Lexical Summary Yairi: Jairite Original Word: יָאִרִי Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Jairite Patronymically from Ya'iyr; a Jairite or descendant of Jair -- Jairite. see HEBREW Ya'iyr NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom Yair Definition desc. of Jair NASB Translation Jairite (1). Brown-Driver-Briggs יָאִירִי adjective, of a people Jairite 2 Samuel 20:26. Topical Lexicon Identification and Lineage The adjective “Jairite” attaches Ira to the house of Jair, a prominent clan of the tribe of Manasseh that settled in Gilead and Bashan (Numbers 32:41; Deuteronomy 3:14; Joshua 13:30). Jair’s descendants retained a distinctive identity for centuries, administering thirty fortified towns known as Havvoth-jair and producing leaders such as Jair the judge (Judges 10:3-5). Ira therefore stands in a line noted for territorial expansion, civic responsibility, and spiritual influence east of the Jordan. Scriptural Occurrence 2 Samuel 20:26: “and Ira the Jairite was David’s priest.” The verse concludes the narrative of Sheba’s revolt. With the kingdom freshly stabilized, the inspired writer lists David’s key officials, closing with the unexpected figure of Ira. His appointment signals a transition in the monarch’s inner circle following the deaths, defections, or demotions of earlier counselors (compare 2 Samuel 8:18; 2 Samuel 15:12; 2 Samuel 19:11-14). Historical Setting under David Sheba’s rebellion exposed lingering tribal tensions, especially between Judah and the northern tribes (2 Samuel 20:1-2). By elevating a man from the Transjordan clans of Manasseh, David deliberately broadened regional representation in his court. The choice also affirmed the northern tribes’ share in the Davidic covenant, foreshadowing the later inclusion of “all Israel and Judah” in Solomon’s reign (1 Kings 4:1). Ministerial Function The Hebrew term translated “priest” (kohen) can describe: Ira fulfilled the second role, joining David’s administrative cabinet rather than replacing Zadok and Abiathar at the tabernacle. As royal priest he would: 1. Supervise court worship, ceremonies, and private counsel. His loyalty contrasts with Ahithophel’s treachery (2 Samuel 15:31) and Abiathar’s later complicity with Adonijah (1 Kings 1:7). Ira thereby models steady, godly service in a high-pressure environment. Theological Observations 1. Covenant Continuity: A Manassite minister presiding in Jerusalem demonstrates that God’s promises encompass all Israel (Genesis 48:19; 2 Samuel 7:10-16). Practical Reflections • God may position believers from overlooked regions or backgrounds for strategic influence. Summary The lone biblical reference to the Jairite underscores the far-reaching impact of Jair’s lineage and portrays Ira as a stabilizing spiritual officer in David’s late reign. His ministry illustrates providential placement, covenant inclusivity, and the enduring need for righteous counsel in leadership, all pointing ultimately to the perfect governance of the Messiah. Forms and Transliterations הַיָּ֣אִרִ֔י היארי haiYaiRi hay·yā·’i·rî hayyā’irîLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance 2 Samuel 20:26 HEB: וְגַ֗ם עִירָא֙ הַיָּ֣אִרִ֔י הָיָ֥ה כֹהֵ֖ן NAS: and Ira the Jairite was also a priest KJV: And Ira also the Jairite was a chief ruler INT: was also and Ira the Jairite become A priest 1 Occurrence |
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