Topical Encyclopedia Jephunneh is a biblical figure recognized primarily as the father of Caleb, one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. His name appears in several passages within the Old Testament, and he is noted for his association with the tribe of Judah through his son Caleb. Jephunneh's lineage and role are significant in understanding the heritage and faithfulness of Caleb, a key figure in Israel's history.Lineage and Tribal Affiliation Jephunneh is identified as a Kenizzite, which suggests a connection to the Kenizzites, a group mentioned among the inhabitants of Canaan (Genesis 15:19). Despite this, his son Caleb is consistently associated with the tribe of Judah. This affiliation is evident in passages such as Numbers 13:6, which states, "from the tribe of Judah, Caleb son of Jephunneh." The Kenizzite connection may indicate a non-Israelite origin, yet Jephunneh's family was fully integrated into the tribe of Judah, highlighting the inclusive nature of Israel's tribal system. Role in the Exodus and Wilderness Journey Jephunneh's significance is primarily derived from his son Caleb's role during the Exodus and the subsequent wilderness journey. Caleb, along with Joshua, was one of the two spies who brought back a positive report about the Promised Land, demonstrating faith in God's promise despite the daunting presence of the land's inhabitants. Numbers 14:24 records God's commendation of Caleb: "But because My servant Caleb has a different spirit and has followed Me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he has entered, and his descendants will inherit it." Jephunneh's mention in this context underscores the faithfulness and courage that Caleb exhibited, traits likely influenced by his father's upbringing and heritage. The legacy of Jephunneh is thus intertwined with the faith and perseverance of Caleb, who stood firm in his trust in God. Inheritance and Legacy The inheritance of Caleb, as a result of his faithfulness, is a testament to the enduring legacy of Jephunneh's family. In Joshua 14:6-14, Caleb approaches Joshua to claim the land promised to him by Moses. Caleb recounts the promise made to him because he "followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly" (Joshua 14:8). The land of Hebron becomes Caleb's inheritance, a fulfillment of God's promise and a reflection of the steadfastness that characterized Jephunneh's lineage. Jephunneh's role as the father of Caleb is a reminder of the importance of faith and obedience in the biblical narrative. His family's integration into the tribe of Judah and the subsequent blessings they received highlight the themes of faithfulness and divine reward that permeate the Scriptures. Through Caleb, Jephunneh's legacy is preserved as a testament to the power of unwavering trust in God's promises. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 13:6Of the tribe of Judah, Caleb the son of Jephunneh. Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 3312. Yephunneh -- father of Caleb, also an Asherite... Definition: Jephunneh. Word Origin from panah Definition father of Caleb, also an Asherite NASB Word Usage Jephunneh (16). Jephunneh. From ... /hebrew/3312.htm - 6k Library Those Persons Prove Themselves Senseless who Exaggerate the Mercy ... The Debt of Israel The Census of Israel Matt. xii. 1 The Spies God's People in the Furnace Ephesians vi. 14 Letter cviii. To Eustochium. Resources What is the story of Joshua and Caleb in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a Calebite? | GotQuestions.org Summary of the Book of Numbers - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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