The term "Cherethite" refers to a group of people mentioned in the Old Testament, often associated with the Philistines and serving as part of King David's elite military forces. The Cherethites are frequently mentioned alongside the Pelethites, another group that formed David's personal guard. The origin and identity of the Cherethites have been subjects of scholarly discussion, with some suggesting a connection to the island of Crete, while others propose a more localized origin within the Philistine territories.

Biblical References

The Cherethites are first mentioned in the context of David's reign. In 1 Samuel 30:14, the Cherethites are identified as inhabitants of the Negev, a desert region in southern Judah: "We raided the Negev of the Cherethites, the territory of Judah, and the Negev of Caleb, and we burned Ziklag." This passage suggests that the Cherethites were a distinct group within the broader Philistine confederation.

In 2 Samuel 8:18, the Cherethites are listed as part of David's administration: "Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites; and David’s sons were priests." This indicates that the Cherethites held a significant role in the military hierarchy of Israel under David's rule. Similarly, 2 Samuel 20:23 states, "Now Joab was over the whole army of Israel; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and Pelethites."

The Cherethites are also mentioned in the context of Absalom's rebellion. In 2 Samuel 15:18, as David flees Jerusalem, the Cherethites are noted as part of his loyal retinue: "All his men marched past him, along with all the Cherethites and Pelethites and all the six hundred Gittites who had followed him from Gath."

Role and Function

The Cherethites, along with the Pelethites, served as David's personal bodyguards and were likely mercenaries or foreign soldiers who had pledged their loyalty to him. Their presence in David's army underscores the king's reliance on a diverse and skilled military force. The Cherethites' role as elite troops is further emphasized by their repeated mention in contexts of military and royal protection.

Cultural and Historical Context

The association of the Cherethites with the Philistines is significant, as the Philistines were one of Israel's primary adversaries during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. The potential link between the Cherethites and Crete is suggested by the similarity of the names "Cherethite" and "Cretan," as well as by historical records indicating that the Philistines may have had Aegean origins. However, the exact nature of this connection remains speculative.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of the Cherethites in David's forces highlights the theme of God's sovereignty in using diverse peoples to accomplish His purposes. Despite their foreign origin, the Cherethites were integrated into the life of Israel and played a crucial role in the establishment and security of David's kingdom. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's plan extending beyond ethnic and national boundaries.

In summary, the Cherethites were a significant group within the military structure of ancient Israel, serving as part of King David's elite guard. Their presence in the biblical narrative underscores themes of loyalty, diversity, and the fulfillment of God's purposes through unexpected means.

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 6. <. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Cherethite (8 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Cherethite (8 Occurrences). 1 Samuel 30:14 We
made a raid on the South of the Cherethites, and on that ...
/c/cherethite.htm - 9k

Cherethites (11 Occurrences)

/c/cherethites.htm - 11k

Pushed (28 Occurrences)
... 1 Samuel 30:14 we pushed 'to' the south of the Cherethite, and against that which
'is' to Judah, and against the south of Caleb, and Ziklag we burned with fire ...
/p/pushed.htm - 15k

Cherethims (1 Occurrence)

/c/cherethims.htm - 6k

Elder (34 Occurrences)
... 1 Chronicles 18:17 and Benaiah son of Jehoiada 'is' over the Cherethite and the
Pelethite, and the elder sons of David 'are' at the hand of the king. (YLT). ...
/e/elder.htm - 27k

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