THE KENITES: ALLIES OF ISRAEL
Introduction
The Kenites, though often overlooked in biblical studies, played a significant role in the history of Israel. This study explores their origins, their relationship with the Israelites, and their appearances throughout Scripture.
Origins of the Kenites
The Kenites were a nomadic tribe, believed to be descendants of Cain. They were skilled metalworkers, particularly in copper and iron.
And Adah bare Jabal: he was the father of such as dwell in tents, and of such as have cattle. And his brother's name was Jubal: he was the father of all such as handle the harp and organ. And Zillah, she also bare Tubalcain, an instructer of every artificer in brass and iron (Genesis 4:20-22, KJV)
The Kenites and Moses
One of the most notable connections between the Kenites and Israel is through Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, who was a Kenite priest.
Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian (Exodus 3:1, KJV)
The Kenites during the Exodus
The Kenites joined the Israelites during their journey to the Promised Land, demonstrating their alliance.
And the children of the Kenite, Moses' father in law, went up out of the city of palm trees with the children of Judah into the wilderness of Judah, which lieth in the south of Arad; and they went and dwelt among the people. (Judges 1:16, KJV)
The Kenites and King Saul
During Saul's campaign against the Amalekites, he showed mercy to the Kenites, acknowledging their past kindness to Israel.
And Saul said unto the Kenites, Go, depart, get you down from among the Amalekites, lest I destroy you with them: for ye shewed kindness to all the children of Israel, when they came up out of Egypt. So the Kenites departed from among the Amalekites. (1 Samuel 15:6, KJV)
Conclusion
The Kenites, though a distinct people from the Israelites, maintained a close alliance with them throughout biblical history. Their story highlights the importance of loyalty, skilled craftsmanship, and the complex relationships between different groups in the ancient Near East.
Discussion Questions
- How did the Kenites' skills as metalworkers potentially benefit the Israelites?
- What can we learn from the Kenites' loyalty to Israel, despite not being Israelites themselves?
- How does the story of the Kenites challenge or enrich our understanding of God's plan for Israel?
- What other "minor" groups in the Bible might we overlook, and what can we learn from studying them more closely?
Text by Zach Anderson (zmanderson@gmail.com). Placed in public domain at ultrafree.org. KJV text is used. Feel free to copy and share, free of charge.