What was Ashterathite?

The term Ashterathite refers to a person who came from Ashteroth, an ancient city in the region of Bashan, east of the Jordan River. The word “Ashterathite” (Hebrew: אַשְׁתְּרָתִי Ashtĕrāṯî) means “a native or inhabitant of Ashteroth.” The city itself, Ashteroth (also spelled Ashtaroth), was associated with the worship of the false goddess Ashtoreth (Astarte), a fertility deity of the Canaanites and Phoenicians. Despite this pagan background, the term “Ashterathite” in the Bible refers to a person, likely of Israelite descent, identified by their geographic origin.

In 1 Chronicles 11:44, Jashobeam the Ashterathite is listed among King David’s mighty men, a group of elite warriors who loyally served David during his rise to kingship and into his reign over Israel.

“Uzzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Jeiel the sons of Hotham the Aroerite,”
— 1 Chronicles 11:44 (NIV)

While the exact identity of “Uzzia the Ashterathite” is mentioned in this verse, the focus is on his inclusion in David‘s mighty men, giving the Ashterathite a connection to one of Israel’s most significant royal periods.

Biblical References

• 1 Chronicles 11:44 – Uzzia the Ashterathite is named among David‘s mighty warriors.

• Deuteronomy 1:4 – Ashteroth is mentioned as a city of King Og of Bashan.

• Joshua 9:10; 12:4; 13:12 – Ashteroth is frequently mentioned in the context of the conquest of the Promised Land and the defeat of King Og.

• 1 Samuel 31:10 – The name Ashtaroth is associated with pagan worship in Philistine territory.

Historical and Biblical Context

Ashteroth was a prominent city in Bashan, which was ruled by King Og, a formidable opponent of Israel during their journey to the Promised Land. The city later became part of the inheritance of the half-tribe of Manasseh (Deuteronomy 3:13). Despite its pagan associations, Israelites who lived in or near Ashteroth were part of the covenant people and, like Uzzia the Ashterathite, could rise to prominence in Israelite history.

The presence of an Ashterathite among David’s mighty men illustrates the extent of David’s reach across all Israelite territories and the gathering of warriors from various tribal regions. It also shows that geographic origins did not hinder someone from being used mightily by God when they were faithful to His purposes.

Relevance to Christians Today

The mention of Uzzia the Ashterathite reminds believers that God can raise up faithful servants from unlikely or overlooked places. Despite coming from a region historically associated with pagan worship, Uzzia’s loyalty to David and his role in establishing Israel‘s kingdom displays how God redeems individuals for His glory.

For Christians today, this is a powerful encouragement. Your past, background, or origin does not disqualify you from being used by God. In Christ, every believer is given a new identity and purpose. Just as Uzzia served David the anointed king, so believers are called to serve Jesus, the greater Anointed One, with undivided loyalty.

Connection to Jesus and the Gospel

David, the king whom Uzzia the Ashterathite served, was a type of Christ—the anointed shepherd-king who united the people of God and led them in righteousness. David‘s mighty men foreshadow the faithful followers of Christ, who serve their King with courage and loyalty in spiritual battle.

Though Uzzia’s story is brief, it reminds us that Jesus calls people from all nations and all backgrounds to be part of His kingdom army. He redeems us from spiritual darkness (as Ashteroth was associated with idolatry) and brings us into His light.

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession…”
— 1 Peter 2:9

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Redemption from Paganism

The Ashterathite connection to a historically pagan city highlights the redemptive power of God, who transforms those once far from Him into warriors for His kingdom.

2. Unity of the People of God

Uzzia’s inclusion among David’s mighty men emphasizes that God’s people are unified not by geography but by allegiance to His appointed King.

3. God Uses the Faithful, Not Just the Famous

Though Uzzia is only mentioned briefly, his life mattered in God’s redemptive story. This supports the theme that every servant has a role in the kingdom, no matter how hidden or unsung.

4. Pointing to the Greater King

All of David’s loyal warriors point forward to those who will one day follow King Jesus, the perfect and eternal Ruler of God‘s people.

Reflection Questions

1. What does Uzzia the Ashterathite’s inclusion among David’s mighty men teach us about how God uses people from all backgrounds?

2. Are there parts of your past or origin that you think disqualify you from serving God? How does the gospel change that?

3. In what ways can you live today as a faithful servant of King Jesus?

4. How can you support others in your church or community who, like Uzzia, may come from overlooked places?

5. Do you view your current position—no matter how small—as part of God’s greater kingdom mission?

Even small names in the Bible like the Ashterathite remind us that God sees, records, and values every faithful life. Let us be found among those who serve our King with loyalty, courage, and joy.