King James Version
What Does Exodus 1:19 Mean?
“And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women; for they are lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them.”
Context
17
But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive.
18
And the king of Egypt called for the midwives, and said unto them, Why have ye done this thing, and have saved the men children alive?
19
And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women; for they are lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them.
20
Therefore God dealt well with the midwives: and the people multiplied, and waxed very mighty.
21
And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(19) **The Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women.**—This was probably true; but it was not the whole truth. Though the midwives had the courage to disobey the king, they had not “the courage of their convictions,” and were afraid to confess their real motive. So they took refuge in a half truth, and pretended that what really occurred in some cases only was a general occurrence. It *is *a fact, that in the East parturition is often so short a process that the attendance of a midwife is dispensed with.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Exodus 1:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Exodus 1:19
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge