active participle of an otherwise unused root probably meaning to write; properly, a scribe, i.e. (by analogy or implication) an official superintendent or magistrate; officer, overseer, ruler.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shôṭêr**, represented by `{{H7860}}`, is a term for an **officer, overseer, or magistrate**. It appears 25 times across 25 unique verses in the Bible. While the root of the word likely means "to write," suggesting a scribal function, its usage expands to encompass a range of official administrative and supervisory roles within Israel's civil, military, and religious life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7860}}` is used to denote officials in various leadership structures. During the Israelite enslavement in Egypt, these officers were fellow Israelites placed under Pharaoh's taskmasters `{{H5065}}` and were held responsible for the labor quotas [[Exodus 5:14]]. In the wilderness, Moses appointed them as part of an organized civil structure to lead among the tribes [[Deuteronomy 1:15]]. They also played a critical military role, relaying commands before battle [[Deuteronomy 20:5]] and preparing the people for key events, as when Joshua commanded them before crossing the Jordan [[Joshua 1:10]]. The law itself mandated their appointment alongside judges to ensure justice in every community [[Deuteronomy 16:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the role and context of the `shôṭêr`:
* `{{H8199}}` **shâphaṭ** (to judge): The term for a judge is frequently paired with `shôṭêr`, indicating their complementary functions in Israel's administrative and legal system. They were appointed together [[Deuteronomy 16:18]] and listed as distinct roles in the administration of the kingdom [[1 Chronicles 23:4]].
* `{{H2205}}` **zâqên** (elder): `Shôṭêr` often appears alongside `zâqên` in lists of Israel's leadership. These officers were a recognized part of the national council gathered for significant events like covenant renewals and addresses from leaders like Moses and Joshua ([[Deuteronomy 29:10]], [[Joshua 24:1]]).
* `{{H5065}}` **nâgas** (taskmaster): This term highlights a hierarchical structure. In Egypt, the Israelite officers `(shôṭêr)` were subordinate to Pharaoh's taskmasters `(nâgas)`, demonstrating a clear chain of command in a context of oppression [[Exodus 5:6]].
* `{{H5608}}` **çâphar** (scribe): While the definition of `shôṭêr` implies a scribal origin, it is listed as a separate function from "scribes" among the Levites, who were appointed as scribes, officers `(shôṭêr)`, and porters [[2 Chronicles 34:13]].
### Theological Significance
The practical importance of `{{H7860}}` is evident in its consistent association with order and governance.
* **Civil Administration:** The command to appoint officers alongside judges established a framework for local government and the rule of law throughout Israel's tribes [[Deuteronomy 16:18]]. These officials were essential for a functioning society.
* **Hierarchical Structure:** The term consistently describes a supervisory role within a larger system. Officers answered to taskmasters in Egypt [[Exodus 5:14]], served under the king's authority during the monarchy [[1 Chronicles 27:1]], and were organized as part of a leadership team with elders and judges [[Joshua 8:33]].
* **Military Organization:** Officers were vital for military logistics and morale. They communicated commands from leaders [[Joshua 1:10]], prepared the army for movement [[Joshua 3:2]], and were responsible for announcing exemptions from military service before a battle [[Deuteronomy 20:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7860}}` defines a crucial administrative role within the societal structure of ancient Israel. It is more than a generic title for an official; it represents a specific, delegated authority responsible for implementing commands and maintaining order. From the oppressed foremen in Egypt to the civil magistrates in the promised land and the commanders in the army, the `shôṭêr` was an indispensable figure in the day-to-day governance of the people.
TRV