What was Sharonite?
The term Sharonite refers to a person from the region of Sharon, a fertile and well-known coastal plain in ancient Israel. In 1 Chronicles 27:29, the Sharonite mentioned is Shitrai the Sharonite, who served in the administrative military structure under King David. This figure oversaw the herds that grazed in the area of Sharon, reflecting both the agricultural richness of the region and the organized governance established by David’s reign.
Hebrew Name Meaning
The Hebrew term ha-Sharoni (הַשָּׁרוֹנִי) means “the Sharonite,” or “of Sharon.” It is a demonym, identifying someone from the region called Sharon (שָׁרוֹן), which means “a plain” or “level place.”
Biblical References
- 1 Chronicles 27:29 – “Shitrai the Sharonite was in charge of the herds grazing in Sharon.”
This is the only explicit mention of a Sharonite individual in the administrative records under King David.
Cross References
- Isaiah 35:2 – “The desert shall blossom like the rose; it shall blossom abundantly and rejoice even with joy and singing… the glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon.”
- Song of Songs 2:1 – “I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.”
- Isaiah 65:10 – “Sharon will become a pasture for flocks, and the Valley of Achor a resting place for herds, for my people who seek me.”
These verses emphasize the beauty and fertility of Sharon, making it an apt location for grazing livestock and administration.
What Happened in the Bible
In 1 Chronicles 27, the chronicler outlines the administrative and military organization of David‘s kingdom. The chapter lists various officers appointed over different resources, regions, and army divisions. Among these is Shitrai the Sharonite, responsible for the royal herds grazing in the rich pastures of Sharon. This brief mention indicates both his role in stewarding the king’s agricultural wealth and the importance of Sharon’s natural resources in sustaining the kingdom.
Though Shitrai is not given a lengthy biography, his role was critical in ensuring the provision of livestock, which was essential for food, sacrifices, labor, and trade. The careful organization of such tasks under David’s rule speaks to the God-honoring structure and stewardship of Israel‘s resources.
Meaning for Today’s Christians
Though obscure, the Sharonite’s role reminds modern believers of the significance of faithful service, even in seemingly mundane roles. Shitrai’s inclusion in Scripture highlights that God values diligent and responsible work, no matter how behind-the-scenes it may be. The mention of the Sharonite serves as a quiet affirmation that every task in God‘s kingdom matters—whether in the palace or the pasture.
Christians today can learn from this example that faithful labor, especially when stewarding God’s provisions, is an act of worship. It reinforces the principle found in Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
Connection to Jesus and the Gospel
The region of Sharon, and by extension the Sharonite, is indirectly connected to Christ through imagery and prophecy. In Song of Songs 2:1, the beloved is described as a “rose of Sharon,” which has often been interpreted in Christian tradition as symbolic of Christ—beautiful, fragrant, and flourishing even in dry places.
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, oversees the flocks of His people with perfect care (John 10:11), a role that echoes but far surpasses that of Shitrai the Sharonite. Just as the Sharonite tended the king’s flocks in a rich and fertile plain, Christ shepherds His church in spiritual abundance, feeding His sheep with the Word and protecting them from harm.
Moreover, in Isaiah 65:10, Sharon is pictured as a place of peace and restoration, a pasture for flocks—imagery that points forward to the peace Christ brings in the new creation, where His people will dwell in security under His rule.
Broader Biblical Themes
Faithful Stewardship
Shitrai’s role highlights the biblical theme of stewardship. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture calls God’s people to faithfully manage the resources entrusted to them—whether livestock, time, people, or spiritual gifts.
God’s Care for the Land and People
The reference to Sharon and its fertility points to God‘s care for creation and provision for His people. God uses the land to bless His covenant people, and He expects them to care for it and use it wisely.
The Value of Every Role in God’s Kingdom
Not all servants of God are prophets or kings—some are administrators, farmers, or herdsmen. Yet all are seen by God and given a place in His record. The Sharonite’s brief mention is a testimony to God’s all-encompassing view of faithful service.
Reflection Questions
- What does Shitrai the Sharonite’s role teach me about faithfulness in small or unseen tasks?
- Am I stewarding the resources God has given me—my time, skills, possessions—for His glory?
- How can I see my work, no matter how ordinary, as a way to serve Christ and His kingdom?
- What areas of my life resemble “pasturelands” that need careful tending under the Lord’s guidance?
- Do I trust Jesus as my Good Shepherd, the one who oversees, provides, and leads me to flourishing?
The Sharonite may only appear briefly in the biblical narrative, but his presence stands as a quiet, steady reminder that every role matters in God’s kingdom, and no service is ever overlooked by the King of kings.