### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻÎyrâʼ**, represented by `{{H5896}}`, is defined as **wakefulness**. It is used as a proper name for three Israelites in the biblical record. This name appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses**, exclusively in contexts describing key figures associated with King David.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name **ʻÎyrâʼ** `{{H5896}}` identifies distinct individuals who held positions of honor and responsibility. One is identified as **Ira** the Jairite, who served as a "chief ruler" `{{H3548}}` for David `{{H1732}}` [[2 Samuel 20:26]]. Another individual, **Ira** the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite, is listed among David's mighty men ([[2 Samuel 23:26]]; [[1 Chronicles 11:28]]). This same Ira is also noted as a military captain for the sixth month, commanding a course of twenty and four thousand men [[1 Chronicles 27:9]]. A third figure, **Ira** an Ithrite, is also named as one of David's mighty men, alongside Gareb an Ithrite ([[2 Samuel 23:38]]; [[1 Chronicles 11:40]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the identity and roles of the men named **ʻÎyrâʼ**:
* `{{H1732}}` **Dâvid** (loving; David): The central figure to whom each Ira was connected. One Ira served as a chief ruler `{{H3548}}` about **David** [[2 Samuel 20:26]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (chief ruler, priest, prince): This term defines the high-ranking position held by Ira the Jairite, highlighting his administrative authority in David's court [[2 Samuel 20:26]].
* `{{H3505}}` **Yithrîy** (Ithrite): A patronymic term identifying one of the Iras as a descendant of Jether or from the Ithrite family [[2 Samuel 23:38]].
* `{{H8621}}` **Tᵉqôwʻîy** (Tekoite): This patrial term specifies the origin of Ira, son of Ikkesh, as an inhabitant of Tekoah [[2 Samuel 23:26]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5896}}` is rooted in the roles these men played in establishing the Davidic kingdom. The name's meaning, "wakefulness," aligns with the vigilance required for their positions.
* **Loyal Service to David:** Each individual named **Ira** is mentioned for their direct service to **David** `{{H1732}}`. Their inclusion in lists of mighty men or as a `chief ruler` `{{H3548}}` signifies their loyalty and importance to the king ([[2 Samuel 20:26]]; [[2 Samuel 23:38]]).
* **Structured Military Command:** The account of **Ira** the Tekoite details his role as a captain over a `course` `{{H4256}}` of twenty `{{H6242}}` and four `{{H702}}` thousand `{{H505}}` men for the sixth `{{H8345}}` `month` `{{H2320}}`. This demonstrates the organized military structure of David's reign and the significant responsibility entrusted to him [[1 Chronicles 27:9]].
* **Defined Identity and Origin:** The scriptures are specific in identifying each **Ira** by his lineage or home, such as the `Jairite` `{{H2972}}`, the `Ithrite` `{{H3505}}`, or the `Tekoite` `{{H8621}}`. This underscores the value placed on individual heritage and regional identity within the kingdom's leadership.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻÎyrâʼ** `{{H5896}}` is more than just a name; it represents specific individuals known for their steadfast service and key roles. Meaning "wakefulness," the name aptly describes these men who served as a `chief ruler` `{{H3548}}` and as mighty warriors in King David's administration. The biblical record preserves their identity not only through their actions but also through their distinct origins as the Jairite, the Ithrite, and the Tekoite, painting a picture of loyal and organized leadership that was crucial to the kingdom of Israel.
TRV