Exodus 1:21

And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיְהִ֕י

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יָרְא֥וּ

H3372

feared

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

הַֽמְיַלְּדֹ֖ת

H3205

And it came to pass because the midwives

to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הָֽאֱלֹהִ֑ים

H430

God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

וַיַּ֥עַשׂ

H6213

that he made

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

לָהֶ֖ם

בָּתִּֽים׃

H1004

them houses

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to Exodus's theological argument.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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