Jephunneh
Jephunneh in the Bible — father of Caleb (NUM 13:6). Jephunneh belonged to the tribe of Judah. Referenced in 4 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “he that beholds”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Judah
- Scripture References
- 4 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 3 connections
Biography
Jephunneh was a male member of the tribe of Judah, noted primarily as the father of Caleb. He is also identified as a Kenizzite, linking him to a distinct group mentioned in Scripture. His role is significant in the context of Israel's tribal history and the lineage of Caleb.
Names & Titles
The name Jephunneh means '[perhaps] may he [G-d] turn or turned,' reflecting a Hebrew origin. This proper name is not indicated as being given directly by God but carries a meaningful theistic implication.
Family
Jephunneh is recorded as the father of Caleb and a descendant of Judah, establishing his place within the tribe of Judah. He is also explicitly noted as a descendant of Kenaz, further clarifying his genealogical background. Scripture does not provide additional family relationships beyond these.
Significance
Jephunneh's significance in the biblical narrative arises from his role as the father of Caleb, a key figure in Israel's history. Being a Kenizzite from the tribe of Judah, Jephunneh's lineage connects Caleb to both tribal and clan identities important for understanding Israel's settlement and inheritance. His mention in the context of these relationships highlights the faithfulness and leadership embodied by his son Caleb, which reflects on Jephunneh's legacy.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- יְפֻנֶּֽה
- Transliteration
- yəfunah
- Meaning
- [perhaps] may he [G-d] turn or turned
- Greek
- Ιεφοννη
- Reference
- NUM 13:6
- Strong's
- H3312
Notes
the Kenizzite (Joshua 14:6)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jephunneh in the Bible?
Jephunneh was a male member of the tribe of Judah, noted primarily as the father of Caleb. He is also identified as a Kenizzite, linking him to a distinct group mentioned in Scripture. His role is significant in the context of Israel's tribal history and the lineage of Caleb.
What does the name Jephunneh mean?
The name Jephunneh means “he that beholds” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.