In my work as a church minister, I have to continuously study the Word. All Biblical scenarios and characters are important to me, no matter how small and irrelevant they may seem. One such narrative is that of Jabez. When I taught his story to my congregation during last week’s sermon, almost no one knew about him. That is mighty sad as not only is his tale one of despair and hope, but it carries many lessons about prayer. So, how many times is Jabez mentioned in the Bible?
Jabez is mentioned precisely three times in the Bible. Specifically, the name can be found in 1 Chronicles 2:55, 1 Chronicles 4:9, and 1 Chronicles 4:10. One time, it describes a Biblical location. At the same time, in other instances, it tells the story of a man called Jabez.
In this article, I took an in-depth look at the word ‘Jabez’ as used in the Bible. Especially Jabez’s experience with God. I also examined the prayer he said to God and the wonderful gems all Christians can learn from it. You will enjoy this read without a doubt.
How Many Times Is Jabez Mentioned in the Bible?

Jabez is mentioned three times in the Bible. When used, the name is first about a town in Judah. In other times, it is the name of a man who Christianity has come to revere and look up to. This man, Jabez, is, however, an obscure figure in the Bible. Little is known of him, his family, and his lifeline.
Where in The Bible Is Jabez Mentioned?
Jabez is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 2:55, 1 Chronicles 4:9, and 1 Chronicles 4:10. In the first instance, Jabez is describing a city in Judah where many families of scribes lived. The city’s location in the present day is unknown, and whether it is connected to the person Jabez, is also unclear.
1 Chronicles 4:9-10 also mentions the name ‘Jabez’ but about a Biblical character. These verses explain how Jabez was more honored than his brothers, but his mother was in great pain when she gave birth to him, condemning him to a life of sorrow. After crying out to God for His blessings, his wish is granted, and Jabez is exalted as a great man.
What Did God Change Jabez’s Name To?
According to Biblical Scripture, God did not change Jabez’s name. Instead, He changed his future predictions. The Shirley Weaver Ministries explains that the name Jabez doomed him to a negative future, but upon request, the negative pronunciation was removed from Jabez’s life. There was no need for a specific name change because the Lord’s Word was powerful enough to completely alter the destiny of Jabez. God transfused his plan into Jabez’s life by proclaiming it in 1 Chronicles 4:10. 1 Corinthians 1:18 also reiterates that a proclamation from the Almighty is authoritative enough. It talks of how the Word of the Cross cannot save those that are perishing, but if you believe, it may save you. Jabez was a strong believer and trusted in the Lord, so when his request was granted, there was no need for any other action, even a name change.
Bible Verses About Jabez
Here are some bible verses that are about Jabez:
- 1 Chronicles 2:55 – here, Jabez is a city in Judah that was near Bethlehem.
- 1 Chronicles 4:9 – in this verse, Jabez, the Biblical character, is introduced as an honored man who was unfortunately named after pain.
- 1 Chronicles 4:10 – this verse explains Jabez’s cry to God and how the Almighty changed his future
What Is the Prayer of Jabez In the Bible?
The prayer of Jabez can be found in 1 Chronicles 4:10 and was his cry to God, asking for favor and freedom from his sorrow. In this prayerful request, Jabez asked that God first bless him and expand his territory. He also beseeched God to walk with him and keep him away from harm or evil. Meg Bucher from the Bible Study Tools reckons that Jabez was not using this prayer to get something from God but rather as a call for the Lord to help him fulfill his potential. This help would be the key to truly producing the effects he needed.
What Are the Lessons of The Prayer of Jabez?

From the prayer of Jabez, Biblical interpreters have extracted lessons that everyday Christians in today’s world can use. Let us have a look at 5 teachings we can learn:
- That we should always first acknowledge God at the beginning of prayer. Before his prayer, the Scripture says that Jabez cried to the God of Israel. This is excellent recognition of the Lord’s supremacy and ultimate power. Likewise, Christians are encouraged to appreciate the Almighty before they continue with prayer.
- That we should put our trust in God and his blessings. Jabez acknowledged that all blessings come from the Lord and that He should bless him. Christians are also expected to express their faith in God and his capabilities. As stated in 1 Corinthians 1:18, only those with faith shall experience the powers of God.
- That we should ask God to use us for His glory. In the next part of his prayer, Jabez requested God to multiply his territory. While some think he is asking for a piece of land or dominion over people, he is believed to be asking to be impactful to people. Jabez wanted to be a servant of God and spread his Word to as many individuals as possible. We should as well ask God to use us to increase His kingdom.
- That we should ask the Lord to always stay close to us. In his prayer, Jabez requests that God’s hand be with him. This is inspirational to Christians because it teaches us to always prompt the Lord to lead and protect us.
- That we should table all our problems and worries at God’s feet. Jabez was fearful of his future because of his name, and so he asked the Lord to keep him from harm’s way. In the same manner, believers should cast their fears on God. They need to trust that He will protect them and their future.
Where Is Jabez Mentioned in The Bible?
The word ‘Jabez’ is mentioned three times in the Bible. Namely in 1 Chronicles 2:55, 1 Chronicles 4:9, and 1 Chronicles 4:10. The Word first describes a Judi city and then is later used as the name of one of God’s favored men. Jabez was a figure in the Bible with unfortunate beginnings, but after his prayer and experiencing God’s grace, his life was turned around. It became more promising.
Why Was Jabez Born in Sorrow?
Although not much is known about Jabez’s family and lineage, many believers opinion that Jabez was born into pain and hardship. For example, in Jabez: Conceived in Pain, Delivered in Victory, a book by Bob Rench, it is explained that Jabez had pitiful beginnings. In Biblical times, names were given according to traits like the circumstances around the child’s birth or what their parents predicted their future to be. With that in mind, 1 Chronicles 4:9 says that the name “Jabez” means “he who causes pain.” It is believed that his birth was extremely hard on his mother and was more painful than others.
Some other people think the name was given to Jabez to condemn him to a hapless future. Folk did not believe in him and his capabilities. Despite this bad start to life, Jabez came out triumphant and turned the narrative around because of his strong relationship with God.

As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.