patronymically from יֶתֶר; a Jithrite or descendant of Jether; Ithrite.
Transliteration:Yithrîy
Pronunciation:yith-ree'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term יִתְרִי (Yithrîy, `{{H3505}}`) is a gentilic or patronymic adjective derived from the personal name יֶתֶר (Yether, `{{H3499}}`). Its core meaning therefore signifies "of Jether," "belonging to Jether," or "a descendant of Jether." The underlying root יֶתֶר (Yether) itself carries the semantic range of "abundance," "remainder," "excess," or "what is left over." While the patronymic Yithrîy does not directly convey these meanings, it establishes a clear lineage and identity tied to an ancestor named Jether. Thus, an Ithrite is one who traces their family origin to a specific individual bearing the name Jether.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term Yithrîy (Ithrite) appears in the Old Testament primarily in two distinct contexts, though both relate to the tribe of Judah.
1. **David's Mighty Men:** The most prominent occurrences identify two of David's elite warriors, Ira the Ithrite and Gareb the Ithrite, among the "thirty" mighty men.
* [[2 Samuel 23:38]] lists "Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite" as members of this distinguished group.
* [[1 Chronicles 11:40]] similarly mentions "Ira the Ithrite" in a parallel list of David's heroes.
These references highlight their valor, military prowess, and loyalty to King David, placing them in a position of significant honor and trust within his kingdom.
2. **Judahite Clan:** In the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah, "the Ithrites" are mentioned as one of the families of Kiriath-jearim.
* [[1 Chronicles 2:53]] states, "And the families of Kiriath-jearim: the Ithrites, the Puthites, the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; from these came the Zorathites and the Eshtaolites."
This passage indicates that the Ithrites constituted a recognized clan or sub-tribe within Judah, specifically associated with the city of Kiriath-jearim. Kiriath-jearim was a significant location, notably serving as the resting place for the Ark of the Covenant for many years ([[1 Samuel 7:1-2]]). This association suggests a settled, established lineage within the tribal structure of Judah. The Jether from whom this clan descends is likely the one mentioned in [[1 Chronicles 2:32]], a descendant of Judah through Jerahmeel.
The dual appearance as both valiant individuals and a recognized family group underscores the importance of lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israelite society, where personal achievement often intersected with communal belonging.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the base noun and personal name יֶתֶר (Yether, `{{H3499}}`). Understanding the various individuals named Jether in the biblical narrative can provide context, though it is not always possible to definitively link the Ithrites to a specific one. Notable individuals named Jether include:
* Gideon's firstborn son ([[Judges 8:20]]).
* A son of Judah by his Canaanite wife ([[1 Chronicles 2:32]]). This Jether is a strong candidate for the ancestor of the Ithrite clan of Kiriath-jearim.
* The father of Amasa, commander of Absalom's army, who was an Ishmaelite ([[2 Samuel 17:25]]). While this Jether is prominent, the Judahite connection of the Ithrites (especially those of Kiriath-jearim) suggests a different ancestral Jether.
* A son of Jada, a descendant of Judah ([[1 Chronicles 2:32]]).
Beyond the direct etymological link, the concept of patronymics itself is crucial. Hebrew patronymics (often formed with the suffix -î, as in Yithrîy) served to identify individuals by their paternal lineage, establishing their tribal affiliation, inheritance rights, and social standing. This practice highlights the communal and genealogical nature of Israelite identity. Furthermore, the context of "David's Mighty Men" connects the Ithrites to themes of military valor, loyalty, and the formation of a national army under a divinely appointed king.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of "Ithrite" is primarily indirect, deriving from the contexts in which it appears.
1. **Divine Providence in Human Affairs:** The inclusion of Ithrites among David's mighty men points to God's providential raising up of individuals from various backgrounds and clans to serve His purposes through His chosen king. Their strength and loyalty were instrumental in establishing and maintaining David's kingdom, a kingdom that prefigured the messianic reign.
2. **Importance of Lineage and Identity:** In a broader sense, the meticulous recording of lineages, including patronymics like "Ithrite," reflects the biblical emphasis on identity, inheritance, and the fulfillment of covenant promises through specific families and tribes. God's covenant with Abraham and its continuation through the tribes of Israel underscore the theological importance of knowing one's heritage and place within God's redemptive plan.
3. **Faithfulness and Service:** The service of Ira and Gareb the Ithrite to King David exemplifies the biblical virtue of faithfulness. Their dedication to the earthly king, who was God's anointed, can be seen as a model of service within the covenant community. Their inclusion in the honored list suggests that their valor was not merely physical strength but also a demonstration of loyalty and commitment, qualities valued in God's eyes.
4. **The "Remnant" Idea (Indirect):** While not a direct theological meaning of the patronymic, the root word יֶתֶר (Yether) means "remainder" or "what is left over." This root is profoundly significant in biblical theology, especially concerning the concept of a faithful "remnant" preserved by God through periods of judgment or apostasy. While it is speculative to directly apply this to the Ithrites as a clan, it offers a subtle, underlying resonance with a key theological theme of God's enduring faithfulness to His people, even if only a "remainder" remains.
### Summary
The term יִתְרִי (Yithrîy, `{{H3505}}`), or "Ithrite," is a patronymic signifying "a descendant of Jether." This designation appears in the biblical narrative in two significant contexts: identifying two of David's valiant mighty men, Ira and Gareb, and denoting a recognized clan within the tribe of Judah, associated with Kiriath-jearim. The study of "Ithrite" underscores the profound importance of lineage and identity in ancient Israelite society, reflecting God's providential hand in raising up individuals for His purposes and highlighting virtues of faithfulness and service within the covenant community. While the patronymic primarily denotes origin, it situates individuals and families within the broader tapestry of God's unfolding plan for His people.
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