### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **çᵉgan**, represented by `{{H5460}}`, refers to a **governor** or "a prefect of a province". It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Daniel. The term consistently denotes a high-ranking official within the administrative structures of the Babylonian and Persian empires.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5460}}` is used to illustrate the political landscape in which Daniel and his companions operate. The **governors** are summoned by King Nebuchadnezzar, along with other officials, to attend the dedication of the golden image ([[Daniel 3:2]], [[Daniel 3:3]]). These same **governors** later gather to witness the miraculous deliverance of the three men from the fiery furnace, seeing that the fire had no power over them [[Daniel 3:27]]. The term is also used to show Daniel's rise to power, as he is appointed "chief of the **governors**" over the wise men of Babylon [[Daniel 2:48]]. In a later account, the **governors** are part of the group that conspires to create a royal decree to trap Daniel [[Daniel 6:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the hierarchy and roles within the government where the **governor** served:
* `{{H324}}` **ʼăchashdarpan** (prince): Defined as "a satrap or governorof amain province (of Persia)". These officials are frequently listed with governors in the king's court ([[Daniel 3:27]], [[Daniel 6:7]]).
* `{{H5632}}` **çârêk** (president): Meaning "an emir; president," this title appears alongside **governors** and princes when they consult together to establish a royal statute [[Daniel 6:7]].
* `{{H6347}}` **pechâh** (captain, governor): This term describes "a prefect (of a city or small district)". These officials are gathered with the **governors** for state functions, like the dedication of Nebuchadnezzar's image [[Daniel 3:2]].
* `{{H7229}}` **rab** (chief): This word for **chief** or master is used to describe Daniel's promotion over the **governors** of Babylon's wise men, indicating a position of high authority [[Daniel 2:48]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5460}}` is primarily administrative and narrative, establishing the context of imperial power.
* **Governmental Hierarchy:** The word is consistently used within lists of titles, painting a clear picture of the complex bureaucracy of the Babylonian empire. Daniel's appointment as "chief of the **governors**" explicitly establishes a defined chain of command [[Daniel 2:48]].
* **Collective Authority:** The **governors** are shown acting as a unified political class. They are summoned by the king as a group [[Daniel 3:2]] and they consult together to influence royal decrees [[Daniel 6:7]].
* **Witnesses to Divine Sovereignty:** These powerful officials are repeatedly positioned as key witnesses to God's power. Their observation that the fire had no effect on the three Hebrews serves to validate the miracle within the highest levels of the kingdom [[Daniel 3:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5460}}` is a specific title that defines a particular tier of political authority in the book of Daniel. While a simple term for a **governor**, its usage is crucial for building the world of the narrative, establishing the power structures that challenge the faith of God's people. Ultimately, these governors and their colleagues in power serve as an audience for God's mighty acts, demonstrating that divine sovereignty overrules even the most organized human governments.
TRV