probably from כָּרַת in the sense of executioner; (compare טַבָּח) (only collectively in the singular as plural); a Kerethite or life-guardsman; Cherethims, Cherethites.
Transliteration:Kᵉrêthîy
Pronunciation:ker-ay-thee'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term כְּרֵתִי (Kᵉrêthîy), Strong's number `{{H3774}}`, is primarily understood as a designation for a specific group of individuals associated with King David's elite guard. Its etymological root is most likely derived from כָּרַת (karath, `{{H3772}}`), meaning "to cut, cut off, or make a covenant." This etymological connection suggests a semantic range that encompasses both the idea of being "cut off" (perhaps as executioners or those who enforce the king's decrees by "cutting off" opposition) and the concept of "making a covenant" (implying a deep, binding loyalty to the monarch). The base definition notes a comparison to טַבָּח (tabbach, `{{H2876}}`), an "executioner" or "slaughterer," reinforcing the former aspect. Grammatically, כְּרֵתִי is unique in that it functions collectively in the singular, yet denotes a plural entity (e.g., "the Cherethite" referring to the Cherethites). This collective noun signifies a distinct, unified body. The term also carries a geographical or ethnic connotation, often linked to the island of Crete or the Philistines, suggesting a foreign origin for this specialized military unit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Cherethites (כְּרֵתִי) appear most prominently in the historical books, consistently alongside the Pelethites (פְּלֵתִי, `{{H6432}}`), forming King David's personal bodyguard and elite military force. Their first mention is in [[2 Samuel 8:18]] and [[1 Chronicles 18:17]], where they are listed as part of David's administration, serving under Benaiah son of Jehoiada. Their unwavering loyalty to David is a recurring theme. During Absalom's rebellion, when David was forced to flee Jerusalem, the Cherethites and Pelethites remained steadfast, accompanying the king (e.g., [[2 Samuel 15:18]]). Similarly, when Sheba son of Bichri incited rebellion, it was David's men, including the Cherethites and Pelethites, who pursued and ultimately subdued him (e.g., [[2 Samuel 20:7]], [[2 Samuel 20:23]]). Their loyalty reached its zenith during the succession crisis involving Adonijah. When Adonijah attempted to seize the throne, the Cherethites and Pelethites, under the command of Benaiah, remained loyal to David and followed his instruction to anoint Solomon as king, escorting him to Gihon (e.g., [[1 Kings 1:38]], [[1 Kings 1:44]]). This consistent portrayal underscores their role not merely as soldiers, but as trusted guardians of the king's person and the Davidic dynasty. Beyond their role as royal guards, the term "Kerethites" also appears in [[Ezekiel 25:16]] in a prophetic context, referring to a people group, likely related to the Philistines or Cretans, whom God vows to "cut off." This broader usage hints at their ethnic identity, which, paradoxically, did not diminish their loyalty to the Israelite king.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most intimately related term to כְּרֵתִי (Kᵉrêthîy) is פְּלֵתִי (Pᵉlêthîy, `{{H6432}}`), the "Pelethites," who are almost invariably mentioned in conjunction with the Cherethites. This pairing suggests a single, cohesive unit or two complementary branches of the royal guard. The root כָּרַת (karath, `{{H3772}}`), "to cut," is foundational to understanding the Cherethites' potential function as enforcers or executioners, those who "cut off" enemies of the king. This aligns with the comparison to טַבָּח (tabbach, `{{H2876}}`), "slaughterer" or "executioner," noted in the base definition. More broadly, they belong to the category of David's elite warriors, though distinct from "the mighty men" (הַגִּבּוֹרִים, haggibborim, from גִּבּוֹר, gibbor, `{{H2023}}`), who were often leaders of larger units or performed specific feats. Their possible foreign origin connects them conceptually to other non-Israelites who served prominent roles in Israel, such as Ittai the Gittite (`{{H3862}}`). The concept of a loyal personal guard is also seen in other ancient Near Eastern monarchies, underscoring the universal need for security and fidelity for a ruler.
### Theological Significance
The Cherethites, though a relatively small group, carry significant theological weight. Their unwavering loyalty to King David serves as a powerful biblical illustration of faithfulness, particularly in times of grave crisis and rebellion. In the context of David as God's anointed king, the Cherethites represent the human instruments through whom divine providence ensured the stability and continuity of the Davidic covenant. Their steadfastness, even when many Israelites wavered, highlights the principle that God can use unexpected individuals, even those of foreign origin, to fulfill His purposes. Their role as enforcers of the king's justice, derived from the root "to cut off," subtly points to the necessary exercise of righteous judgment against rebellion and sin, a characteristic ultimately inherent in God's own kingship. Furthermore, their protection of David, a type of the Messiah, foreshadows the spiritual protection afforded to God's ultimate King, Jesus Christ, and to His kingdom. Their commitment to David's throne underscores the importance of fidelity to God's established order and His chosen leaders.
### Summary
The term כְּרֵתִי (Kᵉrêthîy, `{{H3774}}`), transliterated as Cherethites, refers primarily to an elite, highly loyal unit of King David's personal guard, invariably mentioned alongside the Pelethites. Etymologically linked to כָּרַת (karath, `{{H3772}}`), "to cut," their name suggests a role as enforcers or executioners for the king's decrees, embodying both decisive action and covenantal fidelity. Their consistent presence and unwavering allegiance during periods of rebellion (Absalom, Adonijah) underscore their crucial role in securing the Davidic dynasty. While possibly of foreign origin (Cretan/Philistine), their devotion to David serves as a profound biblical example of loyalty and faithfulness. Theologically, the Cherethites illustrate divine providence at work through human agents, ensuring the protection of God's anointed king and upholding the stability of the Davidic covenant, thus pointing to the broader themes of divine sovereignty and the security of God's kingdom.
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