The term "Zorathite" refers to an inhabitant or descendant of Zorah, a town in the territory of the tribe of Dan, as mentioned in the Old Testament. Zorah is notably recognized as the birthplace of Samson, one of the judges of Israel, who was renowned for his extraordinary strength and his Nazirite vow. The town is situated in the Shephelah, the lowland region of Judah, and is often associated with the neighboring town of Eshtaol.

Biblical References:

1. Judges 13:2 : "There was a certain man from Zorah, from the clan of the Danites, whose name was Manoah. His wife was barren and had no children." This verse introduces Manoah, the father of Samson, highlighting Zorah as his place of origin.

2. 1 Chronicles 2:53 : "The clans of Kiriath-jearim: the Ithrites, Puthites, Shumathites, and Mishraites. From these descended the Zorathites and Eshtaolites." This passage lists the Zorathites among the descendants of the clans associated with Kiriath-jearim, indicating a broader genealogical and geographical context.

3. 1 Chronicles 4:2 : "Reaiah son of Shobal was the father of Jahath, and Jahath was the father of Ahumai and Lahad. These were the clans of the Zorathites." Here, the Zorathites are mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah, suggesting a connection or integration with Judahite families.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Zorah's location in the Shephelah placed it at a strategic crossroads between the hill country of Judah and the coastal plains, making it significant in the historical narratives of Israel's battles and interactions with neighboring peoples, particularly the Philistines. The Zorathites, as inhabitants of this region, would have been part of the socio-political and military dynamics of the time.

The mention of Zorathites in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles suggests that they were recognized as a distinct group within the broader tribal and familial structures of ancient Israel. This inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical narrative, reflecting the value placed on tribal identity and continuity.

Theological Significance:

The Zorathites, through their association with Samson, are linked to themes of divine intervention and deliverance. Samson's account, beginning in Zorah, is a testament to God's sovereignty and power, as well as the complexities of human obedience and failure. The narrative of Samson serves as a reminder of the potential for God to use individuals from any background to fulfill His purposes, despite their personal shortcomings.

In summary, the Zorathites are a group rooted in the historical and theological landscape of ancient Israel, with their identity intertwined with the narratives of faith, heritage, and divine action as recorded in the Scriptures.Zorathite (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 4:2
Reaiah the son of Shobal became the father of Jahath; and Jahath became the father of Ahumai and Lahad. These are the families of the Zorathites.
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Zorathite (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Zorathite (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 4:2 Reaiah
the son of Shobal became the father of Jahath; and Jahath ...
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Zorah (10 Occurrences)

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Zorathites (2 Occurrences)

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