1 Chronicles 11:31
Ithai the sonne of Ribai of Gibeah, that perteined to the children of Beniamin, Benaiah the Pirathonite, 1 Chronicles 11:31 (KJV)
Ithai the son of Ribai of Gibeah,
that pertained to the children of Benjamin, Benaiah the Pirathonite, 1 Chronicles 11:31 (KJV)
Chronicles belongs to the historical books of the Old Testament and offers a detailed account of King David’s reign, emphasizing his military campaigns, the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital, and the organization of the priesthood and worship. Within this context, verse 1 Chronicles 11:31 introduces two of David’s mighty men: Ithai the son of Ribai of Gibeah, who “pertained to the children of Benjamin,” and Benaiah the Pirathonite.
Ithai is identified as a valiant warrior from Gibeah, a city allotted to the tribe of Benjamin. Though the biblical record provides only this brief mention, his inclusion among the mighty men signals his prominence and loyalty within David’s army. Benaiah, likewise, is noted for his remarkable acts of courage throughout Scripture. He is specifically called a Pirathonite, indicating his origin in the town of Pirathon, which lay in the territory assigned to the tribe of Ephraim (cf. Judges 12:13‑15). This detail highlights the geographic and tribal diversity of David’s elite forces.
The pairing of a Benjaminite and an Ephraimite illustrates how David’s reign united individuals from various tribal backgrounds under a common purpose. Their names appear among the “mighty men of David,” a designation that implies exceptional bravery, skill, and steadfast devotion to the king. The broader narrative of 1 Chronicles 11 proceeds to recount the extraordinary deeds performed by these warriors, underscoring their vital role in securing and expanding the kingdom.
In summary, 1 Chronicles 11:31 offers a concise yet meaningful glimpse into the composition of David’s loyal army. Ithai, son of Ribai from Gibeah, and Benaiah, the Pirathonite, exemplify the unity and strength that arose when Israel’s tribes contributed their finest fighters to the service of the Davidic monarchy.
