### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hēgemoneúō**, represented by `{{G2230}}`, means **to act as ruler** or **be governor**. It is derived from ἡγεμών. This specific term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, used to denote the official administrative authority of a Roman leader over a province.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G2230}}` is used to provide a precise historical setting. It establishes the political context for the census at the time of Jesus's birth, noting that it occurred when Cyrenius **was governor** of Syria [[Luke 2:2]]. The word is also used to mark the beginning of John the Baptist's ministry, specifying that it was when Pontius Pilate **was governor** of Judaea, under the reign of Tiberius Caesar [[Luke 3:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the system of Roman governance described in the text:
* `{{G2231}}` **hēgemonía** (government, i.e. (in time) official term:--reign): This term specifies the ruling period of a higher authority, such as the "reign" of Tiberius Caesar, during which a governor served [[Luke 3:1]].
* `{{G5075}}` **tetrarchéō** (to be a tetrarch:--(be) tetrarch): This verb describes a similar but distinct regional rulership, such as Herod being tetrarch of Galilee at the same time Pilate was governor [[Luke 3:1]].
* `{{G2541}}` **Kaîsar** (Cæsar, a title of the Roman emperor:--Cæsar): This title identifies the supreme imperial authority to whom the governors were subordinate [[Luke 3:1]].
### Theological Significance
The primary significance of `{{G2230}}` is historical, serving to anchor the biblical narrative in secular time.
* **Historical Synchronization:** By naming the individuals who were acting as governor, the scriptures link the events of the Gospels to the established timeline of the Roman Empire ([[Luke 2:2]], [[Luke 3:1]]).
* **Chain of Authority:** The use of `{{G2230}}` in passages that also mention tetrarchs and Caesar illustrates the structured Roman hierarchy that governed Judaea and the surrounding regions.
* **Setting the Stage:** Identifying the governor sets the political stage for key New Testament events, including the census and the beginning of Jesus's public ministry.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2230}}` is a precise administrative term whose value lies in its historical specificity. While not a word with deep theological nuance, it performs the crucial role of a historical marker, fixing the Gospel accounts within the verifiable political framework of the Roman Empire. It demonstrates that the events of scripture unfolded in a real time and place under a known system of government.
TRV