Lexical Summary Nacharay or Nachray: Nacharai, Nachray Original Word: נַחֲרַי Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Naharai, Nahari Or Nachray {nakh-rah'-ee}; from the same as nachar; snorer; Nacharai or Nachrai, an Israelite -- Naharai, Nahari. see HEBREW nachar NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom the same as nachar Definition one of David's heroes NASB Translation Naharai (2). Brown-Driver-Briggs נַחֲרַי proper name, masculine one of David's heroes, 2 Samuel 23:37; ᵐ5 Γελωρε, ᵐ5L Αραια; = נַחְרַי 1 Chronicles 11:39; ᵐ5 Ναχωρ, A Νααραι, ᵐ5L Νοαραι. I. נחשׁ (apparently onomatopoetic √ of following = hiss, so Thes **on assumption that it is id quod לחשׁ. BauSem, Rel. i. 287 and others). Topical Lexicon Name Significance Though its precise etymology is debated, the name נַחֲרַי (transliterated “Naharai” in many English versions) carries connotations of vigor and alertness—qualities befitting a warrior in the elite corps of David’s mighty men. Scriptural Appearances • 2 Samuel 23:37 Both verses occur within parallel rosters of “the mighty men” who distinguished themselves in service to King David. Historical Context The lists in 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles were compiled to honor those who stood by David during the turbulent decades in which the monarchy of Israel was being consolidated. These men came from varied tribal and geographical backgrounds, illustrating the unifying power of the covenant people under the Lord’s chosen king. Naharai’s Role 2 Samuel 23:37 identifies him as “Naharai the Beerothite, the armor-bearer of Joab son of Zeruiah.” In ancient warfare the armor-bearer was more than a porter; he functioned as a trusted adjutant, bodyguard, and tactical aide. For Naharai to hold this position under Joab—David’s commander-in-chief—implies proven courage, loyalty, and competence in battle. Beerothite Identity Beeroth, located within Benjaminite territory (Joshua 18:25), was originally a Gibeonite city (Joshua 9:17). Naharai’s designation as a “Beerothite” shows how the mighty-men lists integrated individuals from towns once characterized by Canaanite or Gibeonite ancestry, underscoring the inclusiveness of David’s kingdom while maintaining covenant fidelity. Association with “the Thirty” While Joab himself is not listed among “the Thirty,” his armor-bearer is—a striking detail that highlights Naharai’s personal valor. Scripture thus honors not merely commanders but also those who faithfully serve beside them. Themes and Ministry Lessons 1. Faithful Service in a Supporting Role Naharai’s renown arises from steadfast service rather than independent exploits. His example validates the kingdom principle that greatness is measured by faithfulness (Matthew 25:21) more than visibility. 2. Courage in Community By placing Naharai among an elite cohort that included foreigners (e.g., Zelek the Ammonite) and Israelites alike, Scripture celebrates a community bound by covenant allegiance to the Lord’s anointed. 3. Spiritual Warfare Parallel As Joab’s armor-bearer, Naharai ensured that the commander’s weapons were ready for engagement. In the New Testament believers are exhorted to “take up the full armor of God” (Ephesians 6:13). Naharai’s vocation foreshadows the vigilance required of every disciple who assists in advancing the Lord’s battles. Related Biblical Echoes • Jonathan’s armor-bearer, whose partnership helped secure victory over the Philistines (1 Samuel 14:6–14). Legacy Beyond two terse mentions, Scripture leaves Naharai’s deeds unrecorded, yet his inclusion in inspired lists confers lasting honor. He stands as a quiet testament to those whose steadfast, often unseen labors strengthen leaders and advance God’s redemptive purposes. Forms and Transliterations נַחְרַי֙ נחרי nachRai naḥ·ray naḥrayLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance 2 Samuel 23:37 HEB: הָעַמֹּנִ֑י ס נַחְרַי֙ הַבְּאֵ֣רֹתִ֔י [נֹשְׂאֵי NAS: the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, KJV: the Ammonite, Naharai the Beerothite, INT: Zelek the Ammonite Naharai the Beerothite accept 1 Chronicles 11:39 2 Occurrences |
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