Othniel was a judge of Israel and the son of Kenaz, the younger brother of Caleb. The name “Othniel” means “Lion of God” in Hebrew. While the exact year of Othniel’s birth is not known, he lived during the period of the Judges and judged around the year 1374 BC
Early Life of Othniel
There is limited information available regarding Othniel’s early life. He was a member of the Tribe of Judah, and his father Kenaz was the younger brother of Caleb, a prominent Israelite leader. In 1 Chronicles 4:13, Othniel is mentioned along with his brother Seraiah as sons of Kenaz, establishing his lineage.
Biblical Timeline
First Judge of Israel
Othniel became the first judge of Israel after the death of Joshua. The Israelites had turned away from God and were in the hands of the Mesopotamian king, Cushan-Rishathaim. Othniel led Israel to victory against Cushan-Rishathaim, and Israel enjoyed peace for 40 years under Othniel’s rule (Judges 3:7-11).
Marriage to Achsah
Othniel married Achsah, the daughter of Caleb, after he successfully captured the city of Debir (formerly called Kiriath Sepher). Caleb promised his daughter’s hand in marriage to the one who conquered the city. Othniel, being Caleb’s nephew and a brave warrior, took on the challenge and won Achsah as his wife (Judges 1:12-13; Joshua 15:16-17).
Othniel’s Family and Descendants
According to 1 Chronicles 4:13, Othniel had a son named Hathath, and Hathath’s son was named Meonothai, who was the father of Ophrah. The lineage of Othniel continued through these descendants.
Death of Othniel
The Bible does not provide specific details about the circumstances of Othniel’s death. However, it does mention that after his death, the Israelites once again turned away from God and fell into the hands of the Moabites (Judges 3:12).