### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shilṭôwn**, represented by `{{H7984}}`, is a term for a **ruler** or {a potentate}. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This word designates an individual with significant authority within a governmental structure, specifically within the provinces of an empire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7984}}` appears exclusively in the book of Daniel. It is used to describe "all the **rulers** of the provinces" who were summoned by King Nebuchadnezzar for the dedication of the image he had set up [[Daniel 3:2]]. The term is part of a comprehensive list of officials, emphasizing the scale of the king's command. The repetition of the word in the subsequent verse confirms that these **rulers**, along with all other summoned officials, gathered in obedience before the image [[Daniel 3:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words appear alongside `{{H7984}}`, clarifying its place within a complex system of governance:
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (a king; king, royal): The supreme authority, Nebuchadnezzar, who summons all the other officials, including the **rulers** [[Daniel 3:2]].
* `{{H324}}` **ʼăchashdarpan** ({a satrap or governorof amain province (of Persia)}; prince): High-level officials listed with the **rulers**, signifying their prominent role in the empire [[Daniel 3:3]].
* `{{H5460}}` **çᵉgan** ({a prefect of aprovince}; governor): A term for a provincial prefect, often listed in close proximity to **rulers** to denote regional leadership [[Daniel 3:2]].
* `{{H1884}}` **dᵉthâbâr** (one skilled in law; a judge; counsellor): Judicial or advisory officials summoned as part of the same governmental body, demonstrating the breadth of the administration [[Daniel 3:2]].
### Theological Significance
While not a major theological term, the use of `{{H7984}}` carries conceptual significance within its context:
* **Structure of Human Power:** The word appears within a comprehensive list of titles, illustrating the organized and hierarchical nature of Nebuchadnezzar's empire. The **rulers** are one component of a vast administrative machine [[Daniel 3:2]].
* **Royal Authority:** The summoning of "all the **rulers** of the provinces" demonstrates the absolute and far-reaching authority of the king, who could command the presence of his entire leadership structure [[Daniel 3:2]].
* **State-Mandated Worship:** These **rulers** are gathered for a political-religious ceremony—the dedication of an image—which serves as a test of loyalty to the king's authority over all other allegiances [[Daniel 3:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7984}}` is a specific Aramaic term for a **ruler** or potentate. Its limited use in scripture is confined to the book of Daniel, where it functions as part of a list to describe the full array of officials in Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom. It serves to emphasize the highly organized structure of earthly government and the absolute power of the king who commands it.
TRV