### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Pharaṓ**, represented by `{{G5328}}`, is of foreign origin and is the title for an **Egyptian king**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. This term consistently refers to the sovereign ruler of Egypt, a figure of immense worldly authority and a key character in narratives involving God's people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical accounts, `{{G5328}}` is central to demonstrating God's sovereignty and providence. Scripture says God **raised up** `{{G1825}}` **Pharaoh** for the express purpose of showing His **power** `{{G1411}}` through him [[Romans 9:17]]. The title also appears in the story of Joseph, who received **favour** `{{G5485}}` and **wisdom** `{{G4678}}` from **Pharaoh** and was appointed **governor** `{{G2233}}` over all of **Egypt** `{{G125}}` and Pharaoh's **house** `{{G3624}}` [[Acts 7:10]]. Later, Moses's connection to the royal family is highlighted when, by **faith** `{{G4102}}`, he refused to be called the **son** `{{G5207}}` of **Pharaoh's** **daughter** `{{G2364}}` [[Hebrews 11:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the role and world of **Pharaoh**:
* `{{G935}}` **basileús** (king): This word for a sovereign is used alongside `{{G5328}}` to clarify the title, as in "**Pharaoh** **king** of **Egypt**" [[Acts 7:10]].
* `{{G125}}` **Aígyptos** (Egypt): This refers to the land of the Nile, the domain over which **Pharaoh** ruled and the setting for key events involving Joseph and Moses [[Acts 7:10]].
* `{{G2233}}` **hēgéomai** (governor): This term for a leader with official authority describes the position **Pharaoh** gave to Joseph, placing him in command over his entire house and kingdom [[Acts 7:10]].
* `{{G2364}}` **thygátēr** (daughter): This word is used to identify the specific member of Pharaoh's household who took in Moses, connecting the future leader of Israel directly to the house of `{{G5328}}` ([[Hebrews 11:24]], [[Acts 7:21]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5328}}` is primarily illustrative of God's relationship with worldly powers.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The most direct theological point is that God uses earthly rulers for His purposes. He specifically **raised up** `{{G1825}}` **Pharaoh** to **shew** `{{G1731}}` His divine **power** `{{G1411}}` so that His **name** `{{G3686}}` would be declared throughout the earth [[Romans 9:17]].
* **A Stage for Providence:** The court of **Pharaoh** serves as the stage where God's favor and plan unfold. It is before **Pharaoh** that Joseph is exalted and made a **governor** `{{G2233}}`, demonstrating God's ability to work through secular structures to preserve His people [[Acts 7:10]].
* **A Test of Faith:** The royal house of **Pharaoh** represents a choice between worldly power and faithfulness to God. By **faith** `{{G4102}}`, Moses rejected the identity offered to him as the **son** `{{G5207}}` of Pharaoh's **daughter** `{{G2364}}`, choosing instead his identity with God's people [[Hebrews 11:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5328}}` **Pharaṓ** functions in scripture as the embodiment of Egyptian royal authority. While a title of great earthly power, its primary biblical role is to serve as a backdrop against which God's superior power, sovereign will, and providential care for His people are revealed. The interactions of biblical figures with **Pharaoh** consistently demonstrate that no worldly king or kingdom stands outside the ultimate authority of God.
TRV