Jethro (Reuel): Priest of Midian and Wise Counselor to Moses

Jethro (Reuel): Priest of Midian and Wise Counselor to Moses

Jethro, also known as Reuel, is remembered as both priest and father-in-law to Moses. A man of wisdom and hospitality, he welcomed Moses into his household, blessed God’s work in Israel, and advised Moses in structuring Israel’s leadership. His story shows God using Gentile believers to guide and bless His covenant people.

Name & Etymology

Jethro (יִתְרוֹ, Yitrō, pronounced yeet-roh) means “abundance” or “his excellence.”Reuel (רְעוּאֵל, Reʿuʾēl, pronounced reh-oo-el) means “friend of God.”

The Septuagint (LXX) renders these as Ιοθορ (Iothor) for Jethro and Ραγουηλ (Ragouel) for Reuel. Both names reflect his character: a generous, God-honoring priest and a true friend to God’s servant Moses.

Biblical Narrative (The Story)

Jethro’s life touches key moments in Exodus.

• Hospitality to Moses: When Moses fled Egypt, he defended Jethro’s daughters at a well. “Then Moses agreed to stay with the man, and Jethro gave Moses his daughter Zipporah to be his wife” (Exodus 2:21, NLT).

• Blessing God’s Deliverance: After Israel’s escape from Egypt, Jethro came to Moses with Zipporah and their sons. “Jethro was delighted when he heard about all the good things the Lord had done for Israel as he rescued them from the hand of the Egyptians” (Exodus 18:9, NLT). He offered sacrifices and worshiped the Lord (Exodus 18:12 NLT).

• Wise Counsel: Seeing Moses overwhelmed with judging disputes, Jethro advised him to appoint capable men to share the burden: “Teach them God’s decrees, and give them his instructions… They should always be available to solve the people’s common disputes” (Exodus 18:20–21, NLT). Moses followed his counsel, establishing an early model of shared leadership.

Historical & Cultural Context

As priest of Midian, Jethro likely led his clan in worship of the Most High God, similar to Melchizedek centuries earlier. His visit to the Israelite camp demonstrated the recognition of Yahweh among surrounding peoples and affirmed that God’s covenant purposes were wider than Israel alone.

Character & Themes

Jethro exemplifies hospitality, wisdom, and spiritual insight. He cared for Moses, acknowledged God’s mighty acts, and offered practical solutions for leadership.

Connection to Christ

Jethro foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation. Just as he recognized Yahweh’s greatness and worshiped Him, people from every nation now worship Christ, the true High Priest and King.

Theological Significance

Jethro’s counsel reveals that wise, Spirit-led organization is part of God’s design for His people. His blessing shows that non-Israelites could share in God’s covenant purposes when they honored Him.

Myths & Misconceptions

• Myth: Jethro was a pagan priest.

  
  

  Truth: Scripture portrays him as a priest who honored the true God, rejoicing in Israel’s deliverance.

• Myth: He opposed Moses’ mission.

  
  

  Truth: He supported and strengthened it with hospitality and wise advice.

Application

Jethro challenges believers to offer wise, humble counsel and to rejoice in God’s work even when it unfolds in another nation or family. His example encourages godly leadership and shared responsibility.

Conclusion

Jethro, the priest of Midian and friend of God, welcomed Moses, worshiped the Lord, and offered lasting guidance for leadership. His life reminds us that God’s wisdom and blessing often flow through relationships beyond our immediate community.