Othniel [Ŏth'nĭel]—powerful one or lion of god. A son of Kenaz, younger brother of Caleb, who, after the death of Joshua, judged Israel for forty years. He is the first to be mentioned among the “Judges” (Josh. 15:17; Judg. 1:13; 3:9, 11: 1 Chron. 4:13). The Othniel mentioned in 1 Chronicles 27:15 is probably the same person.

Little is recorded of this saviour who came from the tribe of Judah. He followed the Lord with all his heart, and, Spirit-empowered, he fought for Israel and prevailed.