### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râzôwn**, represented by `{{H7333}}`, translates as **prince** or **dignitary**. Derived from רָזַן, this term is exceptionally rare in scripture. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, yet its context provides a specific insight into the nature of leadership.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7333}}` is in [[Proverbs 14:28]], where a direct contrast is made between two types of rulers. The verse states that a king's honor is found in a "multitude of people," but the "destruction of the **prince**" is found in the "want of people." This usage firmly ties the status and security of a dignitary to the presence and support of a community.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H7333}}` is clarified by the words surrounding it in its only biblical context:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (king): This term for a **king** is set in contrast to a prince, highlighting that a king's honor derives from having many people [[Proverbs 14:28]].
* `{{H4288}}` **mᵉchittâh** (destruction): This word, meaning **destruction**, **ruin**, or **terror**, is presented as the direct consequence for a prince who lacks a community [[Proverbs 14:28]].
* `{{H657}}` **ʼepheç** (want): Signifying cessation or an end, this term describes the lack or "want" of people that leads to the prince's ruin [[Proverbs 14:28]].
* `{{H3816}}` **lᵉʼôm** (people): This word for a **community** or **nation** is used to define the group whose absence causes the prince's downfall [[Proverbs 14:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7333}}`, while based on a single verse, is focused on the principles of leadership and governance.
* **Dependence on People:** The primary lesson from its use is that a leader's position is not inherent but is sustained by the people they govern. A **prince** without a community faces **destruction** [[Proverbs 14:28]].
* **A Principle of Governance:** The word's context in Proverbs establishes a wisdom principle: a ruler's success and honor are measured by the size and stability of their populace. The lack thereof is a sign of failure and leads to ruin.
* **Contrast in Rulership:** The term exists to draw a sharp distinction. While a **king** `{{H4428}}` gains **honour** `{{H1927}}` from his people, a **prince** `{{H7333}}` is defined by his potential for ruin when that support is gone [[Proverbs 14:28]].
### Summary
In summary, **râzôwn** `{{H7333}}` is a highly specific term for **prince** whose meaning is entirely shaped by its single appearance. Found in [[Proverbs 14:28]], it serves as a powerful illustration of a core biblical principle: a leader is nothing without their people. Its direct association with **destruction** `{{H4288}}` in the absence of a community makes it a stark reminder of the responsibilities and vulnerabilities inherent in leadership.
TRV