Jambres Ἰαμβρῆς
Egyptian magician who opposed Moses
Who is Jambres in the Bible?
Jambres was an Egyptian magician who opposed Moses during the Exodus, mentioned alongside his counterpart Jannes in 2 Timothy 3:8. Though not named in the Old Testament account, Jewish tradition identified these two magicians as the ones who attempted to replicate the miraculous signs performed by Moses and Aaron before Pharaoh (Exodus 7-8). Paul referenced Jambres by name to illustrate how certain people resist the truth, using this well-known figure from Jewish lore as a cautionary example for his readers. The biblical text provides no additional details about Jambres' personal background or the full scope of his opposition to Moses, but his mention serves as a historical and spiritual parallel to those who oppose God's work.
Biography
Jambres is mentioned in 2Ti.3.8 as one of two Egyptian magicians who opposed Moses during the events of the Exodus. Along with Jannes, Jambres is said to have resisted Moses, likely referring to the magicians' attempts to duplicate the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron before Pharaoh (Exodus 7-8). Although not named in the Old Testament, Jewish tradition identified these two magicians and passed down their names. Paul's use of these names in 2 Timothy suggests that the story of Jannes and Jambres was well-known among his audience and served as an example of those who resist the truth. The text does not provide any further details about Jambres' life or the extent of his opposition to Moses.
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study content2 Timothy 1 verse
- 2 Timothy 3:8
"Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so also these men oppose the truth. They are depraved in mind and disqualified from the faith."
Study 2 Timothy →
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Greek | Ἰαμβρῆς |