### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʻAdlay**, represented by `{{H5724}}`, identifies a specific Israelite. Its meaning is uncertain, likely deriving from an unused root. This name appears only **1 time** in the Bible, found in a single verse [[1 Chronicles 27:29]]. Its sole function in the text is to establish the parentage of one of the officials listed in the administration of David's kingdom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H5724}}` is in a detailed list of King David's overseers. The verse states, "...and over the herds that were in the valleys was Shaphat the son of **Adlai**" [[1 Chronicles 27:29]]. This mention places **Adlai** as the father of Shaphat, a man tasked with managing the royal herds in the valleys. The verse draws a parallel with another official, Shitrai the Sharonite, who was responsible for the herds in Sharon, illustrating the organized structure of the kingdom's agricultural management.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from Adlai's sole appearance in scripture help to clarify his context:
* `{{H8202}}` **Shâphâṭ** (Shaphat): This is the name of Adlai's son, defined as "judge; Shaphat, the name of four Israelites." This name also belongs to the father of the prophet Elisha [[1 Kings 19:16]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word establishes the direct father-son relationship between Adlai and Shaphat. As a term for a "son (as a builder of the family name)," it is foundational to biblical genealogy and identity, as seen in David's charge to "Solomon my **son**" [[1 Chronicles 28:9]].
* `{{H1241}}` **bâqâr** (herd): This word refers to the "beef cattle or an animal of the ox family" that Shaphat managed. Herds were a significant measure of wealth and were used in sacrificial offerings [[Exodus 20:24]].
### Theological Significance
While the name `{{H5724}}` itself does not carry direct theological weight, its context reveals several important biblical themes:
* **Paternal Identity:** Adlai's inclusion is essential for identifying his son, Shaphat, by his lineage. This reflects the common biblical practice of recording paternal ancestry to establish identity and legitimacy within the community [[1 Chronicles 27:29]].
* **Administrative Stewardship:** The mention of Adlai's family occurs within a list of officials responsible for the king's possessions. This highlights the theme of stewardship, where individuals were appointed to manage resources like herds `{{H1241}}` that were vital to the kingdom's economy and sustenance [[1 Chronicles 27:29]].
* **Order in the Kingdom:** The specific assignment of Shaphat to the "valleys" `{{H6010}}` and Shitrai to "Sharon" `{{H8289}}` demonstrates a highly organized system of governance over the land and its assets, reflecting an ordered society under God's appointed king.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻAdlay** `{{H5724}}` is an Israelite whose name is preserved in scripture solely as the father of Shaphat, an overseer of royal herds. His singular mention in [[1 Chronicles 27:29]] serves an important genealogical and administrative purpose, anchoring his son's identity within a detailed record of King David's kingdom. Though the name's etymology is unknown, its context provides a clear window into the principles of lineage, stewardship, and organized governance in ancient Israel.
TRV