Definition: 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?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Exodus 1:18. It’s a really important and complex story about slavery in ancient Egypt! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Egyptian Slavery: The Egyptians were incredibly powerful and controlled the vast majority of people in Egypt. They enslaved millions of people – including women, children, and slaves – to work in mines, farms, and other jobs. King’s Command: Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, was facing a huge problem: he needed more workers for his granaries (the stores of grain). He decided to use the midwives, who were skilled laborers, to help. The Question: Pharaoh asked the midwives, “Why are you letting these men live while women are being killed?” What it Means – A Layered Explanation: This verse is a little tricky because it’s not about just killing babies. It's a deeper look into why Pharaoh decided to use the midwives and what his motivations were. Here’s a possible interpretation: Pharaoh’s Goal: Pharaoh wanted to ensure there was always enough food to feed his people, especially during a time of famine. He needed to have a large workforce. The Moral Question: The verse raises a moral question about the lives of these innocent children. It suggests that Pharaoh wasn't just looking for a way to feed his people; he was also considering whether it was right to take a life, even a child’s life. It’s a reflection on how humans are often driven by fear and the desire to protect their own interests. The "Saving the Men Children" Part: This is where it gets interesting. The midwives weren't simply trying to keep the men alive. They were actively choosing to save the lives of the children, suggesting a belief that life has value, even in the face of hardship. Important Context – It’s More Than Just a Simple Command: The verse is part of a larger story about injustice and oppression. It highlights the brutal reality of slavery and raises questions about morality and human rights. In short, this verse is a pivotal moment in history that shows how powerful rulers can use seemingly simple commands to inflict suffering on others. --- Resources for Further Exploration: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Exodus](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/Exodus) - This website has detailed explanations, translations, and context about the verse. Wikipedia - Exodus 1:18: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exodus_18](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exodus_18) - Provides a good overview of the verse’s history and significance. Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can help you with? For example, would you like to know: What's the historical context surrounding this event? How does this verse relate to other stories in the Bible?