The Kenites were a desert people who lived in the southern region. They were connected to the family of Moses by marriage and were also called Midianites (Exodus 18:1; Numbers 10:29). Moses invited them to share in the covenant blessing (God’s promised favor and protection) given to Israel (Numbers 10:29–32).
At least one Kenite clan accepted this invitation and became part of the tribe of Judah. Later, however, some members of this clan changed their loyalty and supported Jabin of Hazor, an enemy king (Judges 4:11, 17).