### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **bᵉʻêl**, represented by `{{H1169}}`, functions as a term for a master, but in its biblical context, it is part of the phrase for **chancellor**. The base definition is {a master; hence, a husband,}; [phrase] chancellor. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All occurrences of `{{H1169}}` are found in the book of Ezra and refer to the official title of a man named Rehum `{{H7348}}`. Alongside Shimshai `{{H8124}}` the scribe `{{H5613}}`, Rehum the **chancellor** wrote a letter to King Artaxerxes to halt the rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem [[Ezra 4:8]]. This letter lists Rehum the **chancellor** as the primary author among a group of officials and their companions [[Ezra 4:9]]. The king's formal reply is then addressed directly back to Rehum the **chancellor** and his associates [[Ezra 4:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the administrative context of this title:
* `{{H2942}}` **ṭᵉʻêm**: This Aramaic word for "judgment" or "decree" is used in conjunction with `{{H1169}}` to form the title **chancellor**. All three instances of `{{H1169}}` are paired with this word [[Ezra 4:8]]. It can also mean a royal "decree" on its own [[Ezra 6:3]].
* `{{H5613}}` **çâphêr**: Meaning a "scribe," this title identifies Shimshai, the official who worked alongside Rehum the chancellor. They are mentioned together in every verse where `{{H1169}}` appears, highlighting their collaborative roles in the administration [[Ezra 4:8]].
* `{{H3675}}` **kᵉnâth**: This word for a "colleague" or "companion" is used to describe the group of officials associated with the chancellor and the scribe ([[Ezra 4:9]], [[Ezra 4:17]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1169}}` is purely administrative and political, not theological. It highlights several aspects of provincial governance.
* **Official Authority:** The title **chancellor** signifies a high-ranking official with direct access to the king `{{H4430}}`. Rehum uses this position to write a letter of opposition to King Artaxerxes [[Ezra 4:8]].
* **Administrative Action:** The use of `{{H1169}}` is exclusively in the context of official correspondence aimed at stopping the rebuilding of Jerusalem. The king's response is sent directly back to Rehum the **chancellor**, affirming his role in the matter [[Ezra 4:17]].
* **Hierarchical Collaboration:** The chancellor does not act alone. He is consistently named with Shimshai the "scribe" `{{H5613}}` and their "companions" `{{H3675}}`, illustrating the collaborative nature of provincial governance under Persian rule [[Ezra 4:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1169}}` **bᵉʻêl** is a specific Aramaic term used in Scripture to denote the political title of **chancellor**. Its usage is confined to Ezra chapter 4, where it identifies Rehum as a key official opposing the Jews' efforts in Jerusalem. The word is not used in a theological sense, but rather provides a clear example of an administrative role within the Persian empire, highlighting the structured opposition faced by the Israelites during the post-exilic period.
TRV