Who was Gareb in the Bible?

Gareb was a warrior known as Gareb the Ithrite, who served as one of King David's elite 'mighty men' (2 Samuel 23:38). He was part of a group of thirty-seven highly skilled and loyal fighters who supported David's reign.

Why is Gareb the Ithrite significant?

His inclusion in the list of David's mighty men signifies his exceptional bravery and loyalty. While no specific deeds are recorded for him alone, being named among this elite group highlights his importance in establishing and securing David's kingdom.

What does the name 'Ithrite' mean for Gareb?

'Ithrite' indicates Gareb was likely from the family or clan of Jether, or from the town of Jattir. It identifies his lineage or origin, distinguishing him from others with the same name among David's followers (2 Samuel 23:38).

Gareb

Old TestamentUnited MonarchyMaleDavid's warrior

Gareb the Ithrite was one of David's mighty warriors, known for his military prowess.

Gareb

Biography

Gareb the Ithrite is listed among the elite warriors known as David's Mighty Men (Gibborim), specifically within the group of thirty named in 2 Samuel 23:38 and 1 Chronicles 11:40. His identification as "the Ithrite" connects him to the Ithrites, a clan associated with Kiriath-jearim, the town that had housed the ark of the covenant before David brought it to Jerusalem. Gareb's inclusion in the list of thirty places him among the most celebrated soldiers in the ancient Israelite military tradition, men whose individual valor contributed to the consolidation of David's kingdom and the security of God's covenant people. His name appears alongside Ira the Ithrite, suggesting these two warriors may have been kinsmen.

Significance

Gareb represents the essential role of loyal, skilled military service in fulfilling God's purposes for David's kingdom. The catalog of David's Mighty Men in 2 Samuel 23 and 1 Chronicles 11 is more than a military honor roll, it is a theological statement that God accomplishes His purposes through the courage and faithfulness of individuals. David's kingdom, from which the messianic line descended, was secured in part by warriors like Gareb who gave their strength in service of God's anointed king. Their loyalty to David foreshadows the devotion called for in those who serve the greater Son of David, and their recorded names affirm that God takes notice of faithful service rendered in His name, however obscure the servant.

Verse Appearances (2)

2Sam

2Sam 23:38

1Chr

1Chr 11:40

References

Orr, J. (ed.) (1915) The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Chicago: Howard-Severance Company. [Public Domain]
Tyndale House, Cambridge (n.d.) Translators Individualised Proper Names with all References (TIPNR). STEPBible. Available at: https://www.stepbible.org. [CC BY 4.0]
Wikidata contributors (n.d.) Wikidata. Available at: https://www.wikidata.org. [CC0]
Church of England (1769) The Holy Bible, Authorized (King James) Version. [Public Domain]

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