The Ithrites are a group mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the context of King David's reign. They are identified as part of the larger assembly of David's mighty warriors, a select group of valiant men who played a crucial role in establishing and securing David's kingdom. The Ithrites are noted for their bravery and loyalty, characteristics highly esteemed in the biblical narrative.

Biblical References:

The primary biblical reference to the Ithrites is found in 2 Samuel 23:8-39 and 1 Chronicles 11:10-47, where they are listed among David's mighty men. In these passages, the Ithrites are mentioned alongside other distinguished warriors who contributed to David's military successes. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following reference:

· 2 Samuel 23:38 : "Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite."

· 1 Chronicles 11:40 : "Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite."

These passages highlight two individuals, Ira and Gareb, who are specifically identified as Ithrites. Their inclusion in the list of David's mighty men underscores their importance and valor.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The Ithrites, like many of David's warriors, likely hailed from various tribes and regions within Israel. The term "Ithrite" is believed to denote a clan or family group, though specific details about their origins or the exact location of their settlement are not provided in the biblical text. The mention of Ira and Gareb as Ithrites suggests that they were part of a distinct lineage or group within the broader context of Israelite society.

The period of David's reign was marked by significant military campaigns and the consolidation of power, requiring the support of skilled and loyal fighters. The Ithrites, through their association with David's elite warriors, played a role in these endeavors, contributing to the stability and expansion of the Israelite kingdom.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Ithrites in the biblical narrative serves to illustrate the diverse and unified nature of David's supporters. Despite their varied backgrounds, these warriors were united in their commitment to David, whom they recognized as God's anointed king. This unity and dedication are reflective of the broader biblical theme of God's people coming together to fulfill His purposes.

The Ithrites, though mentioned briefly, are part of the larger account of God's providence and the establishment of the Davidic dynasty, which holds significant messianic implications. David's reign is seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate reign of Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah, who would come from the line of David.

Conclusion:

While the biblical text provides limited information about the Ithrites, their mention as part of David's mighty men highlights their role in the history of Israel and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Their legacy, preserved in the Scriptures, serves as a testament to their valor and faithfulness in service to God's chosen king.3505. Yithri -- descendant of Jethro
... Definition: Ithrite. Word Origin from Yether Definition desc. of Jethro NASB
Word Usage Ithrite (4), Ithrites (1). Ithrite. Patronymically ...
/hebrew/3505.htm - 6kIthrites (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Ithrites (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 2:53 The
families of Kiriath Jearim: The Ithrites, and the Puthites ...
/i/ithrites.htm - 6k

Ithrite (3 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 2:53 The families of Kiriath Jearim: The Ithrites, and the Puthites,
and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zorathites and the ...
/i/ithrite.htm - 7k

Zareathite (1 Occurrence)
... 1 Chronicles 2:53 And the families of Kirjathjearim; the Ithrites, and the Puhites,
and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zareathites, and ...
/z/zareathite.htm - 6k

Zo'rathites (2 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 2:53 The families of Kiriath Jearim: The Ithrites, and the Puthites,
and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zorathites and the ...
/z/zo'rathites.htm - 7k

Zareathites (1 Occurrence)
... 1 Chronicles 2:53 And the families of Kirjathjearim; the Ithrites, and the Puhites,
and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zareathites, and ...
/z/zareathites.htm - 6k

Zereathites (1 Occurrence)
... 1 Chronicles 2:53 And the families of Kirjath-jearim; the Ithrites, and the Puhites,
and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zereathites, and ...
/z/zereathites.htm - 6k

Zorathites (2 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 2:53 The families of Kiriath Jearim: The Ithrites, and the Puthites,
and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zorathites and the ...
/z/zorathites.htm - 7k

Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 2:53 And the families of Kiriath-jearim: the Ithrites, and the Puthites,
and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zorathites, and ...
/k/kir'iath-je'arim.htm - 11k

Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 2:53 And the families of Kirjathjearim; the Ithrites, and the Puhites,
and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zareathites, and ...
/k/kirjathjearim.htm - 13k

Jearim (19 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 2:53 The families of Kiriath Jearim: The Ithrites, and the Puthites,
and the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; of them came the Zorathites and the ...
/j/jearim.htm - 13k

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