Ithra is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the family lineage of Amasa, a military leader in the time of King David. Ithra is identified as the father of Amasa, who played a significant role in the political and military events during David's reign.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Samuel 17:25 : "Now Absalom had appointed Amasa over the army in place of Joab. Amasa was the son of a man named Ithra the Israelite, who had married Abigail, the daughter of Nahash and sister of Zeruiah, the mother of Joab."

2. 1 Chronicles 2:17 : "Abigail bore Amasa, and the father of Amasa was Jether the Ishmaelite."

Analysis:

The biblical texts present a slight variation in the name and ethnic identification of Ithra. In 2 Samuel 17:25, he is referred to as "Ithra the Israelite," while in 1 Chronicles 2:17, he is called "Jether the Ishmaelite." This discrepancy has been a subject of discussion among biblical scholars and commentators. Some suggest that "Ithra" and "Jether" are variations of the same name, while others propose that the terms "Israelite" and "Ishmaelite" might reflect different aspects of his identity or lineage.

Family Connections:

Ithra's marriage to Abigail, the daughter of Nahash, places him within a significant familial network. Abigail is noted as the sister of Zeruiah, making Ithra the brother-in-law of Zeruiah, the mother of Joab, Abishai, and Asahel, who were prominent military leaders under King David. This connection highlights the intertwined relationships among the key figures in David's administration and military.

Role in Biblical Narrative:

Ithra's son, Amasa, is a central figure in the narrative of Absalom's rebellion against King David. Appointed by Absalom as the commander of his forces, Amasa's leadership role underscores the political dynamics and familial loyalties that characterized this tumultuous period in Israel's history. After Absalom's defeat, David sought to reconcile with Amasa by appointing him as commander of his army in place of Joab, as recorded in 2 Samuel 19:13.

Theological Implications:

The account of Ithra and his family illustrates the complexities of kinship and loyalty in the biblical narrative. The differing descriptions of Ithra's identity may reflect the broader theme of God's sovereignty in using diverse individuals and families to fulfill His purposes. The account of Amasa, Ithra's son, serves as a reminder of the intricate interplay between divine providence and human agency in the unfolding of Israel's history.

In summary, Ithra, as the father of Amasa, is a figure whose identity and family connections provide insight into the political and military landscape of King David's reign. His mention in the biblical text, though brief, is significant in understanding the familial and tribal affiliations that influenced the events of the time.2 Samuel 17:25
And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa was a man's son, whose name was Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah Joab's mother.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 2:17
And Abigail bore Amasa: and the father of Amasa was Jether the Ishmeelite.
Nave's Topical Index

3501. Yithra -- father of Amasa
... Word Origin from yathar Definition father of Amasa NASB Word Usage Ithra (1). Ithra.
By variation for yithrah; Jithra, an Israelite (or Ishmaelite) -- Ithra. ...
/hebrew/3501.htm - 6k

How, when Absalom was Beaten, He was Caught in a Tree by his Hair ...
... He appointed Amasa to be captain of all his host, instead of Joab his kinsman: his
father was Ithra and his mother Abigail: now she and Zeruiah, the mother of ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 10 how when absalom.htm

The History of Solomon
... Joab that had been prince of his father's host, because he slew two good men by
treason and guile, that was Abner the son of Ner, and Amasa the son of Ithra. ...
/.../wells/bible stories and religious classics/the history of solomon.htm

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