Ithrite
Jump to: Smith'sISBEEaston'sConcordanceThesaurusHebrewLibrarySubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
The term "Ithrite" refers to a group of individuals mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of King David's mighty warriors. The Ithrites are identified as descendants of Jether, also known as Ithra, and are associated with the tribe of Judah. The Ithrites are noted for their valor and loyalty to King David during his reign.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Samuel 23:38 · In the list of David's mighty men, two Ithrites are mentioned: "Ira the Ithrite and Gareb the Ithrite." These individuals are recognized for their exceptional bravery and service to David, contributing to his military successes and the establishment of his kingdom.

2. 1 Chronicles 11:40 · This passage parallels the account in 2 Samuel, reaffirming the presence of Ira and Gareb among David's elite warriors. The Chronicles account serves to highlight the importance of these men in the broader narrative of Israel's history and David's reign.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Ithrites, as part of David's mighty men, played a crucial role during a formative period in Israel's history. David's reign marked the unification of the tribes of Israel and the establishment of Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of the nation. The loyalty and prowess of the Ithrites and other warriors were instrumental in securing David's position as king and in defending the nation against external threats.

The mention of the Ithrites in the biblical text underscores the diverse composition of David's forces, which included individuals from various tribes and backgrounds. This diversity reflects the unifying leadership of David and the collective effort required to establish a strong and enduring kingdom.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Ithrites in the biblical narrative highlights themes of loyalty, courage, and divine providence. The mighty men, including the Ithrites, are often seen as instruments of God's plan, used to fulfill His promises to David and the people of Israel. Their accounts serve as examples of faithfulness and dedication to God's anointed leader, King David.

The Ithrites' role in the biblical account also points to the broader theme of God's sovereignty in raising up individuals and groups to accomplish His purposes. Despite their relatively obscure mention in the scriptures, the Ithrites' contribution to David's success is a testament to the importance of every member within the community of faith, regardless of their prominence or recognition.

Conclusion:

The Ithrites, though briefly mentioned in the biblical text, are an integral part of the narrative of David's reign. Their inclusion in the list of mighty men serves as a reminder of the diverse and faithful individuals who played a role in the establishment of Israel's monarchy and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.
Smith's Bible Dictionary
Ithrite

(belonging to Jether), The, the designation of two of the members of David's guard, Ira and Gareb. (2 Samuel 23:38; 1 Chronicles 11:40) They may have come from Jattir, in the mountains of Judah. (B.C 1046.)

Easton's Bible Dictionary
Two of David's warriors so designated (2 Samuel 23:38; 1 Chronicles 11:40).
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
ITHRITE

ith'-rit (yithri, "excellence," "preeminence"): A family in Israel, whose home was Kiriath-jearim (1 Chronicles 2:53). Among the 37 heroes of David, two are mentioned who belonged to this family, Ira and Gareb (2 Samuel 23:38 1 Chronicles 11:40).

Strong's Hebrew
3505. Yithri -- descendant of Jethro
... descendant of Jethro. Transliteration: Yithri Phonetic Spelling: (yith-ree') Short
Definition: Ithrite. ... of Jethro NASB Word Usage Ithrite (4), Ithrites (1). ...
/hebrew/3505.htm - 6k
Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 6. <. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Thesaurus
Ithrite (3 Occurrences)
...ITHRITE. ith'-rit (yithri, "excellence," "preeminence"): A family in Israel, whose
home was Kiriath-jearim (1 Chronicles 2:53). ...Ithrite (3 Occurrences). ...
/i/ithrite.htm - 7k

Gareb (3 Occurrences)
... (1.) One of David's warriors (2 Samuel 23:38), an Ithrite. ... 2 Samuel 23:38 Ira the
Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/g/gareb.htm - 8k

Ira (6 Occurrences)
... (2.) An Ithrite, also one of David's heroes (2 Samuel 23:38). ... 2 Samuel 23:38 Ira
the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/i/ira.htm - 10k

Ith're-am (1 Occurrence)
Ith're-am. Ith'ream, Ith're-am. Ithrite . Multi-Version Concordance
Ith're-am (1 Occurrence). ... (See RSV). Ith'ream, Ith're-am. Ithrite . Reference
/i/ith're-am.htm - 6k

Ithrites (1 Occurrence)

/i/ithrites.htm - 6k

Resources
Who were the mighty men of David? | GotQuestions.org

Bible ConcordanceBible DictionaryBible EncyclopediaTopical BibleBible Thesuarus
Ithream: Son of David
Top of Page
Top of Page