### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term Ἰαννῆς (`{{G2389}}`, *Iannēs*) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates its origin as "of Egyptian origin," identifying Jannes as an Egyptian. As a proper name, its semantic range is inherently narrow, serving primarily to denote a specific individual. It does not carry a broader conceptual or theological meaning in itself, but rather derives its significance from the historical and theological context in which the individual it names appears. The associated definition further specifies him as one of the two Egyptian magicians who famously opposed Moses during the Exodus.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Ἰαννῆς (`{{G2389}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul's second letter to Timothy:
* [[2 Timothy 3:8]]: "Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so also these men oppose the truth—men of depraved minds, who, as far as the faith is concerned, are rejected."
In this sole occurrence, Paul references Jannes, paired with Jambres, as historical figures who "opposed Moses." This reference is not found in the Old Testament accounts of the Exodus (e.g., Exodus 7-8), where Pharaoh's magicians are mentioned but not by name. Instead, Paul draws upon an extra-biblical Jewish tradition, widely accepted in the first century, which identified these two individuals as the chief magicians who attempted to replicate Moses' miracles before Pharaoh.
The context of [[2 Timothy 3:8]] is Paul's warning to Timothy about the challenging nature of the "last days" and the rise of those who will oppose the truth. Jannes and Jambres serve as an archetype for these opponents, characterized by "depraved minds" and a rejection of the faith. Their opposition to Moses, though initially appearing successful, ultimately failed to withstand the power of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The name Ἰαννῆς (`{{G2389}}`) is inextricably linked with:
* **Jambres:** The companion magician, always mentioned alongside Jannes in tradition. While Jambres does not have a distinct Strong's number in the New Testament, their pairing is essential to understanding the reference.
* **Pharaoh's Magicians/Sorcerers:** In the Old Testament, various Hebrew terms describe these figures, such as *chartummîm* (`{{H2750}}`, "magicians" or "scribes") and *kashshaph* (`{{H3097}}`, "sorcerer"). Jannes and Jambres are the traditional names given to the leaders of these individuals.
* **Moses:** The direct antagonist of Jannes and Jambres, representing God's chosen messenger and the divine power that ultimately triumphed over their deceptive arts.
* **Opposition to Truth:** The core concept embodied by Jannes and Jambres is the resistance to divine revelation and God's work. Paul uses them as a historical parallel for those who "oppose the truth" in his own time and in the future.
* **False Signs and Wonders:** The activities of Jannes and Jambres involved replicating Moses' initial miracles (e.g., turning staffs into snakes, water into blood) through their "secret arts" or "enchantments," highlighting the deceptive nature of their power.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Ἰαννῆς (`{{G2389}}`) and his counterpart Jambres is profound, primarily as an archetype:
* **Archetype of Spiritual Opposition:** Jannes and Jambres stand as enduring symbols of those who actively resist God's truth and His chosen servants. Their story illustrates that such opposition, though it may initially mimic divine power or appear formidable, is ultimately futile against the sovereign power of God.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Triumph:** Despite their magical prowess and initial success in replicating some of Moses' signs, Jannes and Jambres were ultimately unable to withstand the plague of boils and were forced to acknowledge the "finger of God" ([[Exodus 8:19]]). This underscores God's absolute sovereignty over all forms of human or demonic power.
* **Warning Against Deception and Apostasy:** Paul's use of Jannes and Jambres serves as a potent warning to Timothy and, by extension, to all believers, about the nature of spiritual warfare and the deceptive tactics employed by those who oppose the gospel. It highlights that such opponents are "men of depraved minds" and "reprobate concerning the faith," whose folly will eventually be evident to all.
* **Continuity of Resistance:** The parallel drawn by Paul suggests a continuity in the nature of spiritual opposition throughout redemptive history, from the Exodus era to the "last days." The same spirit of resistance to God's truth, often accompanied by deceptive displays of power, persists across generations.
* **Validation of Extra-Biblical Tradition:** The inclusion of these names by Paul demonstrates the early church's acceptance and utilization of certain established Jewish traditions that elaborated on biblical narratives, providing further insight into the broader theological understanding of the time.
### Summary
Ἰαννῆς (`{{G2389}}`) is an Egyptian proper name referring to Jannes, one of the two chief magicians (along with Jambres) who historically opposed Moses during the Exodus. Mentioned only in [[2 Timothy 3:8]], this name, drawn from extra-biblical Jewish tradition, serves as a powerful archetype for those who resist divine truth and God's appointed messengers. The account of Jannes and Jambres highlights the ultimate futility of human or demonic opposition against God's sovereign power, serving as a timeless warning against deception and a reminder of the enduring triumph of divine truth.
TRV