What was Berites?

The Berites were a group of people mentioned briefly in 2 Samuel 20:14, during the turbulent period following Absalom’s rebellion against King David. The Hebrew term used in the passage is בֵּרִים (Berim, possibly from the root barar, meaning “to select” or “to purify”), though its exact derivation remains uncertain due to its singular use in Scripture. Some translations and scholars suggest it refers to inhabitants of a place called Beer (not to be confused with the city in Numbers 21:16), while others identify it as a tribal or clan designation.

The Berites are associated with the town of Abel Beth Maakah during the incident where Sheba son of Bichri, a Benjamite rebel, sought refuge while fleeing from King David‘s forces led by Joab.

Biblical Reference and Cross-References

• 2 Samuel 20:14 (NIV) – “Sheba passed through all the tribes of Israel to Abel Beth Maakah and through the entire region of the Berites, who gathered together and followed him.”

This is the only mention of the Berites in the Bible. However, their involvement is tied to a broader narrative involving:

• Sheba’s Rebellion – 2 Samuel 20:1-22

• Joab’s Military Campaigns – 2 Samuel 2-3, 20

• Tribal Tensions in Israel – 2 Samuel 19:41-43

What Happened in the Bible

After the death of Absalom and David’s return to Jerusalem, national unity was still fragile. Sheba, a Benjaminite, took advantage of the unrest and led a northern revolt, declaring, “We have no share in David” (2 Samuel 20:1). He traveled through the tribes of Israel inciting rebellion, eventually taking refuge in Abel Beth Maakah, a fortified city in the far north.

On his journey, he passed through the region of the Berites. The passage suggests that the Berites gathered around him, possibly supporting his cause or simply being present along his escape route. Joab, sent by David, pursued Sheba to Abel Beth Maakah, where a wise woman from the city negotiated with Joab and ensured Sheba‘s execution, thereby ending the rebellion without widespread destruction.

Meaning for Today’s Christians

Though mentioned only briefly, the Berites’ association with Sheba’s revolt illustrates how entire communities can be caught up in political and spiritual conflict, either as active participants or as passive bystanders. Christians today are reminded to be discerning in whom they follow, especially in times of unrest or division.

The Berites’ proximity to rebellion raises the question: are we aligning ourselves with God’s anointed leadership, or are we drifting with the tide of rebellion, confusion, or popular sentiment?

This passage also highlights the importance of wise intervention—as seen in the woman of Abel Beth Maakah—who prevented further bloodshed. Faithful wisdom can bring peace and preserve communities even amidst rebellion.

How Their Story Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Sheba’s rebellion and the involvement of the Berites reflect the broader human pattern of resisting God’s chosen king. Just as many in Israel resisted David’s rule, so too would many later reject Jesus, the Son of David and rightful King.

The gospel calls for repentance and allegiance to Jesus, the true King. While Sheba said, “We have no share in David,” Christians confess the opposite: We have full inheritance in the Son of David, Jesus Christ. Jesus alone brings unity, peace, and righteousness—unlike earthly rebels who bring division and death.

Joab’s pursuit of rebellion mirrors Christ’s mission to conquer sin and restore God’s kingdom—not through brute force, but through the offering of Himself. The wisdom of the woman who saved her city anticipates the gospel wisdom of peacemaking, where judgment and mercy meet.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Leadership and Rebellion

Throughout Scripture, rebellion against God’s appointed leaders is portrayed as dangerous and ultimately futile (Numbers 16, 1 Samuel 15). The Berites, whether active or passive, were linked to rebellion.

2. The Power of Wise Counsel

The woman at Abel Beth Maakah intervened wisely, demonstrating the value of peaceable resolution (Proverbs 15:1, James 3:17). This contrasts with the impulsiveness of those swept up in Sheba’s cause.

3. Allegiance to the True King

This story foreshadows the ultimate question every person must answer: Who is your king? The New Testament urges believers to submit to Christ as Lord (Philippians 2:10-11).

4. The Responsibility of Communities

Entire regions, like the Berites’, can be swept up in national or spiritual movements. God calls His people to stand firm in truth, even when the cultural tide pulls in another direction (Romans 12:2).

Reflection Questions

1. In times of cultural or spiritual upheaval, do I seek godly wisdom before aligning with a movement or leader?

2. Am I contributing to peace and unity within the body of Christ, or do my actions resemble those who passively enable rebellion?

3. How does my allegiance to Jesus shape my loyalty and discernment in today’s world?

4. What can I learn from the unnamed wise woman who courageously spoke truth and brought peace?

5. If my life were placed in a biblical narrative, would I be known as one who follows Christ the King—or one swept up by rebellion?

Summary: The Berites, a little-known people group mentioned during Sheba’s rebellion, serve as a biblical reminder of how entire communities can be influenced by rebellion and unrest. Their story challenges believers today to remain faithful to God‘s anointed King—Jesus—and to pursue wisdom, peace, and loyalty in turbulent times.