Cherethites

ker'-e-thits (kerethim, ha-kerethi; Chelethi "executioners," "life-guardsmen"): A people in South Palestine whose territory bordered upon that of Judah (1Sa 30:14). In 1Sa 30:16 this land is apparently identical with that of the Philistines. In Eze 25:16 the Philistines and the Cherethites are threatened together; while in Zep 2:5 the Cherethites are evidently the dwellers in "the land of the Philistines," "the inhabitants of the seacoast." Septuagint in both Ezekiel and Zephaniah renders the name "Cretans." The translators may have been "guided only by the sound." But Zeus Cretagenes in Gaza suggests a connection with the island of Crete. See, however, CAPHTOR. It may be taken as certain that the Cherethites were a Philistine clan. In conjunction with the Pelethites they are frequently named as forming the guard of David (2Sa 8:18, etc.). It was the custom of many ancient monarchs to have a guard of foreign mercenaries.

W. Ewing

Definition

The Cherethites were a people group who were probably part of the Philistines. Some versions write this name as “Kerethites.”

• The “Cherethites and Pelethites” were a special group of soldiers from King David’s army who were especially devoted to him as his bodyguards.
• Benaiah, son of Jehoiada, a member of David’s administrative corps, was the leader of the Cherethites and Pelethites.
• The Cherethites remained with David when he had to flee Jerusalem because of Absalom’s revolt.

(Translation suggestions: Translate Names)

(See also: Absalom, Benaiah, David, Philistines)

Bible References

• Zephaniah 2:5

Word Data

• Strong’s: H3774