FEAR OF GOD AND PROTECTION OF LIFE
(Faithful resistance through reverence for God; primary reference: Exodus 1:15–21)
Biblical Identity and Primary References
Shiphrah and Puah are introduced in the opening chapter of the Book of Exodus as Hebrew midwives serving the Israelite women during their oppression in Egypt. They are among the first named women in Exodus and are remembered for their courageous obedience to God rather than to Pharaoh’s unjust command.
Historical and Cultural Background
In ancient Egypt, midwives held an important social role, assisting women during childbirth and safeguarding maternal and infant health. Pharaoh’s command to kill Hebrew male infants reflects both fear of Israel’s growing population and the absolute authority claimed by Egyptian kings. Within this context, Shiphrah and Puah stand as marginalized yet morally decisive figures, exercising quiet but profound resistance in a culture dominated by royal power and patriarchy.
Biblical Biography
Pharaoh orders Shiphrah and Puah to kill Hebrew boys at birth while allowing the girls to live (Exodus 1:15–16). The text immediately contrasts royal authority with divine authority by stating that “the midwives feared God, and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but let the male children live” (Exodus 1:17).
When questioned by Pharaoh, they respond with prudence, explaining that Hebrew women give birth before the midwives arrive. Scripture does not dwell on the ethics of their words, but on the motive of their actions: fear of God. Their reverence leads directly to the preservation of life at a moment when Israel’s future is gravely threatened.
God responds favorably to their fidelity. Exodus 1:20–21 declares that God dealt well with the midwives and “gave them families,” indicating divine blessing, stability, and honor. Their actions become the first recorded instance in Exodus of faithful resistance that contributes to Israel’s eventual liberation.
References in Other Parts of the Bible
Shiphrah and Puah are mentioned only in Exodus 1, yet their influence extends implicitly throughout the Exodus narrative, since the survival of Israelite male children includes the preservation of Moses himself.
Jewish Tradition and Understanding
Jewish tradition holds Shiphrah and Puah in high esteem, often identifying them with notable women in Israel’s history and praising their moral courage. They are remembered as models of righteous disobedience, showing that reverence for God surpasses obedience to unjust human authority.
Catholic Interpretation and Teaching
Catholic teaching recognizes Shiphrah and Puah as witnesses to the primacy of conscience formed by the fear of God. Their example aligns with the Church’s teaching on the sanctity of human life and the duty to resist laws that contradict divine law. The Catechism affirms that one must obey God rather than men when commands conflict with moral truth.
Connection to Jesus, Mary, and Salvation History
By protecting innocent life, the midwives participate in God’s salvific plan that will culminate in the Exodus. Their actions prepare the way for Moses, the mediator of the covenant. In salvation history, they prefigure all who safeguard life so that God’s redemptive purposes may unfold. Mary, in her obedience to God, later embodies the perfect cooperation with divine will that protects and gives life to the Savior.
Typology and New Testament Fulfillment
Shiphrah and Puah typologically represent those who defend life under threat. Their fear of God anticipates the Gospel ethic that upholds life from conception and prioritizes obedience to God over worldly power.
What Makes This Person / Theme Unique
They are unique as women whose quiet courage thwarts a royal decree and alters the course of salvation history, demonstrating that God works powerfully through humble fidelity.
Strengths and Virtues
Their virtues include fear of God, moral courage, compassion, prudence, and fidelity to life.
Weaknesses, Failures, or Sins
Sacred Scripture records no moral failures or sins attributed to Shiphrah and Puah.
Lessons for Christian Leadership and Witnessing
Their witness teaches that true leadership may involve hidden, nonviolent resistance rooted in conscience. Christians are called to protect life, especially when it is most vulnerable, and to trust that God honors fidelity even when it carries risk.
Reflection
The story of Shiphrah and Puah reminds believers that reverence for God leads to concrete moral action. Their fear of God becomes a source of life and hope for an entire people.
Prayer
God of life and justice, you blessed Shiphrah and Puah for their reverence and courage; grant us hearts that fear you above all else, that we may defend life, uphold truth, and trust in your providence, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.