Jethro is a significant but often overlooked figure in the Bible. He is known for his wisdom, guidance, and his connection to Moses. Jethro was not only a priest but also a father-in-law to Moses, offering important counsel during pivotal moments in Israel’s early history. Below are 10 interesting facts about Jethro, supported by scripture.
1. Jethro Was a Priest of Midian
Jethro is first introduced in the Bible as a priest of Midian. The Midianites were a nomadic tribe who lived in the region east of Egypt, and Jethro’s role as a priest placed him in a position of influence and respect among his people.
"Now Jethro, the priest of Midian, and father-in-law of Moses, heard of everything God had done for Moses and for Israel his people, and how the Lord had brought Israel out of Egypt." — Exodus 18:1 (NIV)
2. He Was the Father-in-Law of Moses
Jethro’s daughter, Zipporah, was married to Moses. Moses had fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian, and it was in Midian where he met Zipporah and Jethro. This relationship gave Jethro a direct connection to the leader of the Israelites.
"Moses agreed to stay with the man, who gave his daughter Zipporah to Moses in marriage." — Exodus 2:21 (NIV)
3. Jethro Reunited with Moses After the Exodus
After the Exodus, Jethro heard of the miraculous events that had taken place, including the parting of the Red Sea. He traveled to meet Moses, bringing with him Moses' wife, Zipporah, and their two sons. Their reunion marked a significant moment in Moses' life, where he received important counsel from Jethro.
"Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses, received the message about everything God had done for Moses and for Israel his people." — Exodus 18:1 (NIV)
4. Jethro Advised Moses on Leadership
One of the most notable moments in the Bible involving Jethro is his advice to Moses on how to manage the growing responsibility of leading the Israelites. Jethro recognized that Moses was overburdened with responsibilities and suggested a system of delegation, appointing capable men to assist with smaller matters.
"What you are doing is not good... you and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone." — Exodus 18:17-18 (NIV)
5. Jethro Encouraged Moses to Delegate Responsibilities
Jethro's counsel involved organizing the leadership of Israel in a way that would make the work more manageable. He advised Moses to appoint leaders over groups of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens. This wise advice not only helped Moses but also set the stage for the development of Israel's leadership structure.
"But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens." — Exodus 18:21 (NIV)
6. Jethro Was Impressed by Israel’s God
When Jethro heard of the victories God had granted to Israel, he praised God. He recognized the greatness of the God of Israel and acknowledged His power in a way that was significant for someone who was a priest of another religion.
"Now I know that the Lord is greater than all other gods, for he did this to those who had treated Israel arrogantly." — Exodus 18:11 (NIV)
7. Jethro Offered a Sacrifice to God
In response to God’s mighty deeds, Jethro offered a sacrifice to the Lord. He and Aaron, along with the elders of Israel, ate a meal before God. This was an act of worship and acknowledgment of the covenantal relationship between Israel and God.
"Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, together with Moses, Aaron, and all the elders of Israel, returned to God." — Exodus 18:12 (NIV)
8. Jethro’s Visit Symbolized a Turning Point for Moses
Jethro’s visit marked a turning point in Moses' leadership journey. The wisdom and support he provided gave Moses a new approach to managing Israel, laying the foundation for the future growth and organization of the nation.
"Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said." — Exodus 18:24 (NIV)
9. Jethro’s Role in the Exodus Was Brief but Important
Though Jethro’s appearances in the Bible are brief, his role was vital. He not only supported Moses emotionally and spiritually but also played a crucial part in ensuring that the leadership structure of the Israelites was sustainable.
"Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, returned to his own land." — Exodus 18:27 (NIV)
10. Jethro’s Legacy Lives on in Leadership Principles
Jethro’s advice to Moses on leadership and delegation remains a timeless lesson for leaders today. His wisdom in organizing people and managing workloads is still studied and applied in modern leadership models.
"Moses chose capable men from all Israel and made them leaders of the people." — Exodus 18:25 (NIV)
