The term "Zareathite" refers to an inhabitant or descendant of Zareah, also known as Zorah, a town in the territory of the tribe of Dan in ancient Israel. Zareah is notably mentioned in the context of the biblical narrative surrounding Samson, one of the judges of Israel. The town is situated in the Shephelah, the lowland region of Judah, and is identified with the modern site of Tel Tzora.

Biblical References:

1. Judges 13:2 : "Now there was a man from Zorah named Manoah, from the clan of the Danites, whose wife was barren and had no children." This verse introduces Manoah, a Zareathite, who is the father of Samson. The narrative of Samson begins in Zorah, highlighting its significance as the birthplace of one of Israel's most famous judges.

2. Joshua 19:41 : "The territory of their inheritance included Zorah, Eshtaol, Ir-shemesh." This passage lists Zorah as part of the inheritance of the tribe of Dan, indicating its importance within the tribal allotments of Israel.

3. 1 Chronicles 4:2 : "Reaiah son of Shobal was the father of Jahath, and Jahath was the father of Ahumai and Lahad. These were the clans of the Zorathites." This genealogical record mentions the Zorathites, a clan associated with Zorah, indicating the familial and tribal connections of the inhabitants.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Zorah, the town associated with the Zareathites, played a significant role in the early history of Israel. It was strategically located on the border between the territories of Dan and Judah, making it a site of both cultural and military importance. The town's association with Samson, a Nazirite dedicated to God from birth, underscores its spiritual significance in the biblical narrative.

The Zareathites, as descendants or inhabitants of Zorah, would have been part of the broader Danite community. The tribe of Dan is known for its struggles to secure its allotted territory, as described in the Book of Judges. The Zareathites, therefore, would have shared in the challenges and triumphs of the Danites as they sought to establish themselves in the Promised Land.

Archaeological Insights:

Modern archaeological excavations at Tel Tzora have uncovered remains that provide insight into the life and times of the Zareathites. Findings include fortifications, pottery, and other artifacts that date back to the period of the Judges, offering a glimpse into the material culture of the inhabitants of Zorah.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the Zareathites, through their connection to Samson, are part of the larger narrative of God's deliverance of Israel through the judges. Samson's account, beginning in Zorah, illustrates themes of divine calling, human weakness, and redemption. The Zareathites, as part of this narrative, are a testament to God's ongoing relationship with His people, using individuals and communities to fulfill His purposes in history.

In summary, the Zareathites, as inhabitants of Zorah, are integral to the biblical history of Israel, particularly in the context of the tribe of Dan and the account of Samson. Their legacy is preserved in the scriptural record and continues to be a subject of interest for biblical scholars and archaeologists alike.Zareathite (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 2:53
And the families of Kirjathjearim; the Ithrites, and the Puhites, and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zareathites, and the Eshtaulites,
(Root in KJV YLT)

Zareathite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Zareathite (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 2:53 And
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Zareah (1 Occurrence)

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Zareathites (1 Occurrence)

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