יִתְרִי (yit.ri)
yit.ri
Ithrite
N:N--PGQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--PG
Word Overview
The noun yitri refers to an individual identified as an "Ithrite," a member of a specific group mentioned in the historical books of Samuel and Chronicles. The term appears only three times in the Hebrew Bible, serving as a gentilic descriptor for men associated with King David’s military leadership. Its primary occurrence is in 2 Samuel 23:38, where it identifies one of David’s mighty warriors.
Linguistically, the word denotes descent from a figure named Ithar or Jether. Lexical sources suggest the name may carry connotations of "remnant" or "excellence," though the exact etymology remains uncertain. The term is almost always used with the definite article, indicating a known, distinct lineage within the narrative context. These brief references help preserve the names of lesser-known but significant figures in Israel’s military history.
As a gentilic noun, yitri functions to locate individuals within their familial or tribal heritage rather than describing an action or abstract concept. Its scarcity in Scripture highlights how specific genealogical details were preserved for certain loyal servants of David. The word underscores the importance of individual identity within the larger community of Israel’s leaders.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Ithrite appears only three times in Scripture, marking individuals who served with loyalty during King David’s reign. These brief mentions remind us that God sees and records the faithful service of those whose names might otherwise be forgotten. In a world that often celebrates only the most famous figures, these references offer comfort: your contribution matters, even if it is not widely known.
Whether serving in leadership or supporting others behind the scenes, faithfulness is what endures. The Ithrites are remembered not for grand speeches, but for their steadfast presence alongside David’s mighty warriors. This encourages us to serve where we are placed, trusting that God values integrity and consistency over public recognition.
When you feel overlooked or undervalued, remember that Scripture preserves the names of many such loyal servants. Your quiet faithfulness is seen by God and contributes to the larger story of His people. Rest in the assurance that your service has eternal significance, regardless of how small it may seem in the moment.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ Ithrite4×
- the/ Ithrite[s]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/יִּתְרִֽי\׃\ \ס2×
- הַ/יִּתְרִ֔י2×
- הַ/יִּתְרִי֙1×
Key Verses
-
II Samuel 23:38
Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite,
This verse lists Ira and Gareb as Ithrites among David’s mighty warriors, highlighting their role in military leadership.
-
I Chronicles 11:40
Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite,
The parallel account confirms the identity of Ira and Gareb as Ithrites, reinforcing their place in David’s inner circle.
-
I Chronicles 2:53
The families of Kiriath Jearim: the Ithrites, the Puthites, the Shumathites, and the Mishraites; from them came the Zorathites and the Eshtaolites.
This genealogical note places the Ithrites within the broader family structure of Kiriath Jearim, showing their tribal roots.