Descendants of Midian • Patriarchs to Judges
The Midianites were a nomadic people descended from Midian, a son of Abraham by Keturah. They appear throughout the Old Testament in various roles—sometimes trading with Israel, as when Joseph was sold to Midianite merchants, and at other times opposing Israel. During the wilderness period, they led Israel into sin at Peor, bringing divine judgment. Later, they oppressed Israel during the time of the Judges until God raised up Gideon to defeat them. The Midianites play a recurring role as both neighbors and adversaries of Israel.
Father: Midian
Related: Midian, Abraham, Keturah, Cozbi, Zur, Moses, Gideon, Ishmaelites, Israelites, Amalekites