### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Pᵉlêthîy**, represented by `{{H6432}}`, refers to the **Pelethites**, a group described as a **courier (collectively) or official messenger**. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses**, and in each instance, it denotes a member of an elite group of soldiers who served King David.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the Pelethites `{{H6432}}` function as part of the king's personal guard and an elite military force. They are consistently mentioned alongside the Cherethites `{{H3774}}` and are under the command of Benaiah `{{H1141}}` the son of Jehoiada ([[2 Samuel 8:18]]; [[1 Chronicles 18:17]]). Their loyalty and military importance are highlighted during critical moments in David's reign. They accompanied David when he fled Jerusalem [[2 Samuel 15:18]], pursued the rebel Sheba [[2 Samuel 20:7]], and were instrumental in securing Solomon's succession to the throne at David's command ([[1 Kings 1:38]]; [[1 Kings 1:44]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the role and context of the Pelethites:
* `{{H3774}}` **Kᵉrêthîy** (a Kerethite or life-guardsman): The Pelethites are never mentioned in scripture without the Cherethites, indicating they were a closely associated, if not integrated, unit of royal life-guardsmen [[2 Samuel 20:23]].
* `{{H1141}}` **Bᵉnâyâh** (Jah has built; Benajah): As the commander of both the Cherethites and the Pelethites, Benaiah's leadership places this group squarely within the formal military structure of the kingdom [[2 Samuel 8:18]].
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (powerful; by implication, warrior): The contingent that included the Pelethites was referred to as "all the mighty men," directly associating them with the concept of elite warriors tasked with critical missions [[2 Samuel 20:7]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (chief ruler, priest): The Pelethites are listed as part of David's official court in the same passage where his sons are named "chief rulers," underscoring their position within the highest levels of the royal administration [[2 Samuel 8:18]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of the Pelethites `{{H6432}}` is tied to the consolidation of the Davidic monarchy.
* **Royal Security:** The Pelethites, alongside the Cherethites, formed a loyal and professional bodyguard for King David. Their presence was a clear symbol of the king's protected status and authority.
* **Military Enforcement:** They were not merely ceremonial figures but an effective fighting force deployed to enforce the king's will and put down internal threats to the kingdom [[2 Samuel 20:7]].
* **Political Loyalty:** Their unwavering support was crucial during times of political instability, most notably in ensuring the divinely appointed succession of Solomon, as commanded by King David [[1 Kings 1:38]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6432}}` is more than a simple label for a messenger. It identifies the Pelethites, an essential component of King David's elite military guard. Their consistent presence in key historical events underscores their role as loyal protectors of the throne and enforcers of royal authority, illustrating the structure and power of the monarchy during a pivotal era in Israel's history.
TRV