Yithro, the father-in-law of Moses, had seven names — and the Mekhilta explains that each name encoded a different aspect of his extraordinary character.
Yether — because he "added" (yiter) a section to the Torah. Yithro's advice to Moses about appointing judges (Exodus 18:17-23) became part of the sacred text itself. A non-Israelite contributed directly to the Torah's content.
Yithro — because he was "abundant" (yiter) in good deeds. The name Yithro is the expanded form of Yether, and the expansion reflects the expansion of his righteousness.
Chovav — because he was "beloved" (chovev) by the Lord. Despite being a Midianite priest, Yithro earned God's affection through his choices and his character.
Reuel — because he was a "friend" (rea) to the Lord. This name appears in (Exodus 2:18) and suggests an intimate, personal relationship with God.
Chever — because he was a "companion" (chaver) to the Lord. More than a friend — a partner, someone who walked alongside the divine.
Putiel — because he "weaned himself" (niftar) from idolatry. Before embracing the God of Israel, Yithro had been a priest of Midian, deeply embedded in pagan worship. His break was total and deliberate.
Keni — because he was "zealous" (kinei) for Heaven and he "acquired" (kanah) Torah. The final name carries a double meaning — passionate devotion and active acquisition of wisdom.
Seven names for one man, each a chapter in his spiritual biography. Yithro's journey from idolatrous priest to beloved companion of God was so dramatic that no single name could contain it.