### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Parʻôh**, represented by `{{H6547}}`, is of Egyptian derivation and serves as **a general title of Egyptian kings**. It appears 268 times across 230 unique verses, primarily as the title for the ruling monarch of Egypt. This figure is central to some of the most critical narratives in the Old Testament, representing the pinnacle of human power in the ancient world.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6547}}` is most famously the antagonist in the story of the Exodus. He is the king who enslaves the Israelites, compelling them to build treasure cities [[Exodus 1:11]], and who defiantly asks, "Who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go?" [[Exodus 5:2]]. His interactions with Moses and Aaron are defined by God repeatedly hardening his heart [[Exodus 4:21]]. However, the title is also associated with a different ruler in the story of Joseph. This **Pharaoh** elevates Joseph from a prisoner to a ruler over all of Egypt [[Genesis 41:41]], demonstrating that the title can be associated with both oppression and providential blessing.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the role and context of Pharaoh:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This word is frequently used alongside `{{H6547}}` to clarify the title, as in "**Pharaoh** king of Egypt" [[Deuteronomy 7:8]]. It establishes him as a sovereign political authority.
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (a servant): This term describes the relationship of the Israelites to Pharaoh as his **bondmen** [[Deuteronomy 6:21]]. It also refers to Pharaoh's own officials and servants who advise him and carry out his commands [[Exodus 10:7]].
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (to be strong, harden): This verb is repeatedly used to describe the state of Pharaoh's heart. God declares, "I will **harden** his heart, that he shall not let the people go" [[Exodus 4:21]], making this a key term in the confrontation.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6547}}` is significant, representing a recurring archetype of worldly power in opposition to divine will.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The repeated hardening of Pharaoh's heart is a primary illustration of God's sovereignty. God uses Pharaoh's resistance to demonstrate His own power, stating, "I will be honoured upon **Pharaoh**, and upon all his host" [[Exodus 14:4]].
* **Symbol of Human Pride:** In prophetic literature, **Pharaoh** becomes a symbol of arrogant human power that sets itself up against God. He is called a "great dragon that lieth in the midst of his rivers" [[Ezekiel 29:3]] and a "broken reed" that cannot be trusted for support [[Isaiah 36:6]].
* **Antagonist for Redemption:** Pharaoh's role as the oppressor is essential to the story of Israel's redemption. God's deliverance of His people from the "hand of **Pharaoh**" is a foundational act that is recalled throughout scripture as the ultimate proof of His love and power [[Deuteronomy 7:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6547}}` is much more than a historical title. In scripture, **Pharaoh** functions as the embodiment of worldly might, pride, and opposition to the God of Israel. His story, particularly in the Exodus narrative, serves as a powerful and enduring testament to God's supreme authority over all earthly kings and empires, and His power to judge the proud and redeem His people.
TRV