### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Gᵉdêrîy**, represented by `{{H1451}}`, is a patrial term meaning **a Gederite, or inhabitant of Geder**. This identifier, derived from a place name, is highly specific in its biblical usage. It appears just **1 time** across **1 unique verse**, pinpointing the origin of a particular individual in the Old Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1451}}` is in a list of King David's officials. In [[1 Chronicles 27:28]], the term identifies Baalhanan the **Gederite** as the man appointed "over the olive trees and the sycomore trees that were in the low plains." This usage is not doctrinal but administrative, providing a specific detail about the man responsible for managing some of the kingdom's valuable agricultural assets. It places Baalhanan within a structured system of royal oversight.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this word connects it to several key terms related to agriculture and administration:
* `{{H1177}}` **Baʻal Chânân** (possessor of grace; Baal-Chanan, the name of an Edomite, also of an Israelite; Baal-hanan): This is the name of the individual identified as the Gederite, who held the administrative post [[1 Chronicles 27:28]].
* `{{H2132}}` **zayith** (an olive (as yielding illuminating oil), the tree, the branch or the berry; olive): This specifies one of the types of trees under the Gederite's care, a vital source of oil and food [[1 Chronicles 27:28]].
* `{{H8256}}` **shiqmâh** (a sycamore (usually the tree); sycamore): This identifies the second type of tree managed by Baalhanan, valued for its fruit and wood [[1 Chronicles 27:28]].
* `{{H8219}}` **shᵉphêlâh** (Lowland, i.e. (with the article) the maritime slope of Palestine; low country, (low) plain, vale(-ley)): This describes the geographical region where Baalhanan's stewardship was exercised [[1 Chronicles 27:28]].
* `{{H8081}}` **shemen** (grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness; anointing, fat (things), fruitful, oil(-ed), ointment, olive, pine): This is the valuable product derived from the olive trees overseen by the Gederite. The same verse mentions Joash was over the "cellars of oil" [[1 Chronicles 27:28]].
### Theological Significance
While not a theological term itself, the use of `{{H1451}}` resides within a context that has theological implications:
* **Ordered Stewardship:** The mention of a **Gederite** responsible for specific trees demonstrates a principle of organized and delegated stewardship over the land's resources, reflecting a well-managed kingdom.
* **Valued Provision:** Baalhanan's role over olive `{{H2132}}` and sycomore `{{H8256}}` trees highlights God's provision through nature and the importance of managing these blessings wisely.
* **Individual Place in the Kingdom:** The record gives a specific title, the **Gederite**, to an individual, showing that every person and their role, no matter how seemingly minor, was noted and valued within the administration of God's people.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1451}}` **Gᵉdêrîy** is a simple patrial adjective whose significance is tied entirely to its single biblical use. It identifies Baalhanan, an official who managed olive and sycomore trees in the low plains for King David [[1 Chronicles 27:28]]. Though limited in scope, its appearance provides a valuable window into the detailed administration of ancient Israel and underscores the biblical principle of careful stewardship over God-given resources.
TRV