Caleb
Caleb in the Bible — 1 of the 12 spies- from Judah (NUM 13:6). Caleb belonged to the tribe of Judah. Referenced in 10 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “a dog; a crow; a basket”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Judah
- Scripture References
- 10 references
- Known Names
- 2 names
- Relationships
- 8 connections
Biography
Caleb was a male member of the tribe of Judah and one of the twelve spies sent to explore the land of Canaan, as noted in Numbers 13:6. He is distinguished by his role as a faithful scout representing Judah. Scripture highlights Caleb's commitment and trust in God during this mission.
Names & Titles
The name Caleb means 'dog; snappish, warding off,' reflecting a proper name given by his family rather than directly by God (Numbers 13:6). Additionally, God refers to him as 'My servant Caleb,' a title that emphasizes his faithful service to the Lord (Numbers 14:24).
Family
Caleb is explicitly identified as the son of Jephunneh (Numbers 13:6). Inferred and implicit relationships include his father Achsah (Joshua 15:16), brother Kenaz (Joshua 15:17), and ancestor Nabal (1 Samuel 25:3), as well as earlier ancestors Iru, Elah, and Naam (1 Chronicles 4:15). He is also recognized as a servant of YHVH (Numbers 14:24).
Significance
Caleb stands out in the biblical narrative as one of only two spies who trusted God's promise to give Israel victory over Canaan. His unwavering faith earned him the assurance that he would enter the Promised Land. Even at an advanced age, Caleb demonstrated remarkable strength and confidence in God's provision by claiming and conquering the hill country of Hebron, exemplifying enduring devotion and spiritual vitality.
Key Events
Names & Labels (2)
- Hebrew
- כָּלֵב
- Transliteration
- kalev
- Meaning
- dog; snappish, warding off
- Greek
- Χαλεβ
- Reference
- NUM 13:6
- Strong's
- H3612
- Hebrew
- עַבְדִּי כָלֵ֗ב
- Transliteration
- avədiy kalev
- Meaning
- servant [of mine] Caleb
- Greek
- παῖς μου Χαλεβ
- Reference
- NUM 14:24
- Strong's
- H5650, H3612
Family & Relationships (8)
son
servant
brother
ancestor
Notes
1 of 12 spies- from Judah
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Caleb in the Bible?
Caleb was a male member of the tribe of Judah and one of the twelve spies sent to explore the land of Canaan, as noted in Numbers 13:6. He is distinguished by his role as a faithful scout representing Judah. Scripture highlights Caleb's commitment and trust in God during this mission.
What does the name Caleb mean?
The name Caleb means “a dog; a crow; a basket” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.