Understanding Biblical Names and Cultural Context
When reading the book of Exodus, some readers notice what appears to be a contradiction concerning the name of Moses’ father-in-law. In Exodus 2:18, he is called Reuel, but in Exodus 3:1 and Exodus 4:18, he is referred to as Jethro. This raises an important question: Was Moses’ father-in-law Reuel or Jethro?
Let’s explore what the Bible says and how we can understand this using both Scripture and cultural context.
1. The Two Names: Reuel and Jethro
In Exodus 2:16–18, after fleeing Egypt, Moses arrives in the land of Midian and helps the daughters of a Midianite priest:
“Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters… When the girls returned to Reuel their father, he asked them, ‘Why have you returned so early today?’”
(Exodus 2:16–18, NIV)
Later, in Exodus 3:1, it says:
“Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian…”
And again in Exodus 4:18, Jethro is mentioned by name:
“Then Moses went back to Jethro his father-in-law and said to him, ‘Let me return to my own people in Egypt to see if any of them are still alive.’”
At first glance, this may seem like a contradiction—but it isn’t. It’s a reflection of ancient Near Eastern naming customs.
2. Biblical Pattern: One Person, Multiple Names
In the Bible, it was common for individuals to have more than one name or title. This could include a birth name, a spiritual name, a title, or a name given by others. A clear example is Jacob, who was later renamed Israel by God:
“Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.”
(Genesis 32:28, NIV)
Both names are used throughout Scripture depending on the context. Similarly, Saul of Tarsus later became known as Paul (Acts 13:9).
This same principle applies to Moses’ father-in-law. Reuel (meaning “friend of God” in Hebrew) may have been his given name or clan/family name, while Jethro (possibly meaning “excellence” or “abundance”) could have been his personal or priestly title.
3. Who Was Reuel? Who Was Jethro?
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Reuel is mentioned only in Exodus 2:18 in connection with the daughters returning to their father. Some scholars believe Reuel may refer to the patriarch of the family (perhaps even Jethro’s father), or it may be another name for Jethro himself.
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Jethro is consistently referred to as the priest of Midian and Moses’ father-in-law in later passages. He plays an important role not only in Moses’ life but also in the leadership structure of Israel. In Exodus 18, Jethro advises Moses to delegate responsibilities to other leaders—a key moment in Israel’s administrative history.
“Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said.”
(Exodus 18:24, NIV)
4. Theological Significance of Jethro
Jethro, though a Midianite, is portrayed positively in Scripture. He recognizes the work of God and offers sacrifices to Him:
“Jethro was delighted to hear about all the good things the Lord had done for Israel… He said, ‘Praise be to the Lord…’ Then Jethro… brought a burnt offering and other sacrifices to God.”
(Exodus 18:9–12, selected)
This encounter shows that God’s covenant grace and truth were already being recognized by people outside Israel—highlighting God’s wider redemptive plan (cf. Genesis 12:3).
5. Conclusion: No Contradiction, Just Cultural Context
There is no contradiction in the names Reuel and Jethro—they refer to the same person. This is consistent with ancient naming customs and other biblical examples of people having more than one name.
So, Moses’ father-in-law is both Reuel and Jethro. Understanding this enhances our appreciation for the rich cultural and theological layers of Scripture.
May the Lord bless you as you seek His truth
