from הָמַם; raging; Homam, an Edomitish chieftain; Homam. Compare הֵימָם.
Transliteration:Hôwmâm
Pronunciation:ho-mawm'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1950}}` (Hôwmâm) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates it is derived from the verbal root `{{H2000}}` (hāmam), which carries the core meaning of "to make a noise," "to put in commotion," "to discomfit," or "to rage." Therefore, the name Hôwmâm likely signifies "Raging," "Commotion," or "Discomfiter." As a proper noun, its semantic range is fixed, referring exclusively to the individual or clan bearing this name. The inherent meaning of the root, however, imbues the name with a sense of active, perhaps even aggressive, disturbance or turmoil.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H1950}}` (Hôwmâm) appears in two primary passages within the Old Testament, both within genealogical lists pertaining to the descendants of Esau, the progenitor of Edom.
1. **[[Genesis 36:22]]**: Here, Homam is listed as a son of Lotan, who is a son of Seir the Horite. Lotan's sister is Timna, and his other son is Hori. This places Homam firmly within the Horite lineage, a people group dwelling in Seir (Edom) before the arrival of Esau's descendants, with whom they intermarried and eventually merged. The text states, "And the children of Lotan were Hori and Homam; and Lotan's sister was Timna."
2. **[[1 Chronicles 1:39]]**: This passage largely mirrors the genealogy found in Genesis, stating, "And the sons of Lotan: Hori and Homam; and Timna was Lotan's sister." This confirms the identity and lineage of Homam as an Edomite chieftain or clan head, descended from Lotan.
A significant textual note is the comparison with `{{H1951}}` (Hêymām), which appears as "Hemam" in some translations. While `{{H1950}}` is consistently "Homam," the close phonetic and orthographic similarity, along with the shared genealogical context, suggests that `{{H1951}}` may be a variant spelling or an alternative form of the same name or a closely related individual/clan within the Edomite lineage. The context in both occurrences is purely genealogical, serving to delineate the tribal and clan structures of Edom, highlighting their origins and relationships.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to `{{H1950}}` is its verbal root, `{{H2000}}` (hāmam). This verb is used elsewhere in the Old Testament to describe God's active intervention in battle, often to "discomfit" or "throw into confusion" the enemies of Israel (e.g., [[Exodus 14:24]], [[Joshua 10:10]], [[Judges 4:15]], [[1 Samuel 7:10]]). This root conveys a powerful, disruptive action.
Another closely related term is `{{H1951}}` (Hêymām), which is listed as "Hemam" and appears in [[Genesis 36:22]] (in some textual traditions or as an alternative reading) and [[1 Chronicles 1:39]]. The Strong's entry itself explicitly invites comparison, suggesting a near identity or a very close connection.
Conceptually, `{{H1950}}` connects to the broader theme of personal names in the ancient Near East often reflecting characteristics, circumstances of birth, or aspirations. In this case, "Raging" could subtly allude to the turbulent nature often associated with the Edomites in their interactions with Israel. It also fits within the larger biblical narrative of tracing lineages, both those blessed by God (Israel) and those outside the covenant, yet still part of God's overarching historical plan.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun designating an Edomite chieftain, the direct theological significance of `{{H1950}}` (Hôwmâm) is limited compared to theological concepts or divine names. However, several insights can be gleaned:
1. **God's Comprehensive Sovereignty:** The meticulous recording of even the genealogies of nations outside the covenant line of Israel (like Edom, descendants of Esau) underscores God's comprehensive knowledge and sovereignty over all peoples and their histories. Even the "raging" nations are within the scope of His providential plan.
2. **The Meaning of Names:** The name "Homam" ("Raging" or "Commotion") for an Edomite leader is noteworthy. While we cannot definitively attribute specific character traits to the individual based solely on their name, it is consistent with the general portrayal of Edom in biblical narrative as a nation often characterized by hostility and conflict with Israel (e.g., [[Numbers 20:14-21]], [[Amos 1:11]]). The name could, therefore, be seen as descriptively fitting for a people often engaged in "commotion" against God's chosen nation.
3. **Contrast and Divine Order:** The very concept of "raging" stands in contrast to the peace, order, and shalom that God desires for His people and the world. The mention of such a name within the biblical record subtly highlights the presence of disorder and conflict in the world, which ultimately points to the need for God's redemptive work to bring true peace.
### Summary
`{{H1950}}` (Hôwmâm) is a Hebrew proper noun, a personal name derived from the root `{{H2000}}` (hāmam), meaning "to rage," "to put in commotion," or "to discomfit." Thus, the name itself signifies "Raging" or "Commotion." It appears in the biblical genealogies of Edom, specifically in [[Genesis 36:22]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:39]], identifying Homam as a son of Lotan and an Edomite chieftain or clan head. The term is closely related to `{{H1951}}` (Hêymām), likely a variant spelling. While its direct theological significance is constrained by its nature as a proper noun, its inclusion in the biblical record underscores God's comprehensive sovereignty over all nations and their histories. Furthermore, the meaning of the name "Raging" for an Edomite leader can be seen as subtly reflective of the often-turbulent relationship between Edom and Israel, providing a descriptive element within the grand narrative of God's interaction with humanity.
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