Jair was a biblical judge from the tribe of Manasseh who judged Israel for twenty-two years, according to the Book of Judges. His name means “He enlightens” or “He shines.” The precise years of his birth and death are not specified, and the Bible does not provide information about his parents. His time serving as judge was likely around the year 1118 BC.
Early Life of Jair
Little is known about Jair’s early life. He was from the tribe of Manasseh and lived in Gilead, a region on the east side of the Jordan River.
Biblical Timeline
Jair as a Judge of Israel
Jair is introduced in the Book of Judges as a judge who ruled over Israel for twenty-two years (Judges 10:3-5). During his judgeship, Israel enjoyed a period of peace and prosperity. Jair was noted for having thirty sons who rode on thirty donkeys and controlled thirty towns in Gilead, which were later known as Havoth-jair (Judges 10:4).
Death of Jair
Jair’s death is briefly mentioned in the Book of Judges. After he passed away, he was buried in the city of Kamon (Judges 10:5).