The Hebrew name Shiṭray, represented by H7861, means magisterial. It appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The name belongs to an Israelite official who held a position of authority over royal assets.
In the biblical narrative, H7861 identifies a specific individual in a list of officials. Shitrai is named as the overseer for the herds that fed in the region of Sharon 1 Chronicles 27:29. He is explicitly identified as "the Sharonite," linking his identity to his area of responsibility. His role is mentioned in parallel with Shaphat, who oversaw the herds in the valleys, indicating an organized administrative system for the kingdom's livestock.
Several related words from his single appearance in scripture clarify his role and environment:
- H8290 Shârôwnîy (Sharonite): This title, meaning "a Sharonite or inhabitant of Sharon," directly links Shitrai to the region he managed 1 Chronicles 27:29.
- H1241 bâqâr (herd): This word specifies what Shitrai oversaw, defined as "beef cattle or an animal of the ox family... collectively, a herd." Herds were a significant measure of wealth and blessing in the Old Testament (Genesis 24:35, Job 1:3).
- H8289 Shârôwn (Sharon): This identifies the location of Shitrai's charge, a place described as a "plain" 1 Chronicles 27:29. Other passages note it as a place for flocks and fruitful blossoming (Isaiah 65:10, Isaiah 35:2).
The mention of H7861 carries significance related to administration and stewardship within the Israelite kingdom.
- Organized Stewardship: Shitrai's inclusion in the list of royal officers demonstrates a structured approach to managing the kingdom's resources. His defined role over herds in a specific region points to accountability and diligent oversight 1 Chronicles 27:29.
- Regional Administration: The text distinguishes between the herds in Sharon under Shitrai and those in the valleys under Shaphat 1 Chronicles 27:29. This highlights a geographically-based administrative system designed to effectively manage assets across different terrains.
- Royal Assets and Provision: The herds H1241 that Shitrai managed were a key component of the kingdom's wealth. The oversight of this livestock was essential for maintaining the economic stability and provision of the monarchy, which was seen as a sign of God's blessing Genesis 24:35.
In summary, H7861 is the proper name of a specific Israelite official. As Shitrai the Sharonite, he is recorded as the overseer of the royal herds in the fertile plain of Sharon 1 Chronicles 27:29. While his mention is singular, his role provides valuable insight into the detailed organization and stewardship within the administration of ancient Israel. The name is intrinsically linked to the concepts of regional management, accountability, and the oversight of the kingdom's wealth.
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