Pethuel is a biblical figure known primarily as the father of the prophet Joel. His name appears in the opening verse of the Book of Joel, which is part of the collection of the Minor Prophets in the Old Testament. The name "Pethuel" is of Hebrew origin, and it is often interpreted to mean "vision of God" or "God's deliverance," reflecting a theophoric element common in Hebrew names.

Biblical Reference:

The sole mention of Pethuel in the Bible is found in Joel 1:1: "The word of the LORD that came to Joel son of Pethuel" . This introduction serves to establish the prophetic authority of Joel by linking him to his father, Pethuel, though no further details about Pethuel's life or background are provided in the biblical text.

Historical and Cultural Context:

While the Bible does not provide additional information about Pethuel, his mention as the father of Joel situates him within the broader context of Israelite society. The naming of a prophet's father in the introduction of a prophetic book was a common practice, serving to authenticate the prophet's lineage and, by extension, his message. This practice underscores the importance of family heritage and tribal affiliation in ancient Israel.

Theological Significance:

Pethuel's significance lies primarily in his role as the progenitor of Joel, a prophet whose message was pivotal for the people of Judah. Joel's prophecies, which include calls to repentance and vivid descriptions of the "Day of the LORD," have been influential in both Jewish and Christian eschatological thought. By identifying Joel as the "son of Pethuel," the text emphasizes the continuity of divine revelation through familial lines, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative.

Interpretative Insights:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Pethuel highlights the importance of parental influence and spiritual heritage. Although Pethuel himself is not described as a prophet, his role as Joel's father suggests a familial environment conducive to receiving and understanding divine revelation. This can be seen as an encouragement for parents to nurture their children's spiritual development, preparing them to fulfill their God-given callings.

Conclusion:

While Pethuel is a relatively obscure figure in the biblical record, his mention as the father of Joel provides a crucial link in the chain of prophetic tradition. His name, meaning "vision of God," may symbolize the divine insight and revelation that characterized his son's prophetic ministry. Through Joel, the son of Pethuel, the message of repentance and hope continues to speak to believers across generations.Joel 1:1
The word of the LORD that came to Joel the son of Pethuel.
Nave's Topical Index

6602. Pethuel -- father of the prophet Joel
... 6601b, 6602. Pethuel. 6603 . father of the prophet Joel. Transliteration: Pethuel
Phonetic Spelling: (peth-oo-ale') Short Definition: Pethuel. ...
/hebrew/6602.htm - 6k

The Twelve Minor Prophets.
... 5. The prophecies of Joel, the son of Pethuel, give no ... of God, who is the brightness
of the Father's glory. ... twentieth day of the ninth month," the prophet in a ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxiii the twelve minor.htm

Letter Liii. To Paulinus.
... The prophet Haggai says"or rather the Lord says it by the ... Another line might be
addressed by the Father to the Son ... 1466] Joel the son of Pethuel describes the ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter liii to paulinus.htm

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