The ruler (of the synagogue in Capernaum: Mark 5:22, Luke 8:41) was named Jairus. The ruler of the synagogue, who was chosen from among the elders of Israel, was highly respected among God’s people. However, he was not a teacher or a preacher; his main task was to ensure that everything in the synagogue, especially during the liturgy, proceeded orderly and reverently. He was tasked with appointing an intercessor for every worship service to lead the prayers.
The man’s name was Jairus and he was a ruler of the synagogue in Capernaum (Mark 5:22; Luke 8:41). The ruler of the synagogue was chosen from among the elders of Israel, and was one of the most respected men among God’s people. It must be remembered that he was not a teacher or a preacher, however, and his primary task was to ensure that everything in the synagogue, in particular during the liturgy, proceeds orderly and reverently. He was responsible to appoint an intercessor for every worship service to lead the prayers. As ruler of the synagogue he had undoubtedly already witnessed some of Jesus’ miracles first-hand. Now he approaches Jesus and, even despite his high social standing and the presence of a large crowd, proceeds to kneel before Jesus.1
18 While he was saying these things to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.”