Exodus 1:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 1:18
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?
Chapter Context
Exodus 1 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, discipleship, covenant. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 1:18
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?
Analysis
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? (וַיִּקְרָא מֶלֶךְ מִצְרַיִם לַמְיַלְּדֹת, vayikra melekh Mitsrayim lameyaldot)—Pharaoh's interrogation reveals his realization that the genocide isn't occurring. The question Why have ye done this thing? suggests either suspicion of deliberate disobedience or confusion at the policy's failure. The king who commanded death is now forced to ask for explanation—a subtle reversal showing God beginning to frustrate Pharaoh's plans. The interrogation sets up the midwives' shrewd response (v. 19), which may be tactical deception or genuine observation of Hebrew women's vigor.
Historical Context
Royal summons to explain policy failures indicates serious governmental concern. That Pharaoh personally questions midwives (rather than executing them immediately) suggests either their social standing, the scale of the problem (widespread non-compliance), or divine restraint on his anger. This scene previews the confrontations between Moses and Pharaoh (Exodus 5-12).
Reflection
- How do you respond wisely when questioned by authorities about your obedience to God over human commands?
- What does Pharaoh's need to question rather than simply execute reveal about God's protective hand on the faithful?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Ecclesiastes 8:4