### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tirshâthâʼ**, represented by `{{H8660}}`, is a title of foreign derivation for a **Persian deputy or governor**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term specifically denotes the high-ranking official governing the Jewish people under Persian rule, with authority in both civil and religious matters.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the **Tirshatha** is a figure of decisive leadership during the post-exilic period. The title is explicitly given to **Nehemiah** `{{H5166}}`, who as the **Tirshatha** sealed a covenant on behalf of the people [[Nehemiah 10:1]]. This official had the authority to issue decrees concerning religious practice, such as forbidding certain people from eating of the most **holy things** `{{H6944}}` until a **priest** `{{H3548}}` could stand up with **Urim** `{{H224}}` and **Thummim** `{{H8550}}` ([[Ezra 2:63]]; [[Nehemiah 7:65]]). The **Tirshatha** also provided for the temple **work** `{{H4399}}`, giving generously to the **treasure** `{{H214}}` [[Nehemiah 7:70]] and joined **Ezra** `{{H5830}}` in teaching the people from the **law** `{{H8451}}` [[Nehemiah 8:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the role and context of the **Tirshatha**:
* `{{H5166}}` **Nᵉchemyâh** (consolation of Jah; Nechemjah, the name of three Israelites; Nehemiah): The individual most directly identified with the title of **Tirshatha**. The accounts of the Tirshatha's actions are Nehemiah's actions [[Nehemiah 10:1]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman); chief ruler, [idiom] own, priest, prince, principal officer): The **Tirshatha's** authority extended to the priesthood, making rulings that directly affected their sacred duties and provisions ([[Ezra 2:63]], [[Nehemiah 7:70]]).
* `{{H224}}` **ʼÛwrîym** (lights; Urim, the oracular brilliancy of the figures in the high-priest's breastplate; Urim): The **Tirshatha** issued a decree that depended on a future judgment involving the **Urim** and Thummim, showing his respect for and integration with Israel's sacred institutions [[Nehemiah 7:65]].
* `{{H214}}` **ʼôwtsâr** (a depository; armory, cellar, garner, store(-house), treasure(-house) (-y)): The **Tirshatha** directly contributed significant wealth to the **treasure** for the **work** `{{H4399}}` of restoring worship, demonstrating his role as a provider for the community [[Nehemiah 7:70]].
### Theological Significance
The title of **Tirshatha** carries significant weight in understanding leadership during Israel's restoration.
* **Gubernatorial Authority:** As a title for a Persian-appointed governor, **Tirshatha** represents civil leadership. This is shown when Nehemiah the **Tirshatha** seals an official covenant on behalf of the people [[Nehemiah 10:1]].
* **Religious Oversight:** The **Tirshatha** was not merely a political figure. He issued commands related to **holy things** `{{H6944}}` and the priesthood, showing his authority extended to the religious life of the community [[Ezra 2:63]].
* **Patronage of Worship:** The holder of this title was a key figure in the restoration of the temple and its services. The **Tirshatha** personally gave vast resources of **gold** `{{H2091}}` and other materials for the **work** `{{H4399}}` [[Nehemiah 7:70]].
* **Spiritual Encouragement:** In a key moment of national repentance, Nehemiah the **Tirshatha** joined other leaders in comforting the people, instructing them that the **day** `{{H3117}}` was **holy** `{{H6918}}` and a time for joy, not mourning [[Nehemiah 8:9]].
### Summary
In summary, **Tirshâthâʼ** `{{H8660}}` is more than a simple title; it is the designation for a pivotal leader in post-exilic Israel. It is directly associated with **Nehemiah** `{{H5166}}`, who wielded both civil and religious authority, issuing decrees, providing for the temple, and guiding the people in their covenant relationship with God. The term encapsulates a unique office of leadership during the restoration of Jerusalem, blending Persian political appointment with a deep commitment to the **law** `{{H8451}}` and worship of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`.
TRV