What was Midianites?
The Midianites were a nomadic and semi-nomadic people who descended from Midian, a son of Abraham by his concubine Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2). The Hebrew name “Midian” (מִדְיָן Midyān) likely means “strife” or “judgment,” which is fitting given the historical conflicts associated with this group throughout biblical history. The Midianites were thus distant relatives of the Israelites, though often in conflict with them. They appear at various critical moments in biblical history, including the story of Joseph (Genesis 37), Moses’ time in the wilderness (Exodus 2), and the period of the Judges (Judges 6-8).
The Midianites lived primarily in the desert regions east and south of Canaan, in what is now modern-day northwestern Arabia. They were known for trading, herding livestock, and their mobile tent-dwelling lifestyle. Sometimes they appear allied with the Ishmaelites, another group descended from Abraham, indicating shared lineage and occasional cooperation.
Biblical References and Narrative
In the Story of Joseph – Genesis 37
The Midianites are introduced prominently in Genesis 37:28:
“So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.” (NIV)
This passage creates a complex picture involving both Midianites and Ishmaelites. It appears they were either part of a joint caravan or closely connected trade groups. Joseph‘s brothers, motivated by jealousy, sold him to these traders who took him down to Egypt. This incident ultimately became part of God’s providential plan to raise Joseph as a leader in Egypt (Genesis 45:5-8).
In the Life of Moses – Exodus 2–3
After fleeing Egypt, Moses took refuge in the land of Midian (Exodus 2:15). There, he married Zipporah, the daughter of Reuel/Jethro, a priest of Midian (Exodus 2:16-21). The Midianites at this point were portrayed as hospitable, and Jethro would later counsel Moses on leadership structure (Exodus 18:13-27). This shows that some Midianites feared God and were beneficial to Israel.
During the Time of the Judges – Judges 6–8
Later, the Midianites became oppressors of Israel. In Judges 6-8, they ravaged the land, stealing crops and livestock. God raised up Gideon to defeat them miraculously with only 300 men (Judges 7:7). Their defeat was a sign of God‘s power and Israel’s need to trust Him rather than military might.
Theological Significance
The Midianites reflect both the tension of human kinship and spiritual division. As descendants of Abraham, they shared some heritage with Israel but frequently acted as enemies of God‘s people. This dual identity shows how ethnic closeness does not guarantee covenant faithfulness.
Their recurring presence reveals how God works through and despite human sin and foreign nations to fulfill His redemptive plan. Joseph’s sale by Midianites led to God’s provision for Israel in Egypt. Moses’ Midianite connections provided refuge and wisdom. And their eventual defeat under Gideon demonstrated God‘s deliverance.
How the Midianites Point to Jesus and the Gospel
Though the Midianites often opposed Israel, their role in Joseph’s journey to Egypt illustrates how God uses even enemies to bring about salvation. Joseph’s descent into Egypt was a shadow of Christ’s own humility and suffering for a greater purpose (Philippians 2:5-11).
Additionally, Moses‘ marriage into a Midianite family and his time in Midian foreshadow the inclusion of Gentiles in God‘s plan. The Gospel would later embrace people from every tribe and tongue—including former enemies (Ephesians 2:11-16).
Gideon’s victory over the Midianites through unlikely means—small numbers and unconventional tactics—points to God’s pattern of saving through weakness, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who triumphed through the cross.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations
The Midianites, though often antagonistic, were instruments in God‘s sovereign design. They were part of Joseph’s journey and Moses‘ preparation.
2. Judgment and Mercy
The Midianites experienced both kindness (as in Moses’ time) and judgment (in Gideon’s era). This reflects God‘s balance of justice and grace.
3. The Faithfulness of God
In contrast to the unfaithful Midianites, God remained faithful to His covenant with Israel, using even adverse circumstances for His redemptive purposes.
4. God’s Use of the Unexpected
Through weak vessels like Gideon and through hostile nations like the Midianites, God worked out His redemptive plan—foreshadowing the unexpected nature of Christ’s kingdom.
Reflection Questions
- How does the story of Joseph’s sale by the Midianites encourage you to trust God in painful circumstances?
- What does Moses’ relationship with Jethro teach us about hospitality and wisdom from outsiders?
- How does Gideon‘s victory over the Midianites challenge our dependence on human strength?
- In what ways do the Midianites reflect the need for spiritual discernment even among those with a shared heritage?
- How do you see God’s grace at work in your own life through unlikely or difficult people?
The story of the Midianites reveals the complex relationship between God’s people and the nations around them. While often a source of trouble, the Midianites were also used by God in meaningful ways, reminding Christians that God is at work even through adversities—and that the ultimate victory comes through the Savior, Jesus Christ.