Exodus 1:18
Assamese - 2019 (ইণ্ডিয়ান ৰিভাইচ ভাৰচন (IRV) আচামিচ - 2019)
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, the king of Egypt is questioning the midwives about why they are saving the male babies born to the Israelites, instead of following his order to kill them. The king is upset because he wants to control the growing Israelite population.
Explained for Children
Imagine if the principal of your school told a teacher to not let any new boys join the class but the teacher didn’t follow the rule and kept letting new boys join. The principal would be confused and ask the teacher why they didn’t listen. That’s what’s happening here, but with a king and midwives instead of a principal and a teacher.
Historical Background
The Book of Exodus was written by Moses around 1446-1406 BCE. The text was meant for the Israelites to understand their history and God’s protection over them. At this time, Pharaoh had ordered the midwives to kill all male Israelite babies, but the midwives obeyed God instead, saving the babies.
Living It Out Today
Today, this story can remind us of the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult. For example, if a coworker is asked to cover up a mistake by lying, and they choose to be honest instead, they're acting like the midwives in this verse.