The term "Priest of Midian" primarily refers to Jethro, also known as Reuel, who is a significant figure in the Old Testament. Jethro is introduced in the Book of Exodus as the father-in-law of Moses and a priest of the Midianites, a nomadic tribe descended from Midian, one of Abraham's sons through Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2).

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 2:16-21: Jethro first appears in the narrative when Moses flees from Egypt to the land of Midian. At a well, Moses defends Jethro's seven daughters from shepherds, and in gratitude, Jethro invites Moses to stay with him. Eventually, Moses marries Jethro's daughter, Zipporah. The Berean Standard Bible states, "Moses agreed to stay with the man, and he gave his daughter Zipporah to Moses in marriage" (Exodus 2:21).

2. Exodus 3:1: Jethro is identified as a priest of Midian, indicating his role as a religious leader among his people. "Now Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian" (Exodus 3:1). This suggests that Jethro held a position of spiritual authority and possibly led in the worship of God, as understood by the Midianites.

3. Exodus 18: Jethro's most notable contribution to the biblical narrative occurs when he visits Moses after the Exodus from Egypt. He brings Moses' wife and sons to him and observes Moses' leadership over the Israelites. Jethro advises Moses to appoint capable men as leaders over groups of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens to help judge the people, thus introducing a system of delegated authority. "Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said" (Exodus 18:24).

4. Numbers 10:29-32: Jethro, also referred to as Reuel or Hobab in some passages, is invited by Moses to join the Israelites on their journey to the Promised Land. Moses values Jethro's knowledge of the wilderness and seeks his guidance. "Moses said to Hobab, the son of Reuel the Midianite, Moses’ father-in-law, 'We are setting out for the place about which the LORD said, "I will give it to you." Come with us, and we will treat you well, for the LORD has promised good things to Israel'" (Numbers 10:29).

Theological Significance:

Jethro's role as a priest of Midian and his interactions with Moses highlight the presence of monotheistic worship outside the direct lineage of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His recognition of God's work through Moses and his offering of sacrifices to God (Exodus 18:12) suggest a shared reverence for the God of Israel, even among non-Israelite peoples.

Jethro's wise counsel to Moses demonstrates the value of godly wisdom and the importance of shared leadership. His advice not only alleviated Moses' burden but also established a model of governance that emphasized justice and order, principles that resonate throughout biblical teachings.

Cultural Context:

The Midianites, as descendants of Abraham, were likely familiar with the worship of Yahweh, though their practices may have differed from those of the Israelites. Jethro's position as a priest suggests a structured religious system within Midianite society, and his acceptance of Moses and acknowledgment of God's power reflect a broader understanding of divine authority.

Jethro's account serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the ways in which He can use individuals from diverse backgrounds to fulfill His purposes. His interactions with Moses underscore the importance of humility, wisdom, and collaboration in leadership, principles that continue to be relevant in both religious and secular contexts.