The Cherethims, also referred to as the Cherethites, are a group mentioned in the Old Testament, often associated with the Philistines. Their exact origin and identity have been subjects of scholarly debate, but they are generally considered to be a people of foreign origin who settled in the southern coastal region of Canaan.

Biblical References

The Cherethims are first mentioned in the context of David's reign. In 1 Samuel 30:14, the Cherethites are listed among the groups raided by the Amalekites: "We raided the Negev of the Cherethites, the territory of Judah, and the Negev of Caleb, and we burned Ziklag." This passage suggests that the Cherethites inhabited a region in the Negev, south of Judah.

In 2 Samuel 8:18, the Cherethites are mentioned as part of David's elite military forces: "Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Kerethites and Pelethites; and David’s sons were priests." This indicates that the Cherethites, along with the Pelethites, served as royal guards or mercenaries under King David. Their loyalty and military prowess were evidently significant to David's administration.

The Cherethites are also mentioned in 2 Samuel 15:18, during Absalom's rebellion: "All his men marched past him, along with all the Kerethites and Pelethites and all the six hundred Gittites who had followed him from Gath." This further underscores their role as loyal supporters of David, even during times of internal conflict.

Historical and Cultural Context

The Cherethims are often associated with the Philistines, as seen in Ezekiel 25:16: "therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I will stretch out My hand against the Philistines, and I will cut off the Cherethites and destroy the remnant along the coast.’" This association suggests that the Cherethites were either a subgroup of the Philistines or closely allied with them. The Philistines were known to have settled along the coastal regions of Canaan, and the Cherethites' presence in the Negev aligns with this geographical context.

The name "Cherethites" may be derived from the island of Crete, suggesting a possible origin for these people. This theory is supported by the broader understanding of the Philistines as part of the Sea Peoples, who are believed to have migrated from the Aegean region, including Crete, to the eastern Mediterranean.

Role in Israelite Society

The Cherethites' integration into Israelite society, particularly as part of David's military, indicates a level of assimilation and cooperation between the Israelites and certain foreign groups. Their role as royal guards highlights the pragmatic approach of David's leadership, utilizing the skills and loyalty of foreign warriors to strengthen his reign.

The presence of the Cherethites in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the complex interactions between the Israelites and their neighbors. It reflects the dynamic and often multicultural nature of ancient Near Eastern societies, where alliances and enmities were frequently shaped by political and military needs.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Cherethites in the biblical narrative underscores the sovereignty of God over all nations. Despite their foreign origin, the Cherethites were used by God to fulfill His purposes in the establishment and protection of David's kingdom. This aligns with the biblical theme of God's providence and His ability to work through diverse peoples and circumstances to accomplish His divine will.Cherethims

Cherethites, who cut or tear away

3774. Kerethi -- the foreign bodyguard of King David
... Word Origin from karath Definition the foreign bodyguard of King David
NASB Word Usage Cherethites (10). Cherethims, Cherethites. ...
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The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... the many evils they had inflicted on Israel. By the Cherethims here, and
the Cherethites in Zoph. ii.5, the Cretans are by some ...
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Cherethims (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Cherethims (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 25:16 Therefore
thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will stretch out ...
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Cherethim (1 Occurrence)
... Ezekiel 25:16 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will stretch out mine
hand upon the Philistines, and I will cut off the Cherethims, and destroy the ...
/c/cherethim.htm - 7k

Cherethite (8 Occurrences)

/c/cherethite.htm - 9k

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