### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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}}`.
### Summary
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