### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Gaʻtâm**, represented by `{{H1609}}`, identifies an Edomite individual. According to its base definition, it is of uncertain derivation. The name appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** of scripture. Its purpose is to record a specific figure within the genealogical records of Edom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1609}}` is used exclusively within genealogies to establish Edomite lineage. **Gaʻtâm** is first listed as one of the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of **Eliphaz** `{{H464}}`, who was the son of Esau ([[Genesis 36:11]], [[1 Chronicles 1:36]]). Later, his status is clarified as a clan leader, or **duke** `{{H441}}` **Gatam** `{{H1609}}`, one of the chieftains who descended from Eliphaz in the **land** `{{H776}}` of **Edom** `{{H123}}` [[Genesis 36:16]]. This verse also notes that these were the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of **Adah** `{{H5711}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Gatam's identity and position:
* `{{H464}}` **ʼĔlîyphaz** (God of gold; Eliphaz...): As the father of Gatam, **Eliphaz** is central to establishing his lineage. Gatam is consistently named as one of the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of **Eliphaz** [[Genesis 36:11]].
* `{{H441}}` **ʼallûwph** (a chieftain... duke...): This title defines Gatam's role as a leader within Edomite society. The record shifts from listing him as a son to listing him as **duke** Gatam [[Genesis 36:16]], indicating he became the head of a clan.
* `{{H123}}` **ʼĔdôm** (red... Edom...): This word establishes Gatam's national and geographic identity. He is an Edomite, and his authority as a duke is specifically located "in the land of **Edom**" [[Genesis 36:16]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1609}}` is rooted in its genealogical and political context:
* **Edomite Lineage:** The inclusion of Gatam is vital for the detailed genealogical mapping of the descendants of Esau. He is listed as a **son** `{{H1121}}` of Eliphaz, connecting him directly to a major branch of the Edomite family tree ([[Genesis 36:11]], [[1 Chronicles 1:36]]).
* **Clan Chieftainship:** Gatam is identified not only by birth but also by his position of authority as a **duke** `{{H441}}` in Edom [[Genesis 36:16]]. This signifies his role as the progenitor or leader of a specific Edomite clan, highlighting the political organization of the nation.
* **Patriarchal Ancestry:** The record connects Gatam's line to **Adah** `{{H5711}}`, a wife of Esau [[Genesis 36:16]]. This detail places his lineage firmly within the broader patriarchal history recorded in Genesis, defining the origins of the dukes of Edom.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1609}}` **Gaʻtâm** is not a common term but a specific proper name that appears exclusively in Edomite genealogies. His inclusion in scripture serves a clear historical purpose: to document the lineage of Esau through his son **Eliphaz** `{{H464}}` and to identify Gatam as a founding **duke** `{{H441}}` of one of the clans in the **land** `{{H776}}` of **Edom** `{{H123}}`. His name is a key component in understanding the familial and political structure of early Edom.
TRV