What was the situation of the Israelites in Egypt at the beginning of Exodus?

At the beginning of Exodus, the Israelites were being oppressed in Egypt. They multiplied greatly, which caused fear in Pharaoh, who ordered their enslavement and oppression. (Exodus 1:7-14)

What did Pharaoh order to control the growth of the Israelites?

Pharaoh ordered that all male children born to the Hebrews be killed and thrown into the Nile River to control the growth of the Israelite population. (Exodus 1:22)

How did the Hebrew midwives disobey Pharaoh's command?

The Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, disobeyed Pharaoh and did not kill the newborn boys. They justified their action by saying that Hebrew women were more vigorous and gave birth before they were born. (Exodus 1:17-19)

Why did Pharaoh decide to increase the oppression of the Israelites?

Pharaoh decided to increase the oppression of the Israelites because he feared that they would become too powerful and revolt against Egypt. (Exodus 1:10)

How did oppression affect the Israelite population?

Despite severe oppression, the Israelite population continued to grow and prosper, demonstrating God's divine intervention and faithfulness to his people. (Exodus 1:12)

Exodus, 1 - The oppression of the Israelites in Egypt: the beginning of slavery - Douay-Rheims Version