### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dikastḗs**, represented by `{{G1348}}`, is defined as a **judger** or **judge**. This term is derived from a derivative of δίκη. It is a rare word in the biblical text, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses**. Its usage primarily revolves around questioning the authority of an individual to act in a judicial capacity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{G1348}}` is used exclusively within rhetorical questions that challenge someone's appointed authority. In the book of Acts, Stephen recounts how the Israelites **refused** `{{G720}}` Moses, asking, "Who made thee a ruler and a **judge**?" [[Acts 7:35]]. This same question is repeated from an earlier incident where an Israelite who did his **neighbour** `{{G4139}}` wrong **thrust** `{{G683}}` Moses away, saying, "Who made thee a ruler and a **judge** over us?" [[Acts 7:27]]. Similarly, when Jesus is asked to settle a dispute, he responds, "Man, who made me a **judge** or a divider over you?" [[Luke 12:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of authority and judgment associated with `{{G1348}}`:
* `{{G758}}` **árchōn** (a first (in rank or power)): This word for a ruler or chief appears alongside **judge** in the questions directed at Moses, highlighting the challenge to both his judicial and executive authority ([[Acts 7:27]], [[Acts 7:35]]).
* `{{G2525}}` **kathístēmi** (to place down (permanently), i.e. (figuratively) to designate, constitute, convoy): This verb, meaning to **appoint** or **make**, is central to all three uses of `{{G1348}}`, as the source of the appointment is what is being questioned ([[Luke 12:14]], [[Acts 7:27]], [[Acts 7:35]]).
* `{{G3312}}` **meristḗs** (an apportioner (administrator)): Used in direct parallel with **judge** by Jesus, this word for a **divider** reinforces His refusal to arbitrate material or administrative disputes among the people [[Luke 12:14]].
* `{{G720}}` **arnéomai** (to contradict, i.e. disavow, reject, abnegate): This term is used to describe how the Israelites **refused** or denied the authority of Moses, whom God had sent to be a ruler and deliverer [[Acts 7:35]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1348}}` is tied to the concepts of delegated and rejected authority.
* **Challenged Authority:** The term is consistently framed within a confrontational question, "Who made thee a **judge**?", which serves to challenge the legitimacy of an individual's right to arbitrate or rule ([[Acts 7:27]], [[Luke 12:14]]).
* **Divine Appointment:** A key theme is the contrast between human rejection and divine appointment. Although the Israelites **refused** `{{G720}}` Moses as a **judge**, God is the one who did **send** `{{G649}}` him to be a **ruler** `{{G758}}` and a **deliverer** `{{G3086}}` [[Acts 7:35]].
* **Jurisdictional Distinction:** Jesus's use of the term demonstrates a clear distinction between earthly and spiritual roles. He rejects the position of a worldly **judge** or **divider** `{{G3312}}`, focusing instead on a different kind of authority and mission [[Luke 12:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1348}}` is a specific term used not merely to identify a **judge**, but to question the very basis of one's authority to hold such a position. Its few appearances in Scripture are powerful, illustrating moments of rejection aimed at both Moses and Jesus. The word underscores a critical biblical theme: that true authority is not established by human consensus but is appointed by **God** `{{G2316}}`, even when it is refused by men.
TRV