The story of Jonah is one of the most well-known stories in the Bible. Most people remember Jonah as the man who was swallowed by a great fish or whale. But many do not know much about his background. One important question often asked is: Who is the father of Jonah in the Bible? This article will answer that question and also provide a clear picture of Jonah’s family, his mission, and why his story still matters today. We will look at what the Bible says and also explore some historical and spiritual insights.
The Name of Jonah’s Father
The Bible tells us that Jonah’s father’s name is Amittai. This is mentioned directly in the book of Jonah. In Jonah 1:1, the Bible says:
“Now the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying…”
This verse clearly names Jonah as the “son of Amittai.” This tells us that Amittai is his father. There is no debate about this in the biblical text. The name is stated simply and directly. Amittai is only mentioned a few times in the Bible, and always in relation to his son Jonah.
Who Was Amittai?
While the Bible gives us the name of Jonah’s father, it does not give many details about him. Amittai is not a well-known figure like Abraham, Moses, or David. We do not read about his life, his deeds, or his background. The Bible simply names him as Jonah’s father. However, we can still learn a few things from the name “Amittai” and the time in which he lived.
The Meaning of the Name “Amittai”
In Hebrew, names have deep meanings. The name “Amittai” comes from the Hebrew word “emet,” which means truth or faithfulness. So, Amittai means something like “my truth” or “truthful one.” This could mean that Jonah came from a family that valued truth and faith in God. Even though we don’t know much about Amittai’s actions, his name suggests a person who was honest and faithful.
The Time Period of Amittai
We know from the Bible that Jonah lived during the time of King Jeroboam II. This is mentioned in 2 Kings 14:25:
“He restored the coast of Israel from the entering of Hamath unto the sea of the plain, according to the word of the Lord God of Israel, which he spake by the hand of his servant Jonah, the son of Amittai, the prophet, which was of Gath-hepher.”
This verse shows that Jonah, son of Amittai, was a prophet during the reign of Jeroboam II. Jeroboam II ruled Israel around 786 to 746 BC. So, we can place Amittai as a man who lived before or during that time. He likely raised Jonah during the early part of that century.
The Town of Jonah and His Family
The Bible tells us where Jonah came from. In the verse above, 2 Kings 14:25, it says Jonah was from Gath-hepher. This is a small town in the region of Galilee, in the northern part of Israel. Today, this area is near the modern city of Nazareth.
This means Jonah and his father Amittai were likely from a small, rural community. They were part of the northern kingdom of Israel, not Judah. This might have influenced Jonah’s worldview and mission, especially since the northern kingdom was known for turning away from God at times.
Jonah’s Calling and How His Father May Have Influenced Him
We are not told directly how Amittai influenced Jonah. But as a father, Amittai would have been an important figure in Jonah’s life. If his name really reflects his character, then he may have raised Jonah to love the truth and to listen to God.
Jonah became a prophet—a person who hears from God and speaks to the people. That is not a small role. It shows that Jonah likely grew up in a home where God’s word was respected. Jonah’s willingness to listen to God (even though he later ran away) shows that he had some understanding of God’s voice. That could have come from his upbringing, possibly influenced by Amittai.
Jonah’s Role as a Prophet
Jonah was a unique prophet. Most prophets in the Bible spoke to the people of Israel or Judah. But Jonah was sent to a foreign nation—to the city of Nineveh in Assyria. God told him to go and warn the people of Nineveh to repent from their sins. At first, Jonah did not want to go. He ran in the opposite direction. But after being swallowed by a great fish and then saved, Jonah obeyed God and delivered the message.
His message was simple: repent or face judgment. The people of Nineveh listened, and God spared them. This made Jonah angry, because he wanted justice, not mercy. But God showed Jonah that His mercy is for all people, not just Israel.
The Spiritual Lesson Behind Jonah’s Father
Although Amittai is not the main focus of the story, he serves an important role. As Jonah’s father, he reminds us that every person has a background. Every prophet, every man or woman of God, came from somewhere. Their family, their town, their culture—these things shaped who they became.
Amittai may have been a quiet man. He may have never traveled far or preached to nations. But he raised a son who did. That shows us that even if our names are not known, we can still play a big role in God’s plan.
Other Mentions of Amittai in the Bible
There are only two times the name Amittai is mentioned in the Bible:
- Jonah 1:1 – “Now the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the son of Amittai…”
- 2 Kings 14:25 – “…which he spake by the hand of his servant Jonah, the son of Amittai…”
Both times, Amittai is mentioned only to identify Jonah. There are no stories or extra details about Amittai himself. This tells us that his role in Scripture is mostly as a reference point. But even small mentions matter. The Bible does not waste words. If Amittai is mentioned, it is for a reason.
Lessons We Can Learn From This
1. Every Person Has a Place in God’s Story
Amittai was not a prophet or a king, but his name is in the Bible. Why? Because his son had a mission. This shows that we all have a part to play. Some people are leaders; others are supporters. Both are important.
2. Faithfulness Matters, Even in Quiet Lives
Amittai’s name means “truth” or “faithful.” That alone tells us something about him. Even if he didn’t perform miracles or preach sermons, he might have lived a quiet life of faith. That kind of life still honors God.
3. Parents Influence the Future
As Jonah’s father, Amittai likely taught Jonah many things. The way we raise children can affect the future in ways we cannot imagine. Jonah’s actions reached an entire city. Perhaps his father had a part in shaping his character and beliefs.
Conclusion
So, who is the father of Jonah in the Bible? The answer is Amittai. While we do not know much about him, his name and role remind us of important truths. He was likely a faithful man. He raised a son who became a prophet. And through his son, God changed the hearts of a wicked city. That’s a powerful legacy for a man who is only mentioned twice in the Bible.
The story of Amittai and Jonah also reminds us that God uses both the known and the unknown. He works through famous prophets and quiet parents. Everyone has a purpose. Even if our names are only mentioned once, God sees and remembers.
For those who want to learn more about Jonah and his father Amittai, reading the book of Jonah and 2 Kings chapter 14 is a great place to start. These books are full of truth, just like the name Amittai suggests.
We may never know all the details about Amittai, but his presence in Scripture is enough to teach us this: Faithfulness, even in small roles, is precious to God.
You Might Be Interested In:
