The Hebrew name Yithrôw, represented by H3503, means Jethro, and is defined as "his excellence." It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible. This name identifies the father-in-law of Moses, a key figure in the early life and ministry of the Israelite leader.
In the biblical narrative, H3503 is consistently identified as the father in law H2859 of Moses H4872 and the priest H3548 of Midian H4080 Exodus 3:1. Before the exodus, Moses kept H7462 the flock H6629 of Jethro, leading them to Horeb H2722, the mountain H2022 of God H430. After Israel's deliverance, Jethro heard H8085 of all that God H430 had done H6213 and came to Moses in the wilderness H4057, bringing Moses' wife H802, Zipporah H6855, and their two H8147 sons H1121 (Exodus 18:1-2, Exodus 18:5). Upon hearing the full account, Jethro rejoiced H2302, blessed H1288 the LORD H3068 for delivering Israel from the Egyptians H4714, and offered a burnt offering H5930 Exodus 18:9-12.
Several related words provide context for the role and story of Jethro:
- H2859 châthan (father in law): This term defines Jethro's primary relationship to Moses, establishing a crucial family bond that provides Moses with refuge and support Exodus 3:1.
- H3548 kôhên (priest): Jethro's title as the "priest of Midian" is significant, as it shows a non-Israelite religious leader recognizing and worshiping the God of Israel Exodus 18:1.
- H4872 Môsheh (Moses): Jethro's story is inextricably linked to Moses, the Israelite lawgiver. Jethro provides for Moses in Midian and later comes to support him after the exodus Exodus 4:18.
- H1288 bârak (to bless): This action demonstrates Jethro's profound response to God's power, as he blesses the LORD for delivering Israel from the hand of Pharaoh H6547 Exodus 18:10.
The narrative of H3503 carries significant theological weight, particularly in its portrayal of a Gentile's response to God's redemptive acts.
- Witness to the Nations: As a priest of Midian, Jethro's acknowledgment of the LORD demonstrates that God's power and renown were intended to be known beyond the people of Israel H3478. He heard H8085 the reports and responded with faith Exodus 18:1.
- Genuine Worship: Jethro's faith was not passive. He offered a burnt offering H5930 and sacrifices H2077 to God, an act of worship that was followed by fellowship as he ate bread H3899 with Aaron H175 and Israel's elders H2205 before H6440 God Exodus 18:12.
- Affirmation of God's Deliverance: Jethro's declaration, "Blessed be the LORD, who hath delivered you" Exodus 18:10, serves as an external confirmation of the LORD's unique power over the gods of Egypt H4714.
In summary, H3503 Yithrôw is not merely a background character but a pivotal figure whose story illustrates key theological truths. As Moses' father-in-law and the priest of Midian, his journey from hearing about God's deeds to offering worship and fellowship with Israel's leaders provides a powerful example of how the knowledge of God's salvation can produce genuine faith and praise, even among those outside the covenant people of Israel.
TRV