2 Samuel 20:26

KJV

And Ira also the Jairite was a chief ruler about David.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Ira {H5896} also the Jairite {H2972} was a chief ruler {H3548} about David {H1732}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and 'Ira the Ya'iri was David's cohen.

Berean Standard Bible

and Ira the Jairite was David’s priest.

American Standard Version

and also Ira the Jairite was chief minister unto David.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Samuel 20:26 offers a concise yet profoundly significant detail regarding Ira the Jairite, identifying him as a "chief ruler" or principal minister within King David's established administration. This brief mention, strategically placed at the conclusion of a turbulent period marked by internal rebellions, effectively underscores the restoration of stability and the organized structure of David's kingdom. It highlights the vital role played by trusted, high-ranking officials in maintaining order and governance, subtly affirming the indispensable contribution of every individual, even those not central to major narratives, in the broader tapestry of God's work through human leadership.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the final entry in a brief administrative roster (2 Samuel 20:23-26) that immediately follows the decisive suppression of Sheba's rebellion. The preceding chapters, particularly from [2 Samuel 15](/2_samuel/15 "2 Samuel 15 - Absalom's Rebellion Begins") through [2 Samuel 20](/2_samuel/20 "2 Samuel 20 - Sheba's Rebellion and Its End"), chronicle a period of intense civil strife, commencing with Absalom's revolt and culminating in Sheba's attempted secession. The deliberate placement of this list of officials, including Ira, at the very end of this tumultuous narrative functions as a potent literary device. It signals the definitive restoration of order, the re-establishment of David's unchallenged authority, and the return to stable governance, providing a sense of closure to the preceding narratives of chaos and emphasizing that, despite profound challenges, David's kingdom remained structured and functional, supported by a loyal and capable administration.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The term "chief ruler" in the KJV translates the Hebrew word *kohen* (כֹּהֵן). While *kohen* most commonly refers to a priest in the Levitical sense, its application in contexts like [2 Samuel 8:18](/2_samuel/8-18 "2 Samuel 8:18 - David's Sons as Priests/Chief Officials") (where David's sons are similarly designated *kohen*) and here for Ira suggests a broader, non-cultic meaning within David's royal court. It likely denotes a high-ranking official, a principal minister, or a close advisor, possibly with responsibilities that extended beyond purely religious duties, perhaps encompassing judicial, administrative, or even diplomatic functions. This usage reflects the evolving nature of the Israelite monarchy, where the king's administration required diverse and adaptable roles. Ira's identification as "the Jairite" points to his lineage from the clan of Jair, a significant family often associated with the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. This geographical detail is noteworthy, indicating David's strategic ability to integrate trusted individuals from various tribal and regional backgrounds into his central government, thereby fostering unity and national cohesion across Israel.
* **Key Themes:** The inclusion of Ira in this administrative list significantly contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Samuel. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Order and Administration**. Despite the profound personal suffering and national crises David endured, the continued existence of a structured and functioning government, evidenced by this roster of officials, underscores his remarkable capacity as a king to maintain stability and governance. Secondly, it emphasizes the **Importance of Supporting Roles**. While figures like David, Joab, and Benaiah dominate the narrative spotlight, the mention of individuals like Ira serves as a crucial reminder that the success and stability of the kingdom depended heavily on the faithful service of many individuals in various, often less visible, capacities. Their diligence in administrative tasks was absolutely crucial for the daily operations and long-term viability of the realm. Lastly, it subtly points to **God's Providence in Leadership**. The fact that David was able to re-establish and sustain a functional government after such severe internal threats speaks powerfully to divine enablement and the provision of capable individuals to serve His purposes through the Davidic monarchy, which was foundational to the messianic lineage and the covenant promises found in passages like [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ira (Hebrew, _ʻÎyrâʼ'_):** From the root meaning "wakefulness," Ira is the name of this specific Israelite official. While the name itself carries the connotation of alertness or vigilance, its primary significance here is to identify the individual. The mention of Ira, whose name implies "wakefulness," might subtly hint at his attentive and diligent service to David, underscoring the qualities required for a high-ranking royal administrator.
* **Jairite (Hebrew, _Yâʼirîy'_):** This patronymic identifies Ira as a descendant of Jair. The clan of Jair was prominent, particularly associated with the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. This designation not only provides Ira's lineage but also highlights David's ability to integrate trusted officials from diverse tribal and geographical backgrounds across Israel into his central administration, fostering national unity and demonstrating the breadth of his support.
* **Chief ruler (Hebrew, _kôhên'_):** The Hebrew term _kôhên_ (כֹּהֵן) most commonly translates to "priest," referring to one who officiates in sacred rites. However, in specific contexts within the Davidic court, such as here and in [2 Samuel 8:18](/2_samuel/8-18 "2 Samuel 8:18 - David's Sons as Priests/Chief Officials") where David's sons are also called _kôhên_, it denotes a high-ranking official, a principal minister, or a close advisor. This usage suggests a role of significant authority and trust, possibly encompassing administrative, judicial, or advisory functions within the royal government, rather than strictly cultic duties. It underscores the multifaceted nature of royal administration in ancient Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Ira also the Jairite":** This initial phrase introduces the individual, Ira, and immediately provides his identifying lineage, "the Jairite." The inclusion of "also" (Hebrew *gam*) serves to link him seamlessly to the preceding list of David's officials (Joab, Benaiah, Adoram, Jehoshaphat, Sheva, Zadok, Abiathar), thereby indicating that he was another significant and integral figure within this administrative cadre. His specific identification by clan or region underscores his unique identity and perhaps his particular contribution or background within the royal court.
* **"was a chief ruler":** This clause precisely defines Ira's specific and elevated role within David's government. As elaborated in the Key Word Analysis, "chief ruler" (kohen) signifies a position of high authority and trust, designating him as a principal minister or a close advisor, rather than a traditional cultic priest. This indicates that Ira held a vital administrative or advisory capacity, contributing directly and significantly to the effective governance of the kingdom.
* **"about David":** This concluding phrase emphatically highlights Ira's direct proximity and personal service to King David. It strongly suggests a relationship of personal trust and direct access, implying that Ira was part of David's inner circle or immediate staff. This reinforces the idea of his considerable importance and the king's reliance on his counsel and diligent service, particularly in the aftermath of the recent tumultuous rebellions.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Conciseness** and **Inclusion**. Its remarkable brevity, encapsulated in a single clause, efficiently conveys a significant piece of information about a key administrative figure without elaborating on his specific duties or personal history. This conciseness is characteristic of the administrative lists found throughout 2 Samuel, which prioritize factual reporting and the establishment of order over detailed narrative development. Furthermore, Ira's mention is a deliberate act of **Inclusion**, ensuring that even those who served in less prominent, though equally vital, administrative capacities are formally acknowledged alongside the more famous military and prophetic figures. This inclusion highlights the comprehensive nature of David's government and the value placed on all who contributed to its stability. The verse also functions as an integral part of a **List/Catalog**, contributing to the broader roster of David's officials (2 Samuel 20:23-26), which collectively serves to re-establish and affirm the sense of order and structured authority after the preceding period of chaos and rebellion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The brief mention of Ira the Jairite, strategically positioned within a list of David's key administrators, carries profound theological and thematic weight. It underscores the divine principle that order, good governance, and faithful administration are essential for a flourishing society and for the effective execution of God's purposes on earth. Even in the immediate aftermath of severe internal strife, God's providence ensures that capable individuals are raised up and positioned to serve in critical administrative roles, enabling the king to maintain stability and dispense justice. Ira's seemingly minor role serves as a powerful reminder that God uses all kinds of people in His kingdom, not just the famous or those on the front lines of battle. Faithfulness in administrative, supportive, or "behind-the-scenes" roles is just as vital and divinely esteemed as more visible leadership. This verse subtly affirms the inherent value of every member in the body, each contributing uniquely to the overall health and function of the whole, reflecting God's intricate design for community and governance, both civil and spiritual.

* [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [1 Corinthians 12:27](/1_corinthians/12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:27 - Many Members, One Body")
* [Nehemiah 7:1](/nehemiah/7-1 "Nehemiah 7:1 - Appointment of Gatekeepers and Officials")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Samuel 20:26, though a seemingly minor detail within a larger historical narrative, offers a powerful and enduring reminder of the indispensable value of every role within a larger system, be it a family, a community, a workplace, or especially the church. Ira the Jairite's inclusion in this elite list of David's officials, even without a detailed narrative of his personal exploits, profoundly signifies his importance and faithful service to the king and the kingdom. It challenges us to look beyond the spotlight and to recognize and appreciate the quiet, consistent, and often unseen contributions of those who serve diligently in administrative, supportive, or less visible capacities. True leadership, whether in secular or spiritual spheres, involves not only vision and command but also the wisdom to delegate and surround oneself with trustworthy, capable individuals like Ira. This verse encourages us to embrace our own roles, however seemingly small or insignificant they may appear, with faithfulness and excellence, understanding that our service contributes to a greater purpose, just as Ira's service contributed to the stability and well-being of David's kingdom. It is a profound call to appreciate the intricate and beautiful design of God's work, where every part is essential for the whole to thrive and fulfill its divine mandate.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Ira's brief mention challenge my perception of what truly constitutes "important" service or contribution in God's kingdom?**
* **In what specific ways might I be overlooking or underestimating the invaluable contributions of "behind-the-scenes" roles in my own community, church, or workplace?**
* **What does Ira's example teach me about the spiritual significance of faithfulness and diligence in my assigned responsibilities, regardless of their public prominence?**
* **How can I actively better recognize, affirm, and celebrate those who serve in supportive or administrative capacities around me, reflecting God's valuing of every member?**

### FAQ
**Who was Ira the Jairite, and what was his role?**

Answer: Ira the Jairite was a high-ranking official in King David's administration, identified as a "chief ruler" (Hebrew *kohen*). While the term *kohen* typically refers to a priest, in the specific context of David's royal court, it appears to denote a principal minister, a trusted advisor, or a key administrative officer, rather than a Levitical priest performing cultic duties. His identification as "the Jairite" indicates his lineage from the clan of Jair, which was likely associated with the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. His inclusion in a list of David's most trusted officials—alongside prominent figures like Joab, the commander of the army, and Benaiah, commander of the Cherethites and Pelethites—underscores his significant position and the high degree of trust David placed in him. Ira's role was crucial for the stable governance and administrative functioning of the kingdom, especially in the aftermath of the internal rebellions that had recently threatened David's reign.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The brief mention of Ira the Jairite, a faithful administrator in David's earthly kingdom, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and eternal work of Jesus Christ and His everlasting kingdom. David's reign, with its structured administration and reliance on loyal servants like Ira, powerfully foreshadows the perfect, righteous, and everlasting reign of Christ, who is the true [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"). Just as Ira diligently served David in maintaining earthly order and governance, so too does Christ establish and sustain a spiritual kingdom built upon divine order, perfect justice, and the faithful service of His redeemed people. The New Testament profoundly reveals Christ as the Head of the Church, His body, where every member, regardless of their visible prominence or perceived importance, is essential, uniquely gifted, and contributes vitally to the health and function of the whole (cf. [Ephesians 4:15-16](/ephesians/4-15-16 "Ephesians 4:15-16 - Growing into Christ, the Head")). Ira's diligent service to David, even in a less celebrated administrative role, beautifully prefigures the call for all believers to faithfully steward their gifts, talents, and resources in devoted service to Christ and His kingdom. We are assured that even the smallest acts of obedience, done with a heart focused on His glory, are seen, valued, and ultimately rewarded by our Heavenly Father (cf. [Matthew 25:21](/matthew/25-21 "Matthew 25:21 - Parable of the Talents")). Ultimately, Ira's quiet faithfulness points to the profound and comforting truth that in Christ's perfect administration, every servant, every contribution, and every act of loyalty, however humble, possesses eternal significance, contributing to the magnificent unfolding of God's redemptive plan for all creation.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Samuel 23:38

Ira an Ithrite, Gareb an Ithrite,

Exodus 2:14

And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and said, Surely this thing is known.

Genesis 41:45

And Pharaoh called Joseph's name Zaphnathpaaneah; and he gave him to wife Asenath the daughter of Potipherah priest of On. And Joseph went out over [all] the land of Egypt.

1 Chronicles 11:40

Ira the Ithrite, Gareb the Ithrite,

Exodus 2:16

¶ Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters: and they came and drew [water], and filled the troughs to water their father's flock.

Judges 10:4

And he had thirty sons that rode on thirty ass colts, and they had thirty cities, which are called Havothjair unto this day, which [are] in the land of Gilead.

Judges 10:5

And Jair died, and was buried in Camon.