The Cherethim, also referred to as the Cherethites, are a group mentioned in the Old Testament, often associated with the Philistines. Their origins and role in biblical history have been the subject of scholarly discussion, with references found in several key passages.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Samuel 30:14 · The Cherethites are mentioned in the context of David's exploits. The verse states, "We raided the Negev of the Cherethites, the territory of Judah, and the Negev of Caleb, and we burned Ziklag." This passage indicates that the Cherethites inhabited a region in the Negev, south of Judah, and were among the groups targeted by David and his men during their campaigns.

2. 2 Samuel 8:18 and 1 Chronicles 18:17 · These passages describe the Cherethites as part of King David's elite military forces. "Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Kerethites and Pelethites; and David’s sons were priests." The Cherethites, along with the Pelethites, served as David's personal bodyguards, highlighting their importance and trusted status within his administration.

3. Ezekiel 25:16 · The prophet Ezekiel delivers a message of judgment against the Philistines, including the Cherethites: "Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I will stretch out My hand against the Philistines, and I will cut off the Cherethites and destroy the remnant along the coast.’" This prophecy underscores the Cherethites' association with the Philistines and their impending judgment by God.

4. Zephaniah 2:5 · The prophet Zephaniah also pronounces judgment on the Cherethites: "Woe to the inhabitants of the seacoast, the nation of the Cherethites! The word of the LORD is against you, O Canaan, land of the Philistines: ‘I will destroy you, and no inhabitant will be left.’" This further solidifies their connection to the Philistine territories along the Mediterranean coast.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Cherethites are often linked to the Philistines, a group of Sea Peoples who settled along the coastal regions of Canaan. Some scholars suggest that the name "Cherethites" may be derived from Crete, indicating a possible origin or cultural connection to the island. This theory is supported by the Septuagint, which translates "Cherethites" as "Cretans."

In the biblical narrative, the Cherethites are depicted as both adversaries and allies of Israel. As part of David's military forces, they played a crucial role in his consolidation of power and the establishment of his kingdom. Their inclusion in David's guard suggests a level of integration and cooperation between the Israelites and certain Philistine groups during his reign.

Theological Significance:

The presence of the Cherethites in the biblical text highlights the complex relationships between Israel and its neighboring peoples. Their dual role as both enemies and allies reflects the broader theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to use diverse groups to fulfill His purposes. The prophetic judgments against the Cherethites serve as a reminder of God's justice and the consequences of opposing His will.

In summary, the Cherethites are a significant yet enigmatic group within the Old Testament, representing both the challenges and opportunities faced by Israel in its interactions with surrounding nations. Their account is woven into the larger tapestry of God's redemptive plan as revealed in Scripture.Cherethim

(axe-men), (Ezekiel 25:16) same as CHERETHITES.

(Ezek. 25:16), more frequently Cherethites, the inhabitants of Southern Philistia, the Philistines (Zephaniah 2:5). The Cherethites and the Pelethites were David's life-guards (1 Samuel 30:14; 2 Samuel 8:18; 20:7, 23; 23:23). This name is by some interpreted as meaning "Cretans," and by others "executioners," who were ready to execute the king's sentence of death (Genesis 37:36, marg.; 1 Kings 2:25). Cherethim (1 Occurrence)
... Genesis 37:36, marg.; 1 Kings 2:25). Multi-Version Concordance Cherethim
(1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 25:16 Therefore thus saith the Lord ...
/c/cherethim.htm - 7k

Philistines (224 Occurrences)
... MONUMENTAL NOTICES 1. Palestinian Excavations 2. Egyptian Monuments 3. Assyrian
Texts III. THE CRETAN THEORY 1. Cherethim and Kretes 2. Caphtor and Keft IV. ...
/p/philistines.htm - 75k

Cheran (2 Occurrences)

/c/cheran.htm - 7k

Cher'ethites (10 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 25:16 Therefore, thus said the Lord Jehovah: Lo, I am stretching out My
hand against the Philistines, And I have cut off the Cherethim, And destroyed ...
/c/cher'ethites.htm - 9k

Cherethims (1 Occurrence)

/c/cherethims.htm - 6k

Seacoast (7 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 25:16 Therefore, thus said the Lord Jehovah: Lo, I am stretching out My
hand against the Philistines, And I have cut off the Cherethim, And destroyed ...
/s/seacoast.htm - 8k

Haven (8 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 25:16 Therefore, thus said the Lord Jehovah: Lo, I am stretching out My
hand against the Philistines, And I have cut off the Cherethim, And destroyed ...
/h/haven.htm - 11k

Stretching (84 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 25:16 Therefore, thus said the Lord Jehovah: Lo, I am stretching out My
hand against the Philistines, And I have cut off the Cherethim, And destroyed ...
/s/stretching.htm - 32k

Remaining (87 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 25:16 Therefore, thus said the Lord Jehovah: Lo, I am stretching out My
hand against the Philistines, And I have cut off the Cherethim, And destroyed ...
/r/remaining.htm - 34k

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