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Jonah

Jonah in the Bible — the prophet, son of Amittai, from Gath-hepher (2KI 14:25). Referenced in 2 scripture passages.

Name meaning: “or Jonas, a dove; he that oppresses; destroyer”

Profile

Gender
male
Scripture References
2 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
1 connection

Biography

Jonah was a male prophet, the son of Amittai, originating from Gath-hepher, as noted in 2 Kings 14:25. He is uniquely identified by his prophetic calling and his significant ministry recorded in Scripture. No additional tribal or familial details are provided beyond his father and hometown.

Names & Titles

The name Jonah means 'dove,' reflecting a proper name given in Hebrew context as recorded in 2 Kings 14:25. This single name does not have an explicitly divine origin but carries symbolic resonance within the biblical narrative.

Family

Jonah is explicitly identified as the son of Amittai according to 2 Kings 14:25. Beyond this paternal relationship, Scripture does not record any other family connections for Jonah.

Significance

Jonah's prophetic mission highlights God's sovereign call and mercy, especially toward Gentile nations like Nineveh. His initial reluctance and subsequent obedience demonstrate the tension between divine compassion and human response. Jonah's experience of being swallowed by a great fish for three days serves as a powerful foreshadowing of Christ's death and resurrection, emphasizing God's redemptive plan for all peoples.

Key Events

Called to preach to Nineveh(Jonah 1:1-2)
Fled to Tarshish(Jonah 1:3)
Thrown into sea during storm(Jonah 1:15)
Swallowed by great fish(Jonah 1:17)
Vomited onto dry land(Jonah 2:10)
Preached to Nineveh (city repented)(Jonah 3:4-10)

Names & Labels (1)

Jonahproper name
Hebrew
יוֹנָה
Transliteration
yonah
Meaning
dove
Greek
Ιωνα
Reference
2KI 14:25
Strong's
H3124

Family & Relationships (1)

son

Amittai(2KI 14:25)

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Jonah in the Bible?

Jonah was a male prophet, the son of Amittai, originating from Gath-hepher, as noted in 2 Kings 14:25. He is uniquely identified by his prophetic calling and his significant ministry recorded in Scripture. No additional tribal or familial details are provided beyond his father and hometown.

What does the name Jonah mean?

The name Jonah means “or Jonas, a dove; he that oppresses; destroyer” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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