Ith'ream is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of King David's family. He is recognized as one of the sons of David, born to him during his reign in Hebron. The name Ith'ream is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively established, it is often interpreted as "abundance of the people" or "remnant of the people."

Biblical References:

Ith'ream is mentioned in the context of David's family lineage in the following passages:

1. 2 Samuel 3:5 : "The sixth was Ithream, by David’s wife Eglah. These were born to David in Hebron."

2. 1 Chronicles 3:3 : "The fifth was Shephatiah by Abital, and the sixth was Ithream by his wife Eglah."

These passages highlight Ith'ream as the sixth son of David, born to him by Eglah, one of David's wives. The listing of David's sons in these genealogies underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative, particularly in relation to the Davidic line, which holds significant messianic implications.

Historical and Theological Context:

Ith'ream's birth in Hebron places him within a critical period of David's life, during which David was consolidating his rule over the tribe of Judah and establishing his kingship before eventually uniting the tribes of Israel. Hebron served as David's capital for seven and a half years before he moved his reign to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:5).

The mention of Ith'ream, along with his brothers, serves to document the expansion of David's family and the establishment of his royal household. Each son born to David in Hebron represents a potential heir to the throne, contributing to the complex dynamics of succession that would later unfold in the narrative of David's reign.

Cultural and Genealogical Significance:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the recording of genealogies was crucial for establishing legal rights, inheritance, and tribal affiliations. Ith'ream's inclusion in the genealogical records of David's sons underscores the importance of documenting the royal lineage, which is central to the biblical narrative and the unfolding of God's covenant promises to David.

While Ith'ream himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative beyond his mention in the genealogies, his place in the lineage of David contributes to the broader theological theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant with David. This covenant, as articulated in passages such as 2 Samuel 7, promises the establishment of David's throne and kingdom forever, ultimately finding fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ, who is recognized in the New Testament as the Son of David.

Conclusion:

Ith'ream's mention in the biblical genealogies serves as a testament to the historical and theological significance of David's lineage. While the biblical text provides limited information about Ith'ream's life and role, his inclusion in the genealogical records highlights the importance of family heritage and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the line of David.Ith'ream (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 3:3
the fifth, Shephatiah of Abital; the sixth, Ithream by Eglah his wife.
(See RSV)

Ith'ream (1 Occurrence)
Ith'ream. Ithream, Ith'ream. Ith're-am . Multi-Version Concordance
Ith'ream (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 3:3 the fifth, Shephatiah ...
/i/ith'ream.htm - 6k

Ith're-am (1 Occurrence)
Ith're-am. Ith'ream, Ith're-am. Ithrite . Multi-Version Concordance
Ith're-am (1 Occurrence). ... (See RSV). Ith'ream, Ith're-am. Ithrite . Reference
/i/ith're-am.htm - 6k

Ithream (2 Occurrences)

/i/ithream.htm - 7k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus