Exodus 1:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 1:21
21 And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses.
Chapter Context
Exodus 1 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, wisdom, 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 1:21
21 And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses.
Analysis
And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses (וַיַּעַשׂ לָהֶם בָּתִּים, vaya'as lahem batim)—He made them houses means God gave them families/descendants, not merely physical buildings (cf. 2 Samuel 7:11, 27 where God "builds a house" for David). The Hebrew idiom "house" (בַּיִת, bayit) signifies dynasty, family lineage, posterity. This is remarkable because childless women might have feared remaining barren as midwives who defied the king's infanticide. Instead, God rewards their life-preserving work with their own enduring households. This principle echoes throughout Scripture: those who honor God in their work receive His blessing (Proverbs 3:9-10).
Historical Context
In ancient Near Eastern culture, establishing a household (family with descendants) was the highest blessing. The midwives risked their lives and potentially their social standing; God ensured their names and legacy endured. Archaeological and genealogical evidence suggests some priestly families may have descended from these midwives.
Reflection
- How does God's reward of "houses" to the midwives encourage you when faithfulness requires sacrifice?
- In what areas of your life do you need to trust that honoring God will result in His blessing, even when outcomes are uncertain?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Ecclesiastes 8:12
- Creation: 1 Kings 2:24
- Parallel theme: 1 Samuel 2:35, 25:28, 1 Kings 11:38, Psalms 37:3, 127:1