### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râzan**, represented by `{{H7336}}`, is a term for a **prince** or **ruler**. Its primitive root suggests being heavy, which figuratively implies being honorable. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible, consistently denoting high-ranking figures of authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7336}}` is consistently used to describe earthly rulers, often in parallel with kings. These rulers are depicted in various roles: they are called upon to listen to the LORD's praise [[Judges 5:3]] and are identified as those who should decree justice [[Proverbs 8:15]]. However, scripture also highlights their limitations and accountability. They are warned against indulgence [[Proverbs 31:4]] and are shown taking counsel against God [[Psalms 2:2]]. Ultimately, their power is depicted as subordinate to God, who can bring princes to nothing [[Isaiah 40:23]] and allow them to become objects of scorn [[Habakkuk 1:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of rulership and authority:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This term is frequently used in parallel with `{{H7336}}`, establishing the high rank of princes. They are addressed together [[Judges 5:3]] and their actions, such as reigning and being scoffed at, are often described in tandem ([[Proverbs 8:15]], [[Habakkuk 1:10]]).
* `{{H8199}}` **shâphaṭ** (to judge, govern, rule): This word for a judge or ruler is used in a similar context to `{{H7336}}`. God makes the "princes to nothing" and the "judges of the earth as vanity," linking them as categories of human authority subject to God's power [[Isaiah 40:23]].
* `{{H3245}}` **yâçad** (to take counsel, establish, found): This verb describes a primary activity of rulers. In a key passage, the rulers `{{H7336}}` "take counsel" `{{H3245}}` together in opposition to the LORD, illustrating their function in governance and strategic planning [[Psalms 2:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7336}}` centers on the nature of human authority in relation to God.
* **Delegated Authority:** `{{H7336}}` is used for figures who hold significant power. Wisdom declares that through her, "princes decree justice," suggesting that their legitimate authority to govern is ideally derived from a divine source [[Proverbs 8:15]].
* **Accountability of Rulers:** The word appears in contexts that serve as warnings to those in power. Princes are cautioned against indulgences like strong drink that could compromise their rule [[Proverbs 31:4]], and they are called to listen to the LORD [[Judges 5:3]].
* **Transience of Earthly Power:** A recurring theme is the ultimate sovereignty of God over all human rulers. God is the one who "bringeth the princes to nothing" [[Isaiah 40:23]], and they are shown conspiring against Him in futility [[Psalms 2:2]]. Their power is temporary and subject to divine judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7336}}` **râzan** is a specific term for a ruler or prince, carrying a sense of honor and weight. While it denotes significant earthly authority, often alongside kings, its use in scripture consistently places these figures under the sovereignty of God. The word illustrates a key biblical theme: human governance is a real and established power, yet it is ultimately accountable to, and can be nullified by, the divine King of all.