### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H5632}}` (סָרֵךְ, *çârêk*) is understood to denote a high-ranking administrative official, specifically translated as "president" or "emir." Its etymology suggests a foreign origin, fitting its context within the Aramaic sections of the book of Daniel, which describe the administrative structure of the Persian (or Medo-Persian) empire. The word signifies a position of considerable authority and oversight within the governmental hierarchy, implying a role in managing provinces or supervising other officials. It is distinct from military commanders, focusing instead on civil administration and governance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H5632}}` appears exclusively in the book of Daniel, specifically in chapter 6, which recounts the plot against Daniel during the reign of Darius the Mede. Darius appointed 120 satraps over the kingdom and, above them, three "presidents" (סָרְכִין, plural of `{{H5632}}`), one of whom was Daniel ([[Daniel 6:2]]). Daniel distinguished himself among these presidents and satraps, leading the king to consider setting him over the whole kingdom ([[Daniel 6:3]]). This advancement incited jealousy among the other presidents and satraps, who then sought to find fault with Daniel's administration ([[Daniel 6:4]]). Their inability to find any corruption led them to conspire against him based on his unwavering devotion to God ([[Daniel 6:5]]). The presidents and satraps then approached the king to establish an unalterable decree, a law of the Medes and Persians, that would ensnare Daniel ([[Daniel 6:6]], [[Daniel 6:7]]). The repeated use of `{{H5632}}` in this narrative underscores the administrative authority wielded by these officials and highlights their central role in the political intrigue against Daniel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The term `{{H5632}}` is often found in conjunction with other administrative titles of the Persian Empire, such as `{{H323}}` (אֲחַשְׁדַּרְפַּן, *ʾachashdarpan*), translated as "satraps" or "governors." The hierarchy described in Daniel 6 places the `{{H5632}}` (presidents) above the `{{H323}}` (satraps), indicating a supervisory role. Other related Aramaic and Hebrew terms denoting governmental authority include `{{H5460}}` (סְגָן, *səgān*), meaning "prefect" or "deputy," and `{{H7990}}` (שַׁלִּיט, *shalliṭ*), meaning "ruler" or "one having authority." While `{{H5632}}` specifically refers to a high administrative post in the Medo-Persian system, its function aligns with the broader biblical concept of human governance and delegated authority, whether within Israel or among the nations.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H5632}}` itself is a secular administrative title, its context in Daniel 6 carries profound theological significance. The narrative demonstrates God's sovereignty over earthly rulers and political systems. The very existence and actions of these "presidents" (sareks) serve to highlight Daniel's unwavering faithfulness to God in the face of human envy and conspiracy. The plot orchestrated by the other sareks and satraps was an attempt to undermine God's servant, yet it ultimately served to magnify God's power to deliver and to reveal His divine favor upon Daniel. The account underscores that even foreign administrative structures, though seemingly powerful, are ultimately subject to the divine will, and God can use or overrule them for His redemptive purposes. The integrity of Daniel, a servant of the true King, stands in stark contrast to the corrupt ambition of those who held earthly power.
### Summary
The Aramaic word `{{H5632}}` (סָרֵךְ, *çârêk*) designates a "president" or "emir," a high-ranking administrative official within the Medo-Persian governmental structure. Its primary biblical occurrences are found in Daniel 6, where it refers to the three chief administrators, including Daniel, who supervised the kingdom's satraps. The narrative of the other sareks' conspiracy against Daniel highlights the political intrigue inherent in human governance and serves as a powerful testament to God's ultimate sovereignty and His ability to protect and exalt His faithful servants amidst the machinations of earthly powers.
TRV