Jambres is a figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Second Epistle to Timothy. He is identified as one of the Egyptian magicians who opposed Moses during the time of the Exodus. Although Jambres is not named in the Old Testament, his presence is inferred from the narrative of Moses confronting Pharaoh's magicians.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to Jambres is found in 2 Timothy 3:8 : "Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so also these men oppose the truth. They are depraved in mind and disqualified from the faith." This passage highlights Jambres as a symbol of opposition to divine truth and authority, drawing a parallel between his actions and those of false teachers in the early Christian community.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Jambres, along with Jannes, is traditionally understood to be one of the magicians in Pharaoh's court who attempted to replicate the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron. The account of these magicians is found in the Book of Exodus, where they are described as using their secret arts to mimic the signs and wonders that God performed through Moses. In Exodus 7:11-12 , it is written: "Then Pharaoh summoned the wise men and sorcerers, and they also, the magicians of Egypt, did the same things by their magic arts. Each one threw down his staff, and it became a serpent. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs."

Jewish Tradition and Extrabiblical Sources:

The names Jannes and Jambres are not mentioned in the Hebrew Bible but are found in Jewish tradition and extrabiblical literature. The Targum of Jonathan, a Jewish Aramaic translation and interpretation of the Hebrew Bible, identifies Jannes and Jambres as the sons of Balaam, who were among the magicians opposing Moses. Additionally, the names appear in various apocryphal writings and early Christian literature, which further elaborate on their roles as adversaries of Moses.

Theological Significance:

In the context of 2 Timothy, Jambres serves as an archetype of resistance against God's messengers and truth. The Apostle Paul uses the example of Jambres to warn Timothy about false teachers who, like the magicians of Egypt, resist the truth and lead others astray. This comparison underscores the enduring struggle between divine revelation and human opposition, a theme prevalent throughout the biblical narrative.

Moral and Spiritual Lessons:

The account of Jambres and his opposition to Moses offers several moral and spiritual lessons. It serves as a cautionary tale about the futility of resisting God's will and the ultimate triumph of divine power over human deception. The account also emphasizes the importance of discernment and faithfulness in the face of false teachings and spiritual deception, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to the truth of the Gospel.

In summary, Jambres is a figure who embodies the resistance to God's authority and truth, serving as a warning to both ancient and contemporary audiences about the dangers of opposing divine revelation. His account, though brief in the biblical text, carries significant theological and moral implications for understanding the nature of spiritual conflict and the call to faithfulness.Exodus 7:11
Then Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers: now the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantments.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Timothy 3:8
Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
Nave's Topical Index

What does it mean to have a reprobate mind? | GotQuestions.org

What are false apostles? | GotQuestions.org

What is the significance of Egypt in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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