Exodus 1:17 - Defying Pharaoh for Divine fear - Defying Pharaoh for Divine fear - Defying Pharaoh for Divine fear - Defying Pharaoh for Divine fear - Defying Pharaoh for Divine fear - Defying Pharaoh for Divine fear - Defying Pharaoh for Divine fear - Defying Pharaoh for Divine fear - Defying Pharaoh for Divine fear

Exodus 1:17 - שמות 1:17

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sotah 11b
The Talmud discusses the actions of the midwives, Shifra and Puah, who feared God and disobeyed Pharaoh's command to kill the Hebrew male infants. Their righteousness is highlighted, and their names are interpreted as referring to Jochebed and Miriam.

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

Hebrew Text

וַתִּירֶאןָ הַמְיַלְּדֹת אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם וַתְּחַיֶּיןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִים׃

English Translation

But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Miżrayim commanded them, but saved the men children alive.

Transliteration

Vatirena hamyaldot et-ha'elohim velo asu ka'asher diber aleihen melech mitzrayim vatechayena et-hayeladim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּירֶ֤אןָ הַֽמְיַלְּדֹת֙ אֶת־הָ֣אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְלֹ֣א עָשׂ֔וּ כַּאֲשֶׁ֛ר דִּבֶּ֥ר אֲלֵיהֶ֖ן מֶ֣לֶךְ מִצְרָ֑יִם וַתְּחַיֶּ֖יןָ אֶת־הַיְלָדִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

The Fear of Heaven in Defying Pharaoh

The verse describes how the Hebrew midwives, Shifra and Puah (as identified in Shemot 1:15), defied Pharaoh's decree to kill all newborn Israelite boys. Their actions are attributed to their fear of God (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), which superseded their fear of Pharaoh. Rashi (Shemot 1:17) explains that their fear of God was rooted in a deep recognition of Divine authority, compelling them to prioritize moral duty over royal command. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 1:15) further elaborates that their fear of God was so profound that it overrode any concern for their own lives.

The Identity of the Midwives

While the verse does not name the midwives, Chazal identify them as Shifra and Puah (Shemot 1:15). The Talmud (Sotah 11b) suggests that Shifra was another name for Yocheved, Moshe's mother, and Puah was Miriam, Moshe's sister. Ramban (Shemot 1:15) supports this view, noting that their familial connection to Moshe explains their exceptional courage. Alternatively, Ibn Ezra posits that they were Egyptian women who converted due to their reverence for God, demonstrating that righteousness is not limited by lineage.

The Nature of Their Disobedience

The phrase וְלֹא עָשׂוּ כַּאֲשֶׁר דִּבֶּר אֲלֵיהֶן מֶלֶךְ מִצְרָיִם highlights their active resistance. The Mechilta (Bo 13) teaches that their refusal was not passive but involved deliberate efforts to sustain the children, such as providing food and care. The Sforno (Shemot 1:17) adds that their defiance was a public act of Kiddush Hashem (sanctification of God's name), as they risked execution for their principles.

Divine Reward for Their Righteousness

The continuation of the narrative (Shemot 1:21) states that God rewarded the midwives with households (בָּתִּים). Rashi explains this as a reference to the priestly and Levitical dynasties that descended from them (Yocheved and Miriam). The Kli Yakar (Shemot 1:21) expands on this, noting that their reward mirrored their actions—just as they nurtured life, God established enduring spiritual legacies through their descendants.

  • Moral Courage: The midwives exemplify the principle of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven) overriding human authority when laws conflict with morality (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3).
  • Passive and Active Resistance: Their refusal to kill the infants was accompanied by proactive measures to ensure their survival (Talmud, Sotah 11b).
  • Universal Lesson: Their story teaches that righteousness is accessible to all, whether born into holiness (like Yocheved) or achieving it through choice (like Puah, if she was a convert).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who were the midwives in Exodus 1:17?
A: According to Rashi and the Midrash (Sotah 11b), the midwives were Shifra and Puah. Some opinions say they were Hebrew women (possibly Yocheved and Miriam), while others suggest they were Egyptian women who converted. Their names indicate their roles: Shifra means 'one who improves' the newborn, and Puah means 'one who coos' to calm the baby.
Q: Why did the midwives disobey Pharaoh's command?
A: The verse states they 'feared God' (וַתִּירֶאןָ אֶת־הָאֱלֹהִים), meaning they prioritized divine morality over human decrees. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 5:1-3) explains that one must disobey human laws that contradict Torah principles, especially regarding preserving life (pikuach nefesh).
Q: What lesson can we learn from the midwives' actions?
A: The Talmud (Sotah 11b) praises their courage, teaching that one must stand up for justice even under oppression. Their reward (Exodus 1:21 - 'He made them houses') refers to dynasties of Kohanim, Levi'im, and kings (Rashi), showing how righteousness brings lasting blessings.
Q: How did the midwives save the babies if Pharaoh ordered them killed?
A: The Midrash (Exodus Rabbah 1:15) describes how they provided care secretly or claimed Hebrew women gave birth before they arrived. Their 'fear of God' led to creative solutions to uphold life while avoiding direct confrontation with Pharaoh's decree.
Q: Why does the Torah emphasize that they 'saved the male children' specifically?
A: Pharaoh targeted boys (Exodus 1:16) to prevent the rise of a liberator (as hinted in his dream, per Midrash). By saving them, the midwives ensured the survival of the future redeemer Moshe and the Jewish people, fulfilling God's plan (Rashi on Exodus 2:1).

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