Uriah (the Hittite)

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Hebrew ’Ûrîyāh (“Yahweh is my light”), reflecting a Yahwistic theophoric name
• Period/Era: United Monarchy
• Main References: 2 Samuel 11; 2 Samuel 23:39; 1 Kings 15:5; Matthew 1:6
• Key Connections: David; Bathsheba (his wife); Joab (commander); “the Thirty” (David’s elite warriors)

Who was Uriah (the Hittite)?

Uriah was a Hittite serving as a soldier in King David’s forces.
He is identified among David’s “mighty men,” indicating high standing in the royal army.
His marriage to Bathsheba placed him within David’s court setting during wartime.
His account appears in the narrative of David’s sin and the resulting royal actions.

Key Events & Achievements

• David’s summons from the battlefield: He was called back from the siege of Rabbah and questioned about the war’s progress (2 Samuel 11:6–8).
• Refusal to go home: He declined to enjoy home comforts while the army remained in the field, maintaining solidarity with fellow soldiers (2 Samuel 11:9–13).
• Death arranged in battle: He carried orders that led to his exposure and death near Rabbah under Joab’s command (2 Samuel 11:14–17).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Uriah’s account highlights how royal power could be used unjustly against a faithful foreigner integrated into Israel’s service.

Key Verse

“Uriah the Hittite also died.” — 2 Samuel 11:17, NIV