שִׁטְרַי

שִׁטְרַי

Shitrai, an Israelite

Definition

Shitrai is a proper name of an Israelite mentioned only once in the Bible. He is identified as the official in charge of King David's royal herds that grazed in the Sharon plain (1 Chronicles 27:29). The name itself is derived from a root meaning 'to write' or 'to record,' suggesting a role associated with scribal or administrative duties. In this singular context, Shitrai represents a trusted royal officer responsible for a significant agricultural asset of the kingdom.

Biblical Usage

The name Shitrai is used only one time in the Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 27:29. It appears in a list of David's administrative officials, specifically those appointed over the king's property. The context is purely administrative, detailing the organization of the kingdom's economic and agricultural resources under David's reign.

Etymology

The name Shitrai (שִׁטְרַי) is derived from the same root as the Hebrew noun שֹׁטֵר (shoter, H7860), meaning 'officer,' 'scribe,' or 'magistrate.' This root is connected to the verb meaning 'to write' or 'to record.' The name likely signifies 'my officer' or 'belonging to the officer,' indicating a person associated with an administrative or magisterial role.

Semantic Range

While the name itself is not theologically loaded, its appearance in 1 Chronicles 27 highlights the theme of God's order and provision for His people through structured human leadership. David's organized administration, including officials like Shitrai, reflects the blessing of stability and prosperity during his reign, which was foundational for the temple project his son Solomon would undertake. It reminds readers that God works through practical, detailed governance for the welfare of His community. In ancient Israel, overseeing the royal herds was a position of significant trust and responsibility, as livestock represented wealth, food, and resources for sacrifice. The Sharon plain was known as fertile pastureland. A name meaning 'my officer' fits the cultural context of a bureaucratic kingdom where roles and titles reflected one's function. This contrasts with modern naming conventions, which are less descriptive of occupation. שֹׁטֵר (shoter, H7860) — A general term for an officer, scribe, or magistrate, from which Shitrai is derived. נָגִיד (nagid, H5057) — A leader, ruler, or prince, often of higher authority than an administrative officer. פָּקִיד (paqid, H6496) — An overseer, official, or deputy, similar in administrative function.

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