Ittai

Ittai the Gittite was a commander who remained loyal to David during Absalom's rebellion.

Ittai the Gittite was a commander of six hundred men who remained loyal to King David during the rebellion of his son Absalom (2Sa 15:19-22). Ittai was from Gath, a Philistine city, and had only recently come to join David's forces (2Sa 15:20).

When David was fleeing from Jerusalem due to Absalom's rebellion, he urged Ittai to return to the city with his blessing, as he was a foreigner and exile (2Sa 15:19-20). However, Ittai pledged his unwavering loyalty to David, vowing to follow him whether it meant life or death (2Sa 15:21). Moved by Ittai's devotion, David allowed him and his men to accompany him (2Sa 15:22).

During the battle against Absalom's forces, David appointed Ittai as one of the three commanders of his army, alongside Joab and Abishai (2Sa 18:2). David specifically ordered these commanders to deal gently with Absalom for his sake (2Sa 18:5). After Absalom's death, Ittai was among those who heard David's lament for his son (2Sa 18:12).

Ittai's loyalty to David, despite being a foreigner and newcomer, showcases the king's ability to inspire devotion among his followers. It also highlights the importance of faithfulness and commitment in the face of adversity, as demonstrated by Ittai's willingness to stand by David during a time of crisis.

A native of Gath, a Philistine, who had apparently the command of the six hundred heroes who formed David’s band during his wanderings (2 Sam. 15:19-22; comp. 1 Sam. 23:13; 27:2; 30:9, 10). He is afterwards with David at Mahanaim, holding in the army equal rank with Joab and Abishai (2 Sam. 18:2, 5, 12). He then passes from view.