In biblical times, the role of a headwaiter, also known as the "master of the banquet" or "chief steward," was a position of significant responsibility and honor. The headwaiter was tasked with overseeing the service of food and drink at banquets and feasts, ensuring that guests were well-cared for and that the event proceeded smoothly. This role is most notably mentioned in the account of Jesus' first miracle at the wedding in Cana.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to a headwaiter is found in the Gospel of John, during the narrative of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. In John 2:8-9 , it is written: "Then He told them, 'Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.' They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not know where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew."

In this passage, the headwaiter plays a crucial role in the unfolding of Jesus' miracle. Although he is unaware of the miraculous transformation that has occurred, his reaction to the quality of the wine underscores the extraordinary nature of the event. The headwaiter remarks to the bridegroom in John 2:10 , "Everyone serves the fine wine first, and then the cheap wine after the guests are drunk. But you have saved the fine wine until now."

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the cultural context of ancient Jewish society, weddings were significant social events, often lasting several days. The headwaiter was responsible for the logistics of the feast, including the distribution of food and drink, and ensuring that the guests were satisfied. This position required a person of trust and competence, as the success of the event largely depended on their management.

The headwaiter's role was not merely functional but also symbolic. As the overseer of the feast, the headwaiter was a figure of authority and respect, often acting as a liaison between the host and the guests. His approval or disapproval could reflect on the host's reputation and hospitality.

Theological Significance:

The mention of the headwaiter in the account of Jesus' miracle at Cana highlights several theological themes. First, it underscores the transformative power of Jesus' ministry, as He takes ordinary elements (water) and turns them into something extraordinary (wine). The headwaiter's reaction serves to authenticate the miracle, as he unknowingly testifies to the superior quality of the wine, which symbolizes the new covenant and the abundant blessings brought by Christ.

Additionally, the headwaiter's role in the narrative emphasizes the theme of divine providence and the unexpected ways in which God works. The headwaiter, though unaware of the miracle's source, becomes an unwitting participant in the revelation of Jesus' glory, illustrating how God's plans often unfold through ordinary human actions and roles.

In summary, the headwaiter in the biblical account of the wedding at Cana serves as a key figure in the narrative, highlighting the miraculous nature of Jesus' first public miracle and the deeper spiritual truths it conveys.755. architriklinos -- the superintendent of a banquet
... Word Origin from archo and triklinos (a dining room with three couches) Definition
the superintendent of a banquet NASB Word Usage headwaiter (3). ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/755.htm - 6kHeadwaiter (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Headwaiter (2 Occurrences). John 2:8 He said to them,
"Now draw some out, and take it to the ruler of the feast." So they took it. ...
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Head-tires (4 Occurrences)
Head-tires. Headtires, Head-tires. Headwaiter . Multi-Version Concordance ... (ASV
JPS). Headtires, Head-tires. Headwaiter . Reference Bible.
/h/head-tires.htm - 7k

Headwaters (1 Occurrence)

/h/headwaters.htm - 6k

Headwaiter: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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