphed over the power of sin and death. Just as the midwives preserved the physical lineage through which the Messiah would come, Christ, through His resurrection, became the source of spiritual life, ensuring the preservation of all those who are "born again" into His spiritual family (as taught in John 3:3). Their courage in the face of tyranny serves as an early testament to the divine principle that God's plan of salvation will always prevail, ultimately culminating in the life-giving work of His Son.