PHYLARCH fī’ lärk (φυλάρχην, from φυλάρχης, φύλαρχος). The phylarch is the chief of a φυλή, G5876, a division in the Gr. army. KJV has tr. the name as a proper noun, Philarches (2 Macc 8:32). Although this is possible and such a name is known from history, it is more likely to be understood as a noun meaning commander or chief.

In this passage, the Jews under the leadership of Judas Maccabeus slew several thousand of those under the command of Nicanor. One phylarch who was with Timotheus was slain also.