Exodus 1:16

Assamese - 2019 (ইণ্ডিয়ান ৰিভাইচ ভাৰচন (IRV) আচামিচ - 2019)

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes Pharaoh's command to the Hebrew midwives to kill newborn Hebrew boys but let the girls live. Pharaoh is speaking, trying to control the Hebrew population by eliminating male children.

Explained for Children

Imagine a king who doesn't like the number of new babies being born in a certain group of people. He tells the doctors to only help the girls be born and to stop the boys from being born. It's like a game of unfair rules, but this is a very serious and sad story from the Bible.

Historical Background

Exodus was written by Moses around 1440 BC. The audience was the Israelites who were in the wilderness after fleeing Egypt. The cultural setting was one of oppression where the Egyptian Pharaoh feared the growing Hebrew population and sought to control it.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, we might see this verse as a warning against discriminatory practices, such as gender-based abortion or selective job opportunities. It reminds us to stand up for justice and equality for all people, regardless of gender.

Topics

discriminationjusticegender equalityoppressionresistancefreedom

Related Verses

Exodus 1:22Exodus 2:1-10Matthew 2:16-18Psalm 127:3-5Galatians 3:28

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Pharaoh want to kill the Hebrew boys?
Pharaoh feared that the growing Hebrew population might rise up against him, so he ordered the death of all male Hebrew infants to control their numbers.
Who were the midwives in Exodus 1:16?
The midwives were Shiphrah and Puah, Hebrew women who were in charge of helping other Hebrew women give birth.
What was the outcome of Pharaoh's command?
The midwives disobeyed Pharaoh and let the boys live, showing bravery and faith in God's plan for the Hebrew people.
How does this verse relate to today's issues?
This verse can be seen as a warning against discriminatory policies and practices, reminding us to fight for justice and equality in all areas of life.
Compare Exodus 1:16 across all translations →