In Ex 1,15-22, the confrontation between the pharaoh and the midwives Siphrah and Puah is narrated for the gift of the offspring. The monarch orders the murder of the newborn Hebrew males and the brave midwives disobey. In this pericope, the terms of (Hebrew language) Ex 1,19) appear, both fundamental in the construction of the dialogues between the king and the midwives.The pharaoh rules to kill the boys and leave the Hebrew girls alive in childbirth, ordering to look at םִיָנְ בָ אָה to determine the sex of the newborn. The term used does not have a clear meaning in that context; therefore, it has received different attempts at explanation throughout history.When the monarch claims to the midwives that his order has not been observed, they respond: “Hebrew women are not like Egyptians; they are more תֺיוָח) “Ex 1,19). The adjective that describes the Hebrews has different meanings referring to strength, vitality and animality; which have influenced the different translations and interpretations.The following study carries out a linguistic approach to both terms, analyzing the options made by translators, both ancient and modern, with particular attention to those made in the Spanish language. Then, it presents the reception of the same in various works, and their role in the construction of the narrative plot.