The term "Be-er'othite" refers to an inhabitant of Beeroth, one of the cities of the Gibeonite confederation mentioned in the Old Testament. Beeroth is listed among the four Hivite cities that made a treaty with Joshua and the Israelites, as recorded in the Book of Joshua. The Gibeonites, including the Beerothites, deceived Joshua into making a peace treaty with them by pretending to be from a distant land (Joshua 9:3-15).

Biblical References:

1. Joshua 9:17 : "So the Israelites set out and on the third day came to their cities—Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kiriath-jearim." This verse identifies Beeroth as one of the cities involved in the Gibeonite deception.

2. 2 Samuel 4:2-3 : "Saul’s son had two men who were leaders of raiding parties. One was named Baanah and the other Rechab; they were sons of Rimmon the Beerothite from the tribe of Benjamin—because Beeroth is considered part of Benjamin, and the Beerothites fled to Gittaim and have lived there as foreigners to this day." This passage provides insight into the Beerothites' connection to the tribe of Benjamin and their subsequent displacement.

3. 2 Samuel 23:37 : "Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, the armor-bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah." Here, Naharai the Beerothite is mentioned as one of David's mighty warriors, specifically serving as the armor-bearer to Joab, David's military commander.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Beeroth was one of the cities that formed a strategic alliance with the Israelites through deception, as the Gibeonites feared the advancing Israelite forces. The treaty made with Joshua ensured their survival, although it relegated them to servitude (Joshua 9:21). The Beerothites, like other Gibeonites, were assigned roles as woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and the altar of the Lord.

The Beerothites' association with the tribe of Benjamin is significant, as it highlights the integration of non-Israelite groups into the Israelite tribal system. Despite their foreign origin, the Beerothites were considered part of the Benjamite territory, illustrating the complex social and tribal dynamics in ancient Israel.

The mention of individuals such as Naharai the Beerothite in the context of King David's reign underscores the continued presence and influence of Beerothites within Israelite society. Their inclusion among David's elite warriors suggests a level of acceptance and integration into the national narrative of Israel.

Theological Implications:

The account of the Beerothites, as part of the Gibeonite narrative, serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of covenant faithfulness. Despite the deceptive means by which the Gibeonites secured their treaty, the Israelites honored their oath, demonstrating the weight of covenants in the biblical worldview. This narrative also reflects the broader theme of God's grace and the inclusion of Gentiles into His redemptive plan, foreshadowing the eventual inclusion of all nations through the work of Christ.

In summary, the Beerothites, though initially outsiders, became an integral part of Israel's history, illustrating themes of covenant, integration, and divine providence within the biblical narrative.Be-er'othite (2 Occurrences)

2 Samuel 4:5
The sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, Rechab and Baanah, went, and came about the heat of the day to the house of Ishbosheth, as he took his rest at noon.
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 4:9
David answered Rechab and Baanah his brother, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, and said to them, "As Yahweh lives, who has redeemed my soul out of all adversity,
(See RSV)

Be-er'othite (2 Occurrences)
Be-er'othite. Beerothite, Be-er'othite. Beerothites . Multi-Version
Concordance Be-er'othite (2 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 4:5 The sons ...
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Beerothite (4 Occurrences)

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Beerothites (1 Occurrence)

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