Officer
Summary
The term "officer" in Scripture renders various Hebrew and Greek words denoting officials with administrative, judicial, or enforcement responsibilities.
☩Hebrew Terms
Several Hebrew words are translated "officer" in the Old Testament, each with distinct meanings. The term 'shoter' (scribe or secretary) denotes officials who kept records and supervised work, derived from a root meaning "to engrave" or "to write." These officers first appear supervising Hebrew laborers in Egypt and were responsible for the completion of their tasks. The term 'saris' (often translated "eunuch") designated ministers of state who served in royal courts. Other words include 'nitstsab' (prefect or director), 'pakid' (overseer or magistrate), and 'rab' (chief or master). The Law ordained that "officers and judges" be appointed in every city after Israel's settlement in Canaan, and David appointed them from among the Levites.
☩New Testament Terms
In the New Testament, two Greek words are translated "officer." The term 'huperetes' (literally "under-rower") denotes a subordinate official or servant who assists authorities in various capacities. These officers accompanied the chief priests to apprehend Jesus and brought the apostles before the Sanhedrin. The term 'praktor' specifically refers to an exactor who collected fines imposed by courts of justice. In Matthew 5:25, Jesus warns that one who fails to settle with an adversary may be delivered to the officer (bailiff) and cast into prison.
Related Verses74 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Officer," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VII (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Officer," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.George Morrish, "Officer," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).
- 4.James Hastings (ed.), "Officer," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).