Meaning & Origin
From the Hebrew yibhos, meaning pain, affliction, or sorrow. In the Old Testament, Jabez was a man who prayed to God to bless him with more land and to free him from the sorrows that plagued him.
Spiritual meaning
A name symbolizing a prayer for deliverance from suffering.
Language details
Jabez
He will cause pain or sorrow
Pronunciation & Numerology
Pronunciation
JAY-bez
/ˈdʒeɪbɛz/
Lucky number
8
Lucky day
Wednesday
Lucky colors
Life path
3
Lucky stone
Carnelian
Cultural & Spiritual notes
Jabez is the name given to the fifth son of Zerah, the second son of Jacob (Israel). He is not well-known in the Bible, but his name has had a lasting impact in Christianity due to a prayer found in 1 Chronicles 4:10. This verse records Jabez's prayer, requesting God's blessings: "Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, "Oh that you would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that your hand may be with me, and that you would keep me from harm so that it will not pain me!" It's interesting to note that, uniquely among his brothers, Jabez is specifically named and remembered—not for his deeds or accomplishments, but for his faith and prayer.
Jabez's prayer stands as a reminder of the importance of prayer in the Christian life. His plea for God's blessings and protection echoes the prayer of numerous biblical heroes and the sentiments of millions of believers throughout history. Jabez's name also symbolizes the human condition—recognizing our inherent pain, affliction, and sorrow and seeking God's comfort, power, and provision in the midst of life's trials. In this way, Jabez's name retains a spiritual significance, especially in demonstrating the importance of humbly asking for God's blessings and protection.
Historical references
According to the Old Testament, Jabez was the fourth son of Zerah, Judah's eldest son. Jabez was born in Madian, the region east of the Jordan River. He made a vow to God that if He would keep him from harm, he would dedicate his life to God. God granted Jabez's request, and he lived a peaceful and prosperous life. This event is mentioned in the book of 1 Chronicles, 4:9-10.
12th Century BC
Another reference to Jabez can be found in the apocryphal text, 'The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs'. In this text, Jabez is described as a descendant of Judah, and is said to have lived in the land of Sheba. He is known for his great devotion to God, and is said to have lived a long and blessed life. It is also mentioned that his prayer was heard by God and his request for God's blessings were granted.
Pre-Christian period
Notable people with this name
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