In the context of the New Testament, the term "synagogue leader" refers to an official who held a position of authority within the Jewish synagogue. The role of the synagogue leader, also known as the "ruler of the synagogue," was multifaceted, encompassing responsibilities such as overseeing the order of services, maintaining the synagogue building, and ensuring the proper conduct of worship and teaching.

Biblical References:

1. Jairus, the Synagogue Leader:
One of the most notable mentions of a synagogue leader in the New Testament is Jairus, whose account is recounted in the Synoptic Gospels. Jairus approached Jesus with a plea to heal his dying daughter. The Gospel of Mark provides a detailed account: "Then one of the synagogue leaders, named Jairus, came, and seeing Jesus, he fell at His feet and pleaded with Him urgently, 'My little daughter is near death. Please come and place Your hands on her, so that she will be healed and live.'" (Mark 5:22-23). This passage highlights the faith and desperation of Jairus, as well as his recognition of Jesus' authority and power to heal.

2. The Healing on the Sabbath:
Another significant mention of synagogue leaders occurs in the context of Jesus healing on the Sabbath. In Luke 13:14, a synagogue leader is indignant because Jesus healed a woman on the Sabbath: "But the synagogue leader was indignant that Jesus had healed on the Sabbath. 'There are six days for work,' he told the crowd. 'So come and be healed on those days and not on the Sabbath.'" (Luke 13:14). This incident underscores the tension between Jesus and some Jewish leaders regarding the interpretation and application of the Sabbath law.

3. Role and Responsibilities:
The synagogue leader was responsible for the administration of the synagogue, which included organizing the reading of the Torah and the Prophets, as well as facilitating discussions and teachings. The leader ensured that the services were conducted in accordance with Jewish law and tradition. This position required a deep understanding of the Scriptures and the ability to lead the congregation in worship and instruction.

4. Cultural and Religious Context:
Synagogues served as central places of worship and community gathering for Jews, especially during the time of the Second Temple. The role of the synagogue leader was crucial in maintaining the religious life of the Jewish community. Leaders were often respected members of society, entrusted with the spiritual and educational well-being of their congregants.

5. Interactions with Jesus:
The interactions between synagogue leaders and Jesus often reveal the broader religious and social dynamics of the time. While some leaders, like Jairus, demonstrated faith in Jesus, others were critical of His teachings and actions, particularly when they perceived them as violations of Jewish law. These interactions provide insight into the diverse responses to Jesus' ministry among Jewish religious leaders.

In summary, the synagogue leader played a vital role in the religious life of Jewish communities during the time of Jesus. The New Testament provides various accounts of their interactions with Jesus, reflecting both faith and opposition, and highlighting the complexities of religious leadership in the first-century Jewish context.