Paruah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of King Solomon's administrative organization of the kingdom of Israel. The name "Paruah" is derived from the Hebrew root meaning "to flourish" or "to blossom," which may suggest a person of significance or prosperity.

Biblical Reference:

Paruah is mentioned in 1 Kings 4:17, which is part of a passage detailing the twelve district governors appointed by King Solomon to oversee various regions of Israel. These governors were responsible for providing provisions for the king and his household, each for one month of the year. The Berean Standard Bible states:

"Jehoshaphat son of Paruah, in Issachar;" (1 Kings 4:17)

In this context, Paruah is identified as the father of Jehoshaphat, who was appointed as the governor over the territory of Issachar. This indicates that Paruah was likely a man of some standing, as his son was entrusted with a significant administrative role in Solomon's kingdom.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The appointment of district governors was a strategic move by Solomon to ensure efficient governance and resource management across the expansive kingdom of Israel. Each governor's role was crucial in maintaining the stability and prosperity of the nation, as they were responsible for collecting taxes and supplies necessary for the royal court.

Issachar, the region governed by Jehoshaphat son of Paruah, was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. It was known for its fertile land, which made it an important agricultural area. The tribe of Issachar was traditionally associated with wisdom and understanding, as suggested in Genesis 49:14-15, where Jacob blesses his sons.

Theological Significance:

The mention of Paruah, though brief, contributes to the broader narrative of Solomon's reign, highlighting the organizational structure and the delegation of authority that characterized his administration. This system reflects the wisdom for which Solomon is renowned, as it allowed for effective governance and the flourishing of the nation.

From a theological perspective, the account of Paruah and his son Jehoshaphat underscores the importance of faithful service and stewardship in positions of leadership. It serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that those in authority are called to serve with integrity and diligence, ensuring the well-being of the people they govern.

Conclusion:

While Paruah himself is not a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, his mention in the context of Solomon's administration provides insight into the governance of ancient Israel and the roles played by various individuals in supporting the king's rule. His legacy is carried on through his son, Jehoshaphat, who served as a key figure in the successful management of the kingdom.Paruah

flourishing; that flies away

Paruah

(flourishing), the father of Jehoshaphat, Solomon's commissariat officer in Issachar. (1 Kings 4:17) (B.C. about 1017.)

Flourishing, the father of Jehoshaphat, appointed to provide monthly supplies for Solomon from the tribe of Issachar (1 Kings 4:17). PARUAH

pa-roo'-a (paruach "blooming"): Father of Jehoshaphat, who was one of Solomon's twelve victualers or providers, and had charge in Isaachar of this function (1 Kings 4:17).

6515. Paruach -- a man of Issachar
... 6514, 6515. Paruach. 6516 . a man of Issachar. Transliteration: Paruach Phonetic
Spelling: (paw-roo'-akh) Short Definition: Paruah. ... Paruah. ...
/hebrew/6515.htm - 6kParuah (1 Occurrence)
... Standard Bible Encyclopedia. PARUAH. ...Paruah (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:17 Jehoshaphat
the son of Paruah, in Issachar; (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). ...
/p/paruah.htm - 7k

Ben-paruah (1 Occurrence)
Ben-paruah. Benoth, Ben-paruah. Bent . Multi-Version Concordance Ben-paruah
(1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:17 Jehoshaphat Ben-Paruah 'is' in Issachar. (YLT). ...
/b/ben-paruah.htm - 6k

Paru'ah (1 Occurrence)
Paru'ah. Paruah, Paru'ah. Parvaim . Multi-Version Concordance Paru'ah (1
Occurrence). 1 Kings 4:17 Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in Issachar; (See RSV). ...
/p/paru'ah.htm - 6k

Jehoshaphat (79 Occurrences)
... He was recorder under David (2 Samuel 8:16; 2 Samuel 20:24 1 Chronicles 18:15) and
Solomon (1 Kings 4:3). (3) Son of Paruah, and Solomon's overseer in Issachar ...
/j/jehoshaphat.htm - 51k

Party (47 Occurrences)

/p/party.htm - 20k

Jehosh'aphat (75 Occurrences)
... of Ahilud, the recorder; (See RSV). 1 Kings 4:17 Jehoshaphat the son of
Paruah, in Issachar; (See RSV). 1 Kings 15:24 And Asa slept ...
/j/jehosh'aphat.htm - 27k

Is'sachar (40 Occurrences)
... the hill country of E'phraim. (DBY RSV). 1 Kings 4:17 Jehoshaphat Ben-Paruah
'is' in Issachar. (See RSV). 1 Kings 15:27 And conspire ...
/i/is'sachar.htm - 16k

Benoth (1 Occurrence)

/b/benoth.htm - 6k

Bent (107 Occurrences)

/b/bent.htm - 36k

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