### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼăchashdarpan**, represented by `{{H323}}`, is a term of Persian derivation that refers to a **satrap or governor of a main province (of Persia); lieutenant**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. This specific title denotes a high-ranking official within the Persian imperial structure, responsible for administering a large territory under the king's authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H323}}` is used exclusively within the context of the Persian empire's administrative hierarchy. These officials, or **lieutenants**, were responsible for executing the king's commands across the vast provinces. For instance, after the exiles' return, the king's commissions were delivered to the **lieutenants** to ensure support for the people and the house of God [[Ezra 8:36]]. Similarly, both Haman's wicked decree and Mordecai's subsequent edict to save the Jews were dispatched to the king's **lieutenants** for implementation throughout the provinces ([[Esther 3:12]], [[Esther 8:9]]). Their pivotal role is further highlighted when these **lieutenants** actively helped the Jews due to Mordecai's influence [[Esther 9:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the administrative context in which **ʼăchashdarpan** functions:
* `{{H6346}}` **pechâh** (captain, deputy, governor): Frequently appearing alongside `{{H323}}`, this term refers to a prefect, often of a city or small district, and is translated as "governors" or "deputies" in the same list of officials receiving royal commands ([[Ezra 8:36]], [[Esther 3:12]]).
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (captain, chief, governor, prince, ruler): A more general term for a head person of any rank. These "rulers" are mentioned in the same administrative lists as the **lieutenants**, indicating a layered system of authority within the provinces ([[Esther 8:9]], [[Esther 9:3]]).
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king; king, royal): The authority of the **lieutenants** is always derived from the **king**. They are the "king's lieutenants," carrying out the decrees of the monarch who rules over the empire [[Esther 3:12]].
* `{{H6213}}` **ʻâsâh** (to do or make... officer): This word is used to describe the "officers" of the king who, along with the **lieutenants**, helped the Jews. It highlights the active, functional role of these officials in carrying out royal business [[Esther 9:3]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H323}}` is primarily administrative and structural, revealing key aspects of governance in the biblical narrative.
* **Imperial Structure:** The use of **ʼăchashdarpan** illustrates the highly organized administrative system of the Persian empire. The existence of these high-ranking governors shows how a centralized power managed a vast and diverse territory stretching from India to Ethiopia [[Esther 8:9]].
* **Chain of Authority:** The term reinforces the concept of a clear chain of command. Royal decrees were not abstract but were delivered specifically to the **lieutenants** and other officials who had the authority and responsibility to enact them [[Esther 3:12]].
* **Execution of Royal Will:** These officials were the instruments of the king's power. Their role was to receive commissions and edicts and see them carried out, whether it was to further the rebuilding of God's house or to execute a decree concerning an entire people [[Ezra 8:36]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H323}}` **ʼăchashdarpan** is a specific and non-Hebrew term that provides a window into the political machinery of the Persian empire during the time of Ezra and Esther. Though it appears only a few times, it precisely defines the role of a high-level provincial governor responsible for implementing the king's will. Its usage alongside other words for "governor" and "ruler" paints a picture of a complex administrative hierarchy through which the decrees affecting God's people were executed, ultimately demonstrating how divine purposes can unfold even through the structures of human government.
TRV