Duke
Culture & Societyâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
The English word 'duke' originates from the Latin 'dux', meaning leader, and corresponds to the Hebrew 'nasi' or 'sar' in biblical contexts, where it translates titles for tribal chiefs or princes, such as the rulers of Edom.
What is the meaning of Duke in the Bible?
The English word 'duke' originates from the Latin 'dux', meaning leader, and corresponds to the Hebrew 'nasi' or 'sar' in biblical contexts, where it translates titles for tribal chiefs or princes, such as the rulers of Edom.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the etymological shift from the Latin 'dux' to the Hebrew equivalents clarifies the political hierarchy depicted in biblical narratives, distinguishing between indigenous tribal leadership structures and later European feudal ranks.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
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Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.