### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **çârêk**, represented by `{{H5632}}`, is a term of foreign origin for a high-ranking official, such as an **emir** or **president**. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses, with all occurrences found in the book of Daniel. The word specifically denotes a top-tier administrator within the governmental hierarchy of the kingdom under King Darius.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5632}}` is central to the administrative structure established by the king. King Darius appointed three **presidents** to oversee the realm, with Daniel being one of them [[Daniel 6:2]]. Daniel was soon preferred above the other **presidents** and princes because of his excellent spirit [[Daniel 6:3]]. This promotion incited jealousy among the other officials. The other **presidents** and princes then conspired against Daniel, seeking a reason to accuse him but finding none [[Daniel 6:4]]. Together, all the **presidents** of the kingdom, along with other officials, devised a royal decree intended to entrap Daniel through his faithfulness to God [[Daniel 6:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the administrative hierarchy in which the presidents operated:
* `{{H324}}` **ʼăchashdarpan** (prince): These officials appear to be subordinate to the presidents, as they were required to give accounts to them to prevent any loss to the king [[Daniel 6:2]].
* `{{H5460}}` **çᵉgan** (governor): This term identifies a prefect of a province and is listed alongside presidents and princes as part of the group that conspired against Daniel [[Daniel 6:7]].
* `{{H1907}}` **haddâbâr** (counsellor): This word denotes a vizier or advisor to the king. The counsellors joined the presidents and other officials in establishing the decree against prayer [[Daniel 6:7]].
* `{{H6347}}` **pechâh** (captain, governor): This term refers to a prefect, likely over a smaller district. Captains are also mentioned among the coalition of officials who sought to remove Daniel from his position [[Daniel 6:7]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5632}}` is primarily administrative and narrative, providing the context for a key test of faith.
* **Governmental Hierarchy:** The word establishes the organized, three-tiered structure of governance under King Darius: the king, the three **presidents**, and the princes below them. This system was designed to ensure accountability and protect the king's interests [[Daniel 6:2]].
* **Political Conspiracy:** The **presidents**, as a collective group, are the primary antagonists in the story of Daniel in the lions' den. Their role highlights the dangers of jealousy and the abuse of power within a political system ([[Daniel 6:4]], 6:6).
* **Integrity Under Scrutiny:** The position of **president** serves as the platform from which Daniel's integrity is displayed. Despite the intense scrutiny from his peers in the same high office, no error or fault could be found in his work for the kingdom [[Daniel 6:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5632}}` is a specific Aramaic term for a chief administrator or **president** within the Persian government. Though its usage is limited to Daniel chapter 6, it is indispensable for understanding the political conflict that frames one of the Old Testament's most famous stories. The word defines the office that Daniel held with integrity and that his jealous colleagues used for corrupt purposes, illustrating the moral challenges that accompany great authority.
TRV