אֲפָֽרְסְכָיֵא
a.phar.se.khay
governors
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Hebrew word אֲפָֽרְסְכָיֵא (a.phar.se.khay) is used to describe individuals in positions of authority, specifically referred to as "governors." This term is part of the larger semantic domain of Royalty & Authority, indicating its connection to power and leadership. The word appears only twice in the Bible, suggesting a limited but significant scope of usage. Its rarity may imply that the concept of governors is not a central theme in the Hebrew scriptures, but rather a specific aspect of governance that is highlighted in certain contexts. The use of this term adds nuance to our understanding of ancient Near Eastern governance, highlighting the existence of officials who exercised authority on behalf of a ruler or king. By examining the contexts in which this word appears, we can gain insight into the complexities of ancient governance and the roles of those who held power.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
2 total occurrences across the text
The copy of the letter that Tattenai, the governor beyond the River, and Shetharbozenai, and his companions the Apharsachites, who were beyond the River, sent to Darius the king follows.
Ezra 6:6Now therefore, Tattenai, governor beyond the River, Shetharbozenai, and your companions the Apharsachites, who are beyond the River, you must stay far from there.