פַּעֲרַי (pa.a.ray)
pa.a.ray
Paarai
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Paarai appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, recorded in 2 Samuel 23:35 as one of King David’s elite warriors. It identifies a man from Arbah, the son of Ezbai, who stood among the "mighty men" known for their loyalty and martial prowess during the United Monarchy.
Linguistically, the name derives from a root meaning to open wide or gape. This etymology suggests a vivid image, perhaps describing someone with an imposing presence or a distinctive physical trait. While the exact nuance remains opaque without further context, the name serves as a unique marker for this specific historical figure within the biblical record of David’s reign.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Paarai appears in a brief genealogical list within 2 Samuel, identifying one of David’s mighty men. While the text does not record his specific deeds, his inclusion signals that God values the faithful service of ordinary individuals who stand ready to protect and support their leaders. These warriors were not famous for personal glory but for their steadfast loyalty in difficult times.
His name likely relates to a root meaning to open wide, perhaps hinting at an imposing presence or a distinctive character trait. This small detail reminds us that every person in Scripture has a unique place in God’s story. Even those mentioned only in passing contribute to the larger narrative of faithfulness and courage.
When we read these lists, we are invited to see ourselves in the ranks of the faithful. We may not be warriors in the physical sense, but we are called to stand firm in our own contexts. God sees the quiet dedication of those who serve with integrity, just as He saw Paarai’s commitment.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Paarai1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- פַּעֲרַ֖י1×
Key Verses
-
II Samuel 23:35
Hezro the Carmelite, Paarai the Arbite,
This verse places Paarai among David's elite warriors, highlighting his role in the military structure of the United Monarchy.