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Jaasiel was a Mezobaite, a soldier in David's army, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 11.47

Jaazaniah (1) was a military leader in Judah during the governorship of Gedaliah. 2 Kings 25.23; Jeremiah 40.8

Jaazaniah (2) was a Rechabite, the son of Jeremiah (not the prophet). The prophet Jeremiah commended Jaazaniah for steadfastness to the principles of his sect. Jeremiah 35.3

Jaazaniah (3) was a son of Azzur, condemned in the prophecy of Ezekiel. Ezekiel 11.1

Jabal was a descendant of Cain, the son of Lamech and Adah, brother of Jubal and supposed ancestor of all nomadic herdsmen. Genesis 4.20

Jabin (1) was a king of Hazor, who formed an alliance with other petty Canaanite chieftains against Israel, but was defeated by Joshua at Merom. Joshua 11.1-15

Jabin (2) was like his namesake (above) king of Hazor in Canaan. For twenty years he reduced the Israelites to subservience by means of his superior weapons, but Deborah and Barak eventually defeated his army, led by Sisera, and Jabin was killed. Judges 4.2, 23, 24; 1 Samuel 12.9; Psalms 83.9

Jachin was the fourth son of Simeon. Genesis 46.10; Exodus 6.15; Numbers 26.12

Jacob (1) was the younger son of Isaac and Rebekah, a grandson of Abraham, later renamed Israel by God, and the traditional father of the twelve tribes. Genesis tells how Jacob gained ascendancy over his brother, Esau, by means of his cunning. First, Jacob persuaded Esau, as he came home famished from hunting, to exchange his birthright for food. Later, aided by Rebekah, Jacob tricked Isaac into believing him to be Esau, and giving him his death-bed blessing. Fearing Esau's response, Jacob left home to seek work with his uncle, Laban, whose two daughters, Leah and Rachel, became his wives. Leah bore him Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun and Dinah, while her maid, Zilpah, bore him Gad and Asher; Rachel, who for some time was barren, eventually bore him Joseph and Benjamin, while her maid, Bilhah, bore him, Dan and Naphtali.

Despite the efforts of Laban to cheat him of his wages, Jacob, aided by God, prospered, and eventually decided to leave his uncle, and set up his own household. Rachel's theft of her father's household idols endangered the company but Laban was unable to find evidence of the theft (Rachel was sitting on the idols and feigned an inability to rise). Warned in a dream not to harm Jacob, Laban allowed his son-in-law and daughters to go free.

Learning of the approach of Esau, with a powerful armed force, Jacob resolved to be reconciled to him, intending to lavish presents on him. This accomplished, Jacob settled in Canaan. The success of Joseph in Egypt induced Jacob, during a famine, to move his household to this country, where he died, though his sons took his body to Canaan for burial.

Like his son Joseph, Jacob was noted for his dreams. Scripture records his dreams of a ladder reaching to heaven, and of a mysterious being who wrestled with him, while in another dream God gave Jacob his new name of Israel, and instructed him to erect an altar at Bethel. Genesis 25.26-34; 27.1-35.29; 37.1-4, 10, 11, 32-35; 42.1-5; 36-43.15; 45.25-46.27, 30; 48.1-50.14; Exodus 1.1-5; 2.24; 3.6, 15, 16; 6.3, 8; 33.1; Deuteronomy 1.8; 6.10; 9.5; 29.13; 30.20; 34.4; Joshua 24.4, 32; 1 Samuel 12.8; 2 Kings 13.23; 1 Chronicles 2.1; Psalms 105.23; Micah 7.20; Malachi 1.2; Matthew 1.2; 8.11; 22.32; Mark 12.26; Luke 1.33, 54; 3 34; 13.28; John 4.5, 6, 12; Acts 3.13; 7.12, 14, 15, 32, 46; Romans 9.13; Hebrews 11.9, 20, 21

Jacob (2) was the father of Joseph, in Matthew's genealogy. Matthew 1.15,16

Jadon was an assistant of Nehemiah and Eliashib in the repair of the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah 3.7

Jael was the wife of Heber the Kenite. She is celebrated for killing (with a tent peg hammered into his temple) Sisera, Jabin's general, as he fled from the battlefield on Mount Tabor. Jael offered shelter to the fugitive, then killed him and informed Barak of her deed. Judges 4.17-22; 5.24-27

Jahath was a Levite, an overseer of the workmen who repaired the temple in Josiah's reign, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 34.12

Jahaziel (1) was a priest and musician of David's court, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 16.6

Jahaziel (2) was a Son of Zechariah, a Levite who foretold Jehoshaphat's victory over the Ammonites and Moabites, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 20.14-17

Jahleel was the third son of Zebulun. Genesis 46.14; Numbers 26.26

Jahzeel was the eldest son of Naphtali. Genesis 46.24; Numbers 26.48; 1 Chronicles 7.13

Jahzeiah was the son of Tikvah, one of the few opponents of Ezra's policy that Jews who had married gentile women should divorce their wives. Ezra 10.15

Jair (1) was a descendant of Manasseh. He captured a group of villages, which were subsequently known as Havvoth-jair (“The villages of Jair”) after him. Numbers 32.41; Deuteronomy3.14

Jair (2) was a Gileadite, the judge of Israel for twenty-two years and successor to Tola. He was reputedly the father of thirty sons who ruled the towns known as Havvoth-jair, and possibly identical with Jair, the descendant of Mannaseh above. On his death Jair was buried in Kamon. Judges 10.3-5; 1 Chronicles 2.22

Jairus was a synagogue ruler whose daughter Jesus raised from the dead. Jairus's name is not given in Matthew's account of the miracle. Matthew 9.18-26; Mark 5.22-24, 35-43; Luke 8.41, 42, 49-56

Jalam was the son of Esau, his second by Oholibamah. Genesis 36.5; 1 Chronicles 1.35

Jambres was an opponent of Moses according to a Jewish tradition referred to by the author of 2 Timothy Jambres's name does not appear in the account (in Numbers 16.1-35) of the rebellion in which he supposedly took part. 2 Timothy 3.8,9

James (1) was the son of Zebedee, the brother of John and one of the twelve apostles. With his brother and Simon Peter, James formed the trio with whom Jesus worked most closely. James was reputedly martyred in the persecution of the church that took place under Herod Agrippa 1. Matthew 4.21, 22; 10.2; 17.1-8; 26.37; Mark 1.19, 20, 29; 3.17; 9.2-8; 13.3; 14.33; Luke 5.10; 6.14; 8.51; 9.28-36, 54, 55; John 21.2; Acts 1.13; 12.2

James (2) was the son of Alphaeus, one of the twelve apostles. James is traditionally known as “the less” (as opposed to Zebedee's son). According to tradition he was martyred by being sawn in half. Matthew 10.3; Mark 3.18; Luke 6.15; Acts 1.13

James (3) was the father of the apostle Judas (not Judas Iscariot). Luke 6.16

James (4) was the brother (a close relative, according to Roman Catholic tradition) of Jesus. James was initially critical of Jesus' ministry, but after the resurrection became a prominent member of the church, serving as chairman of the council of Jerusalem, and greeting Paul on his return from his first missionary journey. In his first letter to the Corinthians Paul names James as one of the witnesses of the resurrection. The letter ascribed to James is believed to be the work of a later author, while the author of the letter of Jude claims to be James's brother. Matthew 13.55; Mark 6.3; Acts 12.17; 15.13-21; 21.18; 1 Corinthians 15.7; Galatians 1.19; 2.9, 10, 12; James 1.1-5.20; Jude 1.1

Jamin (1) was the second son of Simeon. Genesis 46.10; Exodus 6.15; Numbers 26.12; 1 Chronicles 4.24

Jamin (2) was an assistant of Ezra, a Levite. As Ezra read to the people of Jerusalem from the (Hebrew) book of the law, Jamin and others translated the reading into Aramaic. Nehemiah 8.7

Jannai was the son of Joseph, the father of Melchi and an ancestor of (Mary's husband) Joseph, in Luke's genealogy. Luke 3.24

Jannes was an opponent of Moses according to a Jewish tradition referred to by the author of 2 Timothy The name “Jannes” nowhere appears in the Old Testament narratives about Moses. 2 Timothy 3.8, 9

Japheth was the youngest of the three sons of Noah, the supposed ancestor of a number of small nations. Genesis 5.32; 6.10; 7.13; 9.18; 10.1-5; 1 Chronicles 1.5

Japhia was the eighth (according to 2 Samuel, or tenth, according to the Chronicler) of the children born to David in Jerusalem. 2 Samuel 5.15; 1 Chronicles 3.7; 14.6

Jared was the son of Mahalalel, the father of Enoch and an ancestor of Joseph in Luke's genealogy. Genesis 5.15-20; 1 Chronicles 1.2; Luke 3.37

Jarmuth (the king of) was an anonymous petty chieftain defeated by Joshua in Transjordan. Joshua 12.11

Jasheb-basshebeth was the chief of the three champions of David's bodyguard. The Chronicler gives his name as Jashobeam. 2 Samuel 23.8; 1 Chronicles 11.11; 27.2

Jashen was the father of a number of soldiers of David's bodyguard. 2 Samuel 23.32

Jashobeam is the name used by the Chronicler for Jasheb-bassebeth, a warrior of David's bodyguard. 1 Chronicles 11.11; 27.2

Jashub was the third son of Issachar, according to Numbers and the Chronicler; Genesis 46.13 gives Jashub's name as Iob. Numbers 26.24; 1 Chronicles 7.1

Jason was a Christian in whose house Paul and his companions stayed, on their second missionary journey, while passing through Thessalonica. When Paul's ministry here led to rioting, the authorities, trying to ensure the keeping of the peace, took security from Jason. He is also named in the personal messages at the end of the epistle to the Romans. Acts 17.5-9; Romans 16.21

Javan was the fourth son of Japheth, the father of Elishah, Tarshish, Kittim and Dodanim. Genesis 10.2, 4; 1 Chronicles 1.5, 7

Jaziz was a Hagrite, an official of David's administration, and an overseer of the royal flocks, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 27.30

Jecoliah, who came from Jerusalem, was the mother of Azariah (Uzziah). 2 Kings 15.2; 2 Chronicles 26.3

Jeconiah is an alternative form of the name of Jehoiachin. 1 Chronicles 3.16; Jeremiah 24.1; 27.20; 28.4; 29.2; 37.1; Matthew 1.12

Jedaiah was the son of Harumath, an assistant of Eliashib in the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah 3.10

Jedaiah was one of three attendants instructed to officiate at the coronation of Joshua, according to the prophetic book of Zechariah. Zechariah 6.10-14

Jediael (1) was (according to 1 Chronicles 7) the third son of Benjamin, elsewhere identified as Ashbel or Aharah. 1 Chronicles 7.6, 10, 11

Jediael (2) was the son of Shimri, a warrior of David's bodyguard, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 11.45

Jedidah was the daughter of Adaiah of Bozkath, the mother of Josiah. 2 Kings 22.1

Jedidiah was a name given by David to Solomon after the king received a message of encouragement from Nathan. The name means “beloved of the Lord”. 2 Samuel 12.25

Jeduthun was one of the three great Levitical musicians referred to by the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 16.38, 41, 42; 25.1, 3, 6; 2 Chronicles 5.12; 35.15; Psalms 39; 62; 77

Jehdeiah was a Meronothite, a steward in David's administration and the overseer of she-asses, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 27.30

Jehiah was a Levitical gatekeeper in David's court, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 15.24

Jehiel (1) was a Levitical musician serving under Asaph in David's court, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 15.18; 16.5

Jehiel (2) was the son of Hachmoni, an adviser to David's sons, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 27.32

Jehiel (3) was a Gershonite, the treasurer of the freewill offering given at the end of David's reign for the building of the temple in Jerusalem, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 29.8

Jehiel (4) was the third son of Jehoshaphat, the younger brother of Jehoram, who assassinated Jehiel and his other brothers. 2 Chronicles 21.2, 4

Jehiel (5) was an assistant of Conaniah in the tithing organised by Hezekiah, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 31.13

Jehiel (6) was a temple servant in the reign of Josiah, for whose Passover festival Jehiel contributed many sacrificial victims, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 35.8

Jehizkiah was the son of Shallum, an Ephraimite chieftain who, with others, prevented Pekah from enslaving the prisoners taken by him in his defeat of Ahaz. The prisoners were given provisions and freed, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 28.12-15

Jehoaddin was the mother of Amaziah of Judah. 2 Kings 14.2; 2 Chronicles 25.1

Jehoahaz (1) was the son of Jehu, father of Joash and king of Israel (ruled ca. 815-801 B.C.). In Jehoahaz's reign Israel was troubled by raiding Syrians, but these were defeated, apparently in response to the prayers of Jehoahaz, whose own forces had, by this time, been severely depleted. 2 Kings 10.35; 13.1-9, 25

Jehoahaz (2) was the son of Josiah and king of Judah (ruled ca. 609 B.C.). Jehoahaz came to the throne at the age of twenty-three, but reigned for three months only before being imprisoned by Pharaoh Neco, who replaced him as king with his brother Jehoiakim. Jehoahaz died in captivity in Egypt. 2 Kings 23.30-34; 2 Chronicles 36-1-4

Jehoahaz (3) is the name used in 2 Chronicles 21.17 for the youngest son of Jehoram of Judah, elsewhere known as Ahaziah. 2 Chronicles 21.17

Jehoash (1) was the son of Ahaziah and Zibiah, the father of Amaziah and king of Judah (reigned ca. 837-800 B.C.). He is also known as Joash. Jehoash was the only one of Ahaziah's sons to survive Athaliah's attempt to seize power in Judah. When their grandmother killed the other sons, Jehoash was hidden by his aunt, Jehosheba, and conveyed to the temple, where her husband, the priest Jehoiada, brought him up. When Jehoash reached the age of seven, Jehoiada placed him on the throne and executed Athaliah. Jehoash's reign began well and he organised a fund to pay for the repair of the temple, though the money was later diverted to bribe Hazael not to attack Jerusalem. After the death of Jehoiada, Jehoash began to worship various foreign idols, and ordered the death of Zechariah (Jehoiada's son) who denounced him for this. After Jehoash had reigned for some forty years his own servants killed him. His son, Amaziah, succeeded him. 2 Kings 11.2-12.21; 13.1; 1 Chronicles 3.11; 2 Chronicles 22.11-24.27

Jehoash (2) was the son of Jehoahaz, father of Jeroboam II, and king of Israel (reigned ca. 801-786 B.C.). He is also known as Joash. Jehoash was an enemy of Amaziah of Judah, whom he defeated decisively, seizing the treasures of the temple in Jerusalem as tribute. In fulfilment of a prophecy of Elisha, Joash also recaptured from Hazael territory previously won by Syria. On the death of Jehoash, Jeroboam II succeeded him. 2 Kings 13.9-19, 25; 14.1, 8-14, 17; 2 Chronicles 25.17-25

Jehohanan (1) was a general of Jehoshaphat's army, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 17.15

Jehohanan (2) was the son of Eliashib, an assistant of Ezra. Ezra 10.6

Jehohanan (3) was the son of Tobiah. Jehohanan's marriage to the daughter of Meshullam strengthened Tobiah in his opposition to Nehemiah. Nehemiah 6.18

Jehoiachin was the son of Jehoiakim and Nehushta, and king of Judah (ruled ca. 598-597 B.C.). Jehoiachin ruled for three months only, before surrendering Jerusalem to Nebuchadrezzar, by whom he was taken into captivity and replaced as ruler with his uncle, Mattaniah. Evil-merodach later freed Jehoaichin. 2 Kings 24.6-17; 25.27-30; 2 Chronicles 36.8-10; Jeremiah 24.1; 27.20; 52.31-34

Jehoiada (1) was a High priest, the guardian of Joash of Judah in his infancy. After Athaliah's murder of all the other children of Ahaziah, Jehoiada's wife, Jehosheba (according to the Chronicler) rescued Joash. Jehoaiada engineered the overthrow of Athaliah and Joash's accession to the throne. The young king was influenced greatly by Jehoiada but after the priest's death Joash became apostate. For this Jehoiada's son, Zechariah, denounced him, and was stoned to death for his pains. Jehoiada was notable also for his efforts in raising funds for the restoration of the temple in Jerusalem. 2 Kings 11.4-12.10; 2 Chronicles 22.11-23.21; 24.2, 3, 12-17

Jehoiada (2) was the father of Benaiah, David's commander. 2 Samuel 23.20

Jehoiada (3) was the son of Benaiah (apparently named after his grandfather), a counsellor of David, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 27.34

Jehoiada (4) was the son of the high priest, Eliashib, father of an (unnamed) opponent of Nehemiah, and son-in-law of Sanballat the Horonite. Nehemiah 13.28

Jehoiada (5) was a High priest, and contemporary of the prophet Jeremiah. Zephaniah succeeded him in office. Jeremiah 29.26

Jehoiakim (ruled ca. 609-598 B.C.) was the son of Josiah, younger brother of Jehoahaz and king of Judah. Jehoiakim was originally called Eliakim, but had his name changed by Pharaoh Neco who placed him on the throne instead of his elder brother. Jehoiakim reigned for eleven years, and, when Egypt fell to the Babylonians, became a vassal of the new power, but revolted after three years. The Babylonians invaded Judah, but before Jerusalem fell Jehoiakim died, leaving the throne to his son Jehoiachin. 2 Kings 23.34-24.6; 1 Chronicles 3.15; 2 Chronicles 36.4-8; Jeremiah 1.3; 22.18, 19; 25.1; 26.1, 21-23; 35.1; 36.1-32; 52.2; Daniel 1.2

Jehonadab, also known as Jonadab, was the son of Rechab and leader of the sect known as the Rechabites. On the accession of Jehu in Israel, Jehonadab swiftly became an ally of the new ruler, whom he assisted in his massacre of the priests of Baal. 2 Kings 10.15-17, 23; Jeremiah 35.6, 8, 14, 16

Jehonathan was a Levite, one of a number whom Jehoshaphat appointed as teachers of scripture. 2 Chronicles 17.8

Jehoram (1), also known as Joram, was the son of Jehoshaphat, father of Ahaziah and king of Judah (ruled ca. 849-842 B.C.). He should not be confused with his brother-in-law Jehoram of Israel. Jehoram came to the throne at the age of thirty-two, having first had all his brothers murdered, according to the Chronicler. In Jehoram's reign Judah lost its sovereignty over Edom. The author of Kings condemns Jehoram for his marriage to Athaliah (daughter of Ahab and sister of Jehoram of Israel) who was later to seize power. 1 Kings 22.50; 2 Kings 1.17; 8.16-25; 12.18; 1 Chronicles 3.11; 2 Chronicles 21.1-20; Matthew 1.8

Jehoram (2) also known as Joram, was the son of Ahab, the younger brother of Ahaziah (who had no son), and king of Israel (ruled ca. 849-842 B.C.). Differing traditions place the commencement of Jehoram's reign in the reigns of Jehoram or of Jehoshaphat in Judah. Jehu overthrew Jehoram, and had his body cast into the vineyard formerly owned by Naboth, as a symbol of the punishment of the house of Ahab. 2 Kings 1.17; 3.1-27; 8.16, 25, 28, 29; 9.14-26; 2 Chronicles 22.5-7

Jehoram (3) was a priest, one of a number appointed by Jehoshaphat to teach the law to the people of Judah, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 17.8

Jehoshabeath is a name used by the Chronicler for Jehosheba, wife of Jehoiada. 2 Kings 11.2, 3; 2 Chronicles 22.11

Jehoshaphat (1) was the son of Ahilud, a recorder in David's court. 2 Samuel 8.16; 20.24; 1 Kings 4.3; 1 Chronicles 18.15

Jehoshaphat (2) was the son of Paruah, one of twelve officers appointed by Solomon to supply provisions to the royal household. 1 Kings 4.17

Jehoshaphat (3) was the son of Asa and Azubah, the father of Jehoram and king of Judah (ruled ca. 873-849 B.C.). Jehoshapat, who came to the throne at the age of thirty-five, was a good king but was reproved by the prophet Micaiah for his unfortunate alliance with Ahab of Israel against the Syrians, who defeated the allies (killing Ahab) at Ramoth-gilead. 1 Kings 15.24; 22.2-50; 2 Kings 3.1, 7-27; 12.18; 1 Chronicles 3.10; 2 Chronicles 17.1-21.1; Matthew 1.8

Jehosheba was the daughter of Joram of Judah, the sister of Ahaziah, and (according to the Chronicler who calls her Jehoshabeath) wife of Jehoiada the priest. When Athaliah murdered all the rest of her grandchildren Jehosheba rescued Joash and took him to the temple to be brought up by Jehoiada. 2 Kings 11.2,3; 2 Chronicles 22.11

Jehozabad (1) was the son of Shomer. With Jozacar, he assassinated of Joash of Judah, of whom both murderers were servants. 2 Kings 12.21; 2 Chronicles 24.26

Jehozabad (2) was a general of Jehoshaphat's army, the commander of a hundred and eighty thousand soldiers, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 17.18

Jehozadak was the father of the high priest Joshua, referred to by the prophets Haggai and Zechariah. Haggai 1.1; Zechariah 6.11

Jehu (1) was the son of Hanani, a prophet who foretold the downfall of the dynasty of Baasha. 1 Kings 16.1-4, 7; 2 Chronicles 19.2, 3; 20.34

Jehu (2) was the son of Jehoshaphat, the grandson of Nimshi (according to 2 Kings 9.2; son of Nimshi according to 1 Kings 19.16), father of Jehoahaz and king of Israel (ruled ca. 842-815 B.C.). He succeeded Jehoram, whom he overthrew. Jehu is first referred to in 1 Kings 19.16, where Elijah is charged with anointing him, but does not appear in person in the narrative of Kings until 2 Kings Ch. 9, where Elisha carries out the anointing. Jehu attacked Jehoram and his ally, Ahaziah of Judah, at Jezreel, killing both, and having Jezebel killed, too. Jehu was accepted as ruler in Samaria and ordered the execution of Ahab's surviving sons. Aided by Jehonadab, Jehu later organised the slaughter of the priests of Baal. 1 Kings 19.16,17; 2 Kings 9.2-10.36; 15.12; 2 Chronicles 22.7-9

Jehucal was the son of Shelemiah, an official of the court of Zedekiah, by whom he was sent to the prophet Jeremiah, to enlist his support for the king's policies. Later Jehucal took part in an unsuccessful plot on Jeremiah's life. Jeremiah 37.3; 38.1-6

Jehudi was the son of Nethaniah, an official of the court of Jehoiakim, to whom he brought (and read aloud) the oracles of the prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiah 36.14, 21-23

Jehuel was a descendant of Heman, one of a number of Levites commissioned to cleanse the temple in Jerusalem, during the reign of Hezekiah, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 29.14

Jeiel (1) was an Aroerite, son of Hotham and a soldier of David's bodyguard, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 11.44

Jeiel (2) was a Levitical musician (perhaps more than one of this name) serving under Asaph in the reign of David, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 16.5; 15.18, 21

Jeiel (3) was a secretary in the administration of Uzziah; with Maaseiah, under the direction of Hananiah, and responsible for a muster of the army of Judah, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 26. 11

Jeiel (4) was a Levite, an official of Josiah, to whose passover festival Jeiel contributed animals for sacrifice, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 35.9

Jemimah was a daughter of Job. Her name means “dove”. Job 42.14

Jemuel was the eldest son of Simeon. He is called Nemuel in Numbers 26. Genesis 46.10; Exodus 6.15; Numbers 26.12

Jephthah was the son of Gilead by a prostitute, at first disinherited by his father's legitimate children. Jepthah became leader of a band of outlaws, but, on the outbreak of war with the Ammonites, the elders of Gilead persuaded him to lead the Israelite forces into battle. In return for this he was to be made head of his tribe. Jephthah tried to negotiate a peaceful settlement but when this effort failed, he made ready for war. He vowed that, should he be victorious, he would, on his return from the battlefield, offer as a sacrifice whomever he should first meet. Jephthah easily routed the Ammonites but on his return, his daughter, an only child, greeted him. She insisted that he fulfil his vow, asking him merely to delay its execution for two months, while she lamented her childlessness. This done she was sacrificed, the anniversary of her death being Marked by mourning in her memory. Jephthah later had to fight against the Ephraimites who objected to having been allowed no part in the Ammonite war, defeating these also. After some six years as “judge” in Israel, Jephthah died and was buried in Gilead. Judges 11.1-12.7; 1 Samuel 12.11; Hebrews 11.32

Jerahmeel was the son of Jehoiakim of Judah. Jehoiakim ordered Jerahmeel to arrest the prophet Jeremiah and Jeremiah's scribe Baruch, but he was unable to do so, as these were in hiding. Jeremiah 36.26

Jerah was the fourth son of Joktan, a descendant of Shem. Genesis 10.26

Jeremiah, the son of Hilkiah and a descendant of Abiathar, was a prophet. His condemnation of Judah's idolatry led to opposition from other prophets, such as Hananiah, and from the kings Jehoiakim and Zedekiah. Zedekiah allowed Jeremiah to be thrown into a dry water cistern, but later relented and allowed one of his servants to free the prophet. During the Babylonian siege, Jeremiah advised Zedekiah to surrender to the troops of Nebuchadrezzar, but was ignored. After Jerusalem fell, the Babylonians allowed Jeremiah to choose whether to remain in Judah or to go into exile in Babylon. Jeremiah remained and became a supporter of Gedaliah until Ishmael murdered the governor. Against Jeremiah's will, Johanan then took him into Egypt. 2 Chronicles 35.25; 36.12, 21; Ezra 1.1; Jeremiah 1.1-52.34; Lamentations 1.1-5.22; Matthew 2.17,18; 16.14; 27.9, 10

Jeremoth was the son of Azriel, a chief officer of Naphtali in David's administration, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 27.19

Jeribai was the son of Elnaam, a soldier of David's bodyguard, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 11.46

Jericho (the king of) was an anonymous tribal chieftain defeated by Joshua. Joshua 12.9

Jerimoth was an assistant of Conaniah; overseer of the tithing organised by Hezekiah, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 31.13

Jeroboam (1) was the son of Nebat and Zeruah, father of' Nadab, an overseer of labour under Solomon and later king of Israel (ruled ca. 922-901 B.C.). He became notorious for apostasy and for the division of Judah and Israel.

After Solomon had become idolatrous the prophet Ahijah told Jeroboam that he would be given the throne in place of Rehoboam, Solomon's heir. To avoid repercussion Jeroboam fled the country, returning on Solomon's death to become a spokesman for a disaffected group of workers who demanded political reform and more tolerant treatment. Rehoboam threatened to make working conditions harder, but was faced at once with an uprising in which his taskmaster was killed and all the Israelite tribes save Judah transferred their loyalties to Jeroboam.

To prevent his new subjects from returning to Rehoboam, Jeroboam created new sanctuaries, at Bethel-and at Dan, in which he placed golden images of calves, instituting a new calendar of worship. For this various prophets, including his one-time supporter, Ahijah, condemned him. After a reign of some twenty-two years Jeroboam, on his death, was succeeded by his son, Nadab, whose brief reign was ended by Baasha's revolt. After his death Jeroboam's name became a byword for apostasy. 1 Kings 11.2614.20, 30; 15.1, 6, 9; 2 Kings 17.21, 22; 23.15; 2 Chronicles 10.2-11.4; 13.1-20

Jeroboam (2), known as Jeroboam II, was the son of Joash and king of Israel (ruled ca. 786-746 B.C.). Israel reached the height of its material prosperity and territorial expansion during Jeroboam's reign. He enjoyed support from Jonah, but other prophets, notably Amos and Hosea, viewed the spiritual state of Jeroboam's kingdom less favourably. The author of Kings condemned Jeroboam for apostasy. 2 Kings 13.13; 14.16, 23-15.1; Amos 1.1; 7.9

Jerubaal is a name popularly applied to Gideon. Though the author of Judges tries to explain the name as that of an opponent of Baal, the name implies support for the idol. Judges 6.32; 7.1; 8.29, 35; 9.1; 1 Samuel 12.11

Jerusalem (the king of) is an unnamed petty chieftain defeated by Joshua. Joshua 12.10

Jerusha was a daughter of Zadok, the wife of Azariah and mother of Jotham. 2 Kings 15.33; 2 Chronicles 27.1

Jeshaiah was a son of Merari, an assistant of Ezra, whom he accompanied on his return to Jerusalem. Ezra 8.19

Jeshua (1) was an assistant of Kore in the tithing organised by Hezekiah, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 31.15

Jeshua (2) was the son of Jozadak, a priest. With Zerubbabel he was responsible for rebuilding the altar of the temple in Jerusalem. Ezra 2.2; 3.2-9; 4.3; 5.2; Nehemiah 12.1

Jeshua (3) was an assistant of Ezra, one of a number of Levites who helped interpret for the people of Judah Ezra's reading of the book of the law. Nehemiah 8.7; 9.4, 5

Jesse was the grandson of Boaz and Ruth, son of Obed and father of eight sons, of whom the youngest was David. The Chronicler names seven sons only - apart from David (the youngest) these are Eliab, Abinadab, Shimea, Nethanel, Raddai and Ozem, and two daughters, Zeruiah and Abigail. Ruth 4.17, 22; 1 Samuel 16.1-13, 18, 20; 1 Chronicles 2.12-16; Isaiah 11.1, 10; Matthew 1.5, 6; Luke 3.32; Acts 13.22

Jesus (lived ca. 4 B.C.-30 A.D.) is the central figure of the New Testament, believed by Christians to be the fulfilment of many Old Testament prophecies, and the Messiah of popular expectation. Jesus was born as the result of a miraculous virgin conception to Mary, who became wife of Joseph, a carpenter of Nazareth. A census ordered by Augustus forced Mary and her husband, Joseph, to register in Joseph's native city of Bethlehem. Prophecies of the child's marvellous future caused Herod the Great to launch a persecution against all male infants under the age of two years in the vicinity of Bethlehem, having learned from astrologers, who had come to worship the child, that this would be the place of his nativity. Joseph, being alerted in a dream to Herod's intentions, fled with his wife and child to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod.

Little is known of Jesus's childhood and early manhood, save for a few brief narratives recorded by Luke: the principal narratives of all four gospels begin with the commencement of Jesus's public ministry, which was preceded by a period of solitude in the desert (wilderness). During this time Jesus came to terms with the various problems and temptations that would confront him in his work. The immediate prelude to this vigil had been Jesus's baptism, at the hands of his kinsman, John, in the Jordan. John had foretold that his ministry would be eclipsed by that of one vastly superior to him and identified Jesus as this successor. On his return from the desert Jesus called to himself twelve followers, subsequently known as apostles, from among those who came to hear his teaching. These were Peter and Andrew, James and John, and eight others, different names for whom are given in the various lists in the gospels.

The teaching of Jesus appears substantially in parallel accounts in the synoptic gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, though both Matthew and Luke contain information not given in the other gospels.

Important themes of Jesus teaching include:

• the need to find the truth of scripture, rather than abide by the traditions of men;

• the need for complete commitment to God's kingdom;

• the distinction between external piety and true spirituality;

• the need to treat God naturally, as a child does its father; and

• the necessity of forgiving others, without which one cannot easily be forgiven by God.

Jesus's frequent exhortations to his followers to work to bring in God's kingdom offended the conservative high-priestly party of the Sadducees, who saw a danger to their vested interests, and their convenient understanding with the Roman army of occupation. Criticism of the more radical and pious Pharisees led to friction with this body, too.

As well as recording Jesus's teaching, the gospels give accounts of his healing ministry, and of various miracles performed by him. These include his curing the sick, exorcising demons, raising the dead, feeding multitudes with small amounts of food, walking on water, and turning water into wine. While these feats increased Jesus's popularity, jealousy of his reputation made the authorities increasingly bitter towards him.

Aware of the desire of the ruling party of Sadducees, and of many among the Pharisees, to have him killed, Jesus gave them an opportunity to carry out their intention, when, in accordance with a prophecy in the book of Zechariah, he entered Jerusalem on a donkey. This showed that he did not mean to foment rebellion against the occupying power. Despite this, the crowds arriving in the city for the feast of the Passover acclaimed Jesus rapturously. Judas Iscariot, a disciple of Jesus, (perhaps disappointed by his master's failure to stir up political unrest) made an arrangement with the priestly party to betray Jesus into their custody, away from the crowds. On the night on which he was to be betrayed by Judas, Jesus celebrated supper with his disciples in an odd manner, referring to the bread and wine as his body and blood, which were to be sacrificed for the forgiveness of men's sins.

Leaving the house where he had shared this “last supper” with his followers, Jesus led them to spend the night in prayer on the Mount of Olives. Here officers led by Judas arrested Jesus. Examined by the Sanhedrin (the council of Jewish leaders) he was sentenced to death, and then sent before the Roman procurator, without whose authorisation no capital sentence could be carried out. The Sanhedrin had condemned Jesus on the ground of blasphemy (arrogating to himself divine properties, in claiming to forgive sins and to be the son of God). But such an offence would give the Romans no ground for executing Jesus. Accordingly the charge on which Jesus was accused before the Roman procurator, Pontius Pilate, was that of political subversion. Though convinced of Jesus's innocence of this offence, the vehemence of the crowd, stirred up by agents of the high priests, persuaded Pilate at length to yield to the requests of Jesus's accusers.

Jesus was executed in a place known as Golgotha (“the place of the skull”) in the company of two other criminals. When it was clear that Jesus was dead, Joseph of Arimathea (a Pharisee) asked Pilate for permission to bury him in his own tomb. This permission was granted and the interment took place. According to Matthew, the Jewish authorities set a guard, to ensure that the followers of Jesus did not remove his body.

Two days later, Jesus's women followers, as well as Peter and John, found the tomb to be empty. Various of Jesus's disciples and women followers had the experience of meeting him again, becoming convinced that he had risen from the dead. These meetings continued for a limited period, after which, apparently, Jesus departed permanently from his disciples, assuring them that he was returning to God.

Matthew 1.1-28.20; Mark 1.1-16.20; Luke 1.1-24.53; John 1.1-21.25; Acts 1.1-11; 2.22-36, 38; 3.13-26; 4.10, 13, 27, 30, 33; 5.30, 31, 40, 42; 6.14; 77.52, 56, 59, 60; 8.35; 9.10-17, 20, 22, 27, 34; 10.36-43, 48; 11.16, 17, 20; 13.23-39; 15.11, 26; 16.7,18,31; 17.3, 7, 31; 18.5, 25, 28; 19-4,5, 13, 15, 17; 20.21, 24, 28, 35; 21.13; 22.8-10, 14, 18-21; 25.19; 26.9, 15-18, 23; 28.23, 31; Romans 1.1-6, 8, 9; 2.16; 3.22-24; 4.24; 5.1, 2, 6-21; 6.3-11, 23; 7.25; 8.17, 29, 34, 35, 39; 9.1, 3, 5; 10-4, 9, 17; 13.14; 14-9, 15, 18; 15-3, 5, 6,16-18, 20, 29, 30; 16.3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 18, 20, 25, 27; 1 Corinthians 1.10, 12, 13, 17, 23, 30; 2.2, 8, 16; 3-1, 11, 23; 4-1, 10, 15, 17; 5.4, 5; 6.11, 15; 8.6, 11, 12; 9.1, 12, 21; 10.4, 16; 11.1, 3, 23-27; 12.3, 27; 15.3-8,12-28, 57; 16.23, 24; 2 Corinthians 1.2-5, 14, 19-22; 2.10, 12, 14-17; 3.3,4; 4.4-6, 10, 11, 14; 5.10, 14, 16-21; 6.15; 8.9, 23; 9.13; 10.1, 5, 7, 14; 11.2, 4, 10, 13, 23; 12.2, 9, 19; 13. 3, 5, 14; Galatians 1.1, 3-7, 10, 12, 22; 2.4, 16-3.1, 13, 14, 16, 22, 24-29; 4.14, 19; 5.1-6,24; 6.2, 12, 14, 17, 18; Ephesians 1.1-10, 12, 15, 17, 20-23; 2.5-7, 10, 12-3.1, 4, 6, 8, 11, 12, 17, 19, 21; 4.7, 12, 13, 15, 16, 20, 21, 32; 5.2, 5, 14, 20-27, 29,32; 6.5, 6, 23, 24; Philippians 1.1, 2, 6, 11, 13, 15, 17-21, 23, 26, 27, 29; 2.1, 5-11, 16, 19, 21, 30; 3.3, 7-10, 12, 14, 18, 20, 21; 4.7, 19, 21, 23; Colossians 1.1, 3, 4, 14-29; 2.2, 6-15, 17, 20; 3.1, 3, 4, 11, 15, 24; 4.3, 12; 1 Thessalonians 1.1, 3, 10; 2.14, 15, 19; 3.2, 11, 13-4.2, 14, 16; 5-9, 18, 23, 28; 2 Thessalonians 1.1, 2, 7, 8, 12; 2-1, 14, 16; 3-5, 6, 12, 18; 1 Timothy 1.1, 2, 12-17; 2-5, 6; 3.13; 4.6; 5.11, 21; 6-3, 13, 14; 2 Timothy 1.1, 2, 10, 13; 2-1, 3 ,8, 10-13; 3.12, 15; 4.1; Titus 1.1, 4; 2.13, 14; 3.6; Philemon 1, 3, 6, 8, 9, 20, 23, 25; Hebrews 3.1, 3, 6, 14; 4.14; 5.5; 6.1, 20; 7.22; 8.6; 9.11-15, 24-28; 10-5, 10, 12-14, 19, 20; 11.26; 12.2, 3; 13.8, 12, 20, 21; James 1.1; 2.1; 1 Peter 1.1-3, 7, 11, 13, 19; 2.5, 21-24; 3.15, 16, 18-4.1, 11, 13, 14; 5.1, 10, 14; 2 Peter 1.14, 8, 11, 14, 16-18; 2.20; 3.18; 1 John 1.3, 7; 2.1-6, 22, 23; 3.23; 4.2, 3, 15; 5-1, 6,10-15, 20; 2 John 3, 7, 9; Jude 1, 4, 17, 21, 25; Revelation 1.1, 2, 5, 9; 11.15; 12.10, 17; 17.6; 19.10; 20-4, 6; 22.16, 20, 21.

Jesus Justus was an assistant of Paul, referred to in his letter to the Colossians. Colosssians 4.11

Jether (1) was the eldest son of Gideon, who ordered him to kill his prisoners, Zebah and Zalmunna. Jether lacked the nerve and Gideon was left to do the deed for himself. Judges 8.20

Jether (2) is a name used by the Chronicler for the father of Amasa and husband of Abigal. He is called Ithra in 2 Samuel. 1 Chronicles 2.17

Jetheth was an Edomite chieftain, a descendant of Esau. Genesis 36.40; 1 Chronicles 1.51

Jethro was the son of Reuel, priest of Midian and father-in-law of Moses (his wife, Zipporah, was one of seven daughters of Jethro). After the Exodus, Jethro visited Moses and showed him how to resolve legal disputes by instituting a hierarchy of judges. Moses persuaded Jethro to accompany Israel on the journey to Canaan. Jethro is also known by the name Hobab, and by his father's name. Exodus 2.16-21; 3.1; 4.18; 18.1-27; Numbers 10.20-32; Judges 4.11

Jetur was the tenth son of Ishmael. Genesis 25.15; 1 Chronicles 1.31

Jeuel was a son of Elizaphan, one of the Levites appointed by Hezekiah to cleanse the temple, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 29.13

Jeush (1) was a son of Esau, his first by Oholibamah. Genesis 36.5; 1 Chronicles 1.35

Jeush (2) was the eldest son of Rehoboam and Mahalath, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 11.19

Jezebel (1) was the daughter of Ethbaal of Sidon, and wife of Ahab, with whose aid she attempted to oust the Israelite priesthood, for the cult of Baal. For her part in the affair of Naboth's vineyard, Elijah denounced Jezebel. She tried, without success, to silence Elijah. He duly foretold her violent death, which was fulfilled by Jehu who, on seizing power in Israel, had Jezebel killed, and purged the land of the priests of Baal. 1 Kings 16.31; 18.4; 19.1, 2; 21.5-15, 23, 25; 2 Kings 9.7, 10, 30-37

Jezebel (2) was a false prophetess of Thyatira, condemned by John in Revelation. Jezebel may be, not a real name, but an alias employed to point to similarities with the idolatrous queen of Ahab. Revelation 2.20-23

Jezeniah is a form of the name Jaazaniah, used in the book of Jeremiah. Jeremiah 40.8

Jezer was the third son of Naphtali. Genesis 46.24; Numbers 26.49; 1 Chronicles 7.13

Jidlaph was the seventh of the eight children of Nahor and Milcah. Genesis 22.22

Joab was the son of Zeruiah, nephew of David, brother of Abishai and Asahel, and commander of David's armies. Though at all times a staunch supporter of the king, Joab, by his violence, inspired no love in his master, who on his deathbed made arrangements for Joab's execution.

Joab first began to follow David during his flight from Saul. After Saul's death Joab fought inconclusively against Abner, general of the forces of Ish-bosheth, who killed Asahel in a skirmish. Abner's decision to join David's side led Joab to have him murdered both to eliminate a rival for his post, and to avenge his brother's death. When David was king of both Israel and Judah, Joab led his forces in various successful military enterprises: he fought against the Ammonites and their Syrian allies (in which war, at the siege of Rabbah, he arranged the death of Uriah, on David's orders); after the murder of Amnon, Joab reconciled Absalom to his father, but when Absalom rebelled Joab defeated his army and later had the rebel son killed, for which David probably never forgave him. David then transferred the command of his armies to Amasa, but the delay of Joab's successor in quelling Sheba's revolt prompted David (using Abishai as an intermediary) to recall Joab. He killed Amasa and duly crushed Sheba's uprising. The last official duty of Joab for the king which is recorded in 2 Samuel is his administration of a census of the Israelites, a matter which earned the king divine censure and against which the prudent Joab had advised him.

On his death-bed, David, remembering Joab's various murders, advised Solomon to deal suitably with him. Joab's subsequent support for Adonijah, Solomon's rival for the throne, gave the new king a convenient pretext, and on his orders, Benaiah killed Joab. 1 Samuel 26.6; 2 Samuel 2.13, 14, 18, 24-32; 3.22-39; 8.16; 10.7-14; 11-1,14-25; 12.26-28; 14.1-23, 29-33; 17.25; 18.2, 5, 10-16, 20-23, 29; 19.1-8, 13; 20.7-23; 24.2-9; 1 Kings 1.7, 19, 25, 41; 2.5, 6, 28-35; 11.15; 1 Chronicles 2.16; 11.6, 8, 20; 18.15; 19.8-15; 20.1; 21.2-5; 27.34; Psalms 60

Joah (1) was the son of Asaph, the recorder in Hezekiah's administration, and one of the officials sent by the king to negotiate with the officers of Sennacherib, whose army was besieging Jerusalem. 2 Kings 18.18, 26, 27, 37; Isaiah 36.3-22

Joah (2) was the son of Zimmah, the father of Eden, and one of a number of Levites who cleansed the temple on Hezekiah's orders, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 29.12

Joah (3) was the son of Joahaz, the recorder in the administration of Josiah, and one of a number of officials appointed by the king to repair the temple, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 34.8

Joanan was the son of Rhesa, a descendant of David and ancestor of Joseph in Luke's genealogy. Luke 3.27

Joanna was the wife of Chuza (the steward of Herod Antipas) a companion of Mary Magdalene and follower of Jesus, who was one oft those who found his tomb to be empty, according to Luke. Luke 8.3; 24.1-11

Joash (1) was a Manassite of the clan of Abiezer, the father of Gideon, whom he defended from the people of Ophrah, after Gideon had cut down the altar of Baal. Judges 6.11,30,31

Joash (2) was the son of Ahaziah and Zibiah, the father of Amaziah and king of Judah (reigned ca. 837-800 B.C.). He is also known as Jehoash. Joash was the only one of Ahaziah's sons to survive Athaliah's attempt to seize power in Judah. When their grandmother killed the other sons, Joash was hidden by his aunt, Jehosheba, and conveyed to the temple, where her husband, the priest Jehoiada, brought him up. When he reached the age of seven, Jehoiada placed Joash on the throne and executed Athaliah. Joash's reign began well and he organised a fund to pay for the repair of the temple, though the money was later diverted to bribe Hazael not to attack Jerusalem. After the death of Jehoiada, Joash began to worship various foreign idols, and ordered the death of Zechariah (Jehoiada's son) who denounced him for this. After Joash had reigned for some forty years his own servants killed him. His son, Amaziah, succeeded him. 2 Kings 11.2-12.21; 13.1; 1 Chronicles 3.11; 2 Chronicles 22.11-24.27

Joash (3) was the son of Jehoahaz, father of Jeroboam II, and king of Israel (reigned ca. 801-786 B.C.). He is also known as Jehoash. Joash was an enemy of Amaziah of Judah, whom he defeated decisively, seizing the treasures of the temple in Jerusalem as tribute. In fulfilment of a prophecy of Elisha, Joash also recaptured from Hazael territory previously won by Syria. On the death of Joash, Jeroboam II succeeded him. 2 Kings 13.9-19, 25; 14.1, 8-14, 17; 2 Chronicles 25.17-25

Joash (4) was the son of Ahab, charged with keeping the prophet Micaiah in custody before the battle of Ramoth-gilead. 1 Kings 22.26, 27; 2 Chronicles 18.25, 26

Joash (5) was an official in David's administration, the overseer of the king's stores of oil, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 27.28

Job was the hero of an ancient folk tale, later expanded into a philosophical examination of human suffering. According to the original story, Satan afflicted Job with a series of disasters: the deaths of his children, the loss of his wealth, and disease. Job bore these troubles patiently and was eventually restored to his former prosperity, becoming the father of further children. Job 1.1-42.17; Ezekiel 14.14, 20;

Jobab (1) was the thirteenth son of Joktan, a descendant of Shem. Genesis 10.29

Jobab (2) was the son of Zerah of Bozrah, an Edomite king in succession to Bela. Genesis 36.33; 1 Chronicles 1.44,45

Jobab (3) was the king of Madon, an ally of Jabin, with whom he was defeated by Joshua at the waters of Meron. Joshua 11.1-9,

Jochebed was the daughter of Levi, the wife of Amram and mother of Aaron, Miriam and Moses. Numbers 26.59

Joda was the son of Joanan, father of Josech and an ancestor of Joseph, in Luke's genealogy. Luke 3.26

Joel (1) was the elder son of the prophet Samuel and brother of Abijah. The brothers did not emulate their father but were notorious for their corruption and acceptance of bribes. 1 Samuel 8.2, 3, 5

Joel (2) was the son of Pethuel, a prophet who, in the wake of a locust plague (believed to be a divine punishment), called the people of Judah to repentance. Joel 1.1-3.21; Acts 2.16-21

Joel (3) was a soldier of David's bodyguard, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 11.38

Joel (4) was a Levite, the son of Azariah, and one of those appointed by Hezekiah to cleanse the temple, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 29.12-19

Joha was a Tizite, the son of Shimri, and a soldier of David's bodyguard, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 11.45

Johanan was the son of Kareah, a military commander in Judah during the governorship of Gedaliah. Johanan warned Gedaliah (but was disbelieved) of Ishmael's plot on the governor's life. After Gedaliah's assassination Johanan pursued Ishmael who escaped to Ammon. 2 Kings 25.23, 24; Jeremiah 40.8, 9, 13-16; 41.11-43.7

John (1), known as the Baptist, was a cousin or relative of Jesus, and a prophet whose chief period of activity immediately preceded that of his kinsman. John baptised his converts in the Jordan as a public and symbolic enactment of their repentance. Jesus, at the beginning of his own ministry, came to be baptised by John, who acknowledged him as his superior and his successor. John was noted for the severity of his message and the austerity of his life-style. His uncompromising outlook led him to condemn the tetrarch Herod Antipas, who had taken his brother's wife, Herodias, as his own. For this John was imprisoned, his execution being achieved by the guile of Herodias. Matthew 3.1-17; 4.12; 9.14; 11.2-14, 18; 14.2-12; 16.14; 17.13; Mark 1.4-9, 14; 6.14-29; 8.28; 11.30-33; Luke 1.13-17, 36, 57-80; 3.2-20; 5.33; 9.7-9, 19; 11.1; 16.16; 20.4-7; John 1.6-8,19-37; 3.23-4.1; 5.33-36; 10.41, 42; Acts 1.5; 13.24, 25; 19.3, 4

John (2) was the son of Zebedee, brother of James and one of the twelve apostles, apparently a favourite of Jesus. With his brother and Peter, John was a witness of the transfiguration of Jesus. He is traditionally believed to be the author of the fourth gospel and of three epistles. Matthew 4.21, 22; 10.2; 17.1-8; 26.37-40; Mark 1.19, 20, 29; 3.17; 9.2-8; 10.35-41; 13.3, 4; 14.33, 34; Luke 5.10; 6.14; 8.51; 9.28-36, 49, 50, 54, 55; 22.8-13; John (1.1-21.25); 13.23-26; 19.26, 27; 20.2-10; 21.2-7, 20-24; Acts 1.13,14; 3.1-11; 4.1-7., 13-21, 23; 8.14-19; 12.2; Galatians 2.9; 1 John 1.1-5.21; 2 John 1.13; 3 John 1-15

John (3) was the father of Simon Peter. John 1.42

John (4) was a member of the high-priestly family of Annas, one of those who examined Peter and John after their healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate of the temple. Acts 4.6

John (5), known as John Mark, was Mary's son and a travelling-companion of Paul and Barnabas. John, whose mother's house was a meeting-place for the Christians of Jerusalem, accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary-journey. But he left them at Perga, an action that later led to a disagreement between Paul and Barnabas. Before embarking on a second missionary voyage Barnabas wished to take John again, but Paul refused: the contention which followed led Barnabas to sail to Cyprus with John, while Paul chose Silas as his new companion. It has been suggested that John is the author of the second gospel, and that he is the anonymous young man who fled naked from the garden of Gethsemane. Acts 12.12, 25; 13.13; 15.37-39; Colosssians 4.10; 2 Timothy 4.11; Philemon 24; 1 Peter 5.13

John (6) is the author of the book of Revelation. He was exiled to the island of Patmos, probably in the reign of Domitian. Revelation 1.1-22.21

Joiada was the son of Paseah, an assistant of Eliashib in the repair of the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah 3.6

Joiarib was a companion of Ezra, with whom he returned to Jerusalem. Ezra 8.16

Jokneam (the king of) was an anonymous Carmelite chieftain, defeated by Joshua. Joshua 12.22

Jokshan was the second of the children borne Abraham by Keturah, his second wife. Genesis 25.2; 1 Chronicles 1.32

Joktan was the son of Eber, a descendant of Shem and the father of Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah, Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah, Obal, Abimael, Sheba, Ophir, Havilah and Jobab. Genesis 10.25-29; 1 Chronicles 1.19-23

Jonadab (1) was the son of Shimeah, an adviser of Amnon in his rape of his half-sister, Tamar. Later, when the news of Absalom's murder of the culprit came to the king, Jonadab was able to reassure David that Amnon alone had been killed. 2 Samuel 13.3-5, 32, 33, 35

Jonadab (2) is a variant of the name of Jehonadab, son of Rechab. He was leader of the sect known as the Rechabites. On the accession of Jehu in Israel, Jehonadab/Jonadab swiftly became an ally of the new ruler, whom he assisted in his massacre of the priests of Baal. 2 Kings 10.15-17, 23; Jeremiah 35.6, 8, 14

Jonah was the son of Amittai, a prophet from Gath-hepher in Galilee and a supporter of Jeroboam II. Jonah's name was later given to the hero of the book of Jonah. This is a folk tale about a prophet sent to proclaim the destruction of Nineveh. In this story Jonah ran away from his task by boarding a ship bound for Tarshish, but as a result of a series of improbable adventures (including his being thrown overboard, swallowed by a giant fish and regurgitated) eventually came to Nineveh and delivered his message. This message was well-received and the repentance of the people secured their deliverance from the punishments threatened in Jonah's oracles. 2 Kings 14.25; Jonah 1.1-4.11; Matthew 16.4; Luke 11-30, 32

Jonam was the son of Eliakim, the father of Joseph, and an ancestor of another Joseph (the husband of Mary) in Luke's genealogy. Luke 3.30

Jonathan (1) was the son of Gershom, a Levite (or Manassite, according to a variant text) and priest of the Danites, after their coming to Laish. Judges 18.30

Jonathan (2) was the eldest son of Saul. He was an able commander in his father's army, winning important victories over the Philistines at Geba, and at Michmash. When David entered Saul's service, he and Jonathan became inseparable friends. Saul's persecution of David led Jonathan at first to attempt to reconcile the two, but when this failed he helped David escape from his father. In a famous elegy David lamented Jonathan's death, with Saul, in battle on Mt. Gilboa. For Jonathan's sake, David gave his son, Mephibosheth, favourable treatment when he came to the throne. 1 Samuel 13.2, 3, 16, 22; 14.1-45, 49; 18.1-4; 19.1-7; 20.1-42; 23.16-18; 31.2, 8; 2 Samuel 1.5, 17-27; 4.4; 9.1, 3, 6, 7; 1 Chronicles 8.33, 34; 9.39; 10.2

Jonathan (3) was the son of the priest Abiathar. During Absalom's rebellion Jonathan and Ahimaaz acted as spies, passing on to David information about Absalom's plans. Later Jonathan was to bring the news of Solomon's coronation to Adonijah, who had hoped to succeed David, and his supporters, one of whom was Jonathan's father, Abiathar. 2 Samuel 15.27, 36; 17.17-21; 1 Kings 1.42-48

Jonathan (4) was the son of Shimei, and a nephew of David, celebrated for killing in battle a Philistine giant. 2 Samuel 21.21; 1 Chronicles 20.7

Jonathan (5) was a soldier of David's bodyguard (perhaps the same as the son of Shimei above). 2 Samuel 23.32

Jonathan (6) was the son of Shagee, a Hararite and a warrior of David's bodyguard, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 11.34

Jonathan (7) was the son of Uzziah, a treasury official in David's administration, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 27.25

Jonathan (8) was an uncle and counsellor of David, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 27.32

Jonathan (9) was the son of Asahel, one of a small number of opponents of the policy of Ezra, according to which Jews were obliged to divorce their Gentile wives. Ezra 10.15

Jonathan (10) was a secretary at the court of Zedekiah. Jeremiah was placed under house-arrest in Jonathan's home. Jeremiah 37.15; 38.26

Joram (1) was the son of Toi, king of Hamath. His father, the king, sent him to David, with tribute, in gratitude for David's defeat of Hadadezer of Syria. 2 Samuel 8.10

Joram (1), also known as Jehoram, was the son of Jehoshaphat, father of Ahaziah and king of Judah (ruled ca. 849-842 B.C.). He should not be confused with his brother-in-law Jehoram or Joram of Israel. Joram came to the throne at the age of thirty-two, having first had all his brothers murdered, according to the Chronicler. In Joram's reign Judah lost its sovereignty over Edom. The author of Kings condemns Joram for his marriage to Athaliah (daughter of Ahab and sister of Jehoram of Israel) who was later to seize power. 1 Kings 22.50; 2 Kings 1.17; 8.16-25; 12.18; 1 Chronicles 3.11; 2 Chronicles 21.1-20; Matthew 1.8

Joram (2) also known as Jehoram, was the son of Ahab, the younger brother of Ahaziah (who had no son), and king of Israel (ruled ca. 849-842 B.C.). Differing traditions place the commencement of Joram's reign in the reigns of Jehoram or of Jehoshaphat in Judah. Jehu overthrew Joram, and had his body cast into the vineyard formerly owned by Naboth, as a symbol of the punishment of the house of Ahab. 2 Kings 1.17; 3.1-27; 8.16, 25, 28, 29; 9.14-26; 2 Chronicles 22.5-7

Jorim was the son of Matthat and father of Eliezer, an ancestor of Joseph in Luke's genealogy. Luke 3.2f-9

Josech was the son of Joda and father of Semein, an ancestor of Joseph in Luke's genealogy. Luke 3.26

Joseph (1) was the eleventh and favourite son of Jacob, the first by Rachel. Because of his father's attitude and of his dreams, which foretold his future ascendancy over the rest of his family, his brothers resented Joseph. A plot was made on Joseph's life, but the brothers contented themselves with selling him into slavery. The Ishmaelite traders who bought Joseph took him into Egypt, where Potiphar, captain of the guard employed him. Joseph fell into disfavour when his master's wife (whose advances he had steadfastly resisted) accused him of attempted rape. Joseph was imprisoned but soon found favour with the gaoler, and interpreted correctly the dreams of the chief butler and chief baker, the former of whom recommended him to Pharaoh who had been troubled by a puzzling dream. Joseph duly interpreted this as a portent of famine.

Impressed by Joseph's interpretation, Pharaoh placed him in command of his granaries, to store up food for the famine. When, later, the sons of Jacob came to buy corn from Egypt, Joseph. at first concealed his identity from them, while observing their behaviour. Eventually Joseph was reconciled to them and brought his whole family from Canaan to Egypt. In his new home Joseph married Asenath, daughter of the priest of On, and became father to Manasseh and Ephraim. Joseph died at the age of a hundred and ten. According to tradition, his remains were taken from Egypt during the Exodus and finally buried in Shechem. Genesis 30.24, 25; 33.2; 35.24; 37.2-36; 39.1-48.22; 49.22-26; 50.1-26; Exodus 1.5, 6, 8; 13.19; Numbers 26.28-37; Joshua 24.32; 1 Chronicles 2.2; John 4.5; Acts 7.9-14, 18; Hebrews 11.21, 22

Joseph (2) was a descendant of David, a Bethlehemite, carpenter of Nazareth and husband of Mary, Jesus' mother. Because Joseph disappears from the gospel narratives after the accounts of Jesus' nativity many readers have surmised that Joseph was older, than his wife and died before her. Matthew 1.16, 18-2.23; 13.55; Luke 1.27; 2.4-51; 3.23; 4.22; John 6.42

Joseph (3) is an alternative form of the name of Joses, Jesus' half-brother or kinsman. Matthew 13.55; Mark 6.3

Joseph (4) was the son of Mattathias and father of Jannai, an ancestor of (Mary's husband) Joseph in Luke's genealogy. Luke 3.24

Joseph (5) was the original name of Barnabas, whose more familiar name was coined by the apostles. Acts 4.36

Joseph (6) of Arimathea was a Member of the Jewish Sanhedrin. Joseph became a disciple of Jesus, whose body he buried (having obtained the permission of Pontius Pilate) in his own tomb, after the crucifixion. Matthew 27.57-60; Mark 15.42-46; Luke 23.50-53; John 19.38-42

Joseph (7) Barsabbas was one of two candidates put forward by the eleven surviving apostles to take the place of Judas Iscariot who had committed suicide. The other candidate, Matthias, was chosen by lot. Acts 1.23-26

Joses (1) was the brother (according to Protestants) or near kinsman (according to Catholics) of Jesus. Mark 6.3; Matthew 13.55

Joses (2) was the son of Mary, the brother of James the Younger and Salome, and a disciple of Jesus. Mark 15.40

Joshaphat (1) was a Mithnite, a soldier of David's bodyguard, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 11.43

Joshaphat (2) was a priest and musician in David's court, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 15.24

Joshaviah was the son of Elnaam, a soldier of David's bodyguard, according to the Chronicler. 1 Chronicles 11.46

Joshua (1) was the son of Nun, the civil and military ruler of Israel in succession to Moses, whom Joshuah had previously served as commander. Joshua was one of the few men permitted to accompany Moses on his ascent of Sinai for the receiving of the law. Later Moses gave Joshua the task of allotting the territory of the Promised Land. After Moses' death Joshua was divinely instructed to undertake the conquest of Canaan. This he began with a successful campaign against Jericho followed by another victory at Ai. Gibeon avoided a similar fate by tricking Joshua into an alliance, but later invoked the aid of Israel against a confederacy of five Amorite kings, whom Joshua duly defeated. After successfully accomplishing the conquest of Canaan, Joshua addressed the Israelites and reminded them of their duties towards God. On his death Joshua was buried at Timnath-serah in Ephraim, and the administration of Israel passed into the hands of the Judges. Exodus 17.9-13; 24.13; 32.17; 33.11; Numbers 11.28, 29; 13-8, 16; 14.6-10, 30, 38; 26.65; 27.18-23; 32.12, 28; 34.17; Deuteronomy1.38; 3.21, 22, 28; 31.3, 7, 8, 14, 23; 32.44; 34.9; Joshua 1.1-24.31; Judges 1.1; 2.6-9; 1 Chronicles 7.27; Acts 7.45; Hebrews 4.8

Joshua (2) was the son of Jehozadak, a high priest in Darius's reign, and a contemporary of Haggai, and of Zechariah, who refers to Joshua's anointing as messianic king of Judah. Haggai 1.1; 2.2; Zechariah 3.1-10; 6.11

Joshua (3) was the son of Eliezer, the father of Er, and an ancestor of Joseph, in Luke's genealogy. Luke 3.29

Josiah (1) was the son of Amon and Jedidah, the father of Johanan, Jehoiakim, Zedekiah and Jehoahaz and king of Judah (reigned ca. 640-609 B.C.). He was noted for the religious reforms he authorised, following the discovery of the book of the law in the temple, which was being repaired. After consulting the prophetess Huldah, Josiah purged Judah of idols and restored the priesthood. Josiah subsequently celebrated a great Passover festival of which the Chronicler has given a lengthy account. Despite Huldah's prophecy that he would die a peaceful death, Josiah fell in battle against Pharaoh Neco, and was succeeded by his son, Jehoahaz. 2 Kings 21.26-23.30; 1 Chronicles 3.14; 2 Chronicles 33.25-35.27; Jeremiah 1.2; 3.6; Zephaniah 1.1; Matthew 1.10,11

Josiah (2) was a son of Zephaniah, in whose house the prophet Zechariah was to anoint Joshua as messianic ruler. Zechariah 6.10-14

Jotham (1) was the youngest of the seventy sons of Gideon, the only survivor of Abimelech's plot on the lives of his brothers. Jotham denounced his brother's action publicly, in his parable of the trees, but fled to the town of Beer, to avoid recriminations. Judges 9.5-21, 57

Jotham (2) was the son of Azariah and Jerusha, the father of Ahaz and king of Judah (reigned ca. 742-735 B.C.). He had earlier been regent in place of his father (who had contracted leprosy) eventually succeeding him on the throne. During the sixteen-year reign of Jotham, Judah suffered attacks from Pekah of Israel and Rezin of Syria. On his death, his son, Ahaz, succeeded Jotham. 2 Kings 15.5, 7, 30, 32-38; 1 Chronicles 3.12; 2 Chronicles 26.23-27.9; Isaiah 1.1; Hosea 1.1; Matthew 1.9

Jozabad (1) was an assistant of Conaniah, an overseer of the tithing organised by Hezekiah, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 31.13

Jozabad (2) was a prominent Levite of Josiah's court, a contributor to the king's Passover offering, according to the Chronicler. 2 Chronicles 35.9

Jozabad (3) was the son of Jeshua, treasurer of the money collected for restoring the temple in the governorship of Ezra. Ezra 8.33

Jozabad (4) was an assistant of Ezra, a Levite who explained to the people the meaning of the book of the law. Nehemiah 8.7

Jozacar was the son of Shimeath, who, with Jehozabad, assassinated Jehoash of Judah. 2 Kings 12.20, 21; 2 Chronicles 24.25, 26

Jubal was a descendant of Cain, one of the three sons of Lamech and Adah, traditionally believed to be the ancestor of musicians. Genesis 4.21

Jucal is an alternative form of the name of Jehucal, son of Shelemiah. Jeremiah 37.3; 38.1

Judah (1) was the fourth son of Jacob and Leah, the ancestor of the tribe named after him, which was to gain ascendancy over all the other tribes of Israel. By the daughter of Shuah he became father to Er, Onan and Shelah. The eldest of these two were in turn married to Tamar, but both died mysteriously, and Judah refused to give his surviving son in marriage to his daughter-in-law. She disguised herself as a prostitute and Judah unwittingly availed himself of her services, becoming by her the father of the twins Perez and Zerah. When his brothers made a plot on the life of Joseph, Judah dissuaded them from murdering him. Later he was instrumental in persuading his father to allow Benjamin to accompany the other brothers into Egypt, and the first to volunteer to undergo Benjamin's punishment when he appeared (wrongly as it transpired) to be guilty of the theft of Joseph's silver cup. In Jacob's death-bed blessing of his sons, Judah was singled out for especial honour as the father of a tribe that would come to dominate the other eleven. Genesis 29.35; 35.23; 37.26, 27; 38.1-30; 43.3-10; 44.14-34; 46.12, 28; 49.8-12; Exodus 1.2; Numbers 1.7, 26, 27; 26.19-22; 1 Chronicles 2.1, 3, 4; 4.1; Matthew 1.2; Luke 3.33; Hebrews 7.14

Judah (2) was a son of Joseph, the father of Simeon and an ancestor of Joseph (Mary's husband), in Luke's genealogy. Luke 3.30

Judas (1) was the son of Simon Iscariot, a disciple and later betrayer of Jesus. Judas - often called Iscariot - was keeper of the apostles' common purse, from which, according to John, he used to steal. He became dissatisfied with Jesus' ministry (it is widely believed he was a Zealot and eager for violent revolution). In return for betraying his master he accepted from the priests payment of thirty pieces of silver. While Jesus was at prayer one night in the garden of Gethsemane Judas led his enemies to him, and identified Jesus by kissing him. After this, however, Judas died a violent death: according to Matthew he hanged himself out of remorse, while Luke (in Acts) suggests that he was struck down mysteriously. Matthew 10.4; 26.14-16, 25, 47-50; 27.3-5; Mark 3.19; 14.10, 11, 43-45; Luke 6.16; 22.3-6, 47, 48; John 6.71; 12.4-6; 13.2, 21-30; 18.2-5; Acts 1.16-20

Judas (2) was a brother (or close relative, according to Catholics) of Jesus; also known as Jude. Matthew 13.55; Mark 6.3; Jude 1.24

Judas (3) was a son of James, one of the twelve apostles, according to Luke and John. Luke 6.16; John 14.22; Acts 1.13

Judas (4) was a Jewish patriot, known as the Galilean. In A.D. 6 he led a revolt against the Roman occupation of Palestine, but was swiftly defeated. Acts 5.37

Judas (5), known as Barsabbas, was a Jerusalem Christian. He accompanied Paul, Barnabas and Silas on their visit of encouragement to the Christians of Antioch. Acts 15.22, 23, 25-27

Judith was the daughter of Beeri, the first of the Hittite wives of Esau, both of whom were disliked by Isaac and Rebekah. Genesis 26.34, 35

Julia was a Christian greeted by Paul in the messages that close his letter to the church at Rome. Romans 16.15

Julius was a Centurion of the Augustan cohort, who became the ward of Paul after his appeal to the emperor. Acts 12-17.1, 3, 11, 31, 43

Junias was a Christian, apparently imprisoned for his faith. Paul greets him in the messages that close his letter to the church at Rome. Romans 16.7

Justus, or Titius Justus, was a Corinthian in whose house Paul stayed, after encountering opposition from the Jews of the city. Acts 18.7