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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

The prophet called to preach to Nineveh but who fled to Tarshish instead. God sent a great storm, and Jonah was thrown overboard and swallowed by a great fish for three days. After being vomited onto dry land, Jonah obeyed and preached to Nineveh, which repented. Jonah's anger at God's mercy revealed his hard heart. His experience in the fish prefigures Christ's resurrection.

Significance

Jonah's three days in the fish prefigure Christ's death and resurrection. His reluctant ministry to Gentiles foreshadows the gospel going to all nations and reveals God's compassion for all people.

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 is described in the Bible as the prophet, son of Amittai, from Gath-hepher (2KI 14:25).

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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