Bible Dictionary
Cherethim
The Cherethim were a people of southern Philistia, probably a Philistine clan. The name is also associated with the Cherethites who served among David’s royal guards.
Definition
Cherethim was a people of southern Philistia, probably a Philistine clan. The name is also associated with the Cherethites who served with the Pelethites as David’s royal guard.
Biblical Usage
The Cherethim are mentioned in prophecies against the inhabitants of southern Philistia. The related Cherethites and Pelethites formed David’s life-guard and served as trusted royal soldiers.
Historical Background
Some interpreters understand the name as Cretans, while others connect it with executioners. The supplied material identifies the people as a Philistine clan and notes that their territory bordered Judah.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(Ezek. 25:16), more frequently Cherethites, the inhabitants of Southern Philistia, the Philistines (Zeph. 2:5). The Cherethites and the Pelethites were David’s life-guards (1 Sam. 30:14; 2 Sam. 8:18; 20:7, 23; 23:23). This name is by some interpreted as meaning “Cretans,” and by others “executioners,” who were ready to execute the king’s sentence of death (Gen. 37:36, marg.; 1 Kings 2:25).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(axe-men), (Ezekiel 25:16) same as Cherethites.