### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Archélaos**, represented by `{{G745}}`, is defined as **people-ruling**. It appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. This name refers specifically to **Archelaus**, a Jewish king who succeeded his father.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical mention of `{{G745}}` occurs in the narrative of Jesus's infancy. Upon returning from Egypt, Joseph heard that **Archelaus** did reign in Judaea in the place of his father Herod. This news caused Joseph to be afraid to travel there, prompting a change in his plans [[Matthew 2:22]]. Consequently, after being warned by God in a dream, Joseph took his family to Galilee instead.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage provide context for the role of **Archelaus**:
* `{{G936}}` **basileúō** (to rule): This word establishes the authority of Archelaus, as he "did **reign**" over Judaea [[Matthew 2:22]].
* `{{G3962}}` **patḗr** (a "father"): This term defines the lineage of Archelaus, identifying him as the successor to his **father** Herod [[Matthew 2:22]].
* `{{G2264}}` **Hērṓdēs** (Herod): This is the name of his father, the king whose death prompted Joseph's initial return from Egypt and whose reputation likely contributed to the fear of his son [[Matthew 2:22]].
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to be alarmed): This describes Joseph’s reaction upon learning of the new ruler, as he **was afraid** to enter the region under Archelaus's control [[Matthew 2:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G745}}` is centered on its role as a catalyst in the divine protection of Jesus.
* **Human Opposition:** The reign of **Archelaus** represents a continuation of the earthly threat posed by his father, Herod. The fear he inspired demonstrates the dangerous political climate surrounding Jesus's early life.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** Joseph's fear of **Archelaus** is the direct cause for a divine intervention. God's warning in a dream redirects the Holy Family, showing that God's plan is not thwarted by hostile human rulers but is instead accomplished by navigating around them [[Matthew 2:22]].
* **Providential Geography:** The presence of **Archelaus** in Judaea is the specific reason the family "turned aside into the parts of Galilee" [[Matthew 2:22]]. This action, prompted by a human threat, ultimately places Jesus in the location where he would grow up.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G745}}` is more than a historical footnote. The single mention of **Archelaus** is a crucial pivot point in the nativity story. His reign in Judaea presented a real danger that prompted Joseph's fear and, more importantly, a subsequent course correction guided by God. This event illustrates the theme of divine providence, where God overcomes the threats of earthly kings to protect the young Jesus and steer the Holy Family according to His sovereign will.
TRV