or סָרִס; from an unused root meaning to castrate; a eunuch; by implication, valet (especially of the female apartments), and thus, a minister of state; chamberlain, eunuch, officer. Compare רַב־סָרִיס.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çârîyç**, represented by `{{H5631}}`, refers to a **eunuch**, **chamberlain**, or **officer**. Appearing **42 times** in **42 unique verses**, its meaning extends from the literal idea of a castrated male to a high-ranking minister of state or valet, particularly one serving in royal courts. The term is derived from an unused root that means to castrate.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H5631}}` denotes individuals holding significant positions of trust and authority. In Egypt, Potiphar is identified as an **officer** `{{H5631}}` of Pharaoh and the captain of the guard ([[Genesis 37:36]], [[Genesis 39:1]]). In Babylonian and Persian courts, these officials managed critical state affairs and served in the king's immediate presence. Ashpenaz, the master of the eunuchs, was tasked with overseeing the training of select Israelites, including Daniel [[Daniel 1:3]]. In the book of Esther, **chamberlains** `{{H5631}}` are central figures who serve the king, guard his chambers, and attend to the queen ([[Esther 1:10]], [[Esther 2:21]], [[Esther 4:4]]). The term is also used in a context of judgment, as Isaiah prophesies that the sons of Judah's king will be taken and made **eunuchs** `{{H5631}}` in the palace of Babylon [[Isaiah 39:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which a `{{H5631}}` operates:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (prince, captain, ruler): This title of leadership is often used for the superior of a `{{H5631}}`. Daniel, for instance, made his request to the **prince** of the eunuchs [[Daniel 1:8]].
* `{{H6496}}` **pâqîyd** (overseer, governor): This term highlights the administrative authority of a `{{H5631}}`. An officer taken from Jerusalem was one who "was set" `{{H6496}}` over the men of war [[2 Kings 25:19]].
* `{{H1964}}` **hêykâl** (palace, temple): This word specifies the location of service for many officials. Prophecy foretold that the king's sons would become eunuchs in the **palace** of the king of Babylon [[2 Kings 20:18]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (servant): This word connects the role of an officer to the broader category of servitude to a king. Samuel warns that a future king will give a portion of the harvest to his **officers** `{{H5631}}` and to his **servants** `{{H5650}}`.
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H5631}}` carries significant thematic weight in scripture, particularly concerning status and divine acceptance.
* **Proximity to Power:** A **çârîyç** was often a figure of immense influence, operating within the inner circles of royal power. They acted as trusted stewards, guards, and administrators for kings ([[1 Chronicles 28:1]], [[Esther 7:9]]).
* **Symbol of Judgment and Loss:** To be made a `{{H5631}}` was a consequence of defeat and captivity, representing a loss of personal future and national heritage, as seen in the prophecies against Judah's royal line [[Isaiah 39:7]].
* **Divine Inclusion:** Despite the social and physical limitations associated with being a eunuch, the prophet Isaiah extends a message of hope. The **eunuch** `{{H5631}}` who feels like a "dry tree" is promised an everlasting name within God's house for keeping the covenant, demonstrating that faithfulness to God transcends physical status [[Isaiah 56:3-4]]. This is exemplified by Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, a **eunuch** `{{H5631}}` who rescued Jeremiah and received a promise of divine protection [[Jeremiah 38:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5631}}` is a complex term that encompasses more than its literal definition. It designates individuals in roles of great responsibility and trust within ancient political structures, from military officers to royal chamberlains. While it can signify the humiliation of conquest, it is also used to illustrate a profound theological truth: that one's value and standing before God are determined not by physical condition or social station, but by covenant faithfulness.
TRV