from an unused root meaning to burn; flame; Gacham, a son of Nahor; Gaham.
Transliteration:Gacham
Pronunciation:gah'-kham
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma גַּחַם (Gacham), Strong's number `{{H1514}}`, is primarily a proper noun. Its etymological root is understood to be unused in its verbal form, but its meaning is derived from the concept of "to burn" or "flame." Thus, the name Gacham likely signifies "flame" or "burning." In ancient Near Eastern cultures, names often carried significant meaning, reflecting character, circumstances of birth, or parental aspirations. While not a common noun or verb, its root suggests intensity, light, or warmth, aligning with the powerful imagery associated with fire throughout biblical literature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Gacham appears in the Hebrew Bible exclusively within the patriarchal narratives of the book of Genesis. Specifically, Gacham is identified as one of the sons of Nahor, Abraham's brother, born to his concubine Reumah: "And his concubine, whose name was Reumah, she also bore Tebah, and Gaham, and Thahash, and Maachah" [[Genesis 22:24]]. This single occurrence places Gacham within the broader genealogical record of Abraham's extended family. His mention is brief, serving to fill out the lineage of Nahor, contributing to the comprehensive patriarchal history. As with many figures in biblical genealogies, no specific actions, character traits, or further historical details are provided for Gacham himself. His significance lies in his inclusion within the family tree that ultimately leads to the nation of Israel and the promised Messiah. The purpose of such detailed genealogies is to establish historical continuity, confirm covenantal lines, and underscore the faithfulness of God in preserving a chosen lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
While Gacham itself is a proper name, its etymological root connects it to a rich semantic field of "fire" and "burning" in Hebrew. Key related terms include:
* `{{H784}}` (אֵשׁ, 'esh): The most common Hebrew word for "fire," frequently used to describe God's presence (e.g., the burning bush, [[Exodus 3:2]]), divine judgment (e.g., Sodom and Gomorrah, [[Genesis 19:24]]), or purification.
* `{{H1578}}` (גַּחֶלֶת, gacheleth): "Live coal" or "burning coal," often associated with warmth, sustenance, or divine judgment.
* `{{H3857}}` (לֶהָבָה, lehavah): "Flame," emphasizing the visible, moving aspect of fire.
The concept of fire in the Bible is multifaceted, representing holiness, consuming power, revelation, testing, and zeal. Although Gacham's name is not explicitly tied to these theological concepts beyond its etymology, the underlying imagery of "flame" evokes a powerful and dynamic force.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Gacham, as a proper name, is primarily indirect. First, his inclusion in the patriarchal genealogies underscores the meticulous nature of God's redemptive plan. Every individual, even those briefly mentioned, plays a part in the unfolding narrative of salvation history, leading to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ. The preservation of these lineages demonstrates God's sovereignty and faithfulness in maintaining the covenant line. Second, while no specific theological attributes are ascribed to Gacham, the etymological meaning of his name, "flame," invites reflection on the broader biblical symbolism of fire. Fire often represents the divine presence (e.g., the pillar of fire, [[Exodus 13:21]]), the consuming holiness of God, or the purifying work of the Holy Spirit. Though Gacham himself is not depicted as embodying these qualities, his name serves as a subtle reminder of the pervasive and powerful imagery of fire within the biblical lexicon, hinting at intensity, passion, or divine energy that permeates creation and covenant.
### Summary
Gacham (`{{H1514}}`) is a proper Hebrew name, etymologically rooted in the concept of "flame" or "burning." He is identified in the book of Genesis as one of the sons of Nahor, Abraham's brother, born to his concubine Reumah ([[Genesis 22:24]]). His brief mention serves primarily to complete the patriarchal genealogies, which are crucial for establishing historical continuity and tracing the lineage of God's covenant people. While no specific actions or character traits are attributed to Gacham, his name's fiery etymology connects him to a rich biblical symbolism of fire, representing divine presence, judgment, and purification. The theological significance of Gacham lies in his role within the broader redemptive narrative, highlighting God's meticulous preservation of lineage and the subtle, yet powerful, meaning embedded in biblical names.
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