Gentiles – Always Part of the Plan

Grafting Never a “New Thing”

It’s a common assumption that Gentiles were only brought into God’s people with Jesus and Paul’s message in the New Testament. But when we really examine the Old Testament, we see that Gentiles were never excluded from God’s plan.

They were always given the opportunity to join Israel, and some of Israel’s most important historical and spiritual figures were originally non-Israelites. Ruth the Moabite (Ruth 1:16-17), Rahab the Canaanite (Joshua 6:25), and Caleb the Kenizzite (Numbers 32:12) all show that God’s covenant was always open to those who truly sought Him. Even God’s original promise to Abraham stated, “All nations on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3), proving that His plan of salvation always included Gentiles.

From the very beginning, foreigners (Gentiles) who respected Israel’s God were welcomed, and the same basic expectations were placed on them as on any sojourner (גֵּר, ger) in Israel.

These expectations were not arbitrary or new—they were already established laws in the Torah that allowed Gentiles to live among Israel while respecting God’s commandments. Leviticus 17:8-9 commanded that any sojourner among Israel must not offer sacrifices to other gods. Leviticus 17:10-12 forbade them from eating blood, and Leviticus 18 outlined moral laws for both Israelites and sojourners.

This is precisely what we see in Acts 15:19-21, when the early church debated how to handle the influx of Gentile believers.

The Jerusalem Council did not create new rules for Gentiles but reaffirmed the ancient sojourner laws that had always applied to non-Israelites living among God’s people.

Acts 15:19-21 (ESV)
“Therefore my judgment is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God, but should write to them to abstain from the things polluted by idols, and from sexual immorality, and from what has been strangled, and from blood. For from ancient generations Moses has had in every city those who proclaim him, for he is read every Sabbath in the synagogues.”

Over time, many of these sojourners fully embraced the Hebrew way of life, but the decision to fully integrate into Israelite society was left up to them. Likewise, in the early church, Gentiles were welcomed into the faith without being forced to adopt Jewish customs, proving that God’s kingdom had always been about faith over ethnicity.

Paul later emphasized this same truth in Romans 11:17-24, where he explained that Gentiles were like wild olive branches grafted into the cultivated olive tree of Israel—not replacing Israel but becoming part of God’s covenant through faith. This shows that from the Old Testament to the New, the principle remained the same: those who honored Yahweh were accepted, regardless of their nationality.

Sojourners and Their Journeys

Ruth (Moabite)
- Started as a Sojourner? Yes, lived among Israel
- What Changed? Fully embraced Israel and Yahweh
- Final Status: Became part of David’s lineage — and ultimately Jesus’
Rahab (Canaanite)
- Started as a Sojourner? No, lived in Jericho
- What Changed? Recognized Yahweh, was saved, and joined Israel
- Final Status: Became an Israelite — included in Jesus’ genealogy
Caleb (Kenizzite/Canaanite)
- Started as a Sojourner? Yes, part of Israel’s military
- What Changed? Demonstrated great faith and loyalty
- Final Status: Fully integrated, received a land inheritance
Naaman (Syrian)
- Started as a Sojourner? No, a high-ranking Gentile
- What Changed? Acknowledged Yahweh after being miraculously healed
- Final Status: Recognized God but remained in Syria
Queen of Sheba
- Started as a Sojourner? No, a foreign monarch
- What Changed? Sought Solomon’s wisdom and praised Yahweh
- Final Status: Respected Israel’s God but returned to her kingdom
Ittai the Gittite (Philistine)
- Started as a Sojourner? No, commander from Gath
- What Changed? Swore loyalty to David in exile
- Final Status: Became a trusted military leader within Israel
Jethro (Midianite Priest)
- Started as a Sojourner? No, a foreign religious leader
- What Changed? Recognized Yahweh’s supremacy after witnessing His acts
- Final Status: Assisted Moses; his descendants lived among Israel
Gibeonites (Canaanites)
- Started as a Sojourner? No, initially deceived Joshua
- What Changed? Were spared and designated for Temple service
- Final Status: Lived among Israel permanently as Temple servants
Uriah the Hittite
- Started as a Sojourner? No, a native Hittite
- What Changed? Married an Israelite and served in Israel’s army
- Final Status: Treated as a full Israelite citizen
Mixed Multitude (Egyptians & Others from Exodus)
- Started as a Sojourner? No, fled Egypt alongside Israel
- What Changed? Witnessed divine power and journeyed through the wilderness
- Final Status: Some fully converted; others lived as resident aliens

Ruth – The Moabite

Yes. Ruth, a Moabite woman, was initially just a widow of an Israelite. She had no obligation to stay with Naomi (her mother-in-law), and Moabites were not naturally considered part of Israel.

An In-Depth Exploration

Ruth, a Moabite woman, is one of the most remarkable examples of a Gentile becoming fully integrated into Israel. Her story challenges the notion that Israel was an ethnically exclusive community, showing instead that faith in Yahweh was always the defining factor for inclusion.

Her journey from sojourner to full-fledged Israelite demonstrates that Gentiles were not only allowed to live among the Jewish people but could also fully adopt their faith, customs, and blessings—even becoming part of the Messianic lineage.

The Moabite Identity

Ruth was born a Moabite, a people with a complicated history with Israel.
Moabites descended from Lot’s incestuous relationship with his daughters (Genesis 19:36-37).
The Moabites were known for their hostility toward Israel, including:
1. Hiring Balaam to curse Israel (Numbers 22-24).
2. Leading Israel into idolatry and sexual immorality (Numbers 25:1-3).
3. Being excluded from Israelite religious life for 10 generations (Deuteronomy 23:3-6).

Despite this, Ruth was not personally responsible for her ancestors’ sins. The Law did not prevent an individual Moabite from becoming a worshiper of Yahweh, only from holding certain positions.

A Sojourner by Marriage

Ruth married Mahlon, an Israelite who had moved to Moab with his family due to famine (Ruth 1:1-2).
This made her a sojourner by marriage, meaning she lived with an Israelite household but had not yet fully adopted Jewish customs.
At this point, she would have only been expected to follow basic sojourner laws (Leviticus 17–18), which included:
1. No idol worship (Leviticus 17:7-9).
2. No consuming blood (Leviticus 17:10-12).
3. Moral purity, including avoiding sexual immorality (Leviticus 18).
She may have participated in Israelite traditions while living with her husband’s family but was not yet a fully integrated Israelite.

Her Radical Choice to Stay With Naomi

After Mahlon and his brother died, Ruth was free to return to Moab. Instead, she made the radical choice to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, and travel to Israel:

“Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die, I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you.” (Ruth 1:16-17)

What This Declaration Meant

Personal Sacrifice
- She left behind her Moabite identity, culture, and family.
- She chose a life of hardship over the comfort of returning home.
Full Adoption of Israelite Identity
- “Your people shall be my people” → She was no longer Moabite but Israelite.
- “Your God shall be my God” → She fully embraced Yahweh.
Commitment to Israel’s Future
- She vowed to die and be buried in Israelite land, showing lifelong allegiance.
- She did not treat her decision as temporary but as permanent conversion.
Her Oath in Yahweh’s Name
- She called on Yahweh’s name in a formal covenant, binding herself to Him.
- This mirrors Israel’s own covenant at Sinai (Exodus 19:8).

Living as an Israelite in Bethlehem

Ruth arrived in Bethlehem as a poor widow, working in the fields to survive.
According to Jewish law, sojourners, widows, and the poor were allowed to glean from the edges of the field (Leviticus 19:9-10).
Boaz, a respected Israelite landowner, immediately recognized her faith and loyalty:

“The Lord repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge!” (Ruth 2:12)

Boaz’s Role in Fully Integrating Ruth

Boaz was not just a kind man—he was a kinsman-redeemer, meaning he had the right to marry Ruth and restore her husband’s lineage (Ruth 3:9-13).
This was based on Levirate marriage laws (Deuteronomy 25:5-10) which sought to protect widows and preserve family inheritance.
By marrying Ruth, Boaz made her:
1. A full member of Israel.
2. An inheritor of Israelite land.
3. An ancestor of King David—and ultimately Jesus.

The Elders Officially Recognize Ruth

At the city gates, the elders and the people blessed Ruth, officially welcoming her:

“May the Lord make the woman who is coming into your house like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel.” (Ruth 4:11)

This statement is huge—they compare Ruth to the matriarchs of Israel!
This confirms she was not just tolerated but fully accepted.

Great-Grandmother of David

Ruth and Boaz’s son, Obed, became the father of Jesse, who was the father of King David (Ruth 4:17).
This means a Moabite woman became part of Israel’s royal lineage.

Ruth in Jesus’ Genealogy

Matthew 1:5-6 explicitly mentions Ruth as part of Jesus’ family tree.
This means God intentionally included a Gentile in the Messianic line.

Ruth as a Symbol of Gentile Inclusion

Her story foreshadows Paul’s teaching about Gentiles being grafted into Israel (Romans 11:17-24).
She proves that faith, not ethnicity, defines God’s people.

Rahab – The Canaanite

An In-Depth Exploration of Rahab

Rahab was a full-fledged Canaanite, a resident of Jericho, and part of a city doomed for destruction. Despite being a pagan by birth and a prostitute by profession, she made one of the most profound declarations of faith in the Old Testament.

Her story demonstrates that God’s mercy extends beyond Israel, proving that anyone—regardless of their past or background—can be redeemed through faith. More than just being spared, Rahab fully integrated into Israel, becoming part of Jesus’ genealogy.

Who Were the Canaanites?

The Canaanites were one of Israel’s most hated enemies, known for:
1. Extreme idolatry (worship of Baal and Asherah) – Judges 2:11-13
2. Human sacrifice (including children) – Leviticus 18:21
3. Sexual immorality in temple worship – Deuteronomy 12:31
The Canaanite culture was so corrupt that God commanded Israel to drive them out (Deuteronomy 7:1-5).
Jericho was a fortified city and the first major obstacle in Israel’s conquest of the Promised Land.

Rahab’s Occupation

Rahab was a prostitute, running an inn or brothel at the city wall (Joshua 2:1).
She was not morally upright by Israelite standards, but God saw her heart.

She Heard About Yahweh’s Power

Rahab had no personal encounter with Israel or its laws, yet she had heard of Yahweh’s mighty works:

“We have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites whom you completely destroyed.” (Joshua 2:10)

She believed that Yahweh was not just Israel’s tribal deity, but the supreme God of the entire universe:

“The Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath.” (Joshua 2:11)

Her Faith Led to Action

Instead of waiting for Jericho’s destruction, she took a risk and hid the Israelite spies (Joshua 2:1-6).
She made a deal for her life—if she helped them, she and her family would be spared (Joshua 2:12-14).
She tied a scarlet cord in her window as a sign of protection, much like the blood of the Passover lamb in Egypt (Joshua 2:18-21).

Rahab’s Faith Was Greater Than Many Israelites’

Many Israelites doubted God during their wilderness journey (Numbers 14:1-4).
Yet Rahab, a Canaanite, had more faith than they did—without seeing miracles firsthand.
The New Testament praises her faith:
- Hebrews 11:31 – “By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish.”
- James 2:25 – “Was not Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers?”

She Was Spared and Allowed to Live Among Israel

When Jericho was destroyed, only Rahab and her family were saved: “But Joshua spared Rahab the prostitute, with her family and all who belonged to her, because she hid the men Joshua had sent as spies to Jericho—and she lives among the Israelites to this day.” (Joshua 6:25)
This phrase “lives among the Israelites” means that she was not just spared, but welcomed as one of them.

She Fully Integrated into Jewish Life

Like Ruth, Rahab was not just tolerated—she fully became an Israelite.
She married an Israelite man named Salmon (Matthew 1:5).
Their son Boaz later married Ruth, linking two Gentile women into the Messianic lineage.

Her Lineage Became Part of the Messiah’s Genealogy

Rahab is explicitly named in Matthew 1:5 as an ancestor of Jesus:

Rahab → Salmon → Boaz → Obed → Jesse → King David → Jesus.

This means that:

A former Canaanite prostitute became part of the line that would bring the Messiah.
Jesus’ own genealogy included Gentiles—a foreshadowing of salvation for all nations.

Outsider to Full Israelite

Rahab was not born Jewish, yet she was fully integrated because:

She recognized Yahweh as the one true God.
She acted on her faith and aligned with Israel.
She abandoned her old life and culture.

Faith Over Her Nationality

Her background did not disqualify her.
Her actions reflected true faith—this is why the New Testament highlights her.

Her Household Followed

By living among Israel, her family had to adopt Israelite customs.
Sojourner laws would have applied to them (Leviticus 17–18), ensuring:
1. No idolatry.
2. No blood consumption.
3. Observance of moral laws.

This means that Rahab and her descendants fully integrated and were no longer considered outsiders.

Rahab’s story is one of the most powerful testimonies of God’s grace:

She began as a Canaanite prostitute in a wicked city.
She heard about Yahweh and believed without seeing miracles.
Her faith led her to action, and she was spared and accepted.
She married into Israel and became part of the royal and Messianic lineage.

Caleb – The Kenizzite

An In-Depth Exploration of Caleb’s Faith

Caleb is one of the most overlooked figures in the Old Testament when it comes to the inclusion of Gentiles in Israel. Many assume he was simply an Israelite by birth, but a deeper study of Scripture reveals that Caleb was not originally an Israelite at all. He was a Kenizzite, a Canaanite tribe descended from Esau, yet he became one of the most faithful warriors in Israel’s history.

His story shatters the assumption that Israel was a purely ethnic-based people. Caleb’s full acceptance into Israel was not based on bloodline, but faith and loyalty to Yahweh. Not only was he accepted, but he was given land like an Israelite tribe and honored as one of the greatest heroes of the conquest.

Caleb Was a Kenizzite, Not an Israelite by Birth

Caleb is repeatedly called “Caleb son of Jephunneh, the Kenizzite” (Numbers 32:12, Joshua 14:6, 14).
The Kenizzites were a Canaanite group (Genesis 15:19) and originally outside of Israel’s covenant.
The Kenizzites were later absorbed into Israel, possibly through intermarriage, but Caleb’s direct ancestry was non-Israelite.

How Did He Become Part of Israel?

The Kenizzites may have attached themselves to Israel during their time in Egypt.
Caleb’s family likely assimilated into the tribe of Judah, much like how sojourners in Israel were allowed to join a tribe if they aligned with Yahweh (Exodus 12:48-49).

This means Caleb was not naturally born into Israel but was fully accepted through faith and commitment.

He Was One of the Twelve Spies

Moses sent 12 spies to scout the Promised Land (Numbers 13:1-3).
Only Caleb and Joshua returned with a faith-filled report.
The other 10 spies doubted God’s ability and spread fear among Israel (Numbers 13:31-33).

Caleb’s Bold Declaration of Faith

When the 10 spies feared the giants in Canaan, Caleb stood up and declared faith in God’s promise:

“We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.” (Numbers 13:30)

But the people of Israel refused to believe and even wanted to stone Caleb and Joshua (Numbers 14:10).

God’s Special Blessing on Caleb

Because of his faithfulness, God declared that Caleb would inherit the land that he walked on:

“Because my servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he went to, and his descendants will inherit it.” (Numbers 14:24)

This means that even though Caleb was originally a Gentile, God gave him an inheritance in Israel as if he were a native-born Israelite.

He Received a Land Inheritance

After 40 years in the wilderness, Israel finally entered Canaan.
Caleb personally requested his inheritance, reminding Joshua of God’s promise:

“Now here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out… Now give me this hill country that the Lord promised me that day.” (Joshua 14:10-12)

Joshua granted him the city of Hebron as his inheritance (Joshua 14:13-14).

Hebron Became His Permanent Home

Caleb’s descendants remained in Israel permanently.
His faithfulness secured a place in Israel for his lineage, proving that Gentiles who embraced Yahweh were fully included in the covenant.

Full Israelite by Faith, Not Birth

Even though he was a Kenizzite, he was treated as a full member of Judah.
He wasn’t just tolerated—he was given leadership and land.
This foreshadows New Testament Gentile believers being grafted into God’s people (Romans 11:17-24).

He Was Rewarded for Faith Over Heritage

Many natural-born Israelites lacked faith and perished in the wilderness.
Caleb, a former Gentile, was honored over them because he trusted God.
This proves that God values faith over lineage, a major theme in both Old and New Testaments.

He Prefigures How Non-Israelites Can Become Full Members of God’s Family

Just as Caleb became fully integrated into Judah, New Testament Gentiles become part of spiritual Israel (Galatians 3:29).
His land inheritance points to the inheritance in Christ that all believers receive.

Naaman – The Syrian

An In-Depth Exploration of Naaman

Naaman was a powerful Syrian general, serving the king of Aram (modern-day Syria). He was a Gentile, a pagan, and a foreigner outside of God’s covenant with Israel. However, his life changed dramatically when he was miraculously healed of leprosy by Elisha.

Unlike previous figures we’ve discussed—like Ruth or Caleb—Naaman did not fully integrate into Israel. Instead, his story teaches us that Gentiles could recognize Yahweh’s supremacy without fully converting. His encounter with God illustrates that faith can exist outside of religious or ethnic boundaries.

His Power and Status

Commander of the army of Aram (Syria), an enemy of Israel (2 Kings 5:1).
Highly respected and favored by the king.
However, he suffered from leprosy, a devastating skin disease.

Syria’s Relationship with Israel

Syria and Israel were frequently at war (2 Kings 6:8-23).
Despite this, Naaman had an Israelite slave girl who believed in Yahweh.
His healing would demonstrate God’s power to an enemy nation.

The Slave Girl’s Faith

A young Israelite girl, captured in war, served in Naaman’s household.
She told Naaman’s wife: “If only my master would see the prophet who is in Samaria! He would cure him of his leprosy.” (2 Kings 5:3)
Despite being a captive, she had faith that Yahweh’s prophet could heal him.
Naaman, a great military leader, humbles himself to seek help from Israel’s prophet.

Naaman Seeks Help from Israel

Naaman’s king sends him with a letter to the king of Israel, asking for healing (2 Kings 5:6).
The king of Israel panics, thinking Syria is looking for a fight (2 Kings 5:7).
Elisha steps in, telling the king to send Naaman to him.

Elisha’s Simple Instructions and Naaman’s Initial Pride

Instead of performing an elaborate ritual, Elisha sends a messenger to tell Naaman: “Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed.” (2 Kings 5:10)
Naaman is offended—he expected a grand miracle, not a simple instruction.
- “I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the Lord his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me!” (2 Kings 5:11)
- “Are not the rivers of Damascus better than all the waters of Israel?” (2 Kings 5:12)
He almost refuses the healing because of his pride—a key lesson about obedience.

Naaman’s Servants Convince Him to Obey

His own servants challenge him: “If the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it?” (2 Kings 5:13)
Naaman humbles himself, washes in the Jordan seven times, and is completely healed.

His Recognition That Yahweh Is the Only God

After experiencing divine healing, Naaman proclaims:

“Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel.” (2 Kings 5:15)

This is a huge theological shift—a pagan general now acknowledges Yahweh as the one true God.
His faith in God is real, but his circumstances prevent full conversion.

He Offers Elisha a Gift

Naaman tries to offer a gift of silver, gold, and clothing to Elisha (2 Kings 5:5, 15).
Elisha rejects it, showing that God’s grace cannot be bought.

He Takes Holy Ground with Him

Since he couldn’t remain in Israel, Naaman asks for two mule-loads of Israelite soil to take home (2 Kings 5:17).
This suggests that he intended to worship Yahweh in his own land.
This shows early signs of Gentiles worshiping Yahweh outside of Israel.

He Seeks Forgiveness

Naaman remained in Syria, serving the king.
He acknowledged a serious problem—he was required to bow in the temple of Rimmon (a Syrian god) with his king.
He asked for forgiveness ahead of time: “May the Lord forgive your servant for this one thing: When my master enters the temple of Rimmon to bow down and he is leaning on my arm and I have to bow there also—when I bow down in the temple of Rimmon, may the Lord forgive your servant for this.” (2 Kings 5:18)

Elisha’s Surprising Response

Instead of rebuking him, Elisha simply says, “Go in peace.” (2 Kings 5:19)
This shows that God understood his position—Naaman’s heart had changed, even if his situation didn’t allow full observance of Israelite law.

Gentiles Could Recognize God

Unlike Ruth or Rahab, Naaman didn’t move to Israel or adopt Jewish customs.
Yet, his faith was real and recognized by God.
This foreshadows Gentiles coming to faith in Jesus while remaining in their own cultures.

Faith, Not Rituals

Naaman expected a grand ceremony, but God required simple obedience.
This aligns with New Testament salvation—faith, not works, brings grace (Ephesians 2:8-9).

God’s Mercy Extended Beyond Israel

Naaman’s healing proves that God’s power was not limited to Israel.
Jesus even referenced Naaman to show that God sometimes bypassed Israel to bless Gentiles: “There were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed—only Naaman the Syrian.” (Luke 4:27)
This statement enraged the Jews because it meant God’s favor extended to non-Israelites.

The Queen of Sheba

The Queen of Sheba is one of the most enigmatic figures in the Old Testament. She was a foreign monarch, likely ruling over the ancient kingdom of Saba (modern-day Yemen or Ethiopia), who traveled a great distance to hear the wisdom of King Solomon.

Unlike other Gentiles who encountered Israel’s God, the Queen of Sheba did not convert or remain in Israel. However, her visit holds profound significance because it shows that Gentiles could recognize the wisdom of Yahweh without fully integrating into Israelite religion.

Her story foreshadows God’s plan to extend His wisdom to all nations, a theme later emphasized by Jesus and the apostles.

Historical Background

The Kingdom of Sheba (Sabaean Kingdom) was located in Southern Arabia (modern Yemen) or possibly Ethiopia.
It was a wealthy civilization, known for trade in gold, frankincense, myrrh, spices, and precious stones.
Ancient inscriptions from South Arabia mention powerful queens, confirming that Sheba was known for its female rulers.

Extra-Biblical References

Jewish Tradition (Targums and Midrash)
- Jewish traditions embellish her story, sometimes presenting her as a convert to Judaism (though this is not in the Bible).
- Some Midrashic texts claim she tested Solomon with riddles and was impressed by his wisdom.
Islamic Tradition (Quran, Surah 27:22-44)
- In Islamic tradition, she is known as Bilqis and is described as a queen who worshiped the sun until she converted to monotheism after meeting Solomon (Suleiman).
- The Quran states that Solomon invited her to submit to Allah and that she ultimately accepted his faith.
Ethiopian Tradition (Kebra Nagast, 14th century)
- Ethiopian legends claim that she had a son with Solomon, named Menelik I, who later became the first emperor of Ethiopia.
- The Ethiopian Orthodox Church traces its royal lineage to this union, believing that the Ark of the Covenant was later brought to Ethiopia by Menelik.

These sources, while interesting, do not align fully with the biblical narrative, which states that she recognized Yahweh’s greatness but returned to her land without converting.

She Heard of Solomon’s Reputation

1 Kings 10:1 states that the Queen of Sheba came because she heard about Solomon’s wisdom and his relationship with Yahweh.
This implies that Solomon’s wisdom was known internationally, attracting Gentile rulers.

She Tested Solomon

She arrived with a great caravan of camels carrying spices, gold, and precious stones (1 Kings 10:2).
She tested Solomon with hard questions, likely philosophical riddles, political problems, or theological challenges.

Solomon Answered Everything

Solomon answered all her questions—nothing was too difficult for him (1 Kings 10:3).
This proved that his wisdom was truly from God, not just human intelligence.

Her Reaction: Amazement and Praise

She Was Overwhelmed by What She Saw
- She saw Solomon’s wisdom, the grandeur of his palace, his servants, and his temple.
- She was so astonished that “there was no more breath in her” (1 Kings 10:5).
- This phrase suggests she was left speechless—deeply moved by Solomon’s kingdom and its connection to God.
She Acknowledged Yahweh’s Superiority
- Unlike other Gentiles who converted (e.g., Ruth, Rahab), the Queen of Sheba did not adopt Jewish customs.
- However, she recognized Yahweh as the source of Solomon’s wisdom: “Praise be to the Lord your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on the throne of Israel.” (1 Kings 10:9)
- She acknowledged that Solomon’s success was because of Yahweh.
She Gave Lavish Gifts
- She presented 120 talents of gold (~4.5 tons), spices, and precious stones (1 Kings 10:10).
- This demonstrated honor and respect for Yahweh’s chosen king.

No Mention of Religious Conversion

Unlike Rahab or Ruth, there is no indication that she adopted Israelite religious practices.
She acknowledged Yahweh but remained a foreign ruler.

Did She Spread the Knowledge of Yahweh in Her Land?

Some believe that she may have introduced monotheism to Sheba.
While not explicitly stated in the Bible, her testimony about Yahweh could have influenced her kingdom.

Jesus Used Her as an Example

Jesus referred to her as “the Queen of the South”: “The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon’s wisdom, and now something greater than Solomon is here.” (Matthew 12:42, Luke 11:31)
What does this mean?
- She represents a Gentile who sought God’s wisdom, while many Israelites rejected Jesus.
- She traveled a great distance for Solomon’s wisdom, but the Jews had Jesus right in front of them and rejected Him.
- Jesus is greater than Solomon, yet Israel did not recognize Him.

Gentiles Could Recognize Yahweh

She represents those who acknowledge God’s wisdom but do not fully integrate.
This foreshadows Gentiles who respect Christ’s teachings but do not fully submit to Him.

God’s Truth Was for All Nations

Her visit symbolizes that God’s wisdom was never meant to be exclusive to Israel.
Solomon’s wisdom drew nations, just as Jesus’ gospel would later draw all people.

She Is a Precursor to the Wise Men Visiting Jesus

The wise men (Magi) from the East brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus (Matthew 2:1-12).
This parallels the Queen of Sheba’s visit to Solomon, as both:
1. Recognized God’s chosen ruler.
2. Brought lavish gifts.
3. Acknowledged the superiority of Yahweh’s wisdom.

Ittai the Gittite – The Philistine

Ittai the Gittite is one of the most fascinating Gentiles in the Old Testament. Unlike figures such as Ruth or Rahab, Ittai did not join Israel through marriage or conversion. Instead, he remained a Philistine by ethnicity but became one of King David’s most trusted military leaders.

His story shatters the expectation that serving Israel’s God required abandoning one’s national identity. Instead, Ittai shows that Gentiles could remain distinct while still fully participating in God’s kingdom.

His Philistine Background

Gittites were from Gath, one of the five major Philistine cities (Joshua 13:3).
The Philistines were long-time enemies of Israel, known for:
1. The oppression of Israel during the time of the Judges (Judges 10:7-8).
2. Goliath of Gath, the Philistine champion whom David defeated (1 Samuel 17).
3. Wars against King Saul that led to his downfall (1 Samuel 31).
Given this history, it’s shocking that a Philistine commander would swear allegiance to David.

His Military Rank Under David

Ittai was not just any foreigner—he was a high-ranking warrior.
He led a group of 600 Gittite soldiers in David’s army (2 Samuel 15:18).

David’s Crisis: Absalom’s Rebellion

David’s son Absalom led a rebellion, forcing David to flee Jerusalem (2 Samuel 15:13-14).
As David and his followers left, Ittai and his 600 Gittite warriors came along.

David’s Offer for Him to Leave

Because Ittai was a foreigner and a recent addition to David’s service, David told him: “Why should you come along with us? Go back and stay with King Absalom. You are a foreigner, an exile from your homeland.” (2 Samuel 15:19)
David was giving Ittai an easy way out, recognizing that:
1. As a Philistine, he had no obligation to stay.
2. Switching sides would have been safer for him.

Ittai’s Declaration of Absolute Loyalty

Instead of abandoning David, Ittai made a bold and emotional vow: “As surely as the Lord lives, and as my lord the king lives, wherever my lord the king may be, whether it means life or death, there your servant will be.” (2 Samuel 15:21)
This is remarkable for several reasons:
1. He swore by Yahweh’s name—showing that he recognized Israel’s God.
2. He pledged lifelong loyalty—even at the risk of death.
3. His statement echoes Ruth’s words to Naomi (Ruth 1:16-17), indicating total commitment.
David was moved by Ittai’s devotion and welcomed him and his men into his forces (2 Samuel 15:22).

David Promotes Ittai to a Military Commander

Later, when David assembled his army to fight Absalom, he divided his forces under three commanders:
1. Joab (a longtime Israelite general)
2. Abishai (David’s nephew)
3. Ittai the Gittite (2 Samuel 18:2)
This means Ittai was placed on equal footing with Israel’s top commanders!

He Led Troops in Battle Against Absalom

Ittai fought alongside Joab and Abishai in the decisive battle.
David trusted a Philistine warrior to lead Israelite troops into combat.
This is an incredible shift:
- From an outsider to a trusted leader.
- From an enemy of Israel to a defender of its rightful king.

Gentiles Could Serve God’s Kingdom Without Losing Their Ethnic Identity

Unlike Ruth or Rahab, Ittai did not become Jewish or fully assimilate.
Instead, he remained a Philistine but served Yahweh’s chosen king.
This foreshadows the New Testament reality—where Gentiles can serve God without needing to become Jewish.

He Was Treated as an Equal to Native Israelites

Despite his foreign origin, David gave him equal status with native-born Israelites.
This proves that God’s kingdom is based on faithfulness, not nationality.

Ittai’s Story Shows That True Loyalty Transcends National Borders

His story challenges the idea that loyalty is based on ethnicity.
The real dividing line in the Bible is not race, but faithfulness to God’s kingdom.

A Gentile Fighting for God’s Chosen King

Ittai is a rare example of a Gentile warrior defending Israel’s rightful ruler.
He represents Gentiles in God’s service who stand against rebellion.

A Model for Future Gentile Believers

His story parallels the inclusion of Gentiles in Christ’s kingdom:
- Just as Ittai followed David, Gentiles follow Jesus.
- Just as David made him a commander, Jesus gives authority to all who serve Him (Matthew 28:18-20).

Extra-Biblical Evidence

Although the Bible does not provide extensive details on Ittai beyond 2 Samuel 15–18, historical evidence supports the idea that Philistine warriors served in Israel’s army:

Egyptian and Assyrian Records
- The Philistines were known as great warriors and mercenaries.
- Ancient Egyptian texts mention Philistine soldiers serving in foreign armies.
David’s History with the Philistines
- David himself lived among the Philistines for a time under King Achish of Gath (1 Samuel 27:1-7).
- He even led Philistine troops before becoming king of Israel.
- This means David already had connections with Philistine warriors like Ittai.
The Presence of Gittites in Israel’s Army
- 2 Samuel 15:18 mentions 600 Gittites (Philistines from Gath) serving David.
- This suggests that Philistine warriors were not uncommon in Israel’s military.

These historical insights confirm that Ittai’s presence in Israel’s army was realistic and consistent with known military practices of the time.

Gentiles in the New Testament

Paul’s concept of Gentiles being “grafted into Israel” (Romans 11:17-24) was not a new doctrine—it was a continuation of what had always happened.

Throughout history:

Some Gentiles fully integrated (Ruth, Caleb, Rahab).
Others believed in God but remained in their nations (Naaman, Queen of Sheba).
Some served within Israel without full conversion (Ittai, Gibeonites).

This is exactly what we see in the early church:

Some Gentiles joined Jewish customs (Acts 21:20-25).
Some simply followed Christ without observing Torah (Acts 15:19-20).
But all were part of God’s family through faith.

The Ongoing Pattern

God has always invited outsiders to join His people.
Faith mattered more than ethnicity—every case shows this.
Some Gentiles fully converted, others simply followed Yahweh.
Acts 15’s “rules for Gentiles” were just a continuation of what had always been required for sojourners.

What Paul and the early church preached was not a radical break—it was the same principle God had been using for thousands of years.

Source Appendix

Scriptural References (Canonical)

Ruth 1:16-17
“Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die, I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you.”

Joshua 6:25
“But Joshua spared Rahab the prostitute, with her family and all who belonged to her, because she hid the men Joshua had sent as spies to Jericho—and she lives among the Israelites to this day.”

Numbers 32:12
“Except Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite and Joshua the son of Nun, for they have wholly followed the Lord.”

Genesis 12:3
“All nations on earth will be blessed through you.”

Leviticus 17:8-9
“And thou shalt say unto them, Whatsoever man there be of the house of Israel, or of the strangers which sojourn among you, that offereth a burnt offering or sacrifice, And bringeth it not unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, to offer it unto the Lord; even that man shall be cut off from among his people.”

Leviticus 17:10-12
“And whatsoever man there be of the house of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among you, that eateth any manner of blood; I will even set my face against that soul that eateth blood, and will cut him off from among his people. For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul. Therefore I said unto the children of Israel, No soul of you shall eat blood, neither shall any stranger that sojourneth among you eat blood.”

Leviticus 18
(Referenced as the chapter outlining moral laws for both Israelites and sojourners)

Acts 15:19-21 (ESV)
“Therefore my judgment is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God, but should write to them to abstain from the things polluted by idols, and from sexual immorality, and from what has been strangled, and from blood. For from ancient generations Moses has had in every city those who proclaim him, for he is read every Sabbath in the synagogues.”

Romans 11:17-24
(Referenced as Paul’s teaching on Gentiles as wild olive branches grafted into the cultivated olive tree of Israel)

Genesis 19:36-37
“Thus were both the daughters of Lot with child by their father. And the first born bare a son, and called his name Moab: the same is the father of the Moabites unto this day.”

Numbers 22–24
(Referenced as the chapters where Balaam is hired to curse Israel)

Numbers 25:1-3
“And Israel abode in Shittim, and the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab. And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods. And Israel joined himself unto Baalpeor: and the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel.”

Deuteronomy 23:3-6
“An Ammonite or Moabite shall not enter into the congregation of the Lord; even to their tenth generation shall they not enter into the congregation of the Lord for ever.”

Ruth 1:1-2
(Referenced for the background on Ruth’s marriage to an Israelite)

Leviticus 17–18
(Referenced repeatedly as the chapters containing laws for sojourners)

Leviticus 19:9-10
“And when ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field, neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest. And thou shalt not glean thy vineyard, neither shalt thou gather every grape of thy vineyard; thou shalt leave them for the poor and stranger: I am the Lord your God.”

Ruth 2:12
“The Lord repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge!”

Ruth 3:9-13
(Referenced for Boaz accepting his role as kinsman-redeemer)

Deuteronomy 25:5-10
(Referenced for the law of Levirate marriage)

Ruth 4:11
“May the Lord make the woman who is coming into your house like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel.”

Ruth 4:17
“And the women her neighbors gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David.”

Matthew 1:5-6
(Referenced for Ruth and Rahab being named in Jesus’ genealogy)

Judges 2:11-13
“And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, and served Baalim: And they forsook the Lord God of their fathers… And they forsook the Lord, and served Baal and Ashtaroth.”

Leviticus 18:21
“And thou shalt not let any of thy seed pass through the fire to Molech…”

Deuteronomy 12:31
“…even their sons and their daughters they have burnt in the fire to their gods.”

Deuteronomy 7:1-5
(Referenced for the command to drive out the Canaanites)

Joshua 2:1
(Referenced for Rahab hiding the spies)

Joshua 2:10
“We have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites whom you completely destroyed.”

Joshua 2:11
“The Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath.”

Joshua 2:12-14
(Referenced for Rahab’s deal with the spies)

Joshua 2:18-21
(Referenced for the scarlet cord and her agreement)

Numbers 14:1-4
(Referenced for Israel’s unbelief in the wilderness)

Hebrews 11:31
“By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish.”

James 2:25
“Was not Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers?”

Genesis 15:19
(Referenced as origin of the Kenizzites)

Exodus 12:48-49
(Referenced for sojourners joining Israel through covenant)

Numbers 13:1-3, 30
“We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.”

Numbers 13:31-33, 14:10, 14:24
“Because my servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land…”

Joshua 14:6, 10-14
“Now here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out… Now give me this hill country that the Lord promised me that day.”

Galatians 3:29
(Referenced as Gentiles being Abraham’s seed)

2 Kings 5:1-21
(Referenced throughout for Naaman’s story and healing)

2 Kings 5:3
“If only my master would see the prophet who is in Samaria! He would cure him of his leprosy.”

2 Kings 5:6-7
(Referenced for Naaman’s letter to Israel’s king)

2 Kings 5:10-13
“Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed.”

2 Kings 5:15
“Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel.”

2 Kings 5:17-19
“May the Lord forgive your servant for this one thing… Go in peace.”

Luke 4:27
“There were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed—only Naaman the Syrian.”

1 Kings 10:1-10
(Referenced throughout for Queen of Sheba’s visit)

1 Kings 10:3
“And Solomon answered all her questions: there was nothing hid from the king, which he told her not.”

1 Kings 10:5
“There was no more spirit in her.”

1 Kings 10:9
“Praise be to the Lord your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on the throne of Israel.”

Matthew 12:42 / Luke 11:31
“The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it…”

Matthew 2:1-12
(Referenced for the Magi’s visit to Jesus)

Joshua 13:3
(Referenced for Gath as a major Philistine city)

Judges 10:7-8
(Referenced for Philistine oppression of Israel)

1 Samuel 17, 27:1-7, 31
(Referenced for David’s history with Philistines)

2 Samuel 15:18-22
“Why should you come along with us? Go back and stay with King Absalom. You are a foreigner, an exile from your homeland.”

“As surely as the Lord lives, and as my lord the king lives, wherever my lord the king may be, whether it means life or death, there your servant will be.”

2 Samuel 18:2
(Referenced for Ittai’s leadership role)

Matthew 28:18-20
(Referenced for Christ giving authority to His followers)

Romans 11:17-24
(Referenced repeatedly for the grafting in of Gentiles)

Acts 15:19-20, 21:20-25
(Referenced for Gentiles in the early church)

Ephesians 2:8-9
(Referenced: “For by grace you have been saved through faith…”)