### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Nachăray**, represented by `{{H5171}}`, means **snorer**. It appears as Nacharai or Nachrai in scripture and identifies a specific Israelite. This name, with its alternative spelling נַחְרַי (Nachrai), appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The biblical record mentions **Naharai** in two parallel passages which list prominent warriors. In both [[2 Samuel 23:37]] and [[1 Chronicles 11:39]], he is identified by his role and origin. He is the **armourbearer** to **Joab** the son of Zeruiah. The verses specify his origin, calling him the **Beerothite** [[2 Samuel 23:37]] and the **Berothite** [[1 Chronicles 11:39]]. In both accounts, he is listed directly after Zelek the Ammonite.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Naharai's identity and position:
* `{{H3097}}` **Yôwʼâb** (Joab): This name, meaning "Jehovah-fathered," belongs to the powerful military commander whom **Naharai** served as **armourbearer** [[1 Chronicles 11:39]].
* `{{H886}}` **Bᵉʼêrôthîy** (Beerothite): This describes Naharai's origin as an "inhabitant of Beeroth" [[2 Samuel 23:37]]. The parallel account uses the similar term `{{H1307}}` **Bêrôthîy** (Berothite).
* `{{H5375}}` **nâsâʼ** (to lift, bear): This verb is the first part of the title "armourbearer." It means to lift or **bear** an object.
* `{{H6870}}` **Tsᵉrûwyâh** (Zeruiah): Meaning "wounded," this is the name of **Joab's** mother, further identifying the commander whom **Naharai** served [[1 Chronicles 11:39]].
### Theological Significance
While not a central figure, Naharai's inclusion in scripture offers insight into the structure of ancient Israel's military.
* **A Role of Trust:** The position of an **armourbearer** `{{H5375}}` `{{H3627}}` was one of great responsibility and proximity to a commander. Naharai's identity is defined by this loyal service to **Joab** `{{H3097}}`, the **son** of **Zeruiah** `{{H6870}}`.
* **Specific Identity:** The record preserves his personal details, including his origin as a **Beerothite** `{{H886}}` and his association with figures like **Zelek** `{{H6768}}` the **Ammonite** `{{H5984}}`. This grounds him in a specific time and place.
* **Ordinary Name, Honorable Position:** The name **Nachăray** comes from a root meaning "snorer." This common, even humble, name is attached to an individual holding an honorable position, illustrating that scripture records people from various backgrounds.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5171}}` **Nachăray** is the name of a specific Israelite whose identity is preserved through his function. Though his name means **snorer**, he is remembered for his significant role as the trusted **armourbearer** to **Joab**. The mention of his name and origin in [[2 Samuel 23:37]] and [[1 Chronicles 11:39]] demonstrates how the biblical narrative carefully documents the individuals who contributed to Israel's history, regardless of their prominence.
TRV