The Hebrew name Hôwmâm, represented by H1950, is defined as "raging" and identifies an Edomitish chieftain. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. This name is noted as being comparable to the name Hemam. Its sole purpose in scripture is to document an individual within a specific genealogical line.
The single appearance of H1950 is found within the genealogies of 1 Chronicles. The verse states, "And the sons of Lotan; Hori, and Homam: and Timna was Lotan's sister" 1 Chronicles 1:39. This entry places Homam as a son of Lotan and a brother of Hori, situating him within the ancestral records of the people of Seir. The context is purely historical and serves to establish lineage.
Several related words appear in the same verse, defining the familial relationships surrounding Homam:
- H3877 Lôwṭân (covering; Lotan, an Idumaean): This is the name of Homam's father, establishing his direct parentage within the genealogical list 1 Chronicles 1:39.
- H2753 Chôrîy (Chori, the name of two men): This name identifies Homam's brother, who is listed with him as a son of Lotan 1 Chronicles 1:39.
- H1121 bên (a son): As the word for "son," this term is fundamental to the verse, establishing the relationship of Hori and Homam to their father, Lotan 1 Chronicles 1:39.
- H269 ʼâchôwth (a sister): This term is used to identify Timna in relation to Lotan, providing a more complete view of the family unit recorded in the passage 1 Chronicles 1:39.
The significance of H1950 is entirely genealogical, contributing to the detailed records of the Old Testament.
- Edomitish Lineage: The definition of Homam as an "Edomitish chieftain" places him within the descendants of Esau. The context of surrounding verses confirms this, linking his father, Lotan, to Seir the Horite, an original inhabitant of the land of Edom 1 Chronicles 1:38.
- Preservation of Lineage: The inclusion of Homam in the Chronicler's record serves to preserve the name and connection of a specific chieftain within the Horite family tree.
- Family Connection: The verse clearly defines Homam's place within his immediate family as a son of Lotan and brother of Hori and Timna, underscoring the importance of familial relationships in biblical genealogies.
In summary, H1950 is not a theological term but a proper name marking a specific individual in history. Its singular mention in the Bible functions to document Homam, an Edomitish chieftain, within the ancestral line of the Horites through his father, Lotan. This highlights the scriptural emphasis on meticulous record-keeping to trace the lineage and history of the peoples of the ancient Near East.
TRV