What was Anethothite?
The term Anethothite refers to a person who came from Anathoth, a Levitical city in the tribal territory of Benjamin, located just a few miles northeast of Jerusalem. The Hebrew word is עֲנָתוֹתִי (ʿAnātōṯî), meaning a man of Anathoth. It is a geographical identifier used in the Old Testament to denote someone’s origin. The most well-known reference to an “Anethothite” is Abi-Albon (also called Abiel) in 2 Samuel 23:31 and 1 Chronicles 11:32, one of King David’s mighty men.
The name “Anethothite” is not a personal name but a descriptive term identifying someone’s hometown. In Scripture, this title helps trace the lineage, background, and tribal affiliations of biblical figures and ties them to specific places of historical and theological importance.
Biblical References
- 2 Samuel 23:31 – “Abi-Albon the Arbathite, Azmaveth the Barhumite, Eliahba the Shaalbonite, the sons of Jashen, Jonathan, Shammah the Hararite, Ahiam son of Sharar the Hararite, Eliphelet son of Ahasbai the Maacathite, Eliam son of Ahithophel the Gilonite, Hezro the Carmelite, Paarai the Arbite, Igal son of Nathan from Zobah, Bani the Gadite, Zelek the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, the armor-bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah, Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite, Uriah the Hittite—there were thirty-seven in all.”
- 1 Chronicles 11:32 – “Hurai from the ravines of Gaash, Abiel the Anethothite, Azmaveth the Baharumite…”
These passages appear in the lists of David’s mighty men, the elite warriors who served the king with distinction. The Anethothite named in this list—Abiel—is likely the same person as Abi-Albon mentioned in Samuel, based on name variation and cross-referencing traditions.
Historical and Geographical Context
Anathoth was one of the cities given to the priests, the descendants of Aaron, as described in Joshua 21:18. It was a Levitical city, meaning it was designated as a place for the priests and Levites to live and serve among the people of Israel. Anathoth held religious significance and prophetic heritage, as the prophet Jeremiah also came from this town (Jeremiah 1:1).
This geographical detail about Abiel or Abi-Albon being an Anethothite may indicate priestly lineage or proximity to sacred service, yet he served as a warrior in the royal army. It reflects the diversity of callings within God’s people, even from priestly towns.
Significance for Today’s Christians
The Anethothite, though mentioned only briefly, teaches modern readers a valuable lesson: God values faithfulness even in the background. Abiel the Anethothite was not the most prominent of David’s mighty men, but he was numbered among the 37 warriors remembered for their valor and loyalty.
Believers today are reminded that God sees and remembers all service done in faith—even when it appears small or hidden. Whether one is called to public ministry or a supporting role, faithfulness and courage for God’s kingdom matter eternally.
Moreover, the connection to Anathoth, a city of priests and prophets, shows how God calls people from all walks of life—including religious centers—to participate in His unfolding plan. You do not have to be a frontline leader to be important in God’s eyes.
How This Points to Jesus and the Gospel
The Anethothite warrior is part of the larger narrative leading to the reign of David, Israel’s ideal king, who prefigures Jesus Christ, the true and eternal King. David’s mighty men were fiercely loyal, risking their lives in battle, defending their king and kingdom. In them, we see a foreshadowing of Christ’s followers—men and women who are willing to give all for their King.
Jesus, the Son of David, also came from humble origins and gathered around Himself faithful disciples—some prominent, others obscure. Yet each one mattered. In the gospel, no service is wasted, and no person is forgotten.
The mention of someone like the Anethothite in the royal records points us to the Book of Life, in which every believer’s name is written through faith in Christ. Just as David remembered his warriors, so Christ remembers and rewards His faithful servants.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. Faithfulness in Obscurity
Abiel the Anethothite stands as a witness that even lesser-known individuals can play a vital part in God‘s plan. His courage earned him a place in the record of Israel‘s heroes.
2. Diverse Callings in God’s Kingdom
Coming from a priestly city yet serving as a warrior shows how God equips people for diverse tasks—some preach, others defend, all serve.
3. Loyalty to God’s Anointed
The mighty men of David stood by their king, just as believers are called to unwavering loyalty to Christ.
4. God Remembers the Faithful
God includes names in Scripture not by accident but by design. Every life lived for Him is counted and honored.
Reflection Questions
- Do I value faithfulness in the small tasks God has given me, even if no one else notices?
- How am I supporting the work of God’s kingdom with the gifts and background He has given me?
- Am I loyal to King Jesus, as David’s mighty men were loyal to him?
- How can I encourage others whose work for Christ may be hidden or unrecognized?
- Do I trust that Jesus remembers my labor for Him and will reward it in eternity?
Though the Anethothite appears only briefly in Scripture, his inclusion reminds us that every role in God‘s kingdom is significant, and that Jesus sees and honors the loyalty of His people—even when history may not.