Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Reuel is a biblical figure whose name means "friend of God" or "God is a friend." He is mentioned in several contexts within the Old Testament, primarily in the Book of Genesis and the Book of Exodus. Reuel is associated with the Midianites and is linked to the family of Moses, playing a significant role in the early narrative of the Israelites.Genealogy and Family Connections Reuel is identified as a Midianite priest and the father of Zipporah, who becomes the wife of Moses. In Exodus 2:18, he is referred to as Reuel, while in other passages, such as Exodus 3:1, he is called Jethro. This dual naming has led to some debate among scholars, but it is generally accepted that Reuel and Jethro are the same person, with Reuel possibly being a title or an alternate name. Reuel is also mentioned in the genealogical records of Genesis. In Genesis 36:4, Reuel is listed as a son of Esau and Basemath, making him a grandson of Isaac and Rebekah. This Reuel is distinct from the Midianite priest, indicating that the name was not uncommon in the ancient Near East. Role in the Exodus Narrative Reuel's most prominent role is in the Exodus narrative, where he is depicted as a wise and hospitable figure. After Moses flees Egypt, he arrives in Midian and encounters Reuel's daughters at a well. Moses assists them, and in gratitude, Reuel invites Moses to stay with his family. This act of hospitality leads to Moses marrying Zipporah, Reuel's daughter (Exodus 2:21). Reuel's wisdom and leadership are further highlighted when he visits Moses in the wilderness after the Exodus. In Exodus 18, Reuel, referred to as Jethro, advises Moses on the administration of justice among the Israelites. He suggests the appointment of capable men to serve as judges, thereby alleviating the burden on Moses. This advice is well-received and implemented, demonstrating Reuel's influence and the respect he commands. Religious Significance Reuel's role as a priest of Midian suggests a religious significance, although the nature of his priesthood is not detailed in the biblical text. His recognition of the God of Israel and his offering of sacrifices (Exodus 18:12) indicate a reverence for the God of Moses, which may reflect a broader understanding of God's revelation beyond the Israelite community. Cultural and Historical Context The Midianites, to whom Reuel belongs, were a nomadic people living in the region east of the Red Sea. Their interactions with the Israelites are complex, involving both conflict and cooperation. Reuel's positive relationship with Moses and the Israelites highlights the potential for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between different peoples in the ancient Near East. Legacy Reuel's legacy is primarily seen through his connection to Moses and his contribution to the governance of the Israelite community. His account underscores themes of hospitality, wisdom, and the recognition of God's work beyond the immediate circle of the Israelites. Reuel's interactions with Moses serve as a reminder of the importance of wise counsel and the value of diverse perspectives in the pursuit of justice and community well-being. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary ReuelSmith's Bible Dictionary Reuel(friend of God) One of the sons of Esau, by his wife Bashemath, sister of Ishmael. (Genesis 36:4,10,13,17; 1 Chronicles 1:36,37) (B.C. about 1790.)
Easton's Bible Dictionary Friend of God. (1.) A son of Esau and Bashemath (Genesis 36:4, 10; 1 Chronicles 1:35). (2.) "The priest of Midian," Moses' father-in-law (Exodus 2:18)=Raguel (Numbers 10:29). If he be identified with Jethro (q.v.), then this may be regarded as his proper name, and Jether or Jethro (i.e., "excellency") as his official title. (3.) Numbers 2:14, called also Deuel (1:14; 7:42). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia REUELroo'-el (re`u'el, "God is his friend"; the Septuagint Rhagouel): Strong's Hebrew 7467. Reuel -- "friend of God," Moses' father-in-law, also an ...... 7466b, 7467. Reuel. 7468 . "friend of ... Benjamite. Transliteration: Reuel Phonetic Spelling: (reh-oo-ale') Short Definition: Reuel. Word ... /hebrew/7467.htm - 6k Library Chapter xxxvi Receiving Agents. Philo of Alexandria, the Rabbis, and the Gospels - the Final ... Thesaurus Reuel (14 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. REUEL. ... In the account of the marriage of Zipporah to Moses (Exodus 2:16-21) Jethro seems to be called Reuel (compare HOBAB). ... /r/reuel.htm - 12k Reu'el (10 Occurrences) Raguel (1 Occurrence) Jethro (10 Occurrences) Bashemath (6 Occurrences) Nahath (5 Occurrences) Mizzah (3 Occurrences) Basmath (7 Occurrences) Bas'emath (7 Occurrences) Basemath (7 Occurrences) Resources Who was Moses' wife? Did Moses have more than one wife? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Kenites? | GotQuestions.org Who was Jethro in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Reuel (14 Occurrences)Genesis 36:4 Genesis 36:10 Genesis 36:13 Genesis 36:17 Exodus 2:18 Numbers 1:14 Numbers 2:14 Numbers 7:42 Numbers 7:47 Numbers 10:20 Numbers 10:29 1 Chronicles 1:35 1 Chronicles 1:37 1 Chronicles 9:8 Subtopics Reuel: Father of Eliasaph: Called Deuel Related Terms |
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