Women in the Bible – Azubah – Caleb's Wife

Women in the Bible – Azubah – Caleb's Wife

1 Chronicles 2:18-20 (ESV)

Caleb the son of Hezron fathered children by his wife Azubah, and by Jerioth; and these were her sons: Jesher, Shobab, and Ardon. When Azubah died, Caleb married Ephrath, who bore him Hur. Hur fathered Uri, and Uri fathered Bezalel.

From what we know about Caleb, he had only one wife at a time. After his first wife died he married another. That was not common for that day. Azubah was Caleb’s first wife.

Azubah comes from the Hebrew word ʿazûbâ which means “desertion (of inhabitants), forsaking.

This passage in Chronicles is rather strange. Earlier in the chapter Caleb is referred to as Chelubai.

1 Chronicles 2:9 (ESV)

The sons of Hezron that were born to him: Jerahmeel, Ram, and Chelubai.

Then, when the wives and children of Caleb are given in verses 18-20, the writer appears to use two different names when referring to Azubah. The name Jerioth is also mentioned. I read many commentaries on this and there are about as many opinions as there are commentaries. Some think Jerioth was another wife of Caleb. Some think Jerioth was a concubine, some a maidservant of Azubah that bore Caleb’s children (like Hagar did for Sarah). Others think Jerioth was a daughter of Caleb by Azubah.

Because of the two-name references in this chapter I’m inclined to believe Azubah and Jerioth are the same person. Jerioth means “curtains.” It’s possible that someone (possibly Caleb) changed her name. After all, being married to “desertion” may not have been optimal. Perhaps she had long, flowing hair that resembled curtains. Obviously, we will never know.

Azubah was great-great-…-great aunt to King David. She had three sons. She died young. Apparently she had a husband in Caleb that honored her by being monogamous. Her name is forever remembered by being included in the Book. Let her be a testament to the truth that a name does not define you. In Azubah’s case, she overcame being “deserted” and became a wife, mother, and distant relative of one of the greatest kings of Israel.

What about you? Who do other “know” you to be? Determine now that in Christ you can become all that God has intended for you. Embrace your destiny and move forward.