Who was Jethro?

Father-in-law of Moses

The story of Jethro

Jethro - Prophet
Jethro - Prophet
Prophet

Jethro, also known as Reuel, was the father-in-law of Moses in the Old Testament. He was a Midianite priest and the father of seven daughters. According to the Book of Exodus, Moses married one of Jethro's daughters and lived with him for a time in Midian after fleeing Egypt. Jethro is remembered for his wise counsel to Moses and for worshiping the God of Israel. When Moses received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai, Jethro visited him and offered a sacrifice to God. It is said that Jethro also gave Moses advice on how to govern the Israelites more efficiently by delegating authority to smaller groups of leaders.

Name meaning

The name Jethro is of Hebrew origin and means "excellence" or "abundance." In the Bible, Jethro is a priest of Midian and the father-in-law of Moses. He is noted for his wisdom and guidance, particularly in advising Moses on the efficient administration of justice among the Israelites. The name has connotations of wisdom, guidance, and prosperity.

Name origin

Hebrew

Role

Prophet

First mention

Exodus 3:1

Appearances in the Bible

9 mentions

Jethro in the Bible

Explore all 3 chapters where Jethro appears

Exodus

Chapter 3

God Calls Moses at the Burning Bush

God speaks to Moses from a burning bush and tells him to return to Egypt to lead the Israelites out of slavery. God give...

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Exodus

Chapter 4

Moses Returns to Egypt

Moses returns to Egypt and performs the signs that God has given him, but the Pharaoh still refuses to let the Israelite...

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Exodus

Chapter 18

Jethro Visits Moses in the Wilderness

Moses' father-in-law Jethro visits him and advises him to appoint leaders to help him govern the Israelites.

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