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Exodus 1:19

King James Version (KJV)

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— D.L. Moody

Exodus 1:19

Verse 19 of 22

Scripture focus

And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew women [are] not as the Egyptian women; for they [are] lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them.

Exodus 1:19 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on Exodus 1:19

Theological / Devotional

The Hebrew women. The Hebrew women were no doubt required to labor in the fields along with the men. Since they were accustomed to toil in the open air, it is not unlikely that childbirth was comparatively easy for them. Arabic women, related racially to the Hebrews, lead strenuous lives and require but little assistance in childbirth. This fact explains the plausibility of the excuse offered Pharaoh by the Hebrew midwives. There is no evidence that their story was questioned in any way.

They are lively. Literally, “They are vigorous.” The result was that the midwives were seldom called. There was little demand for their services, since any female relative or acquaintance could usually provide all the assistance necessary. This may explain why only two midwives were needed by the Hebrews, in spite of their large numbers.

By SdaBc