What roles did Benaiah and the Cherethites and Pelethites play in David's reign? Setting the Scene: The Verse at a Glance “Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Kerethites and Pelethites, and the sons of David were chief officials at the king’s side.” (1 Chronicles 18:17) Who Was Benaiah? • Son of Jehoiada, from Kabzeel in southern Judah • A mighty warrior listed among David’s “Thirty” (1 Chronicles 11:22–25; 2 Samuel 23:20–23) • Renowned for exploits—killed two Moabite champions, a lion in a pit on a snowy day, and a giant Egyptian • Promoted to command David’s elite guard (2 Samuel 8:18) • Later replaced Joab as commander-in-chief under Solomon and carried out royal justice (1 Kings 2:25, 34, 46) What Were the Cherethites and Pelethites? • An elite corps often called “the king’s bodyguard” • Probably foreign-born soldiers—Cherethites linked with Crete (Ezekiel 25:16), Pelethites possibly a Philistine clan • Valued for skill, loyalty, and independence from tribal politics • Stationed near the palace, ready for rapid deployment or royal errands Their Specific Duties During David’s Reign • Personal protection of the king at home and on campaign • Rapid-response unit for sensitive missions • Ceremonial guard for royal events • Execution of justice or decrees requiring impartial force Moments That Spotlight Their Service 1. Absalom’s Revolt — The guard escorted David as he fled Jerusalem (2 Samuel 15:18). 2. Sheba’s Rebellion — Listed among key forces preserving the kingdom (2 Samuel 20:23). 3. Solomon’s Coronation — Benaiah, the Cherethites, and Pelethites placed Solomon on the royal mule and stood by as he was anointed (1 Kings 1:38–40). 4. Judicial Actions — Under Solomon, Benaiah used the guard to carry out the sentences against Adonijah, Joab, and Shimei (1 Kings 2). Summary of Their Roles • Benaiah: commander of the guard, heroic warrior, later top general • Cherethites & Pelethites: loyal, highly trained bodyguard detachment ensuring David’s safety, enforcing royal decisions, and stabilizing succession Spiritual Takeaways for Today • God raises trustworthy leaders like Benaiah to protect His purposes. • Faithful service, even in a support role, is honored and remembered in Scripture. • Just as David relied on a steadfast guard, believers can rely on the steadfast protection and justice of the Lord (Psalm 121:4–8). |
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