The Seven Names of Yitro

People’s names in the Torah all have a special meaning. 

In the case of Jethro – in Hebrew Yitro – there are seven names and seven meanings, according to rabbinic midrash. 

His two main names are connected with a root that means “additional” – he was “Yitro” because he performed extra good deeds and “Yeter” because he caused extra texts to enter the Torah. 

He was “Chovav” because he was beloved of God, “Re’u’el” because he was God’s friend, “Chever” because he was a close associate of the Almighty, “Puti’el” because he abandoned idolatry, and “Keni” because he was zealous for God.

For more kabbalistic learning on Yitro's name go to Chief of the Converts