### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Gittîy**, represented by `{{H1663}}`, is a patrial term for an **inhabitant of Gath**. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible, serving to identify specific individuals and groups originating from the Philistine city of Gath `{{H1661}}`.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1663}}` is used to identify both famous enemies and steadfast allies of Israel. On one hand, the term is linked to Israel's adversaries, as seen when Elhanan slays the brother of Goliath{H1555} the **Gittite** [[2 Samuel 21:19]]. On the other hand, it describes figures of remarkable loyalty to King David{H1732}. Obed-edom{H5654} the **Gittite** housed the ark{H727} of the LORD{H3068}, and his household was blessed as a result [[2 Samuel 6:11]]. Ittai{H863} the **Gittite**, a commander in David's army, is described as a stranger{H5237} and an exile{H1540} who nonetheless remained loyal to the king [[2 Samuel 15:19]]. The term also refers to a collective group of six hundred **Gittites** who followed David from Gath [[2 Samuel 15:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the identity and narrative role of the **Gittite**:
* `{{H1661}}` **Gath** (Gath, a Philistine city): This is the city of origin for every Gittite, as explicitly stated when a group of men who came with David are identified as coming "from Gath" [[2 Samuel 15:18]].
* `{{H6430}}` **Pᵉlishtîy** (a Pelishtite or inhabitant of Pelesheth; Philistine): This identifies the larger national group to which Gittites belong. The **Gittites** are listed among the five lords of the Philistines [[Joshua 13:3]].
* `{{H863}}` **ʼIttay** (near; Ittai or Ithai, the name of a Gittite and of an Israelite; Ithai, Ittai): This is the proper name of a prominent **Gittite** who served as a military commander for David [[2 Samuel 18:2]].
* `{{H1555}}` **Golyath** (exile; Goljath, a Philistine; Goliath): This is the name of the famous Philistine giant whose brother is identified as a **Gittite** [[2 Samuel 21:19]].
* `{{H5654}}` **ʻÔbêd ʼĔdôwm** (worker of Edom; Obed-Edom, the name of five Israelites; Obed-edom): This is the name of the **Gittite** in whose house the ark of the LORD rested and brought blessing [[2 Samuel 6:10]].
### Theological Significance
The designation **Gittite** carries significant narrative weight, often highlighting themes of loyalty and divine interaction beyond Israel's borders.
* **Unexpected Loyalty:** Despite being Philistines `{{H6430}}`, certain Gittites display profound loyalty to David. Ittai{H863} the **Gittite**, though a foreigner{H5237} and exile{H1540}, pledges to follow David even in death [[2 Samuel 15:19]]. A group of six hundred **Gittites** also follows the king when he flees Jerusalem [[2 Samuel 15:18]].
* **Association with Divine Presence:** The Ark{H727} of the LORD{H3068} is entrusted to the house of Obed-edom{H5654} the **Gittite**, resulting in the LORD blessing{H1288} him and his entire household [[2 Samuel 6:11]].
* **Identity of the Enemy:** The term also identifies formidable adversaries of Israel. The brother of Goliath{H1555} is specified as a **Gittite**, connecting him to the Philistine warrior heritage and the ongoing conflict between the two nations [[1 Chronicles 20:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1663}}` **Gittîy** is more than a simple geographic label; it is a specific identifier for people from the Philistine city of Gath{H1661}. The term encapsulates a significant narrative paradox: while identifying some of Israel's notable enemies, it also designates some of King David's{H1732} most loyal and trusted followers, such as Ittai{H863} and Obed-edom{H5654}. This highlights a biblical theme where personal allegiance and divine blessing are not strictly confined by national or ethnic lines.
TRV