### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term **Rab-Mâg**, represented by `{{H7248}}`, is a title for a Babylonian official, defined as **chief Magian**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is composed of **rab**, meaning chief or great, and a foreign word for a Magian, indicating a high-ranking position within the Babylonian hierarchy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7248}}` appears exclusively within the context of the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians. The title identifies one of the officials present after the city's capture. In [[Jeremiah 39:3]], **Rabmag** is listed among the princes of the king of Babylon who entered Jerusalem and took their seats in the middle gate. He is mentioned again in [[Jeremiah 39:13]] as one of the Babylonian princes sent by Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, to carry out their duties.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of rank and authority in which **Rab-Mâg** is found:
* `{{H7227}}` **rab** (captain, great, officer, prince): This is the root of the title and signifies greatness or a position of command. It is used to describe the Babylonian **princes** involved in the conquest [[Jeremiah 39:13]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (captain, chief, prince, ruler): This is the general term used for the Babylonian **princes** who came into Jerusalem, a group that included the Rabmag [[Jeremiah 39:3]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This term establishes the ultimate authority whom the Rabmag served. He is identified as one of the princes of the **king** of Babylon [[Jeremiah 39:3]].
* `{{H7249}}` **Rab-Çârîyç** (chief chamberlain; Rab-saris): This is another Babylonian title, held by an official who appears alongside the Rabmag in both biblical occurrences, highlighting the specific ranks within the Babylonian command [[Jeremiah 39:13]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7248}}` is not theological in nature but historical and contextual. It provides specific detail about the structure of the invading force that fulfilled God's judgment on Jerusalem.
* **Evidence of Foreign Dominion:** The presence of a **Rabmag** among other officials like the **Rabsaris** `{{H7249}}` demonstrates the organized, hierarchical power of **Babylon** `{{H894}}` that subjugated Judah [[Jeremiah 39:3]].
* **Title of Rank:** The title itself, meaning "chief Magian," points to a specific role within the Babylonian court, adding a layer of historical detail to the biblical account.
* **Fulfillment of Prophecy:** The appearance of the **Rabmag** and other Babylonian **princes** `{{H8269}}` in Jerusalem is a direct account of the events prophesied by Jeremiah, cementing the reality of the conquest.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7248}}` **Rab-Mâg** is a specific title identifying a high-ranking Babylonian official. Though its use is limited to two verses, its appearance in the book of Jeremiah is significant. It serves to document the specific individuals and ranks involved in the historic fall of Jerusalem, underscoring the authority of the king of Babylon and providing a detailed record of the event.
TRV