Topical Encyclopedia The term "Gittite" refers to the inhabitants of the Philistine city of Gath, one of the five principal cities of the Philistines. Gath is frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as a significant Philistine city, and its residents, the Gittites, play various roles in the biblical narrative.Biblical References and Context 1. David and the Gittites: One of the most notable mentions of Gittites in the Bible is in relation to King David. During David's reign, a group of Gittites became loyal to him. This is particularly evident in the account of Ittai the Gittite, a commander who showed remarkable loyalty to David during Absalom's rebellion. In 2 Samuel 15:19-21 , David addresses Ittai, saying, "Why should you come with us? Go back and stay with the new king, for you are a foreigner and an exile from your homeland. You came only yesterday, and today shall I make you wander with us, while I go wherever I please? Go back and take your brothers with you. May kindness and faithfulness be with you." Ittai, however, responds with unwavering loyalty, choosing to stay with David. 2. Obed-Edom the Gittite: Another significant Gittite in the biblical narrative is Obed-Edom. After the incident where Uzzah was struck down for touching the Ark of the Covenant, the Ark was temporarily housed in the home of Obed-Edom the Gittite. As recorded in 2 Samuel 6:10-11 , "So David was unwilling to move the ark of the LORD to the city of David; instead, he took it aside to the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite. Thus the ark of the LORD remained in the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite for three months, and the LORD blessed him and all his household." This blessing upon Obed-Edom's household is a testament to the presence and favor of God. 3. Military Involvement: The Gittites are also noted for their military involvement. In 2 Samuel 15:18 , it is mentioned that "all the Kerethites and Pelethites, and six hundred Gittites who had followed him from Gath, marched before the king." This indicates that the Gittites were not only residents of Gath but also served as part of David's military forces, showcasing their integration and importance within his reign. Cultural and Historical Significance The Gittites, as residents of Gath, were part of the larger Philistine culture, known for their conflicts with the Israelites. Gath itself is historically significant as the home of Goliath, the giant warrior defeated by David. Despite their Philistine origins, certain Gittites, like Ittai and Obed-Edom, are portrayed in the Scriptures as individuals of faithfulness and integrity, aligning themselves with the purposes of God and His anointed king, David. Theological Implications The inclusion of Gittites in the biblical narrative highlights themes of loyalty, faith, and the universality of God's blessing. The account of Obed-Edom, in particular, underscores the idea that God's presence brings blessing, regardless of one's ethnic or cultural background. The loyalty of Ittai the Gittite to David serves as a powerful example of devotion and allegiance to God's chosen leader, reflecting the broader biblical theme of faithfulness to God's covenant and His anointed ones. Concordance Gittite's (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 21:19 Thesaurus Gittite's (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Gittite's (1 Occurrence). 2 Samuel 21:19 There was again war with the Philistines at Gob; and Elhanan the ... /g/gittite's.htm - 6k Gittites (2 Occurrences) Gittith (6 Occurrences) Jaareoregim (1 Occurrence) Ja'areor'egim (1 Occurrence) Gob (3 Occurrences) Weaver's (5 Occurrences) Elhanan (4 Occurrences) Bethlehemite (4 Occurrences) Goliath (6 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |