### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼădargâzêr**, represented by `{{H148}}`, refers to a type of official, translated as a **judge**. The base definition also suggests a role as a chief diviner or astrologer. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, both in the book of Daniel, placing it within the specific context of the Babylonian administration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word's only appearances are in the narrative of King Nebuchadnezzar `{{H5020}}` and the golden image. Nebuchadnezzar **sent** `{{H7972}}` a command to **gather together** `{{H3673}}` all his officials, including the **judges** `{{H148}}`, for the **dedication** `{{H2597}}` of the **image** `{{H6755}}` he had erected [[Daniel 3:2]]. The subsequent verse confirms that the **judges** `{{H148}}`, along with the other leaders, complied and were **gathered together** `{{H3673}}` for the ceremony [[Daniel 3:3]]. This places them as key figures within the king's hierarchical power structure, summoned to participate in a state-mandated act of worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
The term `{{H148}}` is always listed alongside other officials, illustrating the comprehensive nature of Nebuchadnezzar's government. Key related words from this context include:
* `{{H324}}` **ʼăchashdarpan** (prince): Defined as "{a satrap or governorof amain province (of Persia)}; prince," this title denotes high-ranking regional rulers.
* `{{H5460}}` **çᵉgan** (governor): Meaning "{a prefect of aprovince}; governor," this term likely refers to officials with administrative authority over specific territories.
* `{{H1884}}` **dᵉthâbâr** (counsellor): Meaning "one skilled in law; a judge; counsellor," these were the legal advisors to the king.
* `{{H1411}}` **gᵉdâbâr** (treasurer): This official, a "treasurer," was responsible for the financial matters of the kingdom.
* `{{H8614}}` **tiphtay** (sheriff): This term denotes a judicial officer, possibly "a lawyer."
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H148}}` is found entirely within its narrative context, highlighting several themes:
* **The Structure of Earthly Power:** The word is part of an extensive list of titles that demonstrates the highly organized and far-reaching bureaucracy of the Babylonian empire. The **judges** were an integral part of this system of human authority.
* **State-Mandated Idolatry:** The gathering of all officials, including **judges** `{{H148}}`, was for the explicit purpose of worshipping a man-made image. This shows how political and judicial power was co-opted to enforce the king's religious decree.
* **A Test of Allegiance:** The presence of the **judges** and other leaders creates a scene of immense political pressure, setting the stage for the defiance of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. It contrasts the total compliance of the state's powerful officials with the faithfulness of God's servants.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H148}}` **ʼădargâzêr** is a specific Aramaic term for a **judge** or high-ranking official within the Babylonian government. Its limited use in Daniel 3 serves a distinct purpose: to paint a picture of the immense and unified power of Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom, which demanded absolute loyalty. The inclusion of **judges** in this assembly underscores how the entire state apparatus was marshaled for an act of idolatry, thereby magnifying the faith of those who refused to bow.
TRV