ETHNARCH is a Greek word translated by governor in 2Co_11:32. It is used also of Simon the high priest (1Ma_14:47; 1Ma_15:1-2). Its exact meaning is uncertain, but it appears to indicate the ruler of a nation or tribe which is itself living with separate laws, etc., amidst an alien race.
A. Souter.
Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible
Edited by James Hastings, D.D. Published in 1909
eth?nark (2Co_11:32 margin). See GOVERNOR.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
PRINTER 1915.
Ethnarch
(ἐθνάρχης), properly ruler of a nation; hence generally a praefect of a district or city (Lucian, Macrob. 17), e.g. Simon Maccabaeus, as head of the Jewish crommonwealth (1Ma_14:47, "governor;" 15:1, 2, "prince ;" Josephus, Ant. 13:6, 6); Archelaus, appointed lay his father's will and the emperor's ratification, his viceroy in Judaea (Josephus, War, 2:6, 3), of the national head (modern "patriach") of time Jews in Egypt (Josephus, Ant. 14:7, 2; conp. Strabo, 16:798). Spoken of the "governor" or mayor of the city of Damascus (2Co_11:02), under the Arabian king Aretas (q.v.). (See Walch, Disert. in Acta Aposit. 2:85.)
CYCLOPEDIA OF BIBLICAL, THEOLOGICAL AND ECCLESIASTICAL
press 1895.