So the kingof Egyptcalledfor the midwivesand saidto them, "Whyhave you donethisthing,and let the boyslive?"
Absalomcommandedhis servants,saying,"Seenow,when Amnon'sheartis merrywith wine,and when I sayto you, 'StrikeAmnon,'then puthim to death.Do not fear;have not I myselfcommandedyou? Be courageousand be valiant."
But the midwivesfearedGod,and did not doas the kingof Egypthad commandedthem, but let the boyslive.
The midwivessaidto Pharaoh,"Becausethe Hebrewwomenare not as the Egyptianwomen;for they are vigorousand givebirthbeforethe midwifecangetto them."
Sincethe wordof the kingis authoritative,whowill sayto him, "Whatare you doing?"
