Exodus 1:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 1:16
16 And he said, When ye do the office of a midwife to the Hebrew women, and see them upon the stools; if it be a son, then ye shall kill him: but if it be a daughter, then she shall live.
Chapter Context
Exodus 1 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, righteousness, love. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 1:16
16 And he said, When ye do the office of a midwife to the Hebrew women, and see them upon the stools; if it be a son, then ye shall kill him: but if it be a daughter, then she shall live.
Analysis
And he said, When ye do the office of a midwife to the Hebrew women, and see them upon the stools; if it be a son, then ye shall kill him: but if it be a daughter, then she shall live—Upon the stools (עַל־הָאָבְנָיִם, al-ha'ovnayim, lit. "upon the stones/bricks") refers to the birthing stool, a seat with an opening used in ancient deliveries. The selective infanticide of males reflects Pharaoh's dual strategy: eliminate future warriors while preserving females who could be absorbed into Egyptian population. This satanic attack on the seed recalls Genesis 3:15's promise and anticipates Herod's slaughter (Matthew 2:16). God will preserve His deliverer (Moses) through ironic means—Pharaoh's own household (2:5-10).
Historical Context
Birth stools (Hebrew ovnayim, dual form suggesting two bricks/stones for each foot) are depicted in Egyptian tomb reliefs. Female infanticide was rare in the ancient world; male infanticide served military and political purposes. This genocide sets up Moses' miraculous preservation as providentially ordained.
Reflection
- How does Pharaoh's attack on Hebrew boys illuminate Satan's ongoing war against God's redemptive purposes?
- What does this passage teach about the value God places on every human life, even when powerful forces seek destruction?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 1:22