from עוּר; wakefulness; Ira, the name of three Israelites; Ira.
Transliteration:ʻÎyrâʼ
Pronunciation:ee-raw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma עִירָא (ʻÎyrâʼ), Strong's H5896, is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its etymology traces to the verb עוּר (`{{H5782}}`), which signifies "to rouse oneself, awake, stir up, incite." Consequently, the core meaning of the name Ira is deeply connected to the concept of "wakefulness," "vigilance," or "one who is awake/aroused." While a proper noun limits its direct semantic range to identification, the inherent meaning of the name conveys a sense of alertness, readiness, and active presence. It suggests a character trait of being attentive and not slumbering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name עִירָא (ʻÎyrâʼ) appears in the Old Testament, identifying at least two distinct individuals prominent during the reign of King David. The definition provided indicates "three Israelites," which may account for multiple mentions or a less prominent figure. The most notable occurrences are:
1. **Ira the Jairite:** Mentioned in [[2 Samuel 20:26]], he is identified as a "chief minister" (or "priest," depending on translation of כֹּהֵן) to David. His position suggests a role of significant trust and administrative or spiritual authority within the king's inner circle. This Ira's presence in such a crucial advisory capacity underscores his reliability and importance to David's government.
2. **Ira the Ithrite:** Listed among David's elite warriors, known as the "Thirty" or "Mighty Men," in [[2 Samuel 23:38]] and [[1 Chronicles 11:40]]. His inclusion in this distinguished group signifies exceptional military prowess, courage, and unwavering loyalty to the king. The "Ithrite" designation refers to his origin, possibly from Kiriath-jearim or another location associated with the Ithrites.
Both individuals named Ira served King David in capacities demanding vigilance, readiness, and steadfast commitment—one in high administrative office, the other in military valor. Their lives, as presented in the biblical narrative, embody the qualities implied by their name.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for עִירָא (ʻÎyrâʼ) is its root, עוּר (`{{H5782}}`). This verb is used extensively throughout the Hebrew Bible to describe various forms of awakening or stirring:
* Physical awakening from sleep (e.g., [[Psalm 3:5]]).
* Arousing oneself or others for action, often in a military or judicial context (e.g., [[Judges 5:12]], [[Isaiah 51:9]]).
* God "stirring up" the spirit of individuals or nations to accomplish His will (e.g., [[Ezra 1:5]], [[Haggai 1:14]]).
* The concept of vigilance and alertness, particularly in a spiritual or prophetic sense.
It is important to distinguish עִירָא (`{{H5896}}`) from the phonetically similar עִיר (`{{H5892}}`), which means "city" or "town." While they sound alike, they derive from different roots and carry distinct meanings.
The concepts intrinsically linked to עִירָא (ʻÎyrâʼ) include vigilance, alertness, readiness, loyalty, active service, and responsible leadership. These virtues are consistently valued throughout Scripture.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, עִירָא (ʻÎyrâʼ) does not directly convey theological doctrine. However, the underlying meaning of the name—"wakefulness" or "vigilance"—carries profound theological resonance within the broader biblical narrative. The concept of spiritual alertness is a recurring theme:
* **Readiness for God's Action:** The call to be "awake" often symbolizes a state of readiness for God's intervention, judgment, or the coming of His kingdom. Jesus frequently exhorted His disciples to be "awake" and "watchful" for His return (e.g., [[Matthew 24:42-44]], [[Mark 13:33-37]]).
* **Vigilance Against Spiritual Danger:** Believers are admonished to be vigilant against temptation, sin, and the schemes of spiritual adversaries (e.g., [[1 Peter 5:8]]).
* **Active Faith and Service:** Spiritual "wakefulness" implies not merely passive waiting but active engagement in one's calling and faithful stewardship of responsibilities (e.g., [[Romans 13:11]], [[Ephesians 5:14]]).
The biblical figures named Ira, serving King David with unwavering loyalty and competence, can be seen as earthly exemplars of the very qualities their name denotes. Their dedication to an earthly king serves as a type for the vigilance and readiness expected of those who serve the heavenly King. Thus, the name implicitly points to the virtue of being spiritually "awake" and "ready" in one's walk with God and in fulfilling one's divine purpose.
### Summary
The Hebrew name עִירָא (ʻÎyrâʼ), Strong's H5896, derives from the root עוּר (`{{H5782}}`), signifying "wakefulness" or "vigilance." This name is borne by at least two significant figures in the Old Testament, both serving King David: Ira the Jairite, a chief minister, and Ira the Ithrite, one of David's mighty men. Their roles exemplify the qualities of loyalty, readiness, and dedicated service. While a proper noun, the inherent meaning of עִירָא resonates deeply with broader biblical themes of spiritual alertness, preparedness for God's will, and active, faithful service to Him. It subtly underscores the importance of being "awake" and vigilant in one's spiritual journey and earthly responsibilities.
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