King James Version
Exodus 1:21 in the King James Version says “And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses.”
Exodus 1:21 · KJV
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.
Therefore God dealt well with the midwives: and the people multiplied, and waxed very mighty.
And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses.
And Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, Every son that is born ye shall cast into the river, and every daughter ye shall save alive.
KJV Study — Public Domain
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“And it came to pass because the midwives”
H3205to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
“God”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
“them houses”
H1004a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
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.
Exodus 1:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Exodus 1:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge