Midwives who appear in the Book of Exodus
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In this powerful episode, host Lisa Pineda sits down with Rabbi Elan Segelman, Rabbanic Director at PUAH, to explore the unique intersection of Jewish law and fertility treatment. With one in six couples facing infertility challenges, Rabbi Segelman shares how PUAH has become the number one resource for the Jewish community navigating everything from IVF and IUI to egg freezing and male factor infertility. He opens up about the shame and guilt many couples experience, the complexities of observing Shabbat during treatment, and why modern reproductive technology is a gift from God, not a contradiction to faith. This conversation breaks down barriers and provides hope for anyone struggling with their fertility journey.Rabbi Segelman walks through PUAH's groundbreaking lab supervision program, explaining how the organization was founded nearly 40 years ago to ensure genetic lineage integrity during IVF procedures. He discusses the rise of male factor infertility, breakthrough AI technologies like sperm identification systems, and why egg freezing should be an empowered choice for women. From addressing halakhic considerations during treatment cycles to the emotional toll of recurrent miscarriages, this episode covers the full spectrum of fertility challenges within the Orthodox Jewish community. Rabbi Segelman's message is clear: no one should face this journey alone, and resources like PUAH exist to provide both practical guidance and emotional support every step of the way.Contact Rabbi Elan Segelman at Puah Fertility @puah_fertility
On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison take us back into the book of Exodus, one of the most pivotal stories in the Old Testament. Together, they unpack themes of deliverance and bondage, spotlighting the courageous midwives Shiphrah and Puah, the dramatic plagues, and the awe-filled moment at Mount Sinai when God's glory descended in a cloud. Their conversation reminds us that the God who brought His people out of slavery is still bringing freedom and deliverance to His children today. So pull up a chair and join us on the porch! *If you prayed to receive Christ today and would like a complimentary Bible, we'd be honored to send you one. Please reach out to us, available while supplies last.
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.” But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but let the male children live. So the king of Egypt called the midwives and said to them, “Why have you done this, and let the male children live?” The midwives said to Pharaoh, “Because the Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women, for they are vigorous and give birth before the midwife comes to them.” So God dealt well with the midwives. And the people multiplied and grew very strong. And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families. Then Pharaoh commanded all his people, “Every son that is born to the Hebrews you shall cast into the Nile, but you shall let every daughter live.”Now a man from the house of Levi went and took as his wife a Levite woman. The woman conceived and bore a son, and when she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him three months. When she could hide him no longer, she took for him a basket made of bulrushes and daubed it with bitumen and pitch. She put the child in it and placed it among the reeds by the river bank. And his sister stood at a distance to know what would be done to him. Now the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the river, while her young women walked beside the river. She saw the basket among the reeds and sent her servant woman, and she took it. When she opened it, she saw the child, and behold, the baby was crying. She took pity on him and said, “This is one of the Hebrews' children.” Then his sister said to Pharaoh's daughter, “Shall I go and call you a nurse from the Hebrew women to nurse the child for you?” And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, “Go.” So the girl went and called the child's mother. And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, “Take this child away and nurse him for me, and I will give you your wages.” So the woman took the child and nursed him. When the child grew older, she brought him to Pharaoh's daughter, and he became her son. She named him Moses, “Because,” she said, “I drew him out of the water.”
1.1 These are the names of the sons of Israel who came to Egypt with Jacob, each with his household: 2 Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah, 3 Issachar, Zebulun, and Benjamin, 4 Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher. 5 All the descendants of Jacob were seventy persons; Joseph was already in Egypt. 6 Then Joseph died, and all his brothers and all that generation. 7 But the people of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly; they multiplied and grew exceedingly strong, so that the land was filled with them.8 Now there arose a new king over Egypt, who did not know Joseph. 9 And he said to his people, “Behold, the people of Israel are too many and too mighty for us. 10 Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, lest they multiply, and, if war breaks out, they join our enemies and fight against us and escape from the land.” 11 Therefore they set taskmasters over them to afflict them with heavy burdens. They built for Pharaoh store cities, Pithom and Raamses. 12 But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and the more they spread abroad. And the Egyptians were in dread of the people of Israel. 13 So they ruthlessly made the people of Israel work as slaves 14 and made their lives bitter with hard service, in mortar and brick, and in all kinds of work in the field. In all their work they ruthlessly made them work as slaves.15 Then the king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, one of whom was named Shiphrah and the other Puah, 16 “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.” 17 But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but let the male children live. 18 So the king of Egypt called the midwives and said to them, “Why have you done this, and let the male children live?” 19 The midwives said to Pharaoh, “Because the Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women, for they are vigorous and give birth before the midwife comes to them.” 20 So God dealt well with the midwives. And the people multiplied and grew very strong. 21 And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families. 22 Then Pharaoh commanded all his people, “Every son that is born to the Hebrews you shall cast into the Nile, but you shall let every daughter live.”
A tyrant schemes, two women defy—and the future shifts. Our story begins in a tense, oppressive Egypt, where fear is weaponized into policy, and cruelty becomes law. Amid this darkness, the narrative turns to Shifra and Puah—midwives who reject the king's decree to kill, choosing instead to nurture life. Rashi identifies them as Yocheved and Miriam, yet the Torah preserves their action-based names: the Swaddler and the Crooner. This naming choice offers profound insight: true greatness often unfolds quietly, through care, patience, and acts of courage in the smallest, most private spaces.From this intimate moment, we pull back to explore a deeper question: why would the Torah immortalize names tied to seemingly humble tasks? The answer invites us to reconsider the very nature of scale—nothing is inherently small or large; it is intention that grants significance. Take money as an example. It has the power to distort character, but when earned with integrity, shared generously, and used to stabilize lives, it becomes a tool for devotion and purpose. Instead of dismissing money as “dirty,” we can reframe the conversation around integrity, alignment, and responsible stewardship.Next, we turn to the sanctity of the home. Intimacy, too, can be reduced to spectacle or elevated into covenant. Our tradition envisions parents as partners with God—an idea that transforms daily acts of love into sacred work. Through respect, timing, and mutual care, desire becomes a vessel for meaning rather than an escape into self. Rambam provides a guide: align life's rhythms—food, sleep, music, work, and rest—with clarity and wisdom. This isn't about shrinking life to a checklist but enlarging every action with purpose. Swaddling a child, signing a contract, or even taking out the trash can become steps toward a life that is coherent, ethical, and fully awake.Shifra and Puah's quiet defiance offers us a timeless blueprint for courage: elevate the ordinary, protect the vulnerable, and weave purpose into every moment. If their story resonates with you, follow the show, share it with someone who carries quiet responsibilities, and leave a review to help others discover these conversations.Support the showJoin The Motivation Congregation WhatsApp community for daily motivational Torah content!------------------Check out our other Torah Podcasts and content! SUBSCRIBE to The Motivation Congregation Podcast for daily motivational Mussar! Listen on Spotify or 24six! Find all Torah talks and listen to featured episodes on our website, themotivationcongregation.org Questions or Comments? Please email me @ michaelbrooke97@gmail.com
In this shiur, delivered to the Chizuk Mission, Rav Burg explains why Pharaoh was afraid of the male babies but not the female babies, how Shifra and Puah nurture transformation as everything in our lives begin to shift.
In this nostalgic episode, Payal speaks with Fredrick, who takes us back to his childhood in a rural kampong more than sixty years ago. He recalls life in a muddy, undeveloped neighborhood, where daily routines included helping his mother rear pigs and chickens, fetching water from ponds, and playing freely in the rain. Fredrick paints a rich picture of open spaces filled with fruit trees, local opera stages, and nearby quarries, a world full of simplicity and adventure. He also reminisces about his early years living in a colonial black-and-white house, where his father worked as a cook, and where he first encountered music through a gramophone. Through his warm storytelling, Fredrick reflects on a childhood rooted in nature, play, and heartfelt memories of a bygone Singapore.[Lumina Vitae,Light of Life,Melting Pot Series, Podcast,The Bloom Fund,Stories of Singapore,Heritage ReimaginedCommunity Through Art,Singapore Stories]#LuminaVitae #MeltingPotSeries #TheBloomFund #SingaporeStories #CommunityArt #TheBloomFund #SingaporeHeritage #AIMeetsMemory #IntergenerationalStories #NHB Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Main Theme: Faith is the inheritance every believer must pass on — the foundation of the “family of faith.” Drawing from the story of Moses' parents, Amram and Jochebed, Pastor Matthew taught that true faith trusts God even when circumstances look hopeless, and that every generation must rise up and preserve faith for the next. The Faith Legacy of Moses' Family Amram (“exalted people”) and Jochebed (“Yahweh is glory”) were from the priestly tribe of Levi. Their three children — Aaron (the first high priest), Miriam (the worship leader), and Moses (the deliverer) — all served different purposes but under the same God. “God uses families, but He uses each person differently. Our children belong to Him first.” Jochebed's name was the first in Scripture to contain Yahweh — a sign that through her, God was revealing His covenant name and plan for deliverance. God Raises a Deliverer Through a Family of Faith Pharaoh, fearing the rise of a deliverer, commanded that all Hebrew male infants be killed. The Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, refused to obey Pharaoh's order because they feared God more than man, and God blessed them for their obedience. “We obey the laws of the land — until they conflict with the laws of God. That's where we draw the line.” Pastor stressed that when God plans a deliverance, He first raises up a man or woman of faith — just as He did with Moses. Jochebed's Faith in Action (Exodus 2:1–10) Jochebed hid her baby Moses for three months, then placed him in a basket on the Nile River — the same river where other infants were being killed. “She put her child right in the enemy's waters — and trusted God to keep him.” Pharaoh's daughter found the baby, and through God's orchestration: Moses' sister Miriam offered to find a Hebrew nurse — Jochebed herself. Pharaoh's daughter unknowingly paid Jochebed to care for her own son. “God's big enough to pay you to raise your own child in faith.” Jochebed eventually released Moses completely, letting Pharaoh's daughter claim him as her son — a stunning act of humility and surrender. “She carried him, birthed him, hid him, and raised him — but was willing to let him go for God's glory.” The Power of Faith and Humility Jochebed's faith mirrors Abraham's — both trusted God enough to release what they loved most. Pastor urged parents and believers to trust God with their children and futures, even when they cannot control the outcome. “The greatest people in heaven may be the ones who labored unseen and gave God all the glory.” True greatness is not found in position or visibility, but in obedience and humility. “Faith doesn't impress God because it's loud — it impresses Him because it trusts.” Faith that Sees the Invisible (Hebrews 11) The faith of Moses' parents is honored in Hebrews 11:23: “By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden three months by his parents… for they saw he was a beautiful child.” The word translated beautiful (Greek: asteios) means belonging to another city — symbolizing that Jochebed recognized Moses belonged to God. “She knew she was a steward of a child who belonged to another kingdom.” Faith is “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” It requires acting before seeing results. Faith is ongoing, not something we once had years ago. God rewards those who diligently seek Him — meaning those who do not neglect Him. Lesson: “Faith that pleases God is faith that obeys, acts, and doesn't neglect His voice — even when it interrupts your plans.” Moses' Example of Faith As Moses matured, he refused to be known as Pharaoh's daughter's son and chose to suffer with God's people instead of enjoying the “passing pleasures of sin.” Pastor emphasized that sin is pleasurable for a season, but its end is destruction. Moses' faith caused him to “see Him who is invisible” — living by faith in what God promised, not what he could see. “That's the paradox of faith — to see the invisible and act as if it's visible.” Application: Believers must teach their children to look beyond worldly success and see eternity as the true reward. “Peter won't ask for your diploma or your bank account at the gate — he'll ask if you knew Jesus.” The Faith Inheritance Pastor closed by urging the church to pass on faith as the greatest family legacy. Jochebed's quiet obedience shaped one of the greatest leaders in Scripture. The faith of parents and grandparents sets the spiritual tone for generations. “What you hand off in faith will outlive anything you buy or build.” He shared how his grandmother gave every child a Bible — the most valuable gift of all. The call: rise up in faith, not fear. “It's time for the church to stop being afraid. Put your basket in the river. Trust God to protect what belongs to Him.” Core Message God builds His deliverers through families of faith. Jochebed's courage shows that faith acts when fear says “wait.” True humility releases control and gives God all glory. The greatest inheritance is not wealth, but faith handed down. The just shall live — and lead — by faith.
In marriage, the wife or husband will stand up for the other because they love each other and their relationship is deep. No matter what others say, they'll always think the best of their spouse because the relationship they have with them goes beyond any other Earthly relationship! Today, Pastor Terry says Puah and Shiphrah knew when Pharaoh was going against God's will because they had a deep relationship with the Lord. They loved God and wanted to do everything to honor His commands.
This week, we look even further back in Moses' origin story at the courage of Shiphrah and Puah, a desperate mother, Miriam's boldness, and Pharaoh's daughter's compassion - and the way God responds to lament long before they see deliverance. We explore lament as a true form of worship—honest, raw, and welcomed by God—and how the Bible always pairs lament with hope. Psalm 77 becomes our guide, reminding us to anchor our questions in God's past faithfulness and, ultimately, in the resurrection of Jesus. Recorded November 16, 2025.
In American football, when something goes wrong, the referee throws a flag to stop play. Then they explain what happens into a mic for everyone to hear. Sometimes it takes players making gestures towards the referee for a foul to be called, and the flag goes out late. No matter what happens, the referee's job is to ensure that the game is played the right way. Today, Pastor Terry says no matter where we are, we must ensure we're living within God's will. That means if someone tells you otherwise, don't listen.
A new MP3 sermon from Valley Fourth Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Pastor's Connection - Shiphrah & Puah Subtitle: Pastor's Connection Speaker: Joe Pursch Broadcaster: Valley Fourth Church Event: Devotional Date: 10/31/2025 Length: 10 min.
This week we look at the stories of a couple of women in the Old Testament, Shiphrah & Puah.
When Pharoah commanded that all male babies born to Israelite women be thrown into the Nile and drowned, head midwives Shiphrah and Puah chose to disobey. When asked about it by Pharoah, their response served to further objectify the Hebrew women in his eyes. Even though Pharoah had Plans A, B and C to try to stunt the growth of the Jewish population in Egypt, they all failed. What were those plans and why were they unsuccessful?
Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Check out our mission to teach every verse of the Bible on video in what we call Project23. Our text today is Judges 10:1-2. After Abimelech there arose to save Israel Tola the son of Puah, son of Dodo, a man of Issachar, and he lived at Shamir in the hill country of Ephraim. And he judged Israel twenty-three years. Then he died and was buried at Shamir. — Judges 10:1-2 After the chaos and carnage of Abimelech's reign, Israel didn't need another flashy warrior. They needed rest. God raised up Tola—a judge whose legacy isn't marked by a bunch of battles, but by stability. For twenty-three years, nothing dramatic is recorded. No rebellion. No mass bloodshed. Just peace and steady leadership. Sometimes, no drama is a blessing, right?! God used this season to remind his people—and us—that his work isn't only seen in the dramatic. Sometimes it is seen in a quiet season led by a faithful leader. This is problematic for us because we live in a world addicted to drama. Our feeds refresh every few seconds with outrage, scandal, and noise. News thrives on shock value. Entertainment glorifies conflict. Even in our personal lives, we can get caught chasing the next crisis or feeding off the latest drama in our families, workplaces, or friendships. But constant drama drains the soul. It spikes reaction, anxiety, and spiritual shallowness. Tola's season, without a bunch of recorded drama, had to be a relief. Under his leadership, Israel had twenty-three years to breathe, reset, and realign. No battles. No fires to put out. Just space for hearts to return to God. And maybe that's what you need too—a season without noise. A time to simply be faithful and pursue God without drama. If you need this, ask God for it, and when it arrives, make sure you take advantage of the relief. Relief is a gift to reset your soul, recalibrate your heart, and draw you closer to Him. But it's also a time to safeguard your life from slipping back into spiritual laziness that leads to worshiping empty idols. One thing that always helps is a "Tola" who becomes for you an anchor for this time. ASK THIS: Do I see “no drama” seasons as a gift from God? Where might I be chasing excitement instead of valuing faithfulness? How can I be steady for those around me this week? Who has been a “Tola” in my life, giving me stability when I needed it? DO THIS: Thank God today for the quiet blessings—the leaders, parents, mentors, or friends who brought peace instead of drama. Then choose one small act of faithfulness to steady someone else's life. PRAY THIS: Lord, thank You for the gift of stability. Help me embrace quiet faithfulness as a blessing, even when it feels small, and let me be a steady presence in the lives of others. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Faithful Now."
Welcome to our first sermon diving deep into the text of Exodus! Today, we're in chapter one, asking the right questions to unlock its meaning. We'll explore why Israel is in Egypt, why the mighty Pharaoh is unnamed, and how two overlooked midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, become the unlikely heroes of the story.Scripture ReferencesExodus 1: The enslavement of Israel in Egypt.Genesis 12:1-3: God's promise to make a great nation from Abraham.Genesis 46:3-4: God's command for Jacob (Israel) to go to Egypt, promising to be with him.Genesis 1:28: The creation mandate to "be fruitful and multiply."Genesis 3:1, 15: The "shrewd" serpent and the promise that the woman's offspring would crush its head.Key Points1. Israel in Egypt: An Act of ObedienceThe book of Exodus starts like a sequel, connecting directly to Genesis. The Israelites are in Egypt not by mistake, but because God led them there during a famine, promising to be with them. This is a crucial reminder: following God often leads us into hard places, not just easy ones.2. The Unnamed Pharaoh: A Symbol of EvilPharaoh is left unnamed for three reasons:It's an insult: "May his name be forgotten," while the Hebrew midwives are named forever.He's a symbol: He represents the oppressive evil of every empire built on exploitation.He's the serpent: He acts "shrewdly" (the same word used for the serpent in Genesis 3) against God's people, who are fulfilling the Genesis 1 mandate to be "fruitful and multiply." This is a cosmic battle, not just a political one.3. The Midwives: A Blueprint for GreatnessShiphrah and Puah are the heroes because they show us what true greatness looks like in God's kingdom. They were servants to the servants, yet their actions changed history.ConclusionTrue greatness isn't found in power, status, or worldly authority like Pharaoh's. It's found in the quiet, courageous faith of the overlooked. The midwives feared God more than the most powerful man on earth, and that reverence produced a fearlessness that allowed them to defy evil, serve others, and suffer well. Their legacy is a testament that God esteems the humble and uses the seemingly weak to overthrow the proud.Calls to ActionServe the Servants: Look for opportunities to serve those who are overlooked. Greatness starts with humility.Fear God, Not Man: Let a holy reverence for God be the driving force that frees you from the fear of human opinion or authority.Practice Righteous Resistance: When instructed to do evil, practice civil disobedience for the sake of others, not for personal gain.Abandon "If/Then" Thinking: Don't wait for perfect circumstances to be obedient. Serve, give, and act now, right where you are.Suffer Well: When God feels distant, don't let your reverence for Him fade. Trust Him even when deliverance seems far away. Support the show*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.
When fearful, powerful rulers order death, may we all reach for the tools handed to us from our courageous, life-bringing foremothers in the faith: Shiphrah and Puah. “Learn them: Shif-rah. Pu-ah. Praise! Let them again be household names!” Their tools are: disobedience and cunning. May we disobey anything and anyONE who fails to honor God, who is LIFE.Sermon begins at minute marker Scripture: Exodus 1.15-21Resources:Carmen Susana Horst, “Shiphrah and Puah (Selah),” Drawing Near: A Devotional Journey with Art, Poetry & Reflection, ed. Eileen R. Kinch and John D. Roth (Herald Press, 2025), 180.Tikva Frymer-Kensky, Reading the Women of the Bible: A New Interpretation of Their Stories (Shocken Books, 2002), 25.Renita J. Weems, Just a Sister Away: A Womanist Vision of Women's Relationships in the Bible, (LuraMedia, 1988), ix.Ashley M. Wilcox, The Women's Lectionary: Preaching the Women of the Bible Throughout the Year (Westminster John Knox Press, 2021), 196-197.Women's Bible Commentary, eds. Carol A. Newsome and Sharon H. Ringe (Westminster John Knox Press, 1992).Image: detail from Dona Park, “Resisting Genocide: Shiphrah and Puah,” Drawing Near: A Devotional Journey with Art, Poetry & Reflection, ed. Eileen R. Kinch and John D. Roth (Herald Press, 2025), 179.Hymn - 546 There is a Line of Women Text: John L. Bell (Scotland), © 2002 WGRG, Iona Community (admin. GIA Publications, Inc.) Music: Charlene Nafziger (Canada), © 2019 Charlene Nafziger Permission to podcast the music in this service obtained from ONE LICENSE, license #A-726929, #G9247078. All rights reserved.
In this powerful sermon titled "Courage Under Pressure," we explore the incredible faith and bravery of the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, as told in Exodus 1:1–26. In the face of Pharaoh's cruel command, these women stood firm, choosing to honor God rather than fear man.What does it look like to have courage when the stakes are high? How can we live with integrity and boldness in a world that often demands compromise?
Two midwives, and their defiance that changed history, The story of Shiphrah and Pugh in Exodus 1 is one of the most powerful acts of resistance in the Bible. It begins with fear. Pharaoh feared the growing strength of the Hebrew people. Fear turning into oppression. Laws were written. Families enslaved. Lives were being crushed. […] The post Heroes // Shiphrah & Puah appeared first on Refuge.Church.
The book of Exodus is a foundational story about becoming God's people. Picking up where Genesis left off, it shows how God's faithfulness persists despite Pharaoh's increasing oppression and calls us to become faithful resisters like Shiphrah and Puah who courageously chose to fear God rather than earthly powers.
August 24, 2025 | "Shiphrah and Puah" | Rev. Jenny McDevitt by Shandon Presbyterian Church
(Exodus 1:15-22) Years before Moses would stand before Pharaoh, two women would straight up lie and play Pharoah like a fiddle. This is the story of Shiphrah and Puah.
In the kickoff message of our new series, we explore the story of Shiphrah and Puah — two ordinary midwives who boldy said "no" to Pharaoh's deadly orders because they trusted God above all else. Discover how these women risked everything to protect life, offering a powerful foreshadowing of Jesus' sacrificial love.
Study Passage: Exodus 1:1-19These are the names of the sons of Israel who came to Egypt with Jacob, each with his household: 2 Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah, 3 Issachar, Zebulun, and Benjamin, 4 Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher. 5 All the descendants of Jacob were seventy persons; Joseph was already in Egypt. 6 Then Joseph died, and all his brothers and all that generation. 7 But the people of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly; they multiplied and grew exceedingly strong, so that the land was filled with them.8 Now there arose a new king over Egypt, who did not know Joseph. 9 And he said to his people, “Behold, the people of Israel are too many and too mighty for us. 10 Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, lest they multiply, and, if war breaks out, they join our enemies and fight against us and escape from the land.” 11 Therefore they set taskmasters over them to afflict them with heavy burdens. They built for Pharaoh store cities, Pithom and Raamses. 12 But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and the more they spread abroad. And the Egyptians were in dread of the people of Israel. 13 So they ruthlessly made the people of Israel work as slaves 14 and made their lives bitter with hard service, in mortar and brick, and in all kinds of work in the field. In all their work they ruthlessly made them work as slaves.15 Then the king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, one of whom was named Shiphrah and the other Puah, 16 “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.” 17 But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but let the male children live. 18 So the king of Egypt called the midwives and said to them,“Why have you done this, and let the male children live?” 19 The midwives said to Pharaoh, “Because the Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women, for they are vigorous and give birth before the midwife comes to them.” 20 So God dealt well with the midwives. And the people multiplied and grew very strong. 21 And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families. 22 Then Pharaoh commanded all his people, “Every son that is born to the Hebrews you shall cast into the Nile, but you shall let every daughter live.”
Once upon a time… what comes next? A great story! The Bible is no fairytale, but full of fascinating, controversial, and inspiring characters. Join us this summer as we read about those you may have met in Sunday School: Esther, Jonah, David, Priscilla and more. Complicated people – just like us. The truth that we glean from these saints can help us connect with Jesus and give us wisdom for everyday life. Today we'll explore how the story of Puah and Shiphrah shows us that fear doesn't have to hold us back—it can actually help us follow Jesus with greater courage.Support the show
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Exodus chapter 1 opens the second book of the Bible with a dramatic shift in Israel's story. After the death of Joseph and his generation, a new Pharaoh rises in Egypt who does not remember Joseph's contributions. Seeing the Israelites multiply and thrive, the king grows fearful of their numbers and influence. In response, he enslaves them, subjecting them to harsh labor, and sets out to suppress their population growth. Yet, despite the oppression, the more the Israelites are afflicted, the more they multiply and spread. Pharaoh then commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all newborn Hebrew boys, but they courageously disobey, fearing God more than the king. As a result, God blesses them with families of their own. Finally, Pharaoh intensifies his cruelty by commanding all his people to throw every Hebrew baby boy into the Nile River—setting the stage for the dramatic birth of Moses in the following chapter. Themes in Exodus 1: •The resilience of God's people under oppression •The fear of man vs. the fear of God •The unfolding need for a deliverer •God's quiet providence in dark times #Exodus1 #BibleStudy #HebrewDeliverance #RiseOfMoses #GodOurDeliverer #FaithOverFear #BiblicalHistory #ScriptureTruth #FreedomInGod #GodSeesInSecret #SendMeRadio #OppressionToPromise #FearGodNotMan #BibleChapters #OldTestamentTruthBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.
June 15, 2025 | Adam Heath
This week, we hear the story of Shiphrah and Puah, midwives who defied Pharaoh's orders and protected their people, reminding us that liberation often begins with quiet, courageous resistance.
As we continue to strengthen our engagement with Scripture, we are tracking through the Old Testament by following the lives […]
A __________________ is someone who gives their life to a __________________ cause.[Exodus 1:15-17] Then Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, gave this order to the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah: [16] "When you help the Hebrew women as they give birth, watch as they deliver. If the baby is a boy, kill him; if it is a girl, let her live." [17] But because the midwives feared God, they refused to obey the king's orders. They allowed the boys to live, too.When you fear __________________, you won't bow to __________________.[Proverbs 9:10] Fear of the LORD is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.A life of __________________ begins with the fear of God.[Exodus 1:18-19] So the king of Egypt called for the midwives. "Why have you done this?" he demanded. "Why have you allowed the boys to live?" [19] "The Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women," the midwives replied. "They are more vigorous and have their babies so quickly that we cannot get there in time."[Hebrews 11:23] It was by faith that Moses' parents hid him for three months when he was born. They saw that God had given them an unusual child, and they were not afraid to disobey the king's command.God __________________ what no one else sees and He __________________ it.[Exodus 1:20-21] So God was good to the midwives, and the Israelites continued to multiply, growing more and more powerful. [21] And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own.There is always a __________________ for our __________________.[Hebrews 6:10] For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do.You don't need a __________________ to make a __________________.[2 Chronicles 16:9a] The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.
This week's message draws from Exodus 1 and 2, focusing on the powerful story of Moses' birth and the remarkable women who defied Pharaoh's deadly command. From the brave Hebrew midwives Shiphrah and Puah, to Moses' mother Jochebed and sister Miriam, and even Pharaoh's own daughter—women moved by compassion and moral courage came together to protect life in a time of genocide.Pastor Kirt reminds us that God often works through ordinary people who carry extraordinary love, especially mothers. These women stood up against the power of death with the power of life, embodying values that transcend culture, time, and even religion—compassion, justice, and courage.The sermon also reflects on the emotional depth and sacrificial nature of motherhood, from personal stories of parental love to the heartbreak of watching a loved one fade from memory. Through it all, we are reminded that love—especially a mother's love—has the power to change hearts, protect life, and reflect the very character of God.We honor and remember the mothers who have shaped us, sacrificed for us, and loved us deeply. May we live in a way that honors their legacy.
Send us a textWhat happens when ordinary people choose to fear God rather than comply with evil? The remarkable story of resistance in Exodus chapter 1 provides timeless wisdom about confronting tyranny and injustice.At the heart of this ancient narrative are two unlikely heroines - Hebrew midwives Shiphrah and Puah - who defied a genocidal order from the most powerful ruler on earth. When Pharaoh commanded them to kill all Hebrew male infants at birth, they made the courageous decision to prioritize divine law over human authority. Their simple yet profound stance - "the midwives feared God" - sparked a chain of resistance that ultimately preserved the future of an entire people.The passage reveals Pharaoh's increasingly desperate attempts to control the growing Israelite population. First came brutal labor conditions, then recruiting Israelites to betray their own people, and finally ordering the mass drowning of Hebrew baby boys in the Nile. Each escalation follows a pattern that repeats throughout history whenever tyrants encounter resistance - intensified violence rather than changed strategies. Yet despite 400 years of oppression, God's promise to Abraham was fulfilled as Israel continued to grow into a mighty nation.What makes this story so relevant today is its unflinching portrayal of how oppression operates and how it can be resisted. The midwives' clever deception of Pharaoh demonstrates that resistance doesn't always require direct confrontation or physical power. Sometimes it manifests through small acts of courage, cunning, and moral clarity. Their example reminds us that when ordinary people stand firm in their convictions, even the most powerful oppressors cannot ultimately prevail.Have you encountered situations where following your conscience meant defying authority? The midwives' courage challenges us to consider what we truly fear most. Their story assures us that although standing for what's right may seem futile against overwhelming force, history consistently proves otherwise: "They always lose. They never win, never."The Balance of GrayGod, doubt, and proof walk into a podcast... it goes better than you'd expect!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show
A special bonus for our listeners. W Scott was a guest on The Word in Black and Red this week for a fascinating discussion of the story of the Midwives in Egypt. You're not going to want to miss this one. Thank you to TWIBAR for sharing this with us. Go to https://linktr.ee/twibar for more of this exceptional podcast. Warning: Do take the warning at the beginning of the episode seriously. Explicit language and topics. Join Micah, Scott, Derek, & Ell as they explore the heroism of Shiprah and Puah in Exodus 1. Who are Shiprah and Puah, and how does their strange identity alter our interpretations of their work to save the Hebrew children? What does this story have to teach us about doing the little we can do while working to dismantle the system itself? And why is the Bible suddenly telling us to lie? Find out answers to these questions and more on the long-awaited first episode of our second season of The Word in Black and Red.
Join Micah, Scott, Derek, & Ell as they explore the heroism of Shiprah and Puah in Exodus 1. Who are Shiprah and Puah, and how does their strange identity alter our interpretations of their work to save the Hebrew children? What does this story have to teach us about doing the little we can do while working to dismantle the system itself? And why is the Bible suddenly telling us to lie? Find out answers to these questions and more on the long-awaited first episode of our second season of The Word in Black and Red: The Leftist Bible Study Podcast.Connect with Derek.Listen to Scott's podcast Retelling the Bible wherever good podcasts can be found.Make Ell happy by joining the International Workers of the World.Connect with The Word in Black and Red. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Send us a textFear has always been a powerful political tool. In this eye-opening examination of Exodus 1:15-16, we uncover how an Egyptian Pharaoh's campaign to "Make Egypt Great Again" escalated from systemic oppression to outright genocide when his fear-driven policies failed to curb the Israelites' remarkable growth.The story begins with a ruler who "did not know Joseph" – a disruptor with an agenda fundamentally at odds with his predecessors. Driven by paranoia about Israel's increasing numbers, he implements a systematic oppression campaign designed to break their will through crushing taxation and forced labor. But God's promise proves stronger than Pharaoh's schemes: "The more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and grew."What happens when a tyrant's plans backfire? Rather than changing course, Pharaoh doubles down on cruelty. We witness his chilling pivot to genocide as he commands two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all newborn Israelite males. This represents not only one of history's first recorded attempts at selective genocide but reveals another insidious tactic – recruiting members of the oppressed community to participate in their own destruction.The parallels to modern authoritarian playbooks are impossible to ignore. Fear-mongering about demographic changes, scapegoating minority populations, escalating cruelty when initial tactics fail – these strategies have remained remarkably consistent across millennia. Yet so has the ultimate lesson: oppression born of unfounded fear inevitably produces the opposite of its intended effect.Join us as we explore this pivotal moment in Exodus and consider what it teaches us about recognizing and resisting the age-old patterns of tyranny that continue to emerge in our world today.Support the show
Send us a textWhat happens when a leader decides the only path to national greatness runs through oppression? The ancient story of a "new king who did not know Joseph" unfolds with startling relevance to our contemporary world. As we dive into this pivotal moment in Exodus, we witness the collision between authoritarian power and divine providence.Pharaoh's strategy begins with a familiar playbook – identify a minority population, paint them as a threat, then systematically break their spirit through escalating oppression. Yet his plan backfires spectacularly when "the more he oppressed them, the more they multiplied." Frustrated by this paradox, he escalates to genocide, ordering Hebrew midwives to kill male infants at birth.Enter Shiphrah and Puah – two ordinary women who stand at the crossroads of history. When faced with the choice between obedience to earthly authority and divine morality, they choose God. Their simple act of refusal – saving the male children because "they feared God" – becomes the lynchpin that preserves Israel's future. This profound act of civil disobedience demonstrates how divine providence often works through the moral courage of unlikely heroes.The parallels to modern governance are impossible to ignore. A leader obsessed with "making Egypt great again" through oppression rather than justice; the exploitation of vulnerable populations for labor deemed beneath the elite; the recruitment of community members to betray their own people – these dynamics remain hauntingly familiar. Yet the story offers hope: even the mightiest empire can be thwarted by ordinary people who simply refuse to participate in evil.Subscribe to continue exploring these ancient stories that illuminate our present challenges and remind us that standing for justice, even against overwhelming power, aligns with God's purposes in history. How might we find the courage of Shiphrah and Puah in our own lives?Support the show
Have you ever heard of Shiphrah, Puah, and Jochebed? They're not the most well-known women in the Bible, but their contribution to the kingdom of God was an act of courage and faith.In this episode, Dr. Bruce Becker will examine the lives of three Israelite women who feared the Lord God more than they feared the pharaohs of Egypt.If you enjoy this podcast and make it a regular part of your week, would you consider helping us with your support? Thank you!
Exodus 1:15-20 The story of Shiphrah and Puah show two women who were willing to do what God wants instead of what Pharaoh wants. As a result, the Israelites multiply and become stronger. What does God ask of us? To bring 10% of what we have to him. Imagine if we all actually did that? We would not have any issues of funding in our church. None. But while we work to that point, imagine if just 2 of us who are not giving do start tithing? What happens then? And what happens when we start tithing to our relationship with money? We get a peace we haven't had before. The conference is sure learning that.
For today’s installment of our 40 Days Meditation series, our brother John Yocum provides commentary on Ex 1. Listen below, download here, or search for Words from the Brothers on your favourite podcasting app. These are the names of the sons of Israel who came to Egypt with Jacob, each with his household: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, and Benjamin, Dan and Naphtali, Gad and Asher. All the descendants of Jacob were seventy persons; Joseph was already in Egypt. Then Joseph died, and all his brothers and all that generation. But the people of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly; they multiplied and grew exceedingly strong, so that the land was filled with them. Now there arose a new king over Egypt, who did not know Joseph. And he said to his people, “Behold, the people of Israel are too many and too mighty for us. Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, lest they multiply, and, if war breaks out, they join our enemies and fight against us and escape from the land.” Therefore they set taskmasters over them to afflict them with heavy burdens. They built for Pharaoh store cities, Pithom and Raamses. But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and the more they spread abroad. And the Egyptians were in dread of the people of Israel. So they ruthlessly made the people of Israel work as slaves and made their lives bitter with hard service, in mortar and brick, and in all kinds of work in the field. In all their work they ruthlessly made them work as slaves. 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.” But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but let the male children live. So the king of Egypt called the midwives and said to them, “Why have you done this, and let the male children live?” The midwives said to Pharaoh, “Because the Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women, for they are vigorous and give birth before the midwife comes to them.” So God dealt well with the midwives. And the people multiplied and grew very strong. And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families. Then Pharaoh commanded all his people, “Every son that is born to the Hebrews you shall cast into the Nile, but you shall let every daughter live.” Ex 1
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Call Forth a Woman | Shubert Theatre New Haven Call Forth A Woman takes you on a journey through stories of the powerfully dynamic women in the bible, often forgotten but most notably heroic and significant in the text. When fulfilling the call of their purpose, they shifted the paradigm of culture, government, the arts, business, and family life. Women like Midwives Shiphrah and Puah who stood against Pharoah for future generations to come. Queen Esther, whose bravery and humility claimed the highest seat in Persia as she fought against the destruction of her Jewish heritage. Battle Heroine Jael whose hands rendered the defeat of an entire army with Judge Deborah's sharp battle strategy and Huldah who was a scholar of text, preparing young prophets to enlighten and lead; these women reflected the life and times of women who are called into different stratospheres today. Enjoy the life and multidimensional aspects of womanhood while you see yourself, mother, sister, wife, and daughter brought to life on stage.
This week on Walk Talks, Scott Bratt explores Exodus 1:15–2:10, diving into the faith and bravery of the midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, and the extraordinary story of Moses' early life. We'll discuss how God's hand is evident even in the darkest times and how ordinary acts of obedience can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Join us as we unpack the lessons of trust, courage, and God's sovereignty that can inspire our daily walk of faith.
This week on Walk Talks, Scott Bratt explores Exodus 1:15–2:10, diving into the faith and bravery of the midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, and the extraordinary story of Moses' early life. We'll discuss how God's hand is evident even in the darkest times and how ordinary acts of obedience can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Join us as we unpack the lessons of trust, courage, and God's sovereignty that can inspire our daily walk of faith.
The Parsha and the Book are called “Shemos”, meaning names. A review of the Parsha reveals all sorts of names-related subplots: The Parsha begins with enumerating the names of the sons of Jacob; Shifra and Puah's real names are obscured as are Moshe's parents who remain nameless; Moshe himself is named by his adoptive, Egyptian […]
The Parsha and the Book are called "Shemos", meaning names. A review of the Parsha reveals all sorts of names-related subplots: The Parsha begins with enumerating the names of the sons of Jacob; Shifra and Puah's real names are obscured as are Moshe's parents who remain nameless; Moshe himself is named by his adoptive, Egyptian mother; Moshe kills the Egyptian with the Name of God; Moshe asks God which Name of God should he say send him; Moshe's father-in-law has seven names. In this Parsha podcast we explain the nature of names in the Torah, share a fascinating insight into the different permutations of names, and propose a new way to discover the mission for which you were sent here. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –This Parsha Podcast is dedicated in loving memory and leilui nishmas Henoch Dov ben Tzvi Hirsch, Rabbi Henoch Dov Hoffman Z”L, who passed away a few weeks ago. May his soul be elevated in Heaven. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★