Exodus 1:17 meaning
The account in this verse reveals the courageous defiance of the Hebrew midwives against Pharaoh's brutal decree to kill newborn Hebrew boys. Despite facing the might of the Egyptian empire, these women demonstrated their profound fear of God over the fear of man. Their actions set a precedent for standing firm in faith against unjust authority, a principle echoed throughout biblical history. This moment highlights that moral and ethical dilemmas often demand prioritizing obedience to God over compliance with human laws.
In Exodus 1:17, the midwives are celebrated not only for their bravery but also for their integrity in preserving life, affirming the sacredness of human existence as ordained by God. Their wise justification to Pharaoh about the swift childbirth of Hebrew women may also indicate a divine intervention that facilitated their disobedience. Ultimately, their fear of God led to divine favor, as God rewarded these midwives with families of their own. This narrative serves as a testament that God honors and blesses those who align their actions with His will, even in the face of formidable opposition.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Exodus 1:15-22 meaning. The second plan was even more severe – the midwives were to kill all the male Hebrew sons when they are born. But this plan also failed because the midwives feared God more than Pharaoh.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Acts 13:16-25 meaning. Paul preaches through the Hebrew scriptures (The Old Testament), tracing God's work and promises toward the Jewish People. God chose the Fathers of Israel, freed the Israelites and gave them the Promised Land, led them through judges and kings, such as David, a man who obeyed God. God brought a Savior to Israel from the line of David: Jesus. John the Prophet and Baptizer prepared the way for Jesus, preaching repentance and the greatness of the coming Savior.
- Luke 16:16-17 meaning. Jesus affirms the endurability of God's Law. He says that even though the Age of the Law and Prophets have passed, and the Age of the Gospel of the Kingdom has come, it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one part of the Law to fail. In the middle of saying these things, Jesus offers an enigmatic line that everyone is forcing his way into the kingdom of God.
- Hosea 4:1-3 meaning. Hosea summons the Israelites to hear the LORD’s indictment against them because they have abandoned their covenant God and given themselves to apostasy.
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