Welcome to our A-Z list of nations / people groups in the Bible!
Disclaimer: This list includes the most widely accepted meanings of names. However, some interpretations are still being debated among scholars as new insights continue to emerge.
Saw an error or a missing name? Drop us a line to let us know! Be sure to also check out our full list of biblical names for places and people (individuals).
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A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
A
Amalekites
Original (Hebrew): עֲמָלֵקִי (ʿAmālēqî)
Meaning: Possibly “dweller in the valley”
First Appearance: Genesis 14:7
Description: A nomadic people who attacked the Israelites in the wilderness after the Exodus from Egypt. They were descendants of Amalek, grandson of Esau. God commanded Saul to completely destroy them (1 Samuel 15) because of their unprovoked attack on Israel when they were vulnerable. Their ongoing hostility toward Israel made them symbolic enemies in biblical history.
Ammonites
Original (Hebrew): עַמּוֹנִי (ʿAmmônî)
Meaning: Descendants of Ben-Ammi (“son of my people”)
First Appearance: Genesis 19:38
Description: A people who lived east of the Jordan River, descended from Ben-Ammi, the son of Lot through his younger daughter. They were often in conflict with the Israelites. Their capital city was Rabbah (modern Amman, Jordan). The Ammonites worshipped the god Molech, which involved a brutal form of sacrifice condemned in the Bible. Judges records their oppression of Israel, and they were later defeated by King David.
Amorites
Original (Hebrew): אֱמֹרִי (ʾĔmōrî)
Meaning: Possibly “highlander” or “the prominent ones”
First Appearance: Genesis 10:16
Description: One of the most powerful ancient Canaanite peoples who lived in the hill country of Palestine. They had kingdoms on both sides of the Jordan River before Israel’s conquest. Sihon and Og were Amorite kings defeated by Moses. They were often used as a general term for all the inhabitants of Canaan. Abraham interacted with Amorites in Genesis, and they were among the nations Israel was commanded to drive out of the Promised Land.
Arameans
Original (Hebrew): אֲרַמִּי (ʾĂrammî)
Meaning: People of Aram (“high” or “exalted”)
First Appearance: Genesis 25:20 (as Aram)
Description: People who inhabited various kingdoms in Syria and upper Mesopotamia. Jacob is called “a wandering Aramean” in Deuteronomy 26:5. David fought against the Arameans of Damascus. Naaman the Aramean was healed of leprosy by Elisha. They spoke Aramaic, which later became the common language of the Near East and parts of the Bible. Their main city was Damascus, and they frequently warred with Israel during the divided kingdom period.
Asherites
Original (Hebrew): אָשֵׁרִי (ʾĀšērî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Asher (“happy” or “blessed”)
First Appearance: Numbers 1:40-41
Description: Members of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Asher, Jacob’s son through Zilpah. Their territory was in western Galilee along the Mediterranean coast. Jacob blessed them saying their “food would be rich” and they would “yield royal delicacies.” The prophetess Anna, who recognized the infant Jesus in the temple, was from the tribe of Asher.
Assyrians
Original (Hebrew): אַשּׁוּר (ʾAššûr)
Meaning: People of Ashur (their national deity)
First Appearance: Genesis 10:11
Description: A powerful empire centered in northern Mesopotamia (modern Iraq). They conquered the northern kingdom of Israel in 722 BC and deported its population. Sennacherib’s Assyrian army besieged Jerusalem but was miraculously defeated during Hezekiah’s reign. The prophet Jonah was sent to their capital, Nineveh. The Assyrians were known for their military might, cruelty to conquered peoples, and advanced administrative systems. Prophets like Isaiah and Nahum spoke extensively about them.
B
Babylonians
Original (Akkadian): Bābilāyu
Meaning: People of “the gate of god”
First Appearance: 2 Kings 20:12 (as Babylon)
Description: Inhabitants of the ancient city of Babylon and its empire in Mesopotamia (modern Iraq). First mentioned in Genesis 10:10 as part of Nimrod’s kingdom, Babylon became a dominant empire under Nebuchadnezzar, conquering Jerusalem in 586 BC, destroying Solomon’s Temple, and exiling the Jews. This exile, lasting about 70 years, fulfilled Jeremiah’s prophecy (Jeremiah 25:11-12). Daniel served in the Babylonian court under Nebuchadnezzar. Babylon symbolizes idolatry, pride, and opposition to God throughout the Bible, from the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11) to its prophetic destruction in Revelation (Revelation 17-18).
Benjamites
Original (Hebrew): בִּנְיָמִינִי (Binyāmînî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Benjamin (“son of the right hand”)
First Appearance: Judges 3:15
Description: Members of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Benjamin, Jacob’s youngest son. Their territory included Jerusalem. They nearly faced extinction after a civil war (Judges 19-21). The tribe produced Israel’s first king, Saul, and later the apostle Paul identified himself as a Benjamite. Despite being small, they were known for their fierce warriors described as left-handed and skilled with slings.
Buzites
Original (Hebrew): בּוּזִי (Bûzî)
Meaning: Descendants of Buz
First Appearance: Genesis 22:21 (as Buz)
Description: People descended from Buz, the son of Nahor (Abraham’s brother). Elihu, one of Job’s friends, is identified as “the son of Barachel the Buzite” (Job 32:2). They were likely a smaller Arabian tribe related to the Israelites through Abraham’s family.
C
Canaanites
Original (Hebrew): כְּנַעֲנִי (Kenaʿanî)
Meaning: Possibly “merchant” or “lowlander”
First Appearance: Genesis 10:18-19
Description: The original inhabitants of Canaan before the Israelite conquest. They were descendants of Canaan, the son of Ham. The Canaanites were not a single nation but a collection of city-states with advanced economies, trade networks, and fortified cities. They practiced idolatry, often including an evil form of sacrifice. God promised their land to Abraham’s descendants through Isaac. Despite their conquest by Israel, their religious influence remained a stumbling block throughout biblical history.
Chaldeans
Original (Hebrew): כַּשְׂדִּים (Kaśdîm)
Meaning: People of Chaldea, southern Babylonia
First Appearance: Genesis 11:28
Description: A people group from southern Mesopotamia who rose to power and established the Neo-Babylonian Empire. Abraham originated from “Ur of the Chaldeans.” They were known for their knowledge of astronomy, astrology, and mathematics. Under Nebuchadnezzar II, they conquered Jerusalem. In Daniel, “Chaldeans” often refers specifically to learned men or wise men who interpreted dreams and omens in the Babylonian court.
Cherethites
Original (Hebrew): כְּרֵתִי (Kərēṯî)
Meaning: Possibly related to Crete
First Appearance: 1 Samuel 30:14
Description: A group often mentioned alongside the Pelethites as King David’s personal bodyguards and elite military forces. They were likely Philistine mercenaries, as the term is sometimes used interchangeably with Philistines. Ezekiel prophesied against them along with the Philistines (Ezekiel 25:16). They remained loyal to David, even during Absalom’s rebellion.
Cushites
Original (Hebrew): כּוּשִׁי (Kûšî)
Meaning: People of Cush (Ethiopia)
First Appearance: Genesis 10:6
Description: Inhabitants of the ancient region of Cush, which included parts of modern Sudan, Ethiopia, and possibly Eritrea. They were descendants of Cush, son of Ham. Moses married a Cushite woman (Numbers 12:1). They were known for their dark skin (Jeremiah 13:23). The Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8 was a high-ranking official of the Cushite kingdom. Cushites were sometimes allies and sometimes enemies of Egypt. Isaiah prophesied they would bring gifts to Jerusalem (Isaiah 18:7), and Zephaniah spoke of worshippers from beyond the rivers of Cush (Zephaniah 3:10).
D
Damascenes
Original (Greek): Δαμασκηνός (Damaskēnos)
Meaning: People of Damascus
First Appearance: 2 Corinthians 11:32
Description: The inhabitants of Damascus, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Damascus was the capital of Aram (Syria) and often engaged in conflict with Israel. Elisha prophesied that Hazael would become king of Damascus. It features prominently in Paul’s conversion story, where he encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus and later escaped the city when the governor under King Aretas sought to arrest him.
Danites
Original (Hebrew): דָּנִי (Dānî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Dan (“judge”)
First Appearance: Numbers 1:38-39
Description: Members of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Dan, son of Jacob and Bilhah. Originally allocated coastal territory, they later migrated north due to pressure from the Philistines. They were known for their craftsmanship and artisans. Samson was a famous Danite judge. The tribe unfortunately became associated with idolatry after setting up a graven image in their northern territory (Judges 18).
Dedanites
Original (Hebrew): דְּדָנִים (Dəḏānîm)
Meaning: Descendants of Dedan
First Appearance: Genesis 10:7 (as Dedan)
Description: An Arabian tribe descended from Dedan, grandson of Cush. They were traders associated with Sheba and were known for their caravans. Isaiah and Ezekiel mention them in prophecies. They lived in northwestern Arabia and were involved in the incense trade routes.
E
Edomites
Original (Hebrew): אֱדוֹמִי (ʾĔdômî)
Meaning: “Red ones” (associated with Esau’s ruddy complexion)
First Appearance: Genesis 36:9
Description: Descendants of Esau, Jacob’s twin brother, who settled in the mountainous region south of the Dead Sea. They refused to let the Israelites pass through their territory during the Exodus. Though related to Israelites, they maintained hostile relations throughout much of biblical history. King Herod the Great had Edomite ancestry. The prophet Obadiah specifically addressed God’s judgment against Edom for their violence against their “brother Jacob.”
Egyptians
Original (Hebrew): מִצְרִי (Miṣrî)
Meaning: People of Egypt (possibly “land of the soul of Ptah”)
First Appearance: Genesis 12:12
Description: The inhabitants of ancient Egypt along the Nile River. Egypt plays a crucial role in biblical history as the place where the Israelites were enslaved for 430 years before the Exodus. Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and even Jesus (as a child) all spent time in Egypt. The nation symbolized both worldly power and refuge in different biblical contexts. Despite their history of oppression, God instructed Israelites not to abhor Egyptians (Deuteronomy 23:7).
Ekronites
Original (Hebrew): עֶקְרוֹנִי (ʿEqrônî)
Meaning: People of Ekron
First Appearance: Joshua 13:3
Description: Inhabitants of Ekron, one of the five major Philistine cities. When the Philistines captured the Ark of the Covenant, it was brought to Ekron, causing plagues among the people. The city was known for its worship of Baal-Zebub, whom King Ahaziah consulted when he was ill, prompting Elijah’s rebuke.
Elamites
Original (Hebrew): עֵילָמִי (ʿÊlāmî)
Meaning: People of Elam
First Appearance: Genesis 10:22 (as Elam)
Description: Inhabitants of ancient Elam, a region east of Mesopotamia in what is now southwestern Iran. They are listed among Noah’s descendants. An Elamite king, Chedorlaomer, was part of the coalition Abraham defeated. They were present in Jerusalem at Pentecost (Acts 2:9). The prophet Jeremiah predicted their defeat, but also their eventual restoration.
Ephraimites
Original (Hebrew): אֶפְרַיְמִי (ʾEp̄raymî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Ephraim (“fruitful”)
First Appearance: Judges 12:5
Description: Members of one of the largest tribes of Israel, descended from Ephraim, Joseph’s son. They occupied the central hill country of Canaan. After the kingdom divided, Ephraim became the dominant tribe of the northern kingdom, so much so that “Ephraim” often refers to the entire northern kingdom in prophetic literature. They were known for their pride and jealousy. They couldn’t pronounce “Shibboleth” correctly, which led to their identification and defeat by Jephthah.
F
No names that begin with F.
G
Gadites
Original (Hebrew): גָּדִי (Gāḏî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Gad (“fortune”)
First Appearance: Numbers 1:24-25
Description: Members of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Gad, Jacob’s son through Zilpah. They settled east of the Jordan River and were known as skilled warriors. Moses described them as “a lion’s cub, tearing arm and scalp” (Deuteronomy 33:20). They, along with Reuben and half of Manasseh, requested land east of the Jordan but promised to help conquer Canaan before settling there.
Galatians
Original (Greek): Γαλάται (Galatai)
Meaning: People of Galatia
First Appearance: Acts 16:6
Description: Inhabitants of Galatia, a region in central Asia Minor (modern Turkey). They were Celtic people who migrated there in the 3rd century BC. Paul established churches in Galatia during his missionary journeys and later wrote the epistle to the Galatians, addressing their tendency to abandon grace for legalism. The churches of Galatia participated in Paul’s collection for the Jerusalem church.
Galileans
Original (Greek): Γαλιλαῖος (Galilaios)
Meaning: People from Galilee (“circle” or “region”)
First Appearance: Matthew 26:69
Description: Inhabitants of the northern region of Israel where Jesus spent most of His ministry. Galileans had a distinctive accent that identified Peter as a follower of Jesus. They were often looked down upon by Judeans as less sophisticated and more influenced by Gentile culture. However, Jesus chose His disciples primarily from this region, and after His resurrection, He instructed them to meet Him in Galilee. The area was fertile and densely populated with many fishing villages around the Sea of Galilee.
Gazites
Original (Hebrew): עַזָּתִי (ʿAzzāṯî)
Meaning: People of Gaza
First Appearance: Joshua 13:3
Description: Inhabitants of Gaza, the southernmost of the five major Philistine cities. Samson carried off the gates of Gaza and later was imprisoned and died there. The city was an important trade center on the route between Egypt and Mesopotamia. The prophets often included Gaza in judgments against Philistia.
Gergesenes/Gadarenes
Original (Greek): Γεργεσηνοί (Gergesēnoi)/Γαδαρηνοί (Gadarēnoi)
Meaning: People of Gergesa/Gadara
First Appearance: Matthew 8:28
Description: Inhabitants of the region around Gadara or Gergesa, cities on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus cast demons out of one or two men in their territory, sending the demons into a herd of pigs that rushed into the lake. Afterward, the people asked Jesus to leave their region.
Gibeonites
Original (Hebrew): גִּבְעֹנִי (Giḇʿōnî)
Meaning: People of Gibeon
First Appearance: Joshua 9:3-27
Description: Inhabitants of a Hivite city who tricked Joshua with worn clothes and stale bread, pretending to be from a distant land to secure a peace treaty. When their deception was discovered, they were made woodcutters and water carriers for the Israelites. Later, Saul broke this covenant by killing some Gibeonites, resulting in a three-year famine during David’s reign until restitution was made.
Gileadites
Original (Hebrew): גִּלְעָדִי (Gilʿāḏî)
Meaning: People of Gilead
First Appearance: Judges 10:3
Description: Inhabitants of Gilead, a mountainous region east of the Jordan River. Jephthah was a Gileadite judge who made a tragic vow regarding his daughter. They used the pronunciation of “Shibboleth” to identify and kill fleeing Ephraimites who couldn’t pronounce it correctly. The region was known for its balm, a medicinal resin.
Girgashites
Original (Hebrew): גִּרְגָּשִׁי (Girgāšî)
Meaning: Unknown
First Appearance: Genesis 10:16
Description: One of the seven nations that inhabited Canaan before the Israelite conquest. They are consistently listed among the peoples God promised to drive out before Israel. Little specific information is given about them in Scripture beyond their inclusion in these lists, suggesting they were a smaller or less prominent Canaanite group.
Gittites
Original (Hebrew): גִּתִּי (Gittî)
Meaning: People of Gath
First Appearance: Joshua 13:3
Description: Inhabitants of Gath, one of the five major Philistine cities. Goliath was a famous Gittite warrior. Interestingly, David had loyal Gittite followers, including Ittai who led 600 men in support of David during Absalom’s rebellion. David also spent time in Gath when fleeing from Saul.
Greeks
Original (Greek): Ἕλληνες (Hellēnes)
Meaning: People of Greece/Hellas
First Appearance: Joel 3:6 (as “sons of the Greeks”)
Description: People of Greek ethnicity and culture who became prominent in the biblical world after Alexander the Great’s conquests. In New Testament times, “Greek” often referred to any Gentile influenced by Greek culture. Paul preached to both Jews and Greeks, and adapted his approach when speaking to the philosophers in Athens. The New Testament was written in Greek, the common language of the eastern Mediterranean in the first century.
H
Hebrews
Original (Hebrew): עִבְרִי (ʿIḇrî)
Meaning: Possibly “one from beyond” or descendants of Eber
First Appearance: Genesis 14:13
Description: The ethnic designation for the Israelites, especially used when distinguishing them from other peoples or when non-Israelites referred to them. Abraham was first called “a Hebrew.” The term was prominent during the Egyptian captivity and Exodus. The Hebrew language was the original language of most of the Old Testament. Paul identified himself as “a Hebrew of Hebrews” (Philippians 3:5), emphasizing his pure Jewish lineage and cultural identity.
Hittites
Original (Hebrew): חִתִּי (Ḥittî)
Meaning: Descendants of Heth
First Appearance: Genesis 15:20
Description: A powerful ancient people who established an empire centered in Anatolia (modern Turkey). In the Bible, they were one of the Canaanite peoples living in the Promised Land. Abraham purchased the cave of Machpelah from Ephron the Hittite. Uriah, the husband of Bathsheba, was a Hittite. Solomon engaged in trade with Hittite kings. They were known for their advanced military technology and innovative peace treaties, which may have influenced biblical covenant language.
Hivites
Original (Hebrew): חִוִּי (Ḥiwwî)
Meaning: Possibly “villagers”
First Appearance: Genesis 10:17
Description: One of the Canaanite peoples living in the central hill country and Lebanon. The Gibeonites who deceived Joshua were Hivites. Hamor, father of Shechem who defiled Dinah, was a Hivite. They were among the nations the Israelites failed to drive out completely, and with whom they intermarried despite divine prohibitions.
Horites
Original (Hebrew): חֹרִי (Ḥōrî)
Meaning: Possibly “cave-dwellers”
First Appearance: Genesis 14:6
Description: The original inhabitants of Seir (Edom) before being displaced by the descendants of Esau. They are mentioned in the list of nations Abraham’s allies defeated. Some scholars identify them with the Hurrians known from ancient Near Eastern records. They may be related to the Hivites.
I
Ishmaelites
Original (Hebrew): יִשְׁמְעֵאלִי (Yišməʿēlî)
Meaning: Descendants of Ishmael, “God hears”
First Appearance: Genesis 37:25
Description: Descendants of Ishmael, Abraham’s son through Hagar. God promised Ishmael would become a “great nation” with twelve princes. They lived in the desert regions from Egypt to northern Arabia. Joseph was sold to Ishmaelite traders who took him to Egypt. They were known as nomadic traders and later became associated with Arab peoples. Despite not being the covenant line, God blessed them with numerous descendants as He had promised Abraham.
Israelites
Original (Hebrew): יִשְׂרְאֵלִי (Yiśrəʾēlî)
Meaning: Descendants of Israel (Jacob), “one who struggles with God”
First Appearance: Exodus 9:7
Description: The covenant people descended from Jacob (whose name was changed to Israel), organized into twelve tribes. They were enslaved in Egypt, delivered through Moses, and given the Promised Land under Joshua. Their history includes the period of judges, the united monarchy under Saul, David, and Solomon, and the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah. The term encompasses the entire Jewish nation as God’s chosen people with whom He established His covenant.
Issacharites
Original (Hebrew): יִשָּׂשכָרִי (Yiśśāḵārî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Issachar (“reward” or “man of hire”)
First Appearance: Numbers 1:28-29
Description: Members of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Issachar, Jacob’s son through Leah. Their territory was in the fertile Jezreel Valley. They were characterized in Jacob’s blessing as “a strong donkey” and in Moses’ blessing as “rejoicing in tents.” In Chronicles, they were praised as men who “understood the times and knew what Israel should do.”
Ituraeans
Original (Greek): Ἰτουραῖος (Itouraios)
Meaning: People of Ituraea
First Appearance: Luke 3:1
Description: Inhabitants of a region northeast of Galilee in what is now Syria. They are mentioned once in the Bible, where Luke states that Philip was tetrarch of Ituraea during the ministry of John the Baptist. They were originally an Arab tribe that settled in the area during the Hellenistic period.
J
Jebusites
Original (Hebrew): יְבוּסִי (Yəḇûsî)
Meaning: Possibly “thresher”
First Appearance: Genesis 10:16
Description: A Canaanite tribe that inhabited Jerusalem (originally called Jebus) before David conquered it. They successfully resisted Israelite attempts to capture their stronghold during Joshua’s conquest and the period of Judges. King David eventually captured their city, making it his capital. Araunah the Jebusite sold David the threshing floor that later became the site of Solomon’s Temple.
Jews
Original (Hebrew): יְהוּדִי (Yəhûḏî), Greek: Ἰουδαῖος (Ioudaios)
Meaning: Originally “people of Judah,” later all Israelites
First Appearance: 2 Kings 16:6 (Hebrew), Esther 2:5 (as ethnic identity)
Description: Originally referring to people from the kingdom of Judah, but after the Babylonian exile, it came to designate all Israelites regardless of tribal origin. In the New Testament, “Jews” distinguishes God’s covenant people from Gentiles. Jesus was a Jew, as were all the apostles. Paul wrestled with the relationship between Jewish and Gentile believers in his epistles, especially Romans and Galatians.
Judahites
Original (Hebrew): יְהוּדִי (Yəhûḏî)
Meaning: People of Judah (“praised”)
First Appearance: 2 Kings 16:6
Description: Members of the tribe of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob’s son Judah. Their territory included Jerusalem and Bethlehem. The tribe produced the royal Davidic line from which the Messiah would come. After the division of the kingdom, they formed the southern kingdom of Judah, which survived longer than the northern kingdom of Israel. The term “Jew” eventually derived from “Judahite.”
K
Kadmonites
Original (Hebrew): קַדְמֹנִי (Qadmōnî)
Meaning: “Easterners” or “ancient ones”
First Appearance: Genesis 15:19
Description: One of the peoples whose land was promised to Abraham’s descendants. Little specific information is given about them in Scripture. Their name suggests they lived east of Canaan, possibly in the Syrian or Arabian desert. They are only mentioned once in the Bible, in the list of nations whose land God promised to Abraham.
Kenites
Original (Hebrew): קֵינִי (Qênî)
Meaning: Possibly “smiths” or “metalworkers”
First Appearance: Genesis 15:19
Description: A nomadic tribe associated with the region of Midian. Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, was a Kenite priest. They were skilled metalworkers and lived in the Negev and Sinai regions. Despite being non-Israelites, they maintained friendly relations with Israel. Jael, who killed Sisera (Judges 4), was the wife of Heber the Kenite. King Saul warned the Kenites to separate from the Amalekites before his attack because of their historic friendship with Israel.
Kenizzites
Original (Hebrew): קְנִזִּי (Qənizzî)
Meaning: Possibly “hunter”
First Appearance: Genesis 15:19
Description: One of the peoples whose land was promised to Abraham’s descendants. Caleb, who faithfully spied out the Promised Land, is called “the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite,” suggesting some connection with this group. They may have been an Edomite clan that was later incorporated into the tribe of Judah, as Kenaz was a grandson of Esau.
Korahites
Original (Hebrew): קָרְחִי (Qārəḥî)
Meaning: Descendants of Korah
First Appearance: Exodus 6:24 (as sons of Korah)
Description: Descendants of Korah, a Levite who rebelled against Moses and was punished by God (Numbers 16). Despite this, his descendants survived and became important temple musicians and gatekeepers. They are credited with writing several psalms (42-49, 84-85, 87-88). Their continued service in the temple demonstrates God’s grace extending beyond the sins of ancestors.
L
Levites
Original (Hebrew): לֵוִי (Lēwî)
Meaning: Descendants of Levi (“attached”)
First Appearance: Exodus 6:25
Description: Members of the tribe of Levi, set apart for religious service in Israel. They did not receive tribal territory but were given 48 cities throughout Israel. The Levites served as assistants to the priests (who were also Levites, descended specifically from Aaron). Their duties included maintaining the tabernacle/temple, teaching the law, and providing music. Moses and Aaron were Levites. The tribe remained faithful during the golden calf incident, leading to their sacred duties.
Lubim
Original (Hebrew): לוּבִים (Lûḇîm)
Meaning: People of Libya
First Appearance: 2 Chronicles 12:3
Description: North African people associated with ancient Libya (west of Egypt). They are listed among the military forces of Shishak, king of Egypt, who attacked Jerusalem during Rehoboam’s reign. They also appear in Nahum’s prophecy as allies of Thebes (No-Amon). They were likely Berber peoples of North Africa.
Lydians
Original (Hebrew): לוּדִים (Lûḏîm)
Meaning: Descendants of Lud
First Appearance: Genesis 10:13 (as Ludim)
Description: People associated with ancient Lydia in western Asia Minor (modern Turkey). They appear in prophetic passages, particularly in Ezekiel and Jeremiah, often listed among foreign mercenary soldiers. They were known for their wealth and were credited with inventing coinage. The Lydian kingdom was powerful in the 7th and 6th centuries BC before falling to the Persians.
M
Macedonians
Original (Greek): Μακεδών (Makedōn)
Meaning: People of Macedonia
First Appearance: Acts 16:9
Description: Inhabitants of the northern Greek region of Macedonia. Paul had a vision of a Macedonian man asking for help, leading to his mission in Europe. Key Macedonian believers included Lydia, the Philippian jailer, and the generous churches that supported Paul’s work despite their poverty. Cities like Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea were in Macedonia.
Manassites
Original (Hebrew): מְנַשִּׁי (Mənaššî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Manasseh (“causing to forget”)
First Appearance: Deuteronomy 29:8
Description: Members of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Manasseh, Joseph’s elder son. They were unique in having territory on both sides of the Jordan River—half the tribe settled east of the Jordan, and half settled in central Canaan. Gideon was a famous Manassite judge. The eastern half-tribe was among the first to be taken into Assyrian captivity.
Medanites
Original (Hebrew): מְדָנִים (Məḏānîm)
Meaning: Descendants of Medan
First Appearance: Genesis 25:2 (as Medan)
Description: An Arabian tribe descended from Medan, Abraham’s son through Keturah. They were related to the Midianites and likely lived in northwestern Arabia. They appear to have been traders, as some translations identify them as the merchants who bought Joseph.
Medes
Original (Hebrew): מָדַי (Māḏay)
Meaning: People of Media
First Appearance: Genesis 10:2 (as Madai)
Description: Inhabitants of ancient Media, a region in northwestern Iran. They joined with the Persians to conquer Babylon in 539 BC, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy. Daniel served in the “kingdom of the Medes and Persians.” The “law of the Medes and Persians” could not be changed once decreed. Jews from Media were present at Pentecost. They were known for their horsemanship and archery.
Midianites
Original (Hebrew): מִדְיָנִי (Miḏyānî)
Meaning: Descendants of Midian (“strife”)
First Appearance: Genesis 37:28
Description: A nomadic people descended from Abraham’s son Midian through Keturah. They lived primarily in the northwestern Arabian Peninsula. Moses lived among them after fleeing Egypt and married Zipporah, daughter of a Midianite priest. Later, they became enemies of Israel, oppressing them until Gideon’s victory. Midianite traders purchased Joseph from his brothers. They were known for their camels, gold earrings, and trading activities.
Moabites
Original (Hebrew): מוֹאָבִי (Môʾāḇî)
Meaning: Descendants of Moab (“from father”)
First Appearance: Genesis 19:37
Description: People descended from Moab, the son of Lot through his elder daughter. They lived east of the Dead Sea. Despite being relatives of the Israelites, relations were often hostile, though Ruth the Moabitess became an ancestor of David and Jesus. The Moabites worshipped the god Chemosh. Balak, king of Moab, hired Balaam to curse Israel. Moab was frequently denounced by the prophets for its pride and hostility toward Israel.
N
Nabateans
Original (Greek): Ναβαταῖος (Nabataios)
Meaning: People of Nabataea
First Appearance: 2 Maccabees 5:8 (deuterocanonical)
Description: Although not mentioned by name in the Protestant canon, King Aretas IV mentioned in 2 Corinthians 11:32 was a Nabatean king. The Nabateans were an Arab people who built a trading empire centered at Petra, controlling trade routes throughout the region. They spoke an Aramaic dialect and developed sophisticated water collection systems in their desert environment.
Naphtali
Original (Hebrew): נַפְתָּלִי (Nap̄tālî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Naphtali (“my struggle”)
First Appearance: Numbers 1:42-43
Description: Members of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, Jacob’s son through Bilhah. Their territory was in northern Galilee, including the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. The tribe was known for its eloquence and poetic expression. The region was first to suffer Assyrian invasion (Isaiah 9:1) but was also promised restoration as the place where the Messiah would shine His light (fulfilled in Jesus’ ministry in Galilee).
Nazarenes
Original (Greek): Ναζωραῖος (Nazōraios)
Meaning: People from Nazareth or followers of Jesus
First Appearance: Matthew 2:23
Description: Originally referring to people from Nazareth in Galilee, including Jesus who was called “Jesus of Nazareth” or “the Nazarene.” Later, it became an early name for Christians (Acts 24:5). The term fulfilled prophecy that the Messiah would be called a Nazarene, possibly connecting to the Hebrew “netzer” (branch) in Isaiah’s messianic prophecies.
Nicolaitans
Original (Greek): Νικολαϊτῶν (Nikolaitōn)
Meaning: Followers of Nicolas (possibly)
First Appearance: Revelation 2:6
Description: A heretical group mentioned in Revelation as active in the churches of Ephesus and Pergamum. Their practices were condemned by Jesus in His messages to these churches. They apparently promoted compromise with pagan practices and sexual immorality. Some Church Fathers connected them to Nicolas, one of the seven chosen in Acts 6, but this is uncertain.
Ninevites
Original (Hebrew): אַנְשֵׁי נִינְוֵה (ʾanšê nînəwēh)
Meaning: People of Nineveh
First Appearance: Genesis 10:11-12 (as Nineveh)
Description: Inhabitants of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire. The prophet Jonah was sent to preach to them, and they repented at his message, averting God’s judgment temporarily. Jesus cited their repentance as a rebuke to the unbelieving people of His day. Nineveh was eventually destroyed in 612 BC as prophesied by Nahum. The city was known for its cruelty, size, and splendor as one of the greatest cities of the ancient world.
O
Ophir
Original (Hebrew): אוֹפִיר (ʾÔp̄îr)
Meaning: Uncertain
First Appearance: Genesis 10:29
Description: While primarily a place rather than a people group, Ophir was a land known for its fine gold. Solomon’s ships traveled to Ophir, returning with gold, precious stones, and exotic woods. The journey took three years, suggesting it was distant. Various locations have been proposed, including southern Arabia, East Africa, or India. The term “gold of Ophir” became proverbial for the finest quality gold in the ancient world.
P
Parthians
Original (Greek): Πάρθοι (Parthoi)
Meaning: People of Parthia
First Appearance: Acts 2:9
Description: Inhabitants of the Parthian Empire, which controlled Persia and neighboring regions, rivaling Rome for power in the ancient world. Jews from Parthia were present in Jerusalem at Pentecost. The Parthians were known for their mounted archers who could shoot while retreating (the “Parthian shot”). Their empire controlled the eastern portions of the former Persian Empire during New Testament times.
Pelethites
Original (Hebrew): פְּלֵתִי (Pəlēṯî)
Meaning: Unknown
First Appearance: 2 Samuel 8:18
Description: A group that, along with the Cherethites, formed David’s personal bodyguard and elite military forces. They were likely Philistine mercenaries who had pledged loyalty to David. They remained loyal to David during Absalom’s rebellion and to Solomon during Adonijah’s attempted coup. They may have been from Gaza or another Philistine city.
Perizzites
Original (Hebrew): פְּרִזִּי (Pərizzî)
Meaning: Possibly “villagers” or “rural dwellers”
First Appearance: Genesis 13:7
Description: One of the Canaanite peoples living in the Promised Land before the Israelite conquest. They dwelt in the hill country of central Palestine. Unlike some other groups, they may represent a social class (rural villagers) rather than an ethnic group. Abraham encountered them when he first entered Canaan. They were among the nations God promised to drive out before Israel, and Joshua later confirmed they were still present during the conquest.
Persians
Original (Hebrew): פָּרַס (Pāras)
Meaning: People of Persia (Iran)
First Appearance: 2 Chronicles 36:20
Description: People of the Persian Empire, which conquered Babylon in 539 BC. Under Cyrus the Great, they allowed the Jews to return from exile and rebuild the Temple. The books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Daniel, Haggai, and Zechariah all take place partly during Persian rule. King Darius helped fund the rebuilding of the Temple. Persian kings mentioned in the Bible include Cyrus, Darius, Xerxes (Ahasuerus), and Artaxerxes.
Pharisees
Original (Greek): Φαρισαῖοι (Pharisaioi)
Meaning: Possibly “separated ones”
First Appearance: Matthew 3:7
Description: A prominent Jewish sect during the Second Temple period known for their strict interpretation of the Law and adherence to oral traditions. They emphasized proper observance of purity laws, tithing, and Sabbath regulations. While Jesus criticized their legalism and hypocrisy, they shared theological beliefs with early Christianity including the resurrection, angels, and afterlife. Some Pharisees became Christians, including Paul. They were respected by common people and, unlike the Sadducees, survived the destruction of the Temple.
Philistines
Original (Hebrew): פְּלִשְׁתִּים (Pəlištîm)
Meaning: Possibly “migrants” or “invaders”
First Appearance: Genesis 10:14
Description: A non-Semitic seafaring people who settled along the Mediterranean coast of Canaan. They were Israel’s persistent enemies throughout the period of the Judges and early monarchy. The name “Palestine” derives from them. They had five major cities: Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Ekron, and Gath. Famous conflicts include Samson’s battles, Samuel’s victory at Mizpah, and David’s defeat of Goliath. They were known for their military technology, including iron weapons.
Phoenicians
Original (Greek): Φοίνικες (Phoinikes)
Meaning: Possibly “purple people” (for their purple dye industry)
First Appearance: Acts 11:19 (as Phoenicia)
Description: Maritime trading people who lived along the coast of modern Lebanon and northern Israel. Though not named directly in the Old Testament, they are the “Sidonians” or people of “Tyre and Sidon.” King Hiram of Tyre supplied materials and craftsmen for Solomon’s Temple. They were known for their seafaring skills, alphabet (basis of Greek and Latin alphabets), and purple dye industry. The Bible mentions their gods Baal and Asherah, which became snares for Israel.
Phrygians
Original (Greek): Φρύγες (Phryges)
Meaning: People of Phrygia
First Appearance: Acts 2:10
Description: Inhabitants of Phrygia, a region in central Asia Minor (modern Turkey). Jews from Phrygia were present at Pentecost. Paul traveled through the region during his missionary journeys. The churches addressed in Colossians were in or near Phrygian territory. The region was known for its textiles and distinctive musical mode.
Q
Qedarites
Original (Hebrew): קֵדָר (Qēḏār)
Meaning: “Dark” or “powerful”
First Appearance: Genesis 25:13
Description: An Arab tribe descended from Kedar, the second son of Ishmael. They were nomadic shepherds who lived in the northern Arabian desert. Solomon mentions the “tents of Kedar” as black tents made of goat hair. Isaiah prophesied both judgment against them and their eventual inclusion in praising God. They were known for their skill as archers and their trade in livestock, particularly sheep and goats.
R
Rephaim
Original (Hebrew): רְפָאִים (Rəp̄āʾîm)
Meaning: Possibly “terrible ones” or “giants”
First Appearance: Genesis 14:5
Description: An ancient people of unusual height who lived in Canaan and Transjordan before the Israelite conquest. Og, king of Bashan, was described as the last of the Rephaim, with a bed nine cubits long. The Valley of Rephaim near Jerusalem was named after them. Various tribes like the Emim and Zamzummim were described as being like the Rephaim. They were among the peoples defeated by Chedorlaomer and his allies.
Reubenites
Original (Hebrew): רְאוּבֵנִי (Rəʾûḇēnî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Reuben (“behold, a son”)
First Appearance: Numbers 26:7
Description: Members of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Reuben, Jacob’s firstborn son through Leah. Despite being the firstborn, Reuben lost his birthright due to his sin with his father’s concubine. The tribe settled east of the Jordan River and was known for raising livestock. They, along with Gad and half of Manasseh, were the first tribes taken into captivity by the Assyrians. Moses blessed them saying, “Let Reuben live and not die, nor his men be few.”
Romans
Original (Greek): Ῥωμαῖος (Rhōmaios)
Meaning: Citizens of Rome
First Appearance: John 11:48
Description: The dominant world power during New Testament times. They controlled Judea through appointed governors like Pontius Pilate. Paul was a Roman citizen by birth, which gave him certain legal protections. Roman soldiers crucified Jesus, and later the Roman Empire became the context for the spread of early Christianity. The Romans destroyed Jerusalem and the Temple in 70 AD as Jesus had prophesied. Paul’s letter to the Romans addresses the Christian community in the empire’s capital.
S
Sabeans
Original (Hebrew): שְׁבָא (Šəḇāʾ)
Meaning: People of Sheba
First Appearance: Job 1:15
Description: People from Sheba, a kingdom in southwestern Arabia (Yemen). The Queen of Sheba visited Solomon, impressed by his wisdom and wealth. They were known for their trade in spices, gold, and precious stones. In Job, Sabeans raided Job’s oxen and donkeys, killing his servants. Isaiah prophesied they would bring tribute to Israel. They controlled important trade routes between Africa, Arabia, and Mesopotamia.
Sadducees
Original (Greek): Σαδδουκαῖοι (Saddoukaioi)
Meaning: Possibly followers of Zadok
First Appearance: Matthew 3:7
Description: A Jewish sect active during the Second Temple period, mainly composed of aristocratic priests who controlled the Temple. They accepted only the written Torah as authoritative, rejecting the oral traditions upheld by the Pharisees. They denied the resurrection, angels, and spirits (Acts 23:8). They often opposed Jesus and later the apostles. They disappeared after the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD.
Samaritans
Original (Hebrew): שֹׁמְרֹנִי (Šōmərōnî)
Meaning: People of Samaria
First Appearance: 2 Kings 17:29
Description: People of mixed Israelite and foreign ancestry who lived in the central region of Palestine. They originated when the Assyrians conquered the northern kingdom of Israel and resettled the area with foreigners who intermarried with remaining Israelites. They practiced a modified form of Judaism, accepting only the Pentateuch and worshipping at Mount Gerizim instead of Jerusalem. Jews typically avoided contact with them. Jesus broke these barriers in His conversation with the Samaritan woman and in the parable of the Good Samaritan.
Scythians
Original (Greek): Σκύθης (Skythēs)
Meaning: People from Scythia
First Appearance: Colossians 3:11
Description: Nomadic people from the steppes north of the Black Sea, known for their horsemanship and ferocity. Paul mentions them in Colossians as an example of extreme barbarians, contrasting with civilized peoples. Archaeological evidence shows they had contact with Greek and Persian cultures. In the Old Testament, they may be connected to the invasions from the north mentioned by Jeremiah and Ezekiel (as Gog and Magog).
Shuhites
Original (Hebrew): שׁוּחִי (Šûḥî)
Meaning: Descendants of Shuah
First Appearance: Genesis 25:2 (as Shuah)
Description: An Arabian tribe descended from Shuah, Abraham’s son through Keturah. Bildad the Shuhite was one of Job’s friends who came to comfort him but ended up accusing him of secret sin. They likely lived somewhere in the Arabian desert.
Sidonians
Original (Hebrew): צִידֹנִי (Ṣîḏōnî)
Meaning: People of Sidon
First Appearance: Judges 3:3
Description: Inhabitants of the ancient Phoenician city of Sidon on the Mediterranean coast (in modern Lebanon). They were skilled sailors, traders, and craftsmen. King Hiram of Tyre, who helped Solomon build the Temple, is sometimes called Sidonian because Tyre and Sidon were the principal Phoenician cities. Solomon was influenced by Sidonian worship through his foreign wives. Jezebel, who married King Ahab and promoted Baal worship in Israel, was the daughter of the king of Sidon.
Simeonites
Original (Hebrew): שִׁמְעֹנִי (Šimʿōnî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Simeon (“hearing”)
First Appearance: Numbers 1:22-23
Description: Members of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Simeon, Jacob’s son through Leah. Their territory was within the borders of Judah in the Negev region. The tribe diminished in size and importance over time, perhaps due to Jacob’s curse on Simeon’s violence. Many Simeonites were absorbed into the tribe of Judah, though they maintained some distinct identity, as seen in their participation in Hezekiah’s Passover celebration.
T
Tarshish
Original (Hebrew): תַּרְשִׁישׁ (Taršîš)
Meaning: Uncertain
First Appearance: Genesis 10:4
Description: While primarily a place rather than a people group, Tarshish was a distant maritime trading center that symbolized the far reaches of the known world. Jonah attempted to flee to Tarshish to escape God’s call. Solomon had a “fleet of Tarshish” that brought exotic goods. Its actual location is debated—possibilities include Spain, Sardinia, or Carthage. The “ships of Tarshish” became proverbial for large, seagoing vessels capable of long journeys.
Tishbites
Original (Hebrew): תִּשְׁבִּי (Tišbî)
Meaning: Person from Tishbe
First Appearance: 1 Kings 17:1
Description: While primarily used to describe the prophet Elijah (“Elijah the Tishbite”), it refers to someone from Tishbe, a town in Gilead east of the Jordan River. Little is known about this location beyond its connection to one of Israel’s greatest prophets. Elijah confronted King Ahab, challenged the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, and was taken to heaven in a whirlwind.
Tyrians
Original (Hebrew): צֹרִי (Ṣōrî)
Meaning: People of Tyre
First Appearance: 1 Chronicles 22:4
Description: Inhabitants of the ancient Phoenician city of Tyre, located on the Mediterranean coast (in modern Lebanon). Tyre was both a mainland city and an island fortress. They were renowned for their purple dye, cedar wood, and maritime trade. King Hiram of Tyre supplied cedar and craftsmen for both David’s palace and Solomon’s Temple. The prophets often addressed Tyre, with Ezekiel giving an extended prophecy about its pride and eventual fall.
U
Urartians
Original (Hebrew): אֲרָרַט (ʾĂrāraṭ)
Meaning: People of Urartu/Ararat
First Appearance: Genesis 8:4 (as “mountains of Ararat”)
Description: Ancient kingdom centered around Lake Van in eastern Turkey, also known as the Kingdom of Ararat in the Bible. Noah’s ark came to rest in the mountains of Ararat. In 2 Kings and Isaiah, Ararat is mentioned as a place where the sons of Sennacherib fled after assassinating their father. They were skilled in metalworking, architecture, and irrigation. Their kingdom was a significant power in the ancient Near East during the 9th-6th centuries BC.
V
No names that begin with V.
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No names that begin with W.
X
No names that begin with X.
Y
No names that begin with Y.
Z
Zamzummim
Original (Hebrew): זַמְזֻמִּים (Zamzummîm)
Meaning: Possibly “murmurers” or “powerful people”
First Appearance: Deuteronomy 2:20
Description: A giant race who formerly inhabited the land of Ammon before being displaced by the Ammonites. They are described as being like the Rephaim in stature. The Ammonites called them Zamzummim, though they may be the same people the Moabites called Emim. They were among the ancient peoples of unusual height mentioned in early biblical history.
Zebulunites
Original (Hebrew): זְבוּלֻנִי (Zəḇûlunî)
Meaning: People of the tribe of Zebulun (“dwelling”)
First Appearance: Numbers 26:27
Description: Members of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Zebulun, Jacob’s son through Leah. Their territory was in the fertile lowlands of Galilee, stretching from the Sea of Galilee to the Mediterranean. Jacob prophesied that Zebulun would “dwell at the haven of the sea.” The tribe was praised for providing officers during Deborah and Barak’s campaign. Isaiah prophesied that this region would see a great light—fulfilled when Jesus conducted much of His ministry there.
Zidonians
Original (Hebrew): צִידֹנִי (Ṣîḏōnî)
Meaning: People of Sidon (alternate spelling)
First Appearance: Judges 3:3
Description: Alternative spelling of “Sidonians” in some Bible translations. See entry under “Sidonians.”
Ziphites
Original (Hebrew): זִיפִי (Zîp̄î)
Meaning: People of Ziph
First Appearance: 1 Samuel 23:19
Description: Inhabitants of Ziph, a town in the hill country of Judah. They betrayed David’s location to King Saul twice when David was hiding from Saul in their territory. Psalm 54 is identified as a composition by David when the Ziphites informed Saul of his presence.