רֵעִי (re.i)
re.i
Rei
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 Re'i appears only once in Scripture, recorded in 1 Kings 1:8 as one of King David’s courtiers. The Hebrew word re'i literally means "friend" or "companion," suggesting a close personal relationship rather than a formal title. In this specific context, it identifies a man who remained loyal to David during the political turmoil surrounding Adonijah’s attempt to seize the throne.
While the name itself is simple and common in meaning, its biblical usage here highlights the importance of faithful companionship within the royal court. Unlike many other figures mentioned in this chapter who supported the rebellion, Re'i is noted for his steadfastness. The text uses his name to underscore the division among David’s advisors, marking him as part of the inner circle that upheld the king’s authority.
Because the name occurs only in this single verse, it serves as a brief but significant marker of loyalty. It reminds readers that even in times of succession crisis, personal fidelity played a crucial role in maintaining stability. The simplicity of the name contrasts with the complex political maneuvering around it, offering a quiet glimpse into the personal relationships that shaped Israel’s history.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Re'i appears only once in Scripture, recorded in 1 Kings 1:8. It identifies a man named Re'i who stood with King David during a time of political turmoil and succession crisis. The Hebrew root behind this name means friend or companion, suggesting a close personal bond rather than a formal title.
This brief mention highlights the value of faithful companionship when loyalty is tested. While others joined Adonijah’s rebellion, Re'i remained steadfast with David. It reminds us that personal fidelity plays a quiet but crucial role in maintaining stability within our communities and relationships.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Rei1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/רֵעִ֔י1×
Key Verses
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I Kings 1:8
But Zadok the priest, Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, Nathan the prophet, Shimei, Rei, and the mighty men who belonged to David, were not with Adonijah.
This verse lists Re'i among David’s loyal supporters, contrasting him with those who joined Adonijah’s rebellion.