Book of Exodus - Chapter 1 - Verse 15

Exodus 1:15 introduces us to Shiphrah and Puah, two Hebrew midwives who play a significant role in the narrative of the Israelites' oppression in Egypt. The verse symbolizes the courage and defiance of these women in the face of a tyrannical ruler, the king of Egypt. By naming these midwives, the verse humanizes their story and emphasizes their importance in the larger biblical narrative. Despite being ordered by the king to kill all Hebrew male babies at birth, Shiphrah and Puah choose to disobey this cruel decree, showing compassion and resistance in the face of injustice. This verse serves as a reminder of the power of individuals to stand up against oppression and make a difference, even in the most challenging circumstances. Through their brave actions, Shiphrah and Puah become examples of moral courage and defiance, inspiring readers to act with righteousness and compassion in the face of adversity.

The names Shiphrah and Puah are of significant importance in the theological interpretation of the verse where the king of Egypt speaks to the Hebrew midwives. Shiphrah means "beautiful" or "fair" in Hebrew, which could symbolize the innate goodness and righteousness of the midwife who was asked to commit an evil act by the king. On the other hand, Puah means "splendid" or "to glitter" in Hebrew, which may imply a sense of strength or courage in the face of adversity. The fact that these names are specifically mentioned in the verse highlights the individual identities and characters of these midwives, demonstrating that even in a dark and oppressive situation, there are those who remain steadfast in their faith and stand up for what is right. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and moral courage in the face of injustice.