Berites
Textsâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
The Hebrew word berites occurs only in 2 Samuel 20:14, where textual criticism indicates it is a scribal corruption of bachrim, meaning 'choice young men' or 'elite warriors.'
What is the meaning of Berites in the Bible?
The Hebrew word berites occurs only in 2 Samuel 20:14, where textual criticism indicates it is a scribal corruption of bachrim, meaning 'choice young men' or 'elite warriors.'
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing this textual variant clarifies the identity of the forces involved in the conflict at Abel Beth Maacah, allowing readers to accurately understand the nature of the military opposition faced by Joab and his troops.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Berites in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Berites clarify?
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Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.