SHIPHRAH AND PUAH REFUSED TO OBEY PHARAOH BECAUSE

A. Pharaoh wanted to kill the Israelite babies
B. Pharaoh wanted to control the Hebrew population
C. They were kinsmen of the Israelites
D. They were women who feared God ✓

In the Book of Exodus 1:15-21, the story of Shiphrah and Puah is recounted. These two Hebrew midwives were instructed by Pharaoh to kill all male Hebrew babies at birth, but they defied his orders. When questioned by Pharaoh about why they let the male babies live, Shiphrah and Puah claimed that Hebrew women gave birth before they arrived, thus preventing them from carrying out Pharaoh’s command. The text goes on to state that “God dealt well with the midwives; and the people multiplied and grew very strong. And because the midwives feared God, He established households for them” (Exodus 1:20-21). This passage highlights the courage and faith of Shiphrah and Puah in standing up against a powerful ruler in order to protect innocent lives.

Shiphrah and Puah’s act of civil disobedience is a powerful example of individuals choosing to obey a higher moral authority over a human ruler’s unjust commands. Their fear of God motivated them to prioritize righteousness and compassion over fear of punishment or retribution from Pharaoh. By disobeying Pharaoh’s orders, Shiphrah and Puah demonstrated their commitment to protecting life and upholding their values even in the face of adversity.

These midwives’ actions have been celebrated throughout history as an inspiring example of moral courage and resistance against tyranny. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for justice and righteousness, even when it requires personal sacrifice or defying those in positions of power.

Overall, the narrative of Shiphrah and Puah in Exodus 1:15-21 showcases the significance of individual agency, moral conviction, and faith in the face of oppression. Their refusal to comply with unjust orders due to their fear of God exemplifies a timeless lesson on ethical decision-making and the enduring power of conscience.