Persons of the Bible: Letter W
Although the letter W contains only a small number of names and titles, these figures play an outsized role in Scripture. They include courageous widows, sincere seekers, humble worshipers, and people whose encounters with Jesus changed the course of their lives. Through stories such as the Woman at the Well, the Widow of Zarephath, and the Wise Men, the letter W reveals God’s heart for the wounded, the overlooked, and the spiritually thirsty. Each entry reminds us that the Lord sees individuals in their need and invites them into His redemptive story.
Whirlwind
A narrative designation identifying the divine presence in which God answered Job. Included here because the “whirlwind” represents a direct personal interaction between the Lord and Job.
Scripture: Job 38:1; Job 40:6
Widow of Nain
A grieving mother whose only son died before Jesus restored him to life. Her story reflects Jesus’ compassion, authority over death, and tenderness toward the vulnerable.
Scripture: Luke 7:11–15
Widow of Zarephath
A Gentile woman who showed hospitality to Elijah during the famine. Her faith opened the door for God’s miraculous provision and the resurrection of her son.
Scripture: 1 Kings 17:8–24
Widow with Two Mites
A humble woman who gave all she had at the temple. Jesus praised her sacrificial heart as an example of true devotion.
Scripture: Mark 12:41–44; Luke 21:1–4
Winebibber
A term used of Jesus by His critics, accusing Him of excess because He ate and drank with sinners. Included as a personal designation connected directly to Christ.
Scripture: Matthew 11:19; Luke 7:34
Wise Men (Magi)
The Wise Men were seekers from the East who recognized the birth of Jesus as the arrival of the promised King. Guided by a star, they came in reverence and worship, reminding us that Christ is the Savior not only of Israel but of all nations.
Scripture: Matthew 2:1–12
Woman at the Well (Samaritan Woman)
A Samaritan woman encountered by Jesus at Jacob’s well. Her conversation with Jesus revealed His identity as the Messiah and showed the transforming power of grace.
Scripture: John 4:4–42
Woman Caught in Adultery
A woman brought before Jesus by religious leaders seeking to trap Him. Jesus responded with mercy and truth, exposing hypocrisy while calling her to new life.
Scripture: John 8:3–11 (textual note)
Woman of Endor
A medium consulted by King Saul in his desperation. Her story illustrates the dangers of disobedience and the tragic decline of Saul’s spiritual life.
Scripture: 1 Samuel 28:3–25
Woman of Tekoa
A wise woman sent by Joab to speak to King David using a parable, helping reconcile David and Absalom temporarily.
Scripture: 2 Samuel 14:1–20
Woman of Timnah
A Philistine woman whom Samson desired for marriage, initiating conflict between Samson and the Philistines.
Scripture: Judges 14:1–20
Woodcutter
An occupational designation for those assigned to temple service under Joshua and the leaders of Israel.
Scripture: Joshua 9:27
Worshipers
A personal-identifying group term used for those gathered in prayer or praise during significant moments of Scripture.
Scripture: John 9:31; Acts 18:7
Worthy Elder (Revelation)
A symbolic personal designation referring to the elders surrounding God’s throne in Revelation.
Scripture: Revelation 4–5
Wounded Man (parable)
The man beaten by robbers and helped by the Good Samaritan in Jesus’ parable. Included for his personhood within the teaching narrative.
Scripture: Luke 10:30–37
Wretched Man (Paul’s self-description)
Paul’s personal cry in Romans describing the struggle between sin and righteousness within the believer.
Scripture: Romans 7:24
Woman Who Anointed Jesus (Bethany)
A woman—identified in some Gospels as Mary of Bethany—who anointed Jesus with costly perfume, preparing Him symbolically for burial.
Scripture: Matthew 26:6–13; Mark 14:3–9; John 12:1–8
The names and designations under W remind us that the Bible’s story is both broad and deeply personal. God reaches into homes, villages, and even the margins of society to reveal His compassion and saving power. Whether through the offering of a poor widow, the faith of distant seekers, or a woman met at a well, the Lord moves with purpose and love.
As we move forward to the letter X, the list becomes even shorter, yet each name continues to point to the same truth—Christ came for every people, every story, and every heart willing to receive Him.
