◄ Exodus 1 ►
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The Israelites Multiply in Egypt (Genesis 46:7–27) 1These are the names of the sons of Israel who went to Egypt with Jacob, each with his family: 2Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah; 3Issachar, Zebulun, and Benjamin; 4Dan and Naphtali; Gad and Asher. 5The descendants of Jacob numbered seventya in all, including Joseph, who was already in Egypt. 6Now Joseph and all his brothers and all that generation died, 7but the Israelites were fruitful and increased rapidly; they multiplied and became exceedingly numerous, so that the land was filled with them. Oppression by a New King (Acts 7:15–19) 8Then a new king, who did not know Joseph, came to power in Egypt. 9“Look,” he said to his people, “the Israelites have become too numerous and too powerful for us. 10Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, or they will increase even more; and if a war breaks out, they may join our enemies, fight against us, and leave the country.b” 11So the Egyptians appointed taskmasters over the Israelites to oppress them with forced labor. As a result, they built Pithom and Rameses as store cities for Pharaoh. 12But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and flourished; so the Egyptians came to dread the Israelites. 13They worked the Israelites ruthlessly 14and made their lives bitter with hard labor in brick and mortar, and with all kinds of work in the fields. Every service they imposed was harsh. 15Then the king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, whose names were Shiphrah and Puah, 16“When you help the Hebrew women give birth, observe them on the birthstools. If the child is a son, kill him; but if it is a daughter, let her live.” 17The midwives, however, feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had instructed; they let the boys live. 18So the king of Egypt summoned the midwives and asked them, “Why have you done this? Why have you let the boys live?” 19The midwives answered Pharaoh, “The Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women, for they are vigorous and give birth before a midwife arrives.” 20So God was good to the midwives, and the people multiplied and became even more numerous. 21And because the midwives feared God, He gave them families of their own. 22Then Pharaoh commanded all his people: “Every son born to the Hebrewsc you must throw into the Nile, but every daughter you may allow to live.” Footnotes: 5 a MT (see also Genesis 46:27); DSS and LXX (see also Acts 7:14) seventy-five 10 b Or and take the country 22 c SP, LXX, and Targum Yonaton; Hebrew does not include to the Hebrews. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Exodus 1 Summary The Israelites Multiply in Egypt Verses 1–5 – The Seed of Israel in Egypt Jacob’s twelve sons and their families—seventy in all—settle in Egypt, carrying Abraham’s promise into a foreign land. Verses 6–8 – A New Pharaoh Rises Joseph’s generation dies; a new king “who did not know Joseph” ascends, erasing past goodwill toward the Hebrews. Verses 9–14 – Oppression Intensifies Fearing Israel’s rapid growth, Pharaoh enslaves them to build Pithom and Rameses, yet “the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied.” Verses 15–22 – The Midwives’ Courage Shiphrah and Puah defy Pharaoh’s order to kill Hebrew boys. God rewards them, and Egypt’s ruler responds with a nationwide command to drown every newborn son in the Nile. This chapter traces the trials and tribulations of the Israelites in Egypt, starting from the migration of Jacob's family to the rapid multiplication of their population, their subsequent oppression under a new Pharaoh, and the moral courage of two Hebrew midwives. Amidst oppression and decrees of death, the Israelites continue to grow and flourish, signifying their perseverance and divine favor. Historical Setting Exodus begins roughly four centuries after Jacob’s arrival (Genesis 15:13; Exodus 12:40). Egypt, powerful and polytheistic, has forgotten Joseph’s service. A regime change—likely from Hyksos or within the 18th Dynasty—makes the Hebrews political liabilities. Population Growth and Promise Verse 7 piles verbs—“fruitful… increased… multiplied… exceedingly numerous”—mirroring Genesis 1:28 and 12:2. Stephen echoes this in Acts 7:17. God’s covenant marches on despite chains. Possible Pharaohs Candidates range from Ahmose I to Thutmose III. Scripture leaves him unnamed, underscoring God’s supremacy over anonymous earthly kings (Proverbs 21:1). Forced Labor and Archaeology Mud-brick remains at Tell el-Maskhuta (Pithom) and Qantir (Rameses) align with verse 11. Tomb reliefs of Rekhmire show Asiatic brick-makers under whips—visual proof of “ruthless” labor (vv. 13–14). Midwives Shiphrah and Puah As respected birth attendants, they face direct orders to commit infanticide. Choosing to “fear God” (v. 17) over Pharaoh, they become Scripture’s first recorded champions of life, paralleling Acts 5:29. Civil Disobedience and Blessing Their refusal leads to divine favor—“God was good to the midwives” (v. 20). The same pattern appears with Daniel’s friends (Daniel 3) and the apostles (Acts 4). Theme of Divine Reversal Oppression breeds multiplication (vv. 12, 20). Later, water meant to drown Hebrew boys will drown Egyptian soldiers (Exodus 14). Links to Genesis • Genesis 15:13 – Foretold bondage. • Genesis 22:17 – Promise of innumerable offspring. • Genesis 50:20 – God turning evil to good. Foreshadowing Christ Pharaoh’s order anticipates Herod’s massacre (Matthew 2:16). Moses, spared from death, will deliver Israel; Jesus, spared, delivers all. Literary Flow 1. Family roster (vv. 1–5) 2. Generational turnover (v. 6) 3. Oppression Plan A: slavery (vv. 9–14) 4. Plan B: secret infanticide (vv. 15–21) 5. Plan C: public drowning decree (v. 22) Key Themes • God’s faithfulness in silence—He isn’t quoted, yet His promise advances. • The sanctity of life—affirmed by midwives’ defiance. • Power of fear vs. fear of God—Pharaoh fears people; midwives fear the Lord. New Testament Echoes • Hebrews 11:23 – Faith under threat of infant death. • Romans 8:31 – “If God is for us…” resonates with Israel’s survival. • Revelation 12 – Dragon vs. male child parallels Pharaoh vs. Hebrew boys. Applications Today • Trust God’s unseen hand when culture turns hostile. • Uphold life even under pressure. • Remember that opposition often advances God’s purposes. Exodus 1 stages the conflict: an enslaved people, a fearful king, and an unseen God quietly setting rescue in motion. Connections to Additional Scriptures Genesis 15:5 God’s promise to Abraham about his descendants being as numerous as the stars. Psalm 105:24 God made His people very fruitful and stronger than their foes. Acts 5:29 Peter and the apostles’ declaration to obey God rather than men, similar to the midwives’ actions. Romans 8:28 Assurance that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him. Teaching Points God’s Promise Fulfilled Despite the Israelites' oppression, God’s promise to Abraham is being fulfilled as the Israelites multiply and grow exceedingly strong (Exodus 1:7). Fear and Oppression Pharaoh’s fear of the Israelites leads to their oppression, illustrating how fear can lead to unjust actions (Exodus 1:9-11). God’s Sovereignty The more the Israelites were oppressed, the more they multiplied, showing God’s sovereignty and His ability to bless His people even in adversity (Exodus 1:12). Courageous Midwives The Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, feared God and defied Pharaoh’s orders, demonstrating the importance of fearing God above man (Exodus 1:17). God’s Reward God blessed the midwives for their faithfulness, giving them families of their own (Exodus 1:20-21). Practical Applications Trust in God’s Promises Even when circumstances seem dire, trust that God’s promises will be fulfilled. Stand Against Injustice Like the midwives, we are called to stand against injustice and fear God above all else. Recognize God’s Hand Look for God’s hand at work in your life, even in difficult situations, and trust that He is in control. Be Courageous Take courage from the example of the midwives to do what is right, even when it is difficult. People 1. Jacob (Israel) The patriarch of the Israelites, Jacob, also known as Israel, is the father of the twelve sons who became the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel. His migration to Egypt with his family sets the stage for the events in Exodus. 2. Reuben The firstborn son of Jacob and Leah. Reuben is the founder of the tribe of Reuben. 3. Simeon The second son of Jacob and Leah. He is the progenitor of the tribe of Simeon. 4. Levi The third son of Jacob and Leah. Levi is the ancestor of the Levites, the priestly tribe. 5. Judah The fourth son of Jacob and Leah. Judah's lineage is significant as it leads to King David and, according to Christian belief, to Jesus Christ. 6. Dan The son of Jacob and Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant. Dan is the founder of the tribe of Dan. 7. Naphtali The second son of Jacob and Bilhah. He is the progenitor of the tribe of Naphtali. 8. Gad The son of Jacob and Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. Gad is the founder of the tribe of Gad. 9. Asher The second son of Jacob and Zilpah. Asher is the progenitor of the tribe of Asher. 10. Issachar The fifth son of Jacob and Leah. Issachar is the founder of the tribe of Issachar. 11. Zebulun The sixth son of Jacob and Leah. Zebulun is the progenitor of the tribe of Zebulun. 12. Joseph The first son of Jacob and Rachel. Joseph's account is pivotal in Genesis, and he plays a crucial role in bringing the Israelites to Egypt. 13. Benjamin The second son of Jacob and Rachel. Benjamin is the founder of the tribe of Benjamin. 14. Pharaoh The king of Egypt during the time of the Israelites' oppression. His fear of the growing Israelite population leads to their enslavement. Places 1. Egypt Egypt is the primary setting for the events of Exodus 1. It is where the Israelites have settled and grown in number after Joseph brought his family there during a time of famine. The Hebrew term for Egypt is "Mitzrayim" (מִצְרַיִם), which is often associated with a place of bondage and oppression for the Israelites. 2. Pithom and Rameses These are the store cities that the Israelites were forced to build for Pharaoh. The construction of these cities is part of the oppressive measures taken by the Egyptians to control the growing population of the Israelites. The names "Pithom" and "Rameses" reflect the Egyptian influence and are indicative of the labor imposed on the Israelites. Events 1. Jacob's Descendants in Egypt The chapter begins by listing the sons of Israel (Jacob) who came to Egypt with him, each with his family. This includes Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Benjamin, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher (Exodus 1:1-4). 2. Joseph's Death and the Growth of the Israelites Joseph and all his brothers eventually die, but the Israelites are fruitful and multiply greatly, becoming exceedingly numerous and filling the land (Exodus 1:5-7). The Hebrew word for "fruitful" (פָּרָה, parah) emphasizes their rapid growth and prosperity. 3. A New Pharaoh's Oppression A new king, who did not know Joseph, arises in Egypt. He perceives the Israelites as a threat due to their large numbers and potential to join Egypt's enemies in case of war (Exodus 1:8-10). 4. Enslavement of the Israelites To control the growing population, the Egyptians enslave the Israelites, subjecting them to harsh labor and building the store cities of Pithom and Rameses (Exodus 1:11-14). The Hebrew word for "oppress" (עָנָה, anah) indicates severe affliction and suffering. 5. The Midwives' Defiance Pharaoh orders the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all newborn Hebrew boys. However, the midwives fear God and do not comply, allowing the boys to live (Exodus 1:15-17). Their fear of God (יָרֵא, yare) shows reverence and obedience to divine authority over human commands. 6. God's Blessing on the Midwives Because the midwives fear God, He blesses them with families of their own. The Israelites continue to multiply and grow even stronger (Exodus 1:18-21). 7. Pharaoh's Command to All His People In response to the midwives' defiance, Pharaoh commands all his people to throw every newborn Hebrew boy into the Nile River, while allowing the girls to live (Exodus 1:22). This decree marks an escalation in Pharaoh's attempt to control the Israelite population. Lessons from Exodus 1 1. The Power of God's Promises In Exodus 1, we see the Israelites multiplying and growing strong despite being in a foreign land. This is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham. "But the Israelites were fruitful and increased abundantly; they multiplied and became exceedingly strong, so that the land was filled with them" (Exodus 1:7). This reminds us that God's promises are steadfast and reliable, encouraging us to trust in His word even when circumstances seem challenging. 2. God's Sovereignty Over Nations Pharaoh's attempt to suppress the Israelites highlights God's sovereignty over earthly powers. Despite Pharaoh's oppressive measures, God's plan for His people prevailed. "But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and flourished" (Exodus 1:12). This teaches us that no earthly authority can thwart God's divine purposes, reassuring us of His ultimate control over all nations and leaders. 3. The Courage of Faithful Women The Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, demonstrate remarkable courage by defying Pharaoh's orders to kill Hebrew boys. "But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt had told them; they let the boys live" (Exodus 1:17). Their fear of God over man is a powerful lesson in standing firm in faith, even when faced with daunting opposition. 4. The Value of Life The midwives' actions underscore the sanctity of life, a principle deeply rooted in Scripture. By preserving the lives of the Hebrew boys, they honored God's creation. This reminds us of the inherent value of every human life, encouraging us to protect and cherish it as God does. 5. God's Blessings on the Faithful Because of their faithfulness, God blessed the midwives with families of their own. "So God was good to the midwives, and the people multiplied and became even more numerous" (Exodus 1:20). This illustrates that God rewards those who honor Him, reinforcing the truth that obedience to God brings blessings. 6. The Resilience of God's People Despite harsh oppression, the Israelites continued to thrive. This resilience is a testament to God's sustaining power. "The Egyptians worked the Israelites ruthlessly" (Exodus 1:13), yet they endured. This encourages us to rely on God's strength in times of trial, knowing He equips us to withstand adversity. 7. The Importance of Community The Israelites' growth and strength were not just individual but communal. Their unity in adversity highlights the importance of community and support among God's people. This teaches us to value and nurture our spiritual communities, drawing strength from one another. 8. The Role of Fear in Decision-Making Pharaoh's fear of the Israelites' numbers led to oppressive policies. This shows how fear can drive destructive decisions. In contrast, the midwives' fear of God led to life-preserving actions. This contrast teaches us to let reverence for God guide our decisions, rather than fear of circumstances. 9. God's Unseen Hand at Work Throughout Exodus 1, God's presence is not overtly mentioned, yet His hand is clearly at work. This reminds us that even when we don't see immediate evidence of God's intervention, He is actively working behind the scenes for our good and His glory. 10. The Foundation for Deliverance Exodus 1 sets the stage for the deliverance of the Israelites, showing that God prepares His people for redemption. This foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, reminding us that God is always working towards our salvation and freedom in Him. Topics 1. The Sons of Israel in Egypt The chapter begins by listing the sons of Israel who came to Egypt with Jacob, each with his family. This sets the stage for the narrative of the Israelites' growth in Egypt. The Hebrew names and their meanings are significant, as they reflect the identity and heritage of the tribes of Israel. 2. The Multiplication of the Israelites The Israelites are described as being fruitful and multiplying greatly, filling the land of Egypt. This fulfills God's promise to Abraham about his descendants becoming a great nation. The Hebrew word "פרו" (paru) emphasizes the rapid increase in their numbers. 3. A New Pharaoh's Oppression A new king, who did not know Joseph, arises in Egypt. He perceives the Israelites as a threat due to their large numbers and strength. The Hebrew term "קום" (qum) indicates a change in leadership and policy towards the Israelites. 4. Enslavement and Harsh Labor The Egyptians oppress the Israelites with forced labor, building the store cities of Pithom and Rameses. The Hebrew word "עבד" (avad) is used to describe the harsh servitude imposed on them, highlighting the severity of their oppression. 5. The Midwives' Defiance Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all newborn Hebrew boys. However, they fear God and disobey the king's orders, allowing the boys to live. The Hebrew word "ירא" (yare) signifies their reverence and fear of God over the king. 6. God's Blessing on the Midwives Because the midwives fear God, He blesses them with families of their own. This demonstrates God's favor and protection over those who honor Him, as seen in the Hebrew word "עשה" (asah), meaning to make or do, indicating God's active role in blessing them. 7. Pharaoh's Command to All His People Pharaoh then commands all his people to throw every newborn Hebrew boy into the Nile River. This decree marks an escalation in his attempt to control the Israelite population. The Hebrew word "ילד" (yeled) refers to the male children targeted by this edict. Themes 1. Oppression of the Israelites The chapter begins by describing the increasing oppression of the Israelites in Egypt. The new Pharaoh, who did not know Joseph, perceives the growing number of Israelites as a threat and decides to oppress them with forced labor. This theme highlights the fulfillment of God's earlier prophecy to Abraham about his descendants being enslaved (Genesis 15:13). The Hebrew word for "oppress" (עָנָה, `anah) conveys the idea of affliction and subjugation. 2. God's Blessing and Multiplication Despite the harsh conditions, the Israelites continue to multiply and grow exceedingly strong. This theme underscores God's faithfulness to His promise to Abraham to make his descendants numerous (Genesis 12:2). The Hebrew word for "multiply" (רָבָה, rabah) emphasizes the supernatural increase of the Israelite population. 3. Fear of the Egyptians The Egyptians' fear of the Israelites' growing numbers leads to their decision to enslave them. This theme reflects the broader biblical narrative of fear leading to oppression and injustice. The Hebrew word for "fear" (יָרֵא, yare) indicates a deep-seated dread that motivates the Egyptians' harsh actions. 4. Resistance and Civil Disobedience The Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, defy Pharaoh's orders to kill the male Hebrew infants. This theme highlights the moral courage and faithfulness of individuals who choose to obey God rather than human authority. The Hebrew word for "fear" (יָרֵא, yare) is used again, but this time to describe the midwives' reverence for God, which compels them to preserve life. 5. Divine Providence and Protection God blesses the midwives for their faithfulness, and the Israelites continue to increase in number. This theme illustrates God's providential care and protection over His people, even in the midst of oppression. The Hebrew word for "deal well" (יָטַב, yatab) signifies God's favorable response to the midwives' actions. 6. The Birth of Moses Foreshadowed The chapter sets the stage for the birth of Moses, who will become the deliverer of Israel. This theme foreshadows God's plan for redemption and deliverance, which will unfold in the subsequent chapters. The narrative hints at the coming of a savior figure, aligning with the broader biblical theme of deliverance. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God’s Faithfulness Thank God for His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Courage to Stand for Righteousness Pray for the courage to stand for what is right, even in the face of opposition. Trust in God’s Sovereignty Ask for a deeper trust in God’s sovereignty and His plans for our lives. Protection for the Oppressed Pray for those who are oppressed and for God’s justice to prevail. As we study Exodus 1, let us be encouraged by the resilience of God’s people and the unwavering faithfulness of our God. May we be inspired to live courageously and trust in His promises, knowing that He is always at work, even in the most challenging circumstances. Answering Tough Questions 1. Exodus 1:7 – How could the Israelites have multiplied so rapidly in a relatively short period without any historical or scientific evidence supporting such exponential growth? 2. Exodus 1:11 – Where is the archaeological or historical record for Israelites constructing entire cities such as Pithom and Rameses under forced labor? 3. Exodus 1:15–16 – Why is there no external Egyptian documentation of the Pharaoh’s decree to kill Hebrew male infants, which would have been a major event? 4. Exodus 1:19 – How credible is the claim that midwives could successfully deceive an absolute monarch renowned for strict oversight and harsh penalties? 5. Exodus 1 in general – How do we reconcile the apparent lack of extra-biblical evidence or records that confirm both the massive presence of Hebrews and the oppression described? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What parallels can be drawn between the oppression of the Israelites and modern instances of oppression and discrimination? 2. How does the perseverance of the Israelites inspire you in your personal struggles? 3. Discuss the moral dilemma faced by the midwives. What similar situations can occur today, and how should they be handled? 4. How do you see the theme of divine intervention playing out in this chapter? 5. How does the rapid growth of the Israelites despite their circumstances speak to the power of faith? 6. What lessons can be drawn from the actions of the new Pharaoh? How does fear influence decisions? 7. How does this chapter address the issue of power dynamics? How are those dynamics seen in today's world? 8. How can you apply the midwives' fear of God in your life when facing difficult decisions? 9. What does this chapter teach about the consequences of disobedience to earthly authorities for the sake of obeying God? 10. Discuss the role of women in this chapter. How does their contribution affect the narrative? 11. How would you respond to a directive that you know is morally wrong? 12. How did God honor the bravery of the midwives, and what does this say about divine justice? 13. In what ways does the growth of the Israelites despite their oppression symbolize hope? 14. How does the Pharaoh’s command to kill the Hebrew boys reflect his fear and insecurity? 15. What does the chapter suggest about the relationship between hardship and faith? 16. How does the courage of the midwives inspire you to stand for what is right, even against powerful authority? 17. Discuss how faith influenced the actions of Shiphrah and Puah. How does faith influence your decisions? 18. In today’s world, where do you see instances of people flourishing amidst adversity, similar to the Israelites in Egypt? 19. What lessons can contemporary societies learn from the oppressive rule of the Pharaoh? 20. How can we apply the lessons of courage, faith, and resilience from this chapter to our present-day living? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions