This is the first in a three-part video series from PJ Library and Ammud. In our first video Rabbi Heather Miller tells the story of Shifrah and Puah, the midwives who saved Moses. You can read about Shifrah and Puah in the Torah starting Exodus 1:15
The story of Passover is filled with brave people—while you may know Moses, his sister Miriam, and their brother Aaron, the Jewish people might not have been able to leave Egypt if not for the actions of two brave women: Shifrah and Puah.
Shifrah and Puah were midwives ordered by Pharoah to harm the Israelite babies. Instead, the women, according to legend, crafted a clever ruse to save as many children as possible.
Big Question
What does it mean to do the right thing?
Discuss
Shifrah and Puah understood the difference between Pharaoh’s laws and what was actually right and just. Pharaoh’s laws destroyed lives, while the courageous women valued human life and dignity.
- Can you think of a time or situation where it makes sense to break a rule?
- Can you think of a scenario where doing the right thing (as Shifra and Puah did) might mean breaking a law?
Read
Do
Watch this video to learn more about what a modern midwife does:
About Ammud
Ammud is a national organization cultivating the next generation of Jewish leaders of color through Torah learning, educator training support, clergy support, family programs, thought leadership, and community building. By investing in inclusive Jewish wisdom, Ammud strengthens the future of Jewish life and ensures that the wisdom of our tradition reflects the full diversity of the Jewish people. Learn more about Ammud at Ammud.org and join a program near you!
More
Torah Stories at Home: Jacob and Esau
Hannah’s Prayer: A Torah Story For Children
Meet the Women of the Exodus Story
Role Models from Jewish Texts
What is Midrash?
June 29, 2026