The Kerethites, also spelled Cherethites in some translations, are a group mentioned several times in the Old Testament, primarily in the context of King David's reign. They are often associated with the Pelethites, and together they formed an elite group of warriors who served as part of David's personal bodyguard. The exact origin and identity of the Kerethites are subjects of scholarly debate, but they are generally considered to be of foreign origin, possibly linked to the Philistines or other sea peoples.

Biblical References

The Kerethites are first mentioned in 1 Samuel 30:14, where they are identified as inhabitants of the Negev, alongside the Amalekites. This passage provides a geographical context, suggesting that the Kerethites lived in the southern part of Judah. The Berean Standard Bible states: "We raided the Negev of the Kerethites, the territory of Judah, and the Negev of Caleb, and we burned Ziklag."

In 2 Samuel 8:18, the Kerethites are listed among the officials in David's administration: "Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Kerethites and Pelethites; and David’s sons were priests." This indicates their role as part of the king's military and administrative structure. Benaiah, a notable warrior and leader, was appointed over them, highlighting their importance in David's regime.

The Kerethites are also mentioned in 2 Samuel 15:18, during Absalom's rebellion, as part of the loyal forces that accompanied David when he fled Jerusalem: "All his men marched past him, along with all the Kerethites and Pelethites and all the six hundred Gittites who had followed him from Gath."

In 1 Kings 1:38, the Kerethites play a role in the anointing of Solomon as king: "So Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, Benaiah son of Jehoiada, the Kerethites, and the Pelethites went down and had Solomon ride on King David’s mule, and they took him to Gihon."

Historical and Cultural Context

The Kerethites are often associated with the Philistines, as suggested by their possible etymological connection to Crete, the supposed origin of the Philistines. This connection is supported by Ezekiel 25:16, where the BSB reads: "Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I will stretch out My hand against the Philistines, and I will cut off the Kerethites and destroy the remnant along the coast.’" This passage implies a coastal origin, consistent with the Philistine settlements.

The role of the Kerethites as David's bodyguards suggests they were highly trusted and skilled warriors. Their inclusion in the royal guard indicates a level of integration and acceptance within Israelite society, despite their foreign origins. This reflects David's broader strategy of incorporating diverse groups into his administration to strengthen his rule.

Theological Significance

The presence of the Kerethites in the biblical narrative underscores themes of loyalty, service, and the integration of foreigners into the covenant community. Their loyalty to David during times of crisis, such as Absalom's rebellion, highlights the importance of faithfulness and allegiance to God's anointed king. Theologically, this can be seen as a foreshadowing of the inclusion of Gentiles into the people of God, a theme that is more fully developed in the New Testament.

The Kerethites' role in the anointing of Solomon also points to the divine legitimacy of Solomon's kingship, as they were part of the official entourage that affirmed his succession. This event underscores the continuity of God's covenant promises through the Davidic line, ultimately leading to the fulfillment of these promises in Jesus Christ, the Son of David.Kerethites (9 Occurrences)

1 Samuel 30:14
We made a raid on the South of the Cherethites, and on that which belongs to Judah, and on the South of Caleb; and we burned Ziklag with fire."
(See NIV)

2 Samuel 8:18
and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and David's sons were chief ministers.
(See NIV)

2 Samuel 15:18
All his servants passed on beside him; and all the Cherethites, and all the Pelethites, and all the Gittites, six hundred men who came after him from Gath, passed on before the king.
(See NIV)

2 Samuel 20:7
There went out after him Joab's men, and the Cherethites and the Pelethites, and all the mighty men; and they went out of Jerusalem, to pursue after Sheba the son of Bichri.
(See NIV)

2 Samuel 20:23
Now Joab was over all the army of Israel; and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites;
(See NIV)

1 Kings 1:38
So Zadok the priest, and Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and the Cherethites and the Pelethites, went down, and caused Solomon to ride on king David's mule, and brought him to Gihon.
(See NIV)

1 Kings 1:44
The king has sent with him Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and they have caused him to ride on the king's mule.
(See NIV)

1 Chronicles 18:17
and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and the sons of David were chief about the king.
(See NIV)

Ezekiel 25:16
therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah: Behold, I stretch out my hands upon the Philistines, and I will cut off the Kerethites, and cause the remnant of the sea-coast to perish.
(DBY NIV)

Kerethites (9 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Kerethites (9 Occurrences). 1 Samuel 30:14 We
made a raid on the South of the Cherethites, and on that ...
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Kerijoth (3 Occurrences)

/k/kerijoth.htm - 7k

Kerethite (1 Occurrence)

/k/kerethite.htm - 6k

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