1 Chronicles 11:40

KJV

Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite,

KJV (with Strong's)

Ira {H5896} the Ithrite {H3505}, Gareb {H1619} the Ithrite {H3505},

Complete Jewish Bible

'Ira the Yitri, Garev the Yitri,

Berean Standard Bible

Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite,

American Standard Version

Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 11:40 continues the exhaustive catalog of King David's elite warriors, known as his "mighty men," specifically naming Ira the Ithrite and Gareb the Ithrite. This verse, though brief, serves to meticulously record the individuals who pledged their loyalty and strength to David's burgeoning kingdom, underscoring the value placed on individual contribution and faithful service in the establishment and security of God's chosen king.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within 1 Chronicles 11, a pivotal chapter that opens with David's anointing as king over all Israel in Hebron, followed by his capture of Jerusalem and its establishment as the capital. The bulk of the chapter, from verse 11 onward, is dedicated to listing David's "mighty men" – an elite group of warriors whose valor and loyalty were instrumental in his military successes and the consolidation of his reign. This list is largely parallel to the one found in [2 Samuel 23:8-39](/2_samuel/23-8 "2 Samuel 23:8-39 - David's Mighty Men"), though with some variations and additions unique to Chronicles. The Chronicler's inclusion of such a detailed roster emphasizes the human instruments through whom God worked to establish the Davidic kingdom, highlighting the importance of faithful service and the meticulous record of those who contributed to God's purposes. The repetition of names and origins, as seen with "the Ithrite," reinforces the thoroughness of this historical account.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the strength and stability of a king's reign were often directly tied to the loyalty and prowess of his elite military units. David's "mighty men" (Hebrew: גִּבֹּרִים, *gibborim*) were more than just soldiers; they were a personal guard, a special forces unit, and key commanders who had proven their courage and devotion, often having been with David during his fugitive years. Their inclusion in this official record signifies their high status and the honor bestowed upon them. The designation "Ithrite" points to Jattir (or Yattir), a Levitical city in the hill country of Judah, mentioned in [Joshua 15:48](/joshua/15-48 "Joshua 15:48 - Cities of Judah") and [Joshua 21:14](/joshua/21-14 "Joshua 21:14 - Levitical Cities"). This origin is significant because it indicates that these "mighty men" came not necessarily from traditional warrior tribes, but from diverse backgrounds, including a city associated with priests, demonstrating the broad appeal of David's leadership and the willingness of various individuals to commit to his cause.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous listing of individuals like Ira and Gareb contributes to several key themes within 1 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Loyalty and Devotion**, showcasing men who committed their lives to David and, by extension, to God's chosen king and kingdom. Their service was not merely professional but deeply personal. Secondly, it highlights the **Recognition of Individual Contribution**. The Bible often focuses on kings and prophets, but here, the Chronicler takes care to name and honor even those who might seem minor, emphasizing that every individual's faithful service is valued and remembered by God. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that God sees and rewards all acts of faithfulness, as seen in [Matthew 10:42](/matthew/10-42 "Matthew 10:42 - Reward for a Cup of Cold Water"). Finally, the collective list illustrates the **Strength of a Unified Force** under God's appointed leader. David's kingdom was built not just on his own charisma, but on the combined strength, skill, and dedication of a diverse group of men, demonstrating that God often accomplishes His purposes through the collective efforts of His people, united under a common vision, as exemplified in the early church's unity in [Acts 4:32](/acts/4-32 "Acts 4:32 - Unity of Believers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ithrite (Hebrew, _hay-yith-rî_):** This gentilic adjective indicates a person from Jattir (also spelled Yattir), a city located in the hill country of Judah. Jattir was designated as a Levitical city of refuge according to [Joshua 21:14](/joshua/21-14 "Joshua 21:14 - Levitical Cities"). The fact that men from a Levitical city were among David's elite warriors is notable. It suggests that David's support base was broad and included individuals from various backgrounds, not just traditional military strongholds. It also implies that their loyalty to David transcended typical tribal or professional affiliations, highlighting a deep personal commitment to the king and his God-ordained mission.
* **Gareb (Hebrew, _gārēḇ_):** The name Gareb literally means "scabby" or "leper." While the etymology of personal names does not always directly reflect the character or appearance of the individual, it is an unusual name for a "mighty man." This might subtly underscore the Chronicler's point that God uses all kinds of people, even those with seemingly unremarkable or even negative connotations associated with their names, to accomplish His great purposes. Gareb is also mentioned in [2 Samuel 23:38](/2_samuel/23-38 "2 Samuel 23:38 - Gareb the Ithrite"), confirming his place among the thirty.
* **Ira (Hebrew, _‘îrā’_):** The name Ira means "watchful" or "city." There are a few individuals named Ira in the Old Testament. The Ira mentioned here, "the Ithrite," is distinct from Ira the Jairite, who was David's chief minister (2 Samuel 20:26). His inclusion in this list highlights his personal valor and commitment, placing him among the most distinguished warriors of David's reign.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Ira the Ithrite":** This clause introduces one of the two mighty men named in this verse. Ira is identified by his place of origin, Jattir, indicating his roots in the hill country of Judah. His inclusion in this highly esteemed list signifies his proven bravery, skill in battle, and unwavering loyalty to King David, marking him as a significant figure in the consolidation of David's kingdom.
* **"Gareb the Ithrite":** Following Ira, Gareb is also named and identified as an "Ithrite," suggesting he shared the same geographical origin and likely a similar path of dedication to David. The repetition of "the Ithrite" emphasizes their shared background and perhaps a bond forged through their common service. Gareb's presence further expands the roster of David's loyal and valiant supporters, reinforcing the comprehensive nature of the Chronicler's record.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 1 Chronicles 11:40, and indeed throughout the entire list of David's mighty men, is **Enumeration** or **Cataloging**. This systematic listing of names serves to provide a comprehensive and authoritative account, emphasizing the thoroughness of the historical record and the importance of each individual's contribution. The repetition of "the Ithrite" for both Ira and Gareb functions as **Anaphora** (though in a very short form) or simply **Repetition**, which highlights their shared origin and reinforces their specific identity within the larger group. Furthermore, the act of naming itself, known as **Nominalism**, confers significance and remembrance. By meticulously recording these names, the Chronicler ensures that these individuals are not forgotten, signifying their lasting impact on David's kingdom and God's overarching plan. This detailed naming underscores the value God places on every person and their faithful service.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The inclusion of Ira and Gareb, the Ithrites, within the esteemed list of David's mighty men, carries profound theological weight. It demonstrates God's meticulous attention to detail, even in the lives of seemingly minor figures, and His use of diverse individuals to accomplish His grand redemptive purposes. Just as David's kingdom was established through the combined strength and loyalty of these varied men, God's kingdom today is built by the faithful service of all believers, regardless of their background or perceived status. This serves as a powerful reminder that every act of obedience and dedication, no matter how small, is seen and valued by God, contributing to His eternal plan. The Chronicler's emphasis on these individuals underscores the principle that human agency, when aligned with divine will, plays a crucial role in the unfolding of salvation history.

* [2 Samuel 23:8-39](/2_samuel/23-8 "2 Samuel 23:8-39 - David's Mighty Men"): The parallel account of David's mighty men, highlighting the consistency of the biblical record regarding these key figures.
* [Hebrews 11:32-34](/hebrews/11-32 "Hebrews 11:32-34 - Faith of the Heroes"): A New Testament "hall of faith" that celebrates individuals who, through faith, "became mighty in war," echoing the spirit of David's warriors.
* [Matthew 10:42](/matthew/10-42 "Matthew 10:42 - Reward for a Cup of Cold Water"): Jesus' teaching that even the smallest act of service done in His name will not go unrewarded, affirming God's recognition of individual contributions.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The brief mention of Ira and Gareb, the Ithrites, in David's honor roll of mighty men, offers a compelling spiritual lesson for believers today. It reminds us that God meticulously records and values every act of faithful service, even those that might seem insignificant in the grand scheme. Just as these men dedicated their strength and loyalty to an earthly king, we are called to serve our Heavenly King, Jesus Christ, with unwavering devotion and courage. Our contributions, whether in public ministry or quiet acts of kindness, are not overlooked. This verse encourages us to embrace our unique roles within the body of Christ, knowing that our diverse gifts and backgrounds are all part of God's strategic design for building His kingdom. It challenges us to live lives marked by loyalty, perseverance, and a willingness to be used by God, confident that our efforts are recognized and contribute to a purpose far greater than ourselves.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous listing of individuals like Ira and Gareb encourage you in your own service to God, knowing that every act of faithfulness is seen and valued?**
* **In what ways can we better recognize and affirm the "mighty men and women" of faith in our own communities today, those who faithfully serve in various capacities?**
* **What does the "Ithrite" designation, linking these warriors to a Levitical city, teach us about the diverse backgrounds from which God calls and uses His servants for His purposes?**

### FAQ

**Why are these specific names listed in the Bible?**

Answer: The listing of specific names like Ira and Gareb serves several important purposes. Firstly, it provides a historical record of the individuals who were instrumental in establishing and securing King David's reign, highlighting the human instruments through whom God worked. Secondly, it underscores the value the Chronicler placed on individual loyalty, valor, and service, emphasizing that every contribution to God's kingdom, no matter how seemingly minor, is recognized and esteemed. This meticulous record-keeping reflects God's own attention to detail and His remembrance of those who serve Him faithfully. It also authenticates David's reign by showcasing the caliber and breadth of his support.

**Is "Ithrite" a tribal designation or a geographical one?**

Answer: "Ithrite" is primarily a geographical designation, indicating a person from Jattir (also spelled Yattir). Jattir was a city located in the hill country of Judah, as mentioned in [Joshua 15:48](/joshua/15-48 "Joshua 15:48 - Cities of Judah"). What makes this particularly interesting is that Jattir was also designated as a Levitical city, as seen in [Joshua 21:14](/joshua/21-14 "Joshua 21:14 - Levitical Cities"). This suggests that Ira and Gareb, though from a city associated with priests, were warriors who committed themselves to David's cause. Their origin highlights the diverse backgrounds from which David drew his support, demonstrating that loyalty and prowess were not confined to specific tribes or regions.

**Are these the same individuals mentioned elsewhere in the Bible?**

Answer: Ira the Ithrite and Gareb the Ithrite are specifically mentioned in both [1 Chronicles 11:40](/1_chronicles/11-40 "1 Chronicles 11:40 - Ira and Gareb") and its parallel account in [2 Samuel 23:38](/2_samuel/23-38 "2 Samuel 23:38 - Ira and Gareb"). While there is another Ira mentioned in the Bible, Ira the Jairite, who was one of David's chief ministers (2 Samuel 20:26), he is explicitly identified as a Jairite, not an Ithrite. Therefore, it is generally understood that Ira the Ithrite and Ira the Jairite are distinct individuals. Gareb is less frequently mentioned outside of these lists of David's mighty men. The consistent identification as "the Ithrite" for both Ira and Gareb in these two key passages confirms their specific identities within David's elite force.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The roster of David's mighty men, including Ira and Gareb the Ithrites, serves as a powerful Old Testament shadow pointing to the ultimate King, Jesus Christ, and His own chosen "mighty men and women." Just as David gathered a diverse group of loyal warriors who risked their lives to establish his earthly kingdom, Christ calls and empowers believers from every tribe, tongue, and nation to be part of His spiritual, eternal kingdom. These New Testament "mighty ones" are not called to wield physical swords but to engage in spiritual warfare, equipped with the "armor of God" ([Ephesians 6:10-18](/ephesians/6-10 "Ephesians 6:10-18 - The Armor of God")). Their loyalty is not to an earthly monarch but to the King of Kings, who has all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). Christ personally chooses and appoints His followers ([John 15:16](/john/15-16 "John 15:16 - Chosen and Appointed")), transforming ordinary people into a "royal priesthood, a holy nation" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race")). The meticulous recording of David's warriors foreshadows God's intimate knowledge and remembrance of every believer who faithfully serves Christ, whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life, ensuring their eternal inheritance in His everlasting kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Samuel 20:26

And Ira also the Jairite was a chief ruler about David.