It'tai, also spelled Ittai, is a notable figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the narrative of King David's reign. He is primarily mentioned in the context of David's flight from Jerusalem during the rebellion of Absalom, David's son. It'tai is identified as a Gittite, indicating that he was originally from the Philistine city of Gath. Despite his foreign origin, It'tai's loyalty to David is a significant aspect of his character and account.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Samuel 15:19-22 · It'tai first appears in the biblical narrative during Absalom's rebellion. As David flees Jerusalem, he encounters It'tai and his men. David, recognizing It'tai's recent arrival and foreign status, suggests that he remain in Jerusalem or return to his own land. However, It'tai's response is a profound declaration of loyalty: "But It'tai replied to the king, 'As surely as the LORD lives, and as my lord the king lives, wherever my lord the king may be, whether it means life or death, there will your servant be.'" (2 Samuel 15:21). This pledge of allegiance underscores It'tai's commitment to David, transcending national and ethnic boundaries.

2. 2 Samuel 18:2 · It'tai's loyalty is further demonstrated when David organizes his forces to confront Absalom's army. David appoints It'tai as one of the commanders over a third of his troops, alongside Joab and Abishai. This appointment highlights David's trust in It'tai's leadership and military prowess.

Character and Significance:

It'tai's account is a testament to the themes of loyalty, faithfulness, and the breaking of ethnic barriers in the service of God's anointed king. His unwavering support for David, despite being a foreigner, exemplifies the biblical principle that allegiance to God's chosen leader transcends national identity. It'tai's actions reflect a deep personal commitment and a recognition of David's divine appointment as king over Israel.

Historical and Cultural Context:

As a Gittite, It'tai's presence in David's retinue is indicative of the complex relationships between the Israelites and their neighboring peoples. The Philistines, traditionally seen as adversaries of Israel, had interactions with David during his time in exile from Saul. It'tai's allegiance suggests that David's influence and leadership extended beyond the borders of Israel, attracting followers from diverse backgrounds.

Theological Implications:

It'tai's loyalty to David can be seen as a foreshadowing of the inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant community, a theme that is more fully developed in the New Testament. His account serves as an early example of how faithfulness to God's chosen leader, regardless of one's origin, is honored and blessed by God.

In summary, It'tai the Gittite stands out as a paragon of loyalty and faithfulness in the biblical narrative. His commitment to King David, despite his foreign roots, underscores the universal call to serve God's anointed and the breaking down of ethnic divisions in the pursuit of divine purposes.It'tai (7 Occurrences)

2 Samuel 15:19
Then the king said to Ittai the Gittite, "Why do you also go with us? Return, and stay with the king; for you are a foreigner, and also an exile. Return to your own place.
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 15:21
Ittai answered the king, and said, "As Yahweh lives, and as my lord the king lives, surely in what place my lord the king shall is, whether for death or for life, even there also will your servant be."
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 15:22
David said to Ittai, "Go and pass over." Ittai the Gittite passed over, and all his men, and all the little ones who were with him.
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 18:2
David sent forth the people, a third part under the hand of Joab, and a third part under the hand of Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab's brother, and a third part under the hand of Ittai the Gittite. The king said to the people, "I will surely go forth with you myself also."
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 18:5
The king commanded Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying, "Deal gently for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom." All the people heard when the king commanded all the captains concerning Absalom.
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 18:12
The man said to Joab, "Though I should receive a thousand pieces of silver in my hand, I still wouldn't put forth my hand against the king's son; for in our hearing the king commanded you and Abishai and Ittai, saying,'Beware that none touch the young man Absalom.'
(See RSV)

2 Samuel 23:29
Heleb the son of Baanah the Netophathite, Ittai the son of Ribai of Gibeah of the children of Benjamin,
(See RSV)

It'tai (7 Occurrences)
It'tai. Ittai, It'tai. Ituraea . Multi-Version Concordance It'tai (7
Occurrences). 2 Samuel 15:19 Then the king said to Ittai the ...
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Ituraea (1 Occurrence)

/i/ituraea.htm - 10k

Ittai (9 Occurrences)

/i/ittai.htm - 12k

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