from ἀρχή and a compound of τρεῖς and κλίνω (a dinner-bed, because composed of three couches); director of the entertainment:--governor (ruler) of the feast.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **architríklinos**, represented by `{{G755}}`, refers to the **governor (ruler) of the feast**. Its definition as the "director of the entertainment" derives from its roots. This specific term appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, confining its usage to a single event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole context for `{{G755}}` is the wedding at Cana in the Gospel of John. After turning water into wine, Jesus instructs the servants to "Draw out now, and bear unto the **governor of the feast**" [[John 2:8]]. The **ruler of the feast** `{{G755}}` then **tasted** `{{G1089}}` the wine but did not know its origin. In his official capacity, he **called** `{{G5455}}` the **bridegroom** `{{G3566}}` to comment on the matter. The narrative points out that while the governor was unaware of the miracle, "the servants which drew the water knew" [[John 2:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and scene of the **architríklinos**:
* `{{G1249}}` **diákonos** (an attendant, i.e. (genitive case) a waiter (at table or in other menial duties); specially, a Christian teacher and pastor (technically, a deacon or deaconess):--deacon, minister, servant): These servants are contrasted with the governor, as they possessed knowledge of the miracle's source [[John 2:9]].
* `{{G3566}}` **nymphíos** (from νύμφη; a bride-groom (literally or figuratively):--bridegroom): This is the person the governor of the feast interacts with directly, establishing the governor's formal role within the wedding celebration [[John 2:9]].
* `{{G3631}}` **oînos** (a primary word (or perhaps of Hebrew origin (יַיִן)); "wine" (literally or figuratively):--wine): This is the substance the governor evaluates. His judgment on the quality of the **wine** is central to his function in the narrative [[John 2:9]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{G755}}` is centered on its function within the story of Jesus' first sign.
* **Unwitting Testimony:** The **ruler of the feast** acts as an impartial witness. By tasting the wine and judging it to be of high quality without knowing its miraculous origin, he unknowingly validates the power of Jesus [[John 2:9]].
* **Affirmation of Order:** Jesus' instruction to first present the wine to the **governor of the feast** shows the miracle occurring within a recognizable and orderly social event [[John 2:8]]. The governor's role as the "director of the entertainment" is respected.
* **A Contrast in Awareness:** The story creates a clear distinction between the unknowing authority of the **governor of the feast** and the knowing obedience of the **servants** `{{G1249}}`. It demonstrates that insight into divine works is not always granted to those in positions of power [[John 2:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G755}}` is a precise term for a "director of the entertainment," used exclusively in John's Gospel. The **architríklinos** is not the subject of the miracle, but a key figure whose professional judgment authenticates it for all present. His presence underscores a contrast between earthly authority and the quiet knowledge that comes from faithful obedience.
TRV