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.
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.
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.
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.
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