Question 1

What does 1 Chronicles 11:40 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Chronicles 11:40 lists Ira the Ithrite and Gareb the Ithrite as part of King David’s mighty warriors. This verse is part of a longer record honoring the men who supported David and played important roles in his reign. This list is found in a section where the chronicler, writing to the people of Israel, names the elite warriors who stood by David. By including Ira and Gareb, the verse highlights the diversity of David’s supporters, noting their clan origin (“Ithrite”) and preserving their memory as key figures in Israel’s history.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 11:40

Accepted Answer

אִירָא (Ira, transliterated “Ira”): This is a personal name, identifying one of David’s warriors. The name itself does not carry a special meaning in this context beyond marking out an individual. יִתְרִי (Yithri, transliterated “Ithrite”): This term refers to someone from the clan or family group of Jether or Ithra. By calling both Ira and Gareb “the Ithrite,” the verse shows they shared a common ancestry or tribal background. גָּרֵב (Gareb, transliterated “Gareb”): Another personal name, included to honor this individual’s role among David’s mighty men.

Question 3

Why 1 Chronicles 11:40 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse helps clarify that David’s inner circle was made up of men from various backgrounds, not just from his own tribe or family. By listing specific names and their clan origins, the chronicler emphasizes the importance of remembering individuals who contributed to Israel’s history, even if little else is known about them. The verse connects to the wider passage by showing the breadth and loyalty of David’s supporters, which was a key factor in his successful reign.

1 Chronicles 11:40 (KJV)