### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **archisynágōgos**, represented by `{{G752}}`, identifies a **director of the synagogue services**, translated as **(chief) ruler of the synagogue**. Derived from ἀρχή (ruler) and συναγωγή (synagogue), it appears **9 times** in **9 unique verses**. This term denotes a specific and influential leadership position within the Jewish communities described in the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G752}}` is used to identify key individuals whose interactions with Jesus and the apostles were pivotal. One prominent figure is Jairus, a **ruler of the synagogue** who falls at Jesus’ feet in desperation for his daughter [[Mark 5:22]]. His story culminates with Jesus's command, "Be not afraid, only believe" [[Mark 5:36]]. In Acts, Crispus, the **chief ruler of the synagogue**, and his entire **house** `{{G3624}}` believe in the Lord and are baptized [[Acts 18:8]]. In contrast, an unnamed **ruler of the synagogue** responds with indignation when Jesus heals on the Sabbath [[Luke 13:14]], and another, Sosthenes, is beaten before the **judgment seat** `{{G968}}` in Corinth [[Acts 18:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and context of the **archisynágōgos**:
* `{{G320}}` **anágnōsis** ((the act of) reading): This term highlights a core duty within the synagogue. After the **reading** of the **law** `{{G3551}}` and the **prophets** `{{G4396}}`, the **rulers of the synagogue** invited Paul to speak [[Acts 13:15]].
* `{{G3624}}` **oîkos** (a dwelling ... a family): The faith of a leader often impacted his entire household. Crispus believed with all his **house** [[Acts 18:8]], and the crisis for Jairus was centered on his **house** and daughter [[Mark 5:35]].
* `{{G2351}}` **thórybos** (a disturbance:--tumult, uproar): This describes the chaotic scene of grief at the house of the **ruler of the synagogue** where people **wept** `{{G2799}}` and **wailed** `{{G214}}` before Jesus arrived [[Mark 5:38]].
* `{{G968}}` **bēma** (a rostrum, i.e. a tribunal): This word connects the **ruler of the synagogue** to civic conflict. Sosthenes was beaten before the **judgment seat** as the Roman officer Gallio looked on [[Acts 18:17]].
### Theological Significance
The position of `{{G752}}` carries significant theological weight, often illustrating a critical juncture between established religious systems and faith in Christ.
* **Leadership at a Crossroads:** The **ruler of the synagogue** is consistently portrayed at a point of decision. These leaders could either use their authority to oppose Jesus's work [[Luke 13:14]] or humble themselves to seek His help, like Jairus [[Mark 5:22]].
* **Gateway to the Community:** As gatekeepers of the synagogue, they had the authority to offer a platform for the gospel. In Acts, they **sent** `{{G649}}` for Paul and his companions, inviting a "word of **exhortation** for the **people**" [[Acts 13:15]].
* **Household Faith:** The conversion of Crispus, a **chief ruler of the synagogue**, demonstrates the principle of household faith, where the leader's belief in the Lord extended to his entire family [[Acts 18:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G752}}` is more than a title; it signifies a pivotal leadership role within the religious and social life of the first-century synagogue. The **archisynágōgos** was an authority figure who managed worship, including the **reading** `{{G320}}` of the scriptures. The accounts of men like Jairus, Crispus, and Sosthenes show that these rulers were often brought to a moment of crisis, forced to decide whether to embrace the message of Christ or resist it, with consequences that rippled through their families and communities.
TRV