The Netoph'athites were a group of people mentioned in the Old Testament, associated with the town of Netophah. This town is believed to have been located near Bethlehem in the tribal territory of Judah. The Netoph'athites are noted for their contributions to the military and religious life of ancient Israel.

Biblical References

The Netoph'athites are first mentioned in the context of David's mighty men. In 2 Samuel 23:28-29, two of David's warriors, Maharai and Heleb, are identified as Netoph'athites: "Zalmon the Ahohite, Maharai the Netoph'athite, Heleb the son of Baanah the Netoph'athite." This indicates that the Netoph'athites were part of the elite group of soldiers who supported King David during his reign.

In 1 Chronicles 2:54, the Netoph'athites are listed among the descendants of Salma, who is associated with Bethlehem: "The sons of Salma: Bethlehem, the Netoph'athites, Atroth-beth-joab, half of the Manahathites, the Zorites." This suggests a close relationship between the Netoph'athites and the inhabitants of Bethlehem, further emphasizing their integration into the tribe of Judah.

The Netoph'athites are also mentioned in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile. In Ezra 2:22 and Nehemiah 7:26, the Netoph'athites are listed among those who returned to Judah: "The men of Netophah, 56." This indicates their continued presence and significance in the post-exilic community.

Cultural and Historical Context

The town of Netophah, though not extensively detailed in the biblical narrative, played a role in the socio-political landscape of ancient Judah. Its proximity to Bethlehem suggests that it was part of the broader Bethlehemite region, which held significant importance due to its association with King David and later, the birth of Jesus Christ.

The Netoph'athites, as part of the military cadre of David, highlight the martial culture prevalent in ancient Israel, where local clans and families often contributed warriors to the king's service. Their mention in the genealogical records of Chronicles underscores the importance of lineage and tribal affiliation in maintaining cultural and religious identity.

Religious Significance

The inclusion of the Netoph'athites in the genealogical and military records of the Bible reflects the broader theme of God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises to the tribes of Israel. Their return from exile, as recorded in Ezra and Nehemiah, signifies the restoration of the people of Judah and the re-establishment of their religious and cultural practices in the land promised to their ancestors.

The Netoph'athites, though a relatively minor group in the biblical narrative, exemplify the faithfulness of God's people in maintaining their identity and heritage through times of upheaval and change. Their account is a testament to the enduring legacy of the tribes of Israel and their role in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.Netoph'athites (3 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 2:54
The sons of Salma: Beth-lehem, and the Netophathites, Atroth-beth-joab, and half of the Manahathites, the Zorites.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 9:16
and Obadiah the son of Shemaiah, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun, and Berechiah the son of Asa, the son of Elkanah, that dwelt in the villages of the Netophathites.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 12:28
And the sons of the singers gathered themselves together, both out of the Plain round about Jerusalem, and from the villages of the Netophathites;
(See RSV)

Netoph'athites (3 Occurrences)
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Netpit (1 Occurrence)

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Netophathites (3 Occurrences)

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