Topical Bible: Governors

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, the term "governor" refers to an official appointed to oversee a specific region or province. The role of governors is mentioned throughout both the Old and New Testaments, reflecting various administrative structures in place during different periods of biblical history.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, governors were often appointed by kings to manage territories within their kingdoms. For example, during the Persian Empire, governors were known as "satraps." The Book of Esther mentions the appointment of governors in the provinces of the Persian Empire: "Then the king’s scribes were summoned on the twenty-third day of the third month, the month of Sivan. They wrote out all of Mordecai’s orders to the Jews and to the satraps, governors, and princes of the 127 provinces from India to Cush" (Esther 8:9).

Nehemiah, a prominent figure in the post-exilic period, served as the governor of Judah under Persian rule. His leadership is detailed in the Book of Nehemiah, where he is described as a man of prayer and action, dedicated to rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and reforming the community: "Moreover, from the day King Artaxerxes appointed me to be their governor in the land of Judah, from his twentieth year until his thirty-second year—twelve years—I and my brothers never ate the food allotted to the governor" (Nehemiah 5:14).

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the role of governors is seen within the context of the Roman Empire. Governors were responsible for maintaining order and collecting taxes in their provinces. Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea, is a notable figure who presided over the trial of Jesus Christ. The Gospels describe Pilate's interactions with Jesus and the Jewish leaders, highlighting his role in the crucifixion: "So Pilate asked Him, 'Are You the King of the Jews?' 'You have said so,' Jesus replied" (Mark 15:2).

Another significant governor mentioned in the New Testament is Felix, who presided over the trial of the Apostle Paul. The Book of Acts provides an account of Paul's defense before Felix: "When the governor motioned for him to speak, Paul began his defense: 'Knowing that for many years you have been a judge over this nation, I gladly make my defense'" (Acts 24:10).

Role and Responsibilities

Governors in biblical times were tasked with various responsibilities, including maintaining law and order, administering justice, and ensuring the collection of taxes. They often acted as representatives of the king or emperor, wielding significant authority over their regions. The position required a balance of diplomacy and firmness, as governors had to manage both local populations and the expectations of their superiors.

Spiritual and Moral Implications

From a spiritual perspective, the role of governors in the Bible underscores the importance of leadership and accountability. Biblical narratives often highlight the moral and ethical challenges faced by those in authority. The actions of governors like Nehemiah, who prioritized the welfare of his people and adhered to God's commandments, serve as examples of righteous leadership. Conversely, figures like Pilate, who succumbed to political pressure, illustrate the complexities and moral dilemmas inherent in governance.

The biblical portrayal of governors emphasizes the need for leaders to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, as articulated in Micah 6:8. Through the accounts of various governors, the Bible provides insights into the qualities and challenges of leadership, offering lessons that remain relevant for contemporary readers.

Greek

2232. hegemon -- a leader, governor
... Word Origin from hegeomai Definition a leader, governor NASB Word Usage governor
(14), governor's (1), governors (4). governor, prince, ruler. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2232.htm - 6k

Strong's Hebrew

6346. pechah -- a governor
... 6345, 6346. pechah. 6347 . a governor. Transliteration: pechah Phonetic
Spelling: (peh-khaw') Short Definition: governors. Word ...
/hebrew/6346.htm - 6k

6347. pechah -- a governor
... Word Origin (Aramaic) corresponding to pechah Definition a governor NASB
Word Usage governor (6), governors (4). captain, governor. ...
/hebrew/6347.htm - 6k

671b. apharesattekaye -- official
... Word Origin (Aramaic) from the same as apharesaye Definition official NASB Word
Usage lesser governors (1). 671a, 671b. apharesattekaye. 672 . ...
/hebrew/671b.htm - 5k

Library

'Before Governors and Kings'
... THE ACTS CHAP. XIII TO END 'BEFORE GOVERNORS AND KINGS'. 'Whereupon, O king
Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision: 20. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/before governors and kings.htm

That He Instructed the Governors Concerning the Beautifying of the ...
... Book III. Chapter XXXII."That he instructed the Governors concerning the
Beautifying of the Roof; also concerning Workmen, and Materials. ...
/.../pamphilius/the life of constantine/chapter xxxii that he instructed the.htm

However, the Governors of Tiberias Took Care to have their City ...
... Section 62. However, the governors of Tiberias took care to have their
city secured with walls? 62. However, the governors of ...
/.../josephus/the life of flavius josephus/section 62 however the governors.htm

Prayer Continued --For Rulers and Governors. Conclusion.
... The First Epistle of Clement to the Corinthians. Chapter LXI."Prayer
Continued"For Rulers and Governors. Conclusion. To our ...
/.../keith/the epistles of clement/chapter lxi prayer continuedfor rulers and.htm

How Upon the Death of Cyrus the Jews were Hindered in Building of ...
... CHAPTER 2. How Upon The Death Of Cyrus The Jews Were Hindered In Building Of The
Temple By The Cutheans, And The Neighboring Governors; And How Cambyses ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 2 how upon the.htm

The Jews Greatly Complain of Archelaus and Desire that they May be ...
... CHAPTER 6. The Jews Greatly Complain Of Archelaus And Desire That They May
Be Made Subject To Roman Governors. But When Caesar Had ...
/.../chapter 6 the jews greatly.htm

Why is the Charge of Keeping the Sabbath More Specially Directed ...
... Question 118: Why is the charge of keeping the sabbath more specially directed
to governors of families, and other superiors? Answer ...
/.../anonymous/the westminster larger catechism/question 118 0 0 why is the.htm

How He Wrote Concerning the Erection of a Church, Both to the ...
... Book III. Chapter XXIX."How he wrote concerning the Erection of a Church, both
to the Governors of the Provinces, and to the Bishop Macarius. ...
/.../pamphilius/the life of constantine/chapter xxix how he wrote concerning.htm

The Completion of Our Saviour's Prophecies Confirmed Pagans in ...
... II. Origen's observation on our Saviour's disciples being brought before kings and
governors; III. On their being persecuted for their religion; IV. ...
/.../sect viii the completion of.htm

This Jew of Celsus Continues, after the Above, in the Following ...
... And who is there who would not be astonished at this prediction: "Ye shall be brought
before governors and kings for My sake, for a testimony against them and ...
/.../origen/origen against celsus/chapter xiii this jew of.htm

Thesaurus

Governors (43 Occurrences)
...Governors (43 Occurrences). ... (DBY). Matthew 10:18 Yes, and you will be brought before
governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony to them and to the nations. ...
/g/governors.htm - 21k

Prefects (18 Occurrences)
... pieces by thee shepherd and his drove, And I have broken in pieces by thee husbandman
and his team, And I have broken in pieces by thee governors and prefects. ...
/p/prefects.htm - 12k

Deputies (14 Occurrences)
... the shepherd and his flock; and with you will I break in pieces the farmer and his
yoke of oxen; and with you will I break in pieces governors and deputies. ...
/d/deputies.htm - 11k

Satraps (12 Occurrences)
... Ezra 8:36 They delivered the king's commissions to the king's satraps, and to the
governors beyond the River: and they furthered the people and the house of God ...
/s/satraps.htm - 11k

Counselors (21 Occurrences)
... Daniel 3:2 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the satraps, the
deputies, and the governors, the judges, the treasurers, the counselors, the ...
/c/counselors.htm - 13k

Counsellors (21 Occurrences)
... Daniel 3:2 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the
governors, and the captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the ...
/c/counsellors.htm - 13k

Provinces (40 Occurrences)
... Ezra 8:36 They delivered the king's commissions to the king's satraps, and to the
governors beyond the River: and they furthered the people and the house of God ...
/p/provinces.htm - 21k

Advisers (22 Occurrences)
... Daniel 3:2 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the satraps, the
deputies, and the governors, the judges, the treasurers, the counselors, the ...
/a/advisers.htm - 13k

Trans-euphrates (12 Occurrences)
... Ezra 8:36 And they delivered the king's commissions unto the king's satraps, and
to the governors beyond the River; and they furthered the people and the house ...
/t/trans-euphrates.htm - 9k

Provincial (7 Occurrences)
... 1 Peter 2:14 or to provincial Governors as sent by him for the punishment of
evil-doers and the encouragement of those who do what is right. (WEY). ...
/p/provincial.htm - 9k

Resources

What is the significance of the Roman Empire in biblical history? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about government? | GotQuestions.org

What is the key to hearing God's voice? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus

Concordance

Governors (43 Occurrences)

Matthew 2:6
And thou Bethlehem, land of Juda, art in no wise the least among the governors of Juda; for out of thee shall go forth a leader who shall shepherd my people Israel.
(DBY)

Matthew 10:18
Yes, and you will be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony to them and to the nations.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Mark 13:9
"You yourselves must be on your guard. They will deliver you up to Sanhedrins; you will be brought into synagogues and cruelly beaten; and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to be witnesses to them for me.
(WEY ASV YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Luke 12:11
And when they are bringing you before synagogues and magistrates and governors, do not anxiously ponder the manner or matter of your defence, nor what you are to say;
(WEY)

Luke 21:12
But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, delivering you up to synagogues and prisons, bringing you before kings and governors for my name's sake.
(WEB WEY ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Galatians 4:2
But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.
(KJV WBS)

1 Peter 2:14
or to governors, as sent by him for vengeance on evildoers and for praise to those who do well.
(WEB KJV WEY ASV WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Judges 5:9
My heart is toward the governors of Israel, who offered themselves willingly among the people. Bless Yahweh!
(WEB KJV JPS ASV WBS)

Judges 5:14
Those whose root is in Amalek came out of Ephraim, after you, Benjamin, among your peoples. Governors come down out of Machir. Those who handle the marshal's staff came out of Zebulun.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV WBS)

1 Kings 4:7
Solomon had twelve officers over all Israel, who provided food for the king and his household: each man had to make provision for a month in the year.
(See NIV)

1 Kings 10:15
besides that which the traders brought, and the traffic of the merchants, and of all the kings of the mixed people, and of the governors of the country.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

1 Kings 20:14
Ahab said, "By whom?" He said, "Thus says Yahweh,'By the young men of the princes of the provinces.'" Then he said, "Who shall begin the battle?" He answered, "You."
(See RSV)

1 Kings 20:15
Then he mustered the young men of the princes of the provinces, and they were two hundred and thirty-two. After them, he mustered all the people, even all the children of Israel, being seven thousand.
(See RSV)

1 Kings 20:17
The young men of the princes of the provinces went out first; and Ben Hadad sent out, and they told him, saying, "Men are coming out from Samaria."
(See RSV)

1 Kings 20:19
So these went out of the city, the young men of the princes of the provinces, and the army which followed them.
(See RSV)

1 Kings 20:24
And do this: take the kings away, every man out of his place, and put governors in their stead;
(DBY JPS)

1 Chronicles 24:5
Thus were they divided by lot, one sort with another; for the governors of the sanctuary, and governors of the house of God, were of the sons of Eleazar, and of the sons of Ithamar.
(KJV WBS)

2 Chronicles 9:14
besides that which the traders and merchants brought: and all the kings of Arabia and the governors of the country brought gold and silver to Solomon.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

2 Chronicles 23:20
He took the captains of hundreds, and the nobles, and the governors of the people, and all the people of the land, and brought down the king from the house of Yahweh: and they came through the upper gate to the king's house, and set the king on the throne of the kingdom.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS RSV)

Ezra 4:9
then wrote Rehum the chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their companions, the Dinaites, and the Apharsathchites, the Tarpelites, the Apharsites, the Archevites, the Babylonians, the Shushanchites, the Dehaites, the Elamites,
(See NAS RSV)

Ezra 5:6
The copy of the letter that Tattenai, the governor beyond the River, and Shethar-bozenai, and his companions the Apharesachites, who were beyond the River, sent unto Darius the king;
(See RSV)

Ezra 6:6
Now therefore, Tattenai, governor beyond the River, Shethar-bozenai, and your companions the Apharesachites, who are beyond the River, be ye far from thence;
(See RSV)

Ezra 8:36
They delivered the king's commissions to the king's satraps, and to the governors beyond the River: and they furthered the people and the house of God.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Nehemiah 2:7
Moreover I said to the king, If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the River, that they may let me pass through until I come to Judah;
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Nehemiah 2:9
Then I came to the governors beyond the River, and gave them the king's letters. Now the king had sent with me captains of the army and horsemen.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Nehemiah 5:15
But the former governors who were before me were supported by the people, and took bread and wine from them, besides forty shekels of silver; yes, even their servants ruled over the people: but I didn't do so, because of the fear of God.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Esther 1:3
in the third year of his reign, he made a feast for all his princes and his servants; the power of Persia and Media, the nobles and princes of the provinces, being before him.
(See RSV)

Esther 3:12
Then the king's scribes were called in on the first month, on the thirteenth day of the month; and all that Haman commanded was written to the king's satraps, and to the governors who were over every province, and to the princes of every people, to every province according its writing, and to every people in their language. It was written in the name of King Ahasuerus, and it was sealed with the king's ring.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Esther 8:9
Then the king's scribes were called at that time, in the third month Sivan, on the twenty-third day of the month; and it was written according to all that Mordecai commanded to the Jews, and to the satraps, and the governors and princes of the provinces which are from India to Ethiopia, one hundred twenty-seven provinces, to every province according to its writing, and to every people in their language, and to the Jews in their writing, and in their language.
(WEB JPS ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Esther 9:3
All the princes of the provinces, the satraps, the governors, and those who did the king's business helped the Jews, because the fear of Mordecai had fallen on them.
(WEB JPS ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Jeremiah 51:23
and with you will I break in pieces the shepherd and his flock; and with you will I break in pieces the farmer and his yoke of oxen; and with you will I break in pieces governors and deputies.
(WEB JPS ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Jeremiah 51:28
Prepare against her the nations, the kings of the Medes, its governors, and all its deputies, and all the land of their dominion.
(WEB JPS ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Jeremiah 51:57
I will make drunk her princes and her wise men, her governors and her deputies, and her mighty men; and they shall sleep a perpetual sleep, and not wake up, says the King, whose name is Yahweh of Armies.
(WEB JPS ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Ezekiel 23:6
who were clothed with blue, governors and rulers, all of them desirable young men, horsemen riding on horses.
(WEB JPS ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Ezekiel 23:12
She doted on the Assyrians, governors and rulers, her neighbors, clothed most gorgeously, horsemen riding on horses, all of them desirable young men.
(WEB JPS ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Ezekiel 23:23
the Babylonians and all the Chaldeans, Pekod and Shoa and Koa, and all the Assyrians with them; desirable young men, governors and rulers all of them, princes and men of renown, all of them riding on horses.
(WEB JPS ASV DBY YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Daniel 2:48
Then the king made Daniel a great man, and gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise men of Babylon.
(KJV DBY WBS)

Daniel 3:2
Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the satraps, the deputies, and the governors, the judges, the treasurers, the counselors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Daniel 3:3
Then the satraps, the deputies, and the governors, the judges, the treasurers, the counselors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, were gathered together to the dedication of the image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up; and they stood before the image that Nebuchadnezzar had set up.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Daniel 3:27
The satraps, the deputies, and the governors, and the king's counselors, being gathered together, saw these men, that the fire had no power on their bodies, nor was the hair of their head singed, neither were their pants changed, nor had the smell of fire passed on them.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Daniel 6:7
All the presidents of the kingdom, the deputies and the satraps, the counselors and the governors, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a strong decree, that whoever shall ask a petition of any god or man for thirty days, except of you, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions.
(WEB KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV)

Zechariah 12:5
And the governors of Judah shall say in their heart, The inhabitants of Jerusalem shall be my strength in the LORD of hosts their God.
(KJV WBS)

Zechariah 12:6
In that day will I make the governors of Judah like an hearth of fire among the wood, and like a torch of fire in a sheaf; and they shall devour all the people round about, on the right hand and on the left: and Jerusalem shall be inhabited again in her own place, even in Jerusalem.
(KJV WBS)

Subtopics

Governors

Related Terms

Praetorium (8 Occurrences)

Governors (43 Occurrences)

Opportunity (35 Occurrences)

Judgment (430 Occurrences)

Gathered (384 Occurrences)

Governorship (1 Occurrence)

Garrison (15 Occurrences)

Gets (122 Occurrences)

Worry (14 Occurrences)