Bible Dictionary
BERITES
The Berites are mentioned only once, in 2 Samuel 20:14, where the reading is uncertain. Some interpreters understand the word as referring to chosen or select young men rather than to a distinct people.
Definition
The Berites are mentioned only once in the Old Testament, and the meaning of the term is uncertain. The passage may refer not to a distinct people but to chosen or select young men.
Biblical Usage
The term occurs in the account of David’s pursuit of Sheba in 2 Samuel 20:14.
Historical Background
The textual reading is doubtful. The proposed reading meaning “choice young men” is preferred by the material supplied.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>be'-rits (berim; according to Klostermann and others, bikhrim): The word is found only once in the Old Testament (2Sa 20:14). The passage seems to be doubtful. The suggestion of Klostermann does not improve matters any; the other proposed reading, bachrim (Vulgate, viri electi), "choice young men," is to be preferred.</p>