Topical Encyclopedia The Berites are a group mentioned briefly in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the narrative surrounding King David. The reference to the Berites is found in 2 Samuel 20:14, which states, "Sheba passed through all the tribes of Israel to Abel Beth Maacah, and through the entire region of the Berites, who gathered together and followed him." Historical Context The Berites are mentioned during the rebellion of Sheba, the son of Bichri, against King David. This rebellion occurred after the revolt of Absalom, David's son, had been quelled. Sheba, a Benjamite, took advantage of the political instability and sought to lead a revolt against David, proclaiming, "We have no share in David, no inheritance in the son of Jesse. Every man to his tent, O Israel!" (2 Samuel 20:1). As Sheba traveled through the tribes of Israel, he passed through the region of the Berites, who are noted to have gathered and followed him. Geographical Location The exact geographical location of the Berites is not clearly defined in the biblical text, and there is limited archaeological or historical evidence to pinpoint their precise location. However, the mention of Abel Beth Maacah in the same verse provides a clue. Abel Beth Maacah was a city in the northern part of Israel, near the border with Aram (modern-day Syria). This suggests that the Berites may have been located in the northern regions of Israel, possibly in proximity to Abel Beth Maacah. Cultural and Tribal Identity The Berites are not listed among the traditional tribes of Israel, nor are they mentioned elsewhere in the biblical narrative. This has led to some speculation among scholars regarding their identity. It is possible that the Berites were a smaller clan or group within the larger tribal confederation of Israel, or they may have been a distinct group living within the territory of one of the tribes. The lack of additional biblical or extrabiblical references makes it difficult to ascertain their specific cultural or tribal identity. Role in the Narrative The Berites' role in the narrative of 2 Samuel 20 is brief but significant in illustrating the widespread nature of Sheba's rebellion. Their willingness to gather and follow Sheba indicates the level of discontent and division within the nation of Israel during this tumultuous period. The rebellion ultimately ends with the death of Sheba at Abel Beth Maacah, as Joab, David's military commander, besieges the city and a wise woman intervenes to prevent its destruction by negotiating Sheba's execution (2 Samuel 20:14-22). Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the mention of the Berites in the context of Sheba's rebellion highlights the challenges of maintaining unity and loyalty within the covenant community of Israel. The period of the united monarchy under David was marked by both triumphs and internal strife, reflecting the complexities of human leadership and the need for divine guidance. The Berites' involvement in the rebellion serves as a reminder of the ever-present threat of division and the importance of faithfulness to God's anointed king. In summary, while the Berites are a minor and somewhat obscure group within the biblical narrative, their mention in the context of Sheba's rebellion provides insight into the political and social dynamics of ancient Israel during the reign of King David. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BERITESbe'-rits (berim; according to Klostermann and others, bikhrim): The word is found only once in the Old Testament (2 Samuel 20:14). The passage seems to be doubtful. The suggestion of Klostermann does not improve matters any; the other proposed reading, bachrim (Vulgate, viri electi), "choice young men," is to be preferred. Strong's Hebrew 1276. Beri -- perhaps a place in Palestine... Beri. 1277 . perhaps a place in Palestine. Transliteration: Beri Phonetic Spelling: (bay-ree') Short Definition: Berites. ... NASB Word Usage Berites (1). Berites. ... /hebrew/1276.htm - 6k Thesaurus Berites (2 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BERITES. be'-rits (berim; according ... be preferred. Multi-Version Concordance Berites (2 Occurrences). Numbers 26 ... /b/berites.htm - 7k He'berites (1 Occurrence) Ishvi (4 Occurrences) Imnites (1 Occurrence) Ishvite (1 Occurrence) Imnite (1 Occurrence) Imnah (4 Occurrences) Ishvites (1 Occurrence) Beth-ma'acah (1 Occurrence) Bethmaachah (1 Occurrence) Resources What can we learn from the tribe of Asher? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Berites (2 Occurrences)Numbers 26:44 2 Samuel 20:14 Subtopics Related Terms |