of Hebrew origin (יוֹרָם); Joram, an Israelite:--Joram.
Transliteration:Iōrám
Pronunciation:ee-o-ram'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek proper noun Ἰωράμ (Iōrám), Strong's number `{{G2496}}`, is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name יוֹרָם (Yowram, `{{H3141}}`) or יְהוֹרָם (Yehoram, `{{H3088}}`). As a theophoric name, its core meaning is derived from its Hebrew roots: "Yahweh is exalted" or "Yahweh is high." The name combines the divine name "Yah" (a shortened form of Yahweh) with a verb meaning "to be high" or "to be exalted." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying specific individuals who bore this name in biblical history. The name itself serves as a confessional statement, reflecting the parents' faith in the supremacy and exaltation of the Lord.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, Ἰωράμ (Iōrám, `{{G2496}}`) appears exclusively in the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded by Matthew:
* [[Matthew 1:8]]: "Asa begat Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat begat Joram, and Joram begat Uzziah."
Here, Joram refers to the King of Judah, son of Jehoshaphat and father of Ahaziah (though Matthew's genealogy omits Ahaziah, Joash, and Amaziah, connecting Joram directly to Uzziah, who was Ahaziah's great-grandson). This omission is characteristic of biblical genealogies, which often serve a theological or mnemonic purpose rather than providing an exhaustive list of every generation. Matthew's genealogy is structured in groups of fourteen generations, and such omissions facilitate this pattern while still establishing the legitimate Davidic lineage. Joram's reign (c. 853-841 BC) was marked by apostasy and significant challenges, including the rebellion of Edom and the invasion of Philistines and Arabs. Despite his unfaithfulness, his inclusion in the messianic line demonstrates God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises, even through flawed human instruments.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related words are the Hebrew originals from which Ἰωράμ (Iōrám, `{{G2496}}`) is derived: יוֹרָם (Yowram, `{{H3141}}`) and יְהוֹרָם (Yehoram, `{{H3088}}`). These forms are used interchangeably in the Old Testament to refer to several individuals, most notably:
* Joram/Jehoram, King of Judah, son of Jehoshaphat (the one in Matthew's genealogy).
* Joram/Jehoram, King of Israel, son of Ahab.
* Other minor figures.
The study of Ἰωράμ naturally leads to the broader concepts of:
* **Theophoric Names:** Names that incorporate a divine element, common in ancient Israel, signifying a theological declaration or dedication.
* **Biblical Genealogies:** Their purpose, structure, and theological significance in tracing lineage, establishing identity, and demonstrating God's faithfulness to His covenants (e.g., the Davidic covenant).
* **Kingship in Israel and Judah:** The historical and covenantal role of the monarchy, its successes and failures, and its ultimate pointing to the coming Messiah.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Ἰωράμ (Iōrám, `{{G2496}}`) primarily resides in its inclusion within the genealogy of Jesus Christ.
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Faithfulness:** The name "Yahweh is exalted" serves as a profound theological statement, affirming God's ultimate supremacy. Joram's inclusion in the lineage, despite his personal failures and the omission of subsequent kings in Matthew's record, underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises to David ([[2 Samuel 7:12-16]]). Even when human kings failed or genealogies were abbreviated, God's divine plan for the Messiah's arrival remained intact and progressed precisely as ordained.
2. **Messianic Lineage:** Joram's place in the lineage confirms the historical and legitimate descent of Jesus from King David, a crucial requirement for the Messiah as prophesied in the Old Testament. Matthew's genealogy, by its very nature, testifies to the fulfillment of prophecy and the continuity of God's redemptive plan through successive generations, even those marked by human imperfection.
3. **God's Work Through Imperfect Vessels:** Joram's reign was not exemplary. His inclusion highlights a recurring biblical theme: God often works through flawed human beings to accomplish His perfect will. This provides comfort and hope, demonstrating that divine purposes are not thwarted by human sin or weakness.
### Summary
The Greek name Ἰωράμ (Iōrám, `{{G2496}}`) is a transliteration of the Hebrew "Yahweh is exalted." Its sole appearance in the New Testament is in the genealogy of Jesus in [[Matthew 1:8]], where it refers to Joram, King of Judah. While his reign was marred by unfaithfulness, his inclusion in the messianic line is profoundly significant. It underscores God's unfailing faithfulness to His covenant with David, demonstrating divine sovereignty in preserving the lineage through which the Messiah would come, regardless of human imperfections. The name itself serves as a constant reminder that Yahweh remains exalted above all, orchestrating history for the fulfillment of His redemptive plan.
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