The Midwive's Rebellion

Summary

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The Chosen People – “The Midwives’ Rebellion”

Podcast by Pray.com | Released: December 12, 2025

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Episode Overview

Main Theme:
This episode, “The Midwives’ Rebellion,” dives deep into the biblical narrative of Israelite oppression in Egypt, focusing intently on the courageous defiance of the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, as they resist Pharaoh’s command to kill newborn Hebrew boys. Through evocative storytelling, dramatic characterizations, and rich historical imagination, the episode explores themes of faith under oppression, righteous rebellion, and the unquenchable spirit of God’s chosen people.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Setting the Stage: The Oppression Begins

• Israel’s Situation in Egypt:
  The Israelites, once welcome under Joseph, have become numerous and are now viewed by the new Pharaoh as a threat.
  • “These Hebrews are contributing nothing and taking everything... Even worse, they are so great in number that they can be trusted. If our enemies choose to invade, what's to stop them from joining their side?” – Pharaoh (01:20)
• Transition to Bondage:
  Pharaoh orders enslavement; fields and herds are confiscated, and daily life becomes one of hard labor and despair.
  • “The children of Israel were bound in chains, their lives consumed by the relentless toil of Pharaoh’s ambitions.” – Narrator (02:03)
• Persistence of Hope:
  Despite cruelty, the Israelites hold onto hope and community, even as successive generations forget liberty and God seems distant.
  • “Their shared commitment to one another… their quiet rebellion.” – Narrator (05:54)
• Rise of a New Pharaoh:
  With Seti as the new Pharaoh, paranoia increases about the Israelites’ numbers, leading to ever-more cruel strategies.

2. The Cruel Decree: Pharaoh’s Plot

• The Plan to Stifle Growth:
  Pharaoh concludes that killing male infants is the only way to curb Israelite “multiplication” without losing workforce. He summons the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah.
  • “Bring me the midwives, the women who aid the mothers in labor.” – Pharaoh (08:55)
• Life Among the Oppressed:
  Intimate depiction of Shiphrah delivering a child, demonstrating the sacred work of the midwives and their irreplaceable place in the community.
  • “May God Most High bless you and your child, my dear. There is no greater joy and pain than being a mother... For every child is a miracle, not just the ones born to the matriarchs.” – Shiphrah (11:09)

3. Midwives Summoned: The Palace Confrontation

• Harsh Contrasts:
  The stark difference between the Hebrews’ suffering and the opulence, power, and arrogance of Pharaoh’s court is painted in vivid detail.
  • “When Pharaoh addresses you, keep your eyes on the floor. Only Egyptians can gaze at the sun and live.” – Egyptian Courtier (19:26)
• The Command to Kill:
  The midwives are commanded directly to murder male infants at birth.
  • “When you are on the birthstool and you see a son born to a Hebrew woman, you shall kill him without a second thought... This is the decree of Pharaoh.” – Pharaoh (22:33)
• Moral Dilemma:
  Shiphrah and Puah agree outwardly, but immediately voice their internal resistance and plan deception to protect innocent lives.
  • “Do you really think I'd kill those babes? Do you? Defying Pharaoh would have led to our deaths. Then he would recruit other midwives and threaten them... Does that mean we'll do what he's asked? Of course not. I fear God Most High more than Pharaoh.” – Shiphrah (24:33)
  • “Tell every woman under our care to hide their children from the taskmasters and guards.” – Puah (25:25)

4. The Covert Rebellion & God’s Blessing

• Underground Resistance:
  The midwives work by night, warn mothers, and use distractions to help mothers give birth safely in secrecy.
  • “The Hebrews continued to multiply and thrive. The whips of Pharaoh wouldn't remove their hope. His cruel decrees wouldn't quell their love.” – Narrator (25:39)
• Divine Favor:
  God blesses the midwives for their faithfulness, granting them protection and children of their own.

5. Retribution Threatened: Pharaoh’s Fury

• The Reckoning:
  Pharaoh discovers his orders have been defied. His rage becomes palpable as he accuses the midwives of defiance and threatens more extreme measures.
  • “Did you think your defiance would escape my eye? I am Pharaoh. I alone can awaken the Eye of Horus. Nothing passes from my gaze. Why have you let these children live?” – Pharaoh (27:05)
• Shiphrah’s Brave Justification:
  She explains, with awe and trembling, that Hebrew women give birth before the midwives can arrive, bending the truth to save lives.
  • “These Hebrew women are not like the Egyptians... They are able to give birth while working the fields or stirring a pot of stew...” – Shiphrah (27:39)

6. Escalation: The Massacre Ordered

• Pharaoh’s Atrocity:
  Frustrated, Pharaoh orders all Hebrew boys under two to be thrown into the Nile—a chilling escalation.
  • “Take every son under the age of two and cast them into the Nile. The crocodiles will feast on their flesh and the waters will turn crimson as a symbol of my power...” – Pharaoh (29:09)
• Midwives’ Despair and Courage:
  The women are cast out, desperate to warn the community and save as many children as possible.
  • “If I can save just one child, it will all be worth it.” – Shiphrah (31:24)

7. Shiphrah’s Ultimate Sacrifice

• A Martyr’s End:
  In an act of ultimate courage and faith, Shiphrah confronts the approaching soldiers, invoking God’s promises to Abraham in a voice of hope and protest.
  • “I will make you a great nation... And through you, all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” – Shiphrah (31:46)
• Her Final Moments:
  Shiphrah is struck down but dies with her faith intact, praying for the deliverance of her people.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Pharaoh’s Justification for Oppression (01:20):
  “These Hebrews are contributing nothing and taking everything. They grow crops on my land, herd on my hills, and drink from my rivers... Nothing. Even worse, they are so great in number that they can be trusted.”
• Shiphrah to New Mother (11:09):
  “May God Most High bless you and your child, my dear. There is no greater joy and pain than being a mother... For every child is a miracle, not just the ones born to the matriarchs.”
• Puah – The Resilient People (13:56):
  “But for all their suffering, they still fall in love and have children. They still laugh and forget their troubles for moments long enough to make love and bring forth a new generation. The cycle repeats again and again. Even in despair, moments of love sustain us. This is the way of our people.”
• Shiphrah’s Defiant Faith (24:33):
  “I fear God Most High more than Pharaoh. It would be his children slain on those birthing stools. I will plainly no part in it.”
• Shiphrah’s Sacrifice (31:24, 31:46):
  “If I can save just one child, it will all be worth it... I will make you a great nation. I will bless you and make your name great, and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you. And through you, all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
• Pharaoh’s Chilling Order (29:09):
  “Take every son under the age of two and cast them into the Nile. The crocodiles will feast on their flesh and the waters will turn crimson as a symbol of my power over them.”

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Enslavement of Hebrews / Pharaoh’s Fears: 01:05 – 05:54
• Life Under Oppression; Role of the Midwives: 09:17 – 14:17
• Palace Confrontation – Pharaoh’s Decree: 21:34 – 24:02
• Midwives’ Rebellion & Secret Plan: 24:16 – 25:31
• Pharaoh’s Discovery & New Order: 27:05 – 29:34
• Shiphrah’s Final Stand & Martyrdom: 31:24 – 32:19

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Tone & Storytelling Style

The episode is narrated with drama and reverence, invoking both lamentation and quiet, resolute hope. Dialogue is passionate and intense, especially in confrontations with Pharaoh, and the tone often shifts from despair to defiance, highlighting the cost and courage of resistance. The script does not shy away from the brutality of the narrative, ultimately portraying Shiphrah’s death as both tragic and spiritually triumphant.

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Summary Flow

Listeners are taken on a vivid journey from the bleakness of Egyptian slavery through the sacred everyday acts of resistance by women, culminating in an act of sacrificial faith that keeps alive both memory and hope. “The Midwives’ Rebellion” stands as both a retelling of a key biblical episode and a meditation on the power of faith-driven resistance against injustice.

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Transcript

[Podcast Host]

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[Narrator]

Guided by the hand of their brother Joseph, a man of dreams and visions, the families of Israel found sanctuary in the region of Goshen. There, on the fringes of Egyptian grandeur, they multiplied.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

These he Hebrews are contributing nothing and taking everything. They grow crops on my land, herd on my hills, and drink from my rivers.

[Narrator]

And what do I get in return?

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Nothing. Even worse, they are so great in number that they can be trusted. If our enemies choose to invade, what's to stop them from joining their side? What are your commands, Lord Pharaoh? The Israelites are no longer guests in my land. From this day forth, they shall be bricks laid at the foundation of my empire.

[Narrator]

The soldiers marched into Goshen, their armor clinking with the cold efficiency of death. They claimed the fields, drove the herds into Pharaoh's barns, and stripped the people of their tools. Egyptian commanders were appointed over the Hebrews, each flanked by battalions of soldiers eager to enforce their lord's decree. And so the children of Israel were bound in chains, their lives consumed by the relentless toil of Pharaoh's ambitions. Day after day, the sun rose and set, casting its unforgiving light upon a land where time itself seemed to stretch into eternity. Under the lash, beneath the weight of stones and mortar, the people of Israel cried out to the God of their.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Fathers, oh, deliver us. Rescue your people.

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[Narrator]

Blood, tears and broken prayers dripped onto the Egyptian sands. The Hebrews, once free, now lived under the crushing yoke of bondage, their memories of liberty fading like distant echoes. The generations that had known life outside the chains of servitude were gone, and in their place remained a people born to the lash, acquainted only with despair. They no longer prayed as their ancestors had their Prayers were brittle, spoken to a God who seemed more myth than reality. The God of Abraham was a faint echo passed down through generations. The elders held tightly to his memory, but with each generation, the grip loosened. The only God they knew now was Pharaoh, an ever present force. His wrath burning upon their backs like the relentless desert sun. His taskmasters were his priests. And the backs of the Hebrews were the altars upon which blood and flesh were sacrificed daily. Yet within them, a spark still smoldered. A remnant of their forefather, Jacob. A sliver of hope that refused to be extinguished. In their despair, they multiplied. They loved. They laughed. They clung to each other in the face of overwhelming odds. Their shared commitment to one another. Whispered prayers to the God of Jacob amidst the beatings was their only weapon. Their quiet rebellion. But this strength made them a threat. The cruel pharaoh who enslaved them. Ramses I had passed the Israelite. Scars told the tale of his legacy. A legacy of brutality, conquest and oppression. His son, Seti took his place. Both drank from the same well of hatred and pride as their forebears. Their thirst for power was insatiable. And their nights were haunted by visions of revolt.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

These Hebrews are like rats breeding in the shadows. They already outnumber my soldiers. We must cut the Hebrews off before they become unmanageable. Shall we execute some of the men, Lord Pharaoh? Don't be so foolish and short sighted. Those men lay my bricks and hoist the statues of my greatness. I need their arms and legs. No, we need to cut them off for a generation. Starve their multiplication. Yes. We must take the children. How shall we proceed? Bring me the midwives, the women who aid the mothers in labor. At once. Yes, Lord Pharaoh.

[Narrator]

The air was pierced by the cries of a woman in labor. Her breath ragged as she fought through the pain.

[Shiphrah]

That's right, my dear. Keep breathing. Do not push and do not fight. Just breathe.

[Narrator]

Shiphra sat on her birth stool, gently coaching a young woman through labor. Her tone was steady, gentle and comforting. She guided the mother to be through every step and position.

[Shiphrah]

Lay on your side now, my dear.

[Narrator]

Shiphrah was a master at her craft. Midwives were revered pillars among the Israelites. They were steady guides bringing babies from the womb into the world. And mothers, from maidenhood to motherhood. She, like few others, truly feared God most high. Her faith as unshakable as the earth beneath her feet. With each birth, each cry of a newborn, and each silence of a child lost, Shiphra drew closer to the heart of the Creator. Shiphrah gripped the woman's legs and spoke with a firm, steady voice.

[Shiphrah]

Now is the time, my dear. Do not hold back. You must push now. Let's meet your child.

[Narrator]

The young mother did as she was told, her face contorted with pain and determination. The woman pressed her legs against Sifra's hands and pushed. Her labored sighs gave way to shouts of brief pain. The woman's screams filled the room, raw and powerful, until finally the child emerged into Shiphra's waiting hands.

[Shiphrah]

A strong, healthy boy, my dear. Your husband will be so proud.

[Narrator]

A cry pierced the air. A strong, healthy boy. She immediately placed him on his mother's chest.

[Shiphrah]

May God Most High bless you and your child, my dear. There is no greater joy and pain than being a mother. It hurts you now, but the real soreness comes later, when he is no longer suckling and is off to the quarry. Enjoy these moments, my dear. Savor them as Sarah savored Isaac long ago. For every child is a miracle, not just the ones born to the matriarchs.

[Narrator]

The ordeal over, Shiphrah set to work, cleaning up boiling water for a warm pad and tea. She moved with a practice grace, her hands never faltering as she stirred the leaves, letting the fragrant steam rise. She soaked cloths in hot water, pressing them gently against the mother's abdomen, and brought a cup of tea to the woman's lips. Shiphrah left the tent with her birthstool. The moon hung low, shrouded by a haze of dust and smoke. The paths she walked were jagged, ill kept, a reflection of the broken lives lived by those who walked them. After a day of hauling stones and paving roads for Pharaoh, nothing was left for the Hebrews in Goshen. Shiphrah watched as men returned from their labor, their bodies battered, their spirits bruised. They steeled themselves before entering their homes, hiding their despair from their children, their pain from their wives. Shiphra's heart ached as she watched them, remembering each of them as babes, cradled in their mother's arms, full of life and promise. Now they were shadows of men, their backs bent, their faces hard, trudging forward like beasts of burden. Siphra made it to her home, which she shared with the other midwives. She entered with worry creased on her brow, reclining at a table, weaving a basket with her coarse hands, was puah. She was 10 years Shiphre's junior, but just as respected. Sensing Shiphra's weariness, Puah stood and took the birth stool from her. She poured a cup and placed it in Shiphra's hands.

[Puah]

Did Siva have her child.

[Shiphrah]

Yes, a strong little boy with a head fat enough to split the Nile. For a moment, I was worried about that poor girl. But she did it. She was a strong one. Steady till the end.

[Puah]

Oh, another boy. Another back for Pharaoh's whips.

[Shiphrah]

As I walked back and saw all the men coming home, memories of them as babes flashed before my eyes.

[Puah]

Yes, but for all their suffering, they still fall in love and have children. They still laugh and forget their troubles for moments long enough to make love and bring forth a new generation. The cycle repeats again and again. Even in despair, moments of love sustain us. This is the way of our people.

[Narrator]

They sat in silence, letting the weight of the day settle around them until a loud knock shattered the quiet. Shiphrah's blood ran cold. She knew that knock, the same brutal pounding that had preceded the seizure of her husband and son. Taken to serve Pharaoh's army and never returned.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Open up, slaves.

[Shiphrah]

Ready yourself, my dear.

[Narrator]

She opened the door, and immediately it was flung wide. Three palace guards storming inside. One seized Shifra by the arm. Another advanced on Puah. They knew better than to resist remaining silent and submissive as they were dragged away.

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[Narrator]

Shiphrah had heard stories about the great city of Pharaoh, but none could properly prepare her for its grandeur. Compared to the slums of Goshen, the city surrounding the palace seemed like another world. They were escorted through the bustling streets of Thebes. The crowded markets were filled with the sounds of merchants hawking their wares and the clatter of donkey cards. Merchants and nobles reclined at tables with cups in hand. Music played in the streets, adding to the incessant and never ending noise. The palace loomed ahead, its walls high and imposing, adorned with banners and emblems representing the might of Pharaoh. Upon entering the palace grounds, the atmosphere changed dramatically. The city's noise gave way to an almost reverent silence, broken only by the murmurs of priests and the soft footsteps of servants. The floors beneath their feet were smooth, polished stone, cool to the touch and gleaming under the flickering light of oil lamps. The architecture was awe inspiring, with tall columns carved to resemble lotus flowers and papyrus plants, plants symbolizing the eternal life of Pharaoh's kingdom. The air was thick with the scent of incense and a heady mixture of myrrh, frankincense and other exotic spices meant to purify and sanctify the space. The palace walls, built of limestone, were adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphics, each telling stories of gods, kings and conquests.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

When Pharaoh addresses you, keep your eyes on the floor. Only Egyptians can gaze at the sun and live.

[Shiphrah]

I cannot tell if he's breathing a threat or explaining a fact.

[Narrator]

The opulence became even more overwhelming as they were brought deeper into the palace. The walls were painted in vibrant colors, depicting scenes of gods and pharaohs triumphing over enemies, with gold and lapis lazuli inlays, catching the light. The air was cool there, protected from the heat by thick stone walls and high ceilings. They passed through gardens filled with lush greenery, rare flowers and fountains, all meticulously maintained, creating an oasis of tranquility. Yet Shifra and Pua were far from tranquil.

[Puah]

What could Pharaoh possibly want with us?

[Shiphrah]

We wouldn't be summoned here in such a manner for something good. He is going to demand something of us.

[Narrator]

Finally, Siphra and Pua were led into the throne room. It was vast, with a high ceiling supported by massive columns, each painted with images of the gods. The throne was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, inlaid with precious stones and gold, flanked by statues of falcons and sphinxes, symbols of the Pharaoh's divine authority. Then they saw him, Pharaoh Seti, seated on this throne as a figure of almost otherworldly presence. His shaved head wore a headdress adorned with sapphires. His bare chest bore golden wings. In his hands were the crook and flail, symbols of his rule over Upper and Lower Egypt. His gaze was stern and penetrating, and the weight of his authority was palpable, filling the room with an almost tangible sense of power. The midwives were brought forward, their movements closely monitored by the guards and courtiers.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Kneel before the image of Ra, the Lord of the Nile, the morning and evening star. Hail Pharaoh.

[Narrator]

Shiphrah and Puah kept their heads low and their gaze fixed on the door. The tension in the room was thick as they awaited the Pharaoh's words. The women were acutely aware that their lives were entirely in the hands of this living God. Any slight misstep could lead to severe punishment.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

You are the midwives who aid the Hebrew women in labor, yes?

[Shiphrah]

Yes, Lord Pharaoh.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Then you know well and have bore witness to the rapid multiplication of your people. You are breeding like rats underground. I shall have an end to it.

[Narrator]

The women were silent, knowing better than to ask questions or reply with a comment.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

I have brought you here instead of sending an envoy to communicate the severity by which I give my command. When you are on the birthstool and you see a son born to a Hebrew woman, you shall kill him without a second thought. If it is a daughter, then the baby shall live. This is the decree of Pharaoh. The image of Ra, the Lord of the Nile, the morning and evening star.

[Narrator]

Pua tensed her entire body. Sifra could tell she was about to speak, so she grabbed her forearm and squeezed, wanting to silence Pua before she had a chance to speak.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

These are the commands you are to relay to the other midwives. I want the streets painted red with the blood of the Hebrew rats. Am I understood?

[Narrator]

It took everything in Shivra to open her jaw and breathe out a reply.

[Shiphrah]

Yes, Lord Pharaoh.

[Narrator]

Pua's eyes darted sideways to Shiphrah. She returned her gaze with an intense stare to remind her of where they were and who they were speaking to.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Now leave me.

[Narrator]

The women were roughly escorted out and thrown into the streets of Thebes, forced to find their way back to Goshen on their own. The second the guards were gone, Puar lashed out at Shifra.

[Puah]

How could you agree to such a hideous thing, Shiphrah?

[Shiphrah]

Be quiet, girl. Come with me.

[Narrator]

The two women wove through the busy streets and tucked themselves into the shadows of an alleyway. The slight flickering of nearby torches illuminated Sifra's intense stare.

[Shiphrah]

Do you really think I'd kill those babes? Do you? Defying Pharaoh would have led to our deaths. Then he would recruit other midwives and threaten them if they refused. Then he would rifle through all of them until he found someone willing to agree. We had to say yes. No choice. Does that mean we'll do what he's asked? Of course not. I fear God Most High more than Pharaoh. It would be his children slain on those birthing stools. I will plainly no part in it.

[Puah]

You speak the truth. But what are we to do with these commands? Pharaoh will know if we have disobeyed him.

[Shiphrah]

We tell him that Hebrew women are stronger than the Egyptians and are giving birth before we have a chance to attend them. It's only a half lie we must.

[Puah]

Tell every woman under our care to hide their children from the taskmasters and guards.

[Shiphrah]

Yes, good.

[Puah]

My dear Shiphrah, I fear this is only the beginning of Pharaoh's cruelty. We must prepare the rest of our people for what's to come.

[Narrator]

The clouds hovered low over Goshen, as if to shield the Hebrew women from Pharaoh's high gaze. Shiphra, Puah, and the other midwives operated by night, stealthily, helping each mother through birth. They sent messengers to each household when a baby was expected to be born. That signaled the older children to start a commotion on the opposite side of town to distract Pharaoh's guards, allowing the women to give birth without fear of being heard. Months of this passed and Newborn boys were kept safe. God blessed the other midwives and gave them favor. He gave them children of their own and kept them safe. The Hebrews continued to multiply and thrive. Thrive. The whips of Pharaoh wouldn't remove their hope. His cruel decrees wouldn't quell their love. The children lived and grew strong. However, their defiance wouldn't go unnoticed for long. Pharaoh didn't forget his decree and knew that Goshen's silence was deafening. To their guilt, he sent for Shiphrah and Puah again. This time they were taken violently and thrown onto the palace floors. Pharaoh's rage was a living thing, coiled and ready to strike. He gripped his scepter, pointing it directly at them, his voice trembling with fury.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Did you think your defiance would escape my eye? I am Pharaoh. I alone can awaken the Eye of Horus. Nothing passes from my gaze. Why have you let these children live? Answer me.

[Narrator]

Puah began to speak, but Sifra stopped her. She was the elder. If anyone would receive the ire of Pharaoh, it would be her. It was her joy to risk her life for the children's sake.

[Shiphrah]

Lord Pharaoh, truly nothing escapes your eye. However, we are not blessed with such a sight ourselves. These Hebrew women are not like the Egyptians. The Egyptian women give birth on silken sheets. You have rituals and ceremonies that harken to the arrival of each child. Yet these Hebrews are vigorous. They are able to give birth while working the fields or stirring a pot of stew. Once whispers, severe decree surfaced. They've been giving birth before we have a chance to attend to them.

[Narrator]

Pharaoh took a step down from his throne, and though Shiphrah dared not look up, she could feel his presence looming over her. Each step he took was like a hammer blow to her soul, the air thick with his anger.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

I gave you Hebrew dogs a chance to obey. It was my mercy that held my spears at bay. But no longer. My will cannot be thwarted. It is as steady as the Nile and as forceful as the radiating flames of the sun. You Hebrews will know my power.

[Narrator]

Pharaoh turned to his captain and raised his scepter. Sifra caught a glimpse of his arms. They were tight with muscle, firm and steady. His entire body was tense with anger.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Goshen will weep with the wails of mothers as I tear their sons from their breasts. Take every son under the age of two and cast them into denial. The crocodiles will feast on their flesh and the waters will turn crimson as a symbol of my power over them.

[Narrator]

Pharaoh turned to Shiphrah and Puah. His breaths were hot with rage.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

I ought to kill you both for failing me. But I won't. I want you to bear witness. I want you to gaze upon the Bloody Nile and remember that no man or God is more powerful than the Pharaoh.

[Narrator]

Pua's hands were pressing aggressively against the marble floors. Her body was shaking with grief. Tears streamed down her silent, trembling cheeks.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Weep if you must, but know that your tears do not sway me. Guards. Get them out of my sight.

[Narrator]

Shifra and Pua were cast out again. This time they were thrown down the steps. They tumbled into the dust. The midwives cast their heads up from the floor and watched hundreds of soldiers march out of the palace barracks towards Goshen.

[Puah]

They're marching towards Goshen. We have to beat them there and warn the others.

[Shiphrah]

You run ahead, my dear. I am not as spry as I used to be. I will see if I can slow them down.

[Puah]

What?

[Narrator]

How?

[Puah]

What are you going to do?

[Narrator]

Shiphra held her friend's face and kissed her on the forehead.

[Shiphrah]

I will do what I must, as should you. Run, my dear.

[Narrator]

Puar's legs moved swiftly, bending through the crowded streets of thieves. Her strides were like a gazelle's as she desperately tried to reach Goshen before the soldier. Shiphrah turned toward the battalion of soldiers. She steadied her breath and marched toward them. She halted their steps and stretched her arms out. She had no plans to fight. She only needed to buy more time.

[Shiphrah]

If I can save just one child, it will all be worth it.

[Narrator]

Shiphrah lifted her voice and echoed the promise God made to Abram Abraham. She believed in her heart of hearts that they were a chosen people and not even Pharaoh would thwart the promises made to them. With a resolute stare and steady voice.

[Shiphrah]

Shiphrah yelled, I will make you a great nation. I will bless you and make your name great, and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you. And through you, all the families of the earth shall be blessed.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Quit your babbling and step aside.

[Shiphrah]

Remember your promises, O God most High.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Shut up.

[Shiphrah]

Remember your chosen people.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Silence her.

[Shiphrah]

Deliver us.

[Narrator]

Siphra stepped back and looked down. A spear was driven straight through her belly. She coughed and blood poured out onto the dust. She fell to her knees and looked up. Her final thoughts were that of her husband and sons. She missed them. She longed to hold her child again in her arms. In her final moments, she prayed that God would deliver her people. Shiphrah fell into the dust. The soldiers trampled over her body on the way to Goshen. Puar was far ahead, desperate to warn the women so the children could be saved. This prey.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Catina, Max Bard, Zach Shellavaga and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Steven Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosely and Chris Baig. You can hear more prey.com productions on the prey.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the chosen people, please rate and leave a review.

[Coca-Cola Advertiser]

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[Shiphrah]

All.

[Coca-Cola Advertiser]

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[Narrator]

Mmm.

[Coca-Cola Advertiser]

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[Narrator]

Just.

[Coca-Cola Advertiser]

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[Podcast Host]

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[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Ford was built on the belief that the world doesn't get to decide what you're capable of. You do. So ask yourself, can you or can't you? Can you load up a Ford F150 and build your dream with sweat and steel? Can you chase thrills and conquer curves in a Mustang? Can you take a Bronco to where.

[Narrator]

The map ends and adventure begins?

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Whether you think you can or think you can't, you're right. Ready, Set. Ford.

[Narrator]

Look, Santa, the kids left you. Pepperidge Farm cookies. Milano. Mint chocolate.

[Ryan Seacrest]

So rich.

[Narrator]

Jessamine butter cookies. So buttery. And Lindsay Raspberry.

[Ryan Seacrest]

A holiday classic. These are Fancy Santa.

[Narrator]

Fancy Santa. Fancy Santa. Designer cologne.

[Pharaoh/Antagonist]

Spritz Me.

[Narrator]

Vintage timepiece. Classy o'. Clock. Gold chain with diamonds. Now that's fancy. Pepperidge Farm cookies. Fancy a taste.

[Podcast Host]

This is an iHeart podcast. Guaranteed Human.