Senate; Senator
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Senate; Senator in the Bible?
The term 'senate' refers to a council of elders or former magistrates, with the Roman Senate serving as the primary historical model. In biblical translation, the Hebrew word zaqen, meaning elder, is rendered as 'senator' in Psalm 105:22 to describe Joseph's position among the rulers of Egypt.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing the distinction between informal tribal elders and formal Roman administrative bodies like the senate clarifies the political hierarchy in which biblical figures operated. This distinction illuminates the specific social and legal contexts of the narratives, aiding in a more accurate interpretation of the text.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Senate; Senator in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Senate; Senator clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.