Definition: But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this important passage from Exodus 1:17 together. It’s a really powerful story about courage and faith in the face of overwhelming odds. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: The Situation: Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, is having a hard time finding enough food for his people. He’s desperate to ensure everyone has enough to survive. The Problem: He orders his soldiers to kill seven hundred Hebrew men and forty-seven young boys – these are the midwives. The Reaction: The midwives don't carry out Pharaoh's command. Instead, they protect these babies and keep them alive. They’re essentially defying a law that would kill them. What it Means – It’s About More Than Just Babies: This verse is about human courage and faith. It's saying that even when things seem hopeless or against our will, we can still choose to do what’s right – to protect those who are vulnerable. “But the midwives feared God…” - This shows that the midwives aren’t just doing this because they're stubborn. They’re genuinely scared and recognize the seriousness of their situation. They're acknowledging a powerful, possibly divine force at play. “…and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them…” – This is a direct reference to Pharaoh’s law – a rule that specifically ordered the deaths of the Hebrew men. It highlights the conflict between what is allowed and what should be allowed. "...but saved the men children alive." - This is the key part. The midwives are choosing to protect these children, even at great personal risk. They’re demonstrating a profound faith in God's plan – that He will provide for his people, even when it seems impossible. Why it Matters: This story is a reminder of hope and resilience. It shows that even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges, human beings can choose to act with kindness and courage. It’s a powerful message about our ability to resist evil and trust in God's providence. --- Do you want me to: Explain the context of this passage within the larger story of Exodus? Discuss what this story might symbolize?