Overview
The Kenites first appear in Scripture as the family of Jethro (also called Reuel), Moses' father-in-law. After the exodus from Egypt, Jethro brought Moses' wife and sons to him in the wilderness and provided valuable counsel regarding judicial leadership. The Kenites chose to journey with Israel toward Canaan rather than return to their own land, indicating their faith in Israel's God and desire for covenant community.
Key Scriptures
"Then Jethro, the priest of Midian, Moses' father-in-law, heard of all that God had done for Moses and for Israel his people" (Exodus 18:1, ESV). "And Moses said to Hobab the son of Reuel the Midianite, Moses' father-in-law, 'We are traveling to the place of which the Lord said, I will give it to you. Come with us, and we will do you good'" (Numbers 10:29, ESV). "And he said, 'I will not go, but I will depart to my own land and to my relatives'" (Numbers 10:30, ESV).
Application
The Kenites exemplify how God welcomes outsiders into His community when they align themselves with His people and purposes.