Pelethites

The Pelethites were a group of warriors mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, primarily in the books of Samuel and Kings. They are consistently described as part of King David's personal bodyguard, serving alongside the Cherethites. Their exact origin and ethnic background are subjects of scholarly debate. Some interpretations suggest they were of Philistine origin, given the similarity of their name to the Philistine pentapolis, though others propose they were Canaanites or even a distinct group from Crete.

Their role was significant, indicating a high level of trust and loyalty to King David. They formed an elite unit, distinct from the regular Israelite army. This personal guard unit likely served not only as protectors of the king but also as enforcers of royal authority. The Pelethites are mentioned in various contexts, including David's flight from Absalom's rebellion, where they remained loyal to him. The biblical text often groups them with the Cherethites, implying a shared purpose and possibly a similar operational capacity. While their specific duties beyond the king's personal security are not extensively detailed, their consistent presence in accounts of David's reign highlights their importance within the early Israelite monarchy.