### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **tiphtay**, represented by `{{H8614}}`, is defined as a judicial officer, lawyer, or **sheriff**. The definition notes it is perhaps from שָׁפַט. This specific term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Daniel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H8614}}` is used to identify a specific class of official within the Babylonian government. In both of its occurrences, King **Nebuchadnezzar** `{{H5020}}` **sent** `{{H7972}}` for his officials to be **gathered together** `{{H3673}}` for the **dedication** `{{H2597}}` of the golden **image** `{{H6755}}` he had **set up** `{{H6966}}`. The **sheriffs** `{{H8614}}` are listed among a comprehensive roster of government positions, including princes, governors, and judges, demonstrating their role within the provincial administration ([[Daniel 3:2]], [[Daniel 3:3]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the governmental and judicial context where **tiphtay** is found:
* `{{H148}}` **ʼădargâzêr** (judge): This term for a **judge** is listed among other legal officials in Nebuchadnezzar's summons, establishing a judicial context [[Daniel 3:2]].
* `{{H1884}}` **dᵉthâbâr** (counsellor): Defined as one skilled in law, this title for a **counsellor** reinforces the legal expertise present among the assembled officials [[Daniel 3:2]].
* `{{H5460}}` **çᵉgan** (governor): This word denotes a **governor** or prefect of a **province** `{{H4083}}`, highlighting the regional administrative authority represented at the gathering [[Daniel 3:3]].
* `{{H7984}}` **shilṭôwn** (ruler): This general term for a **ruler** or potentate is used to summarize the various officials gathered from the provinces, including the **sheriffs** [[Daniel 3:3]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H8614}}` is primarily contextual, contributing to the narrative's depiction of state power and authority.
* **Comprehensive Bureaucracy:** The inclusion of **sheriffs** in a long list of officials—from high-ranking **princes** `{{H324}}` to provincial **rulers** `{{H7984}}`—paints a detailed picture of the organized and extensive Babylonian administration [[Daniel 3:2]].
* **Absolute Royal Command:** The fact that King **Nebuchadnezzar** `{{H5020}}` could **send** `{{H7972}}` for and **gather together** `{{H3673}}` this entire governmental body demonstrates his absolute authority. The summons was for a single event: the **dedication** `{{H2597}}` of his **image** `{{H6755}}`.
* **Enforcement of Idolatry:** The presence of judicial and legal officers like **sheriffs** implies that the king's decree to worship the image was not merely an invitation but a law to be enforced by the full power of the state's administrative and legal system.
### Summary
In summary, **tiphtay** `{{H8614}}` is a specific Aramaic term for a judicial official, or **sheriff**, within the Babylonian empire. While its use is limited to two verses, its context is crucial. It functions as part of a list that illustrates the vastness of Nebuchadnezzar's government and the total obedience he demanded from every level of his administration, setting the stage for the dramatic confrontation over the worship of the golden image.
TRV