Topics

Shiphrah

Shiphrah was a Hebrew midwife in Egypt who, along with Puah, feared God more than Pharaoh and preserved Hebrew male infants despite the king's murderous decree. Her courageous obedience demonstrates the power of fearing God above earthly authorities.

Overview

Shiphrah and her fellow midwife Puah served the Hebrew people during Egypt's oppression. When Pharaoh commanded them to kill all Hebrew male infants, these women chose obedience to God over submission to tyranny. Their faith-driven resistance preserved the Hebrew people and allowed Moses to live, ultimately leading to Israel's deliverance.

Key Scriptures

"Then the king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, one of whom was named Shiphrah and the other Puah, 'When you serve as midwife to the Hebrew women and see them on the birthstool, if it is a son, you shall kill him, but if it is a daughter, she shall live'" (Exodus 1:15-16, ESV).

"But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but let the male children live" (Exodus 1:17, ESV).

Application

Believers must prioritize obedience to God's moral law over human authority when the two conflict, trusting that fearing God brings greater blessing than fearing any earthly power.

Scripture References 1
Full Topical Reference List 1 total — Nave's Topical Bible

A Hebrew midwife.