The Hebrew word Pûwʻâh, represented by H6326, means brilliancy. Based on an unused root meaning to glitter, it appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse of the Bible. Its sole usage is as the proper name of an Israelitess.
The single appearance of Pûwʻâh H6326 is in the book of Exodus. She is identified as one of two Hebrew H5680 midwives, along with her colleague Shiphrah H8236. In the narrative, the king H4428 of Egypt H4714 spake H559 directly to them, setting the stage for a critical moment in the history of Israel Exodus 1:15.
Several related words from the biblical account provide context for the role and identity of Puah:
- H8236 Shiphrâh: As the other named midwife, she is Puah's direct counterpart in the narrative, sharing in the same instruction from the king of Egypt Exodus 1:15.
- H3205 yâlad: The root word for "midwives," it means "to bear young" or "to act as midwife." This term defines Puah's profession, which is central to her function in the story.
- H4428 melek: Meaning "a king," this word identifies the authority figure who confronts Puah. The interaction between the midwives and the king of Egypt is the only context in which Puah is mentioned.
- H5680 ʻIbrîy: This term, meaning "Hebrew," establishes Puah's ethnic and religious identity, placing her within the people of Israel whom the God of the Hebrews has chosen Exodus 3:18.
The theological weight of H6326 is derived entirely from the context of its single appearance. Puah's significance is demonstrated in several ways:
- Confronting Earthly Power: Puah is named as an individual who receives a direct command from the king H4428 of Egypt H4714, a nation that represents opposition to God's people. This places her at the center of a conflict between human decrees and divine will.
- Instrument of Life: As a midwife H3205, her role is fundamentally tied to the act of bringing forth life and children. This profession stands in stark contrast to the oppressive measures of the Egyptian king.
- Individual in a National Drama: By being specifically named in this encounter, Puah's identity is preserved. She is not an anonymous servant but a key historical figure at a pivotal moment leading to Israel's deliverance from Egypt.
In summary, Pûwʻâh H6326 is more than just a name that appears once. It represents a specific individual whose identity and profession were crucial at a foundational moment for the nation of Israel. Her name, meaning "brilliancy," and her role as a midwife place her as a figure of life and courage in the face of an oppressive earthly king. The single verse where she is mentioned captures a critical intersection of human authority, divine purpose, and personal faithfulness.
TRV