Topical Encyclopedia Jetur is one of the twelve sons of Ishmael, the firstborn son of Abraham and Hagar, Sarah's Egyptian maidservant. Jetur is mentioned in the genealogical records of the descendants of Ishmael, who is considered the progenitor of several Arab tribes. The name "Jetur" is believed to mean "enclosure" or "encampment," reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of his descendants.Biblical References: Jetur is specifically mentioned in the Book of Genesis and the First Book of Chronicles. In Genesis 25:13-16 , the sons of Ishmael are listed: "These are the names of the sons of Ishmael, listed in the order of their birth: Nebaioth the firstborn of Ishmael, Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, Mishma, Dumah, Massa, Hadad, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah. These were the sons of Ishmael, and these were their names by their villages and encampments—twelve princes of their tribes." Similarly, 1 Chronicles 1:29-31 reiterates the genealogy: "These are their genealogies: the firstborn of Ishmael was Nebaioth, then Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, Mishma, Dumah, Massa, Hadad, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah. These were the sons of Ishmael." Historical and Cultural Context: Jetur and his brothers are described as "twelve princes" according to their tribes, indicating a structured tribal leadership among the Ishmaelites. The descendants of Jetur, along with those of his brothers, are traditionally associated with the nomadic tribes that inhabited the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding regions. These tribes were known for their skills in trade, herding, and sometimes raiding, which were common practices in the ancient Near Eastern desert cultures. The Ishmaelites, including the descendants of Jetur, played a significant role in the history of the region. They were often involved in trade routes that connected the major civilizations of the time, such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Levant. This strategic position allowed them to influence the cultural and economic exchanges between these regions. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the descendants of Ishmael, including Jetur, are seen as part of God's promise to Abraham. Although Ishmael was not the child of promise through whom the covenant would be established (that role belonged to Isaac), God still blessed Ishmael and promised to make him a great nation. Genesis 17:20 states, "And as for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I will bless him and make him fruitful and multiply him exceedingly. He will become the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation." This promise underscores the theme of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His word, even to those outside the direct line of the covenant. The narrative of Ishmael and his descendants, including Jetur, serves as a reminder of God's providence and the broader scope of His blessings beyond the chosen line of Isaac. Legacy: The legacy of Jetur and his brothers is reflected in the continued presence and influence of Arab peoples in the Middle East. The historical and genealogical records in the Bible provide a foundation for understanding the complex relationships between the descendants of Abraham through Ishmael and Isaac. Jetur's mention in the biblical genealogies highlights the interconnectedness of these ancient peoples and the unfolding of God's plan through diverse lineages. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 25:15Hadar, and Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah: Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 1:31 Strong's Hebrew 3195. Yetur -- a son of Ishmael, also his desc. and the region ...... Jetur. Probably from the same as tuwr; encircled (ie Inclosed); Jetur, a son of Ishmael -- Jetur. see HEBREW tuwr. 3194, 3195. Yetur. 3196 . Strong's Numbers /hebrew/3195.htm - 6k Library John the Baptist's Person and Preaching. Chapter xxv Resources Who are the descendants of Ishmael? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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