Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Caleb, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is best known for his faithfulness and courage as one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. His account is primarily found in the books of Numbers and Joshua. Caleb is a model of unwavering faith and trust in God's promises, standing out as a leader among the Israelites during their wilderness journey and the conquest of Canaan. Name and Lineage: The name Caleb (כָּלֵב) is often interpreted to mean "dog" in Hebrew, symbolizing loyalty and devotion. Caleb is identified as the son of Jephunneh, a Kenizzite (Numbers 32:12), which suggests that his family may have been associated with the Kenizzites, a group that was absorbed into the tribe of Judah. Caleb is thus recognized as a leader within the tribe of Judah. Role as a Spy: Caleb's most notable biblical account occurs when Moses sends twelve spies to scout the Promised Land (Numbers 13). Caleb, along with Joshua son of Nun, is one of the two spies who bring back a positive report. Despite the intimidating presence of giants and fortified cities, Caleb encourages the Israelites to trust in God's promise: "Let us go up at once and take possession of the land, for we can certainly conquer it!" (Numbers 13:30). His faith contrasts sharply with the fear and doubt expressed by the other ten spies, which leads to the Israelites' rebellion and subsequent punishment of wandering in the wilderness for forty years. Faithfulness and Reward: Caleb's faithfulness is highlighted in God's response to the Israelites' lack of trust. God declares that Caleb, because he "has a different spirit and has followed Me wholeheartedly," will enter the Promised Land and receive an inheritance there (Numbers 14:24). This promise is fulfilled when Caleb, at the age of eighty-five, requests and receives Hebron as his inheritance (Joshua 14:6-14). His request is based on the promise made by Moses, and his strength and vigor at this advanced age are attributed to his unwavering faith in God. Inheritance and Legacy: Caleb's inheritance of Hebron is significant, as it becomes a key city in the history of Israel. His conquest of the land, including the expulsion of the Anakim giants, demonstrates his continued reliance on God's strength. Caleb's legacy is further cemented through his family, as his daughter Achsah marries Othniel, who becomes the first judge of Israel (Judges 1:12-13). Character and Influence: Caleb's character is marked by his courage, faith, and leadership. He stands as a testament to the rewards of faithfulness and the importance of trusting in God's promises, even in the face of overwhelming odds. His life serves as an example of how one individual's faith can influence and inspire a nation. References in Scripture: · Numbers 13-14: The account of the twelve spies and Caleb's faithful report. · Numbers 32:12: Mention of Caleb as a faithful follower of God. · Joshua 14:6-14: Caleb's request and receipt of Hebron as his inheritance. · Judges 1:12-13: Caleb's offer of his daughter Achsah in marriage to Othniel. Caleb's account is a powerful reminder of the blessings that come from wholehearted devotion to God and the impact of steadfast faith on future generations. Strong's Hebrew 3056. Yahday -- member of Caleb's family... 3055, 3056. Yahday. 3057 . member of Caleb's family. Transliteration: Yahday Phonetic Spelling: (yeh-dah'-ee) Short Definition: Jahdai. ... /hebrew/3056.htm - 6k 3612. Kaleb -- a son of Jephunneh and sent by Moses to spy out the ... Library Caleb --A Green Old Age Afraid of Giants The Judges. Pilgrims of the Victorious Life Safe Walking. Gideon and the Fleece. An Explanation of the Three Callings. Shall we Go? Weighed, and Found Wanting The Quotation in Matt. Ii. 6. Thesaurus Caleb's (6 Occurrences)...Caleb's (6 Occurrences). Joshua 15:17 And Othniel, the son of Kenaz, Caleb's brother, took it: so he gave him his daughter Achsah for his wife. (BBE NIV). ... /c/caleb's.htm - 8k Kenaz (11 Occurrences) Othniel (7 Occurrences) Oth'ni-el (6 Occurrences) Gazez (1 Occurrence) Achsah (5 Occurrences) Servant-wife (12 Occurrences) Younger (39 Occurrences) Concubine (21 Occurrences) Calendar Resources Who was Othniel? | GotQuestions.orgWho is Caleb in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Syria/Aram in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Caleb's (6 Occurrences)Joshua 15:17 Judges 1:13 Judges 3:9 1 Chronicles 2:46 1 Chronicles 2:48 1 Chronicles 2:49 Subtopics Related Terms |