Phinehas (also spelled Phineas) is a name of uncertain origin. It appears in the Old Testament, where it is borne by two individuals. The most prominent Phinehas is the grandson of Aaron and son of Eleazar, a zealous priest who stopped a plague by executing an Israelite man and a Midianite woman (Numbers 25). The word may derive from the Egyptian name Panhsj, meaning "Nubian", though some Hebrew etymologies interpret it as "serpent's mouth".
Biblical Figures
Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, is famed for his action at Shittim, where he skewered an Israelite and a Midianite woman, thereby halting a divine plague (Numbers 25:1–9). For his zeal, God granted him a covenant of perpetual priesthood (Numbers 25:10–13). Another Phinehas is the wicked son of Eli who died in battle against the Philistines (1 Samuel 4).
Usage and Variants
The name is common in English Bibles and has several variants: Phineas (English), Pinchas (Hebrew), Pinhas (modern Hebrew), Phinees (Biblical Greek), Finees (Biblical Latin).
- Meaning: Nubian or serpent's mouth
- Origin: Egyptian or Hebrew
- Type: Biblical
- Usage: English Bible
Sources: Wikipedia — Phinehas