Who was Joshaphat the Mithnite?

Joshaphat the Mithnite was one of King David's mighty warriors, listed among his elite military corps known as the 'Thirty' (1 Chronicles 11:43). The title 'Mithnite' likely indicates his origin from an unknown place called Mithnah or identifies his clan.

What does 'Mithnite' mean in the Bible?

The term 'Mithnite' is a gentilic name, meaning 'from Mithnah.' It identifies Joshaphat's origin, but the location of Mithnah is unknown and not mentioned elsewhere in Scripture, leaving the group's history a mystery.

Why is Joshaphat the Mithnite significant?

His inclusion in the list of David's mighty warriors signifies his exceptional valor and loyalty, contributing to the establishment and security of David's kingdom. While no specific deeds are recorded, his name is preserved in Israel's history as part of this honored group.

Mithnites

Old TestamentFemaleFamily of warrior

The Mithnites are mentioned in the context of Joshaphat the Mithnite, one of David's mighty warriors, but no further information about them is provided.

Mithnites

Biography

The Mithnites were a family or clan associated with a location called Mithnah, known primarily through their connection to Joshaphat the Mithnite, one of King David's elite warriors listed among his mighty men (1 Chronicles 11:43). The designation "Mithnite" likely refers to a geographical origin, though the precise location of Mithnah remains unidentified in biblical geography.

As members of David's inner circle of warriors, the Mithnites contributed to the military strength that secured David's kingdom. Their mention alongside other distinguished fighters from various tribes and regions reflects the diverse coalition that rallied around David during his rise to power and throughout his reign over a united Israel.

Significance

The Mithnites illustrate a recurring biblical theme: God's work through obscure and unheralded individuals. Though virtually nothing is known about this clan beyond a single genealogical reference, their inclusion among David's mighty warriors demonstrates that faithfulness in service matters more than fame or prominence.

The diverse origins of David's warriors, including figures like Joshaphat the Mithnite, foreshadow the inclusive nature of God's kingdom, where people from every background are called to serve. Their presence in Scripture reminds readers that God's redemptive narrative is built not only upon well-known heroes but also upon countless faithful servants whose stories remain largely untold.

Verse Appearances (1)

1Chr

1Chr 11:43

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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