another form for הוֹמָם; Hemam, an Idumaean; Hemam.
Transliteration:Hêymâm
Pronunciation:hay-mawm'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1967}}` (Hêymâm) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates that it is an alternate form of `{{H1950}}` (Hôwmâm). As such, its semantic range is entirely limited to identifying the individual bearing this name within the biblical text. The root of `{{H1950}}` is often linked to a verb (perhaps related to *hâmam*), which can convey ideas of "destruction," "commotion," or "noise." If this etymological connection holds for Hôwmâm/Hêymâm, the name could conceptually signify "destruction" or "tumult," though for a proper noun, the primary function is identification rather than conveying an abstract meaning in a given context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H1967}}` (Hêymâm) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 1:39]]: "The sons of Lotan were Hori and Homam; and the sister of Lotan was Timna." (Note: The Masoretic Text here reads הֵימָם (Hêymâm), while some translations, following the parallel in Genesis, render it as Homam).
This occurrence is within the extensive genealogies that open the book of 1 Chronicles. Specifically, Hemam is listed as a son of Lotan, who is identified as a son of Seir the Horite, and thus an early Edomite chieftain. The parallel passage in [[Genesis 36:22]] lists the same individual as הוֹמָם (Hôwmâm), confirming that `{{H1967}}` is indeed a variant spelling of `{{H1950}}`. The context is purely genealogical, serving to meticulously record the lineage of nations and tribes, particularly those connected to the descendants of Esau (Edom). These lists establish historical connections, demonstrate the fulfillment of divine promises concerning the multiplication of peoples, and provide a framework for understanding the relationships between various groups in the ancient Near East.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is `{{H1950}}` (Hôwmâm), which is the primary form of the name. The existence of `{{H1967}}` as a variant highlights the phenomenon of orthographic variations in personal names within the biblical text, which can arise from different scribal traditions, dialectal differences, or simple transliteration preferences over time. This is not uncommon in ancient texts.
Conceptually, the name connects to the broader theme of biblical genealogies. These lists, found prominently in Genesis and Chronicles, are not mere dry records but serve profound theological and historical purposes. They trace the lineage of humanity from Adam, through the patriarchal lines, leading ultimately to the nation of Israel and, prophetically, to the Messiah. The inclusion of Edomite genealogies, such as that of Hemam, illustrates the comprehensive scope of God's historical dealings, encompassing nations beyond Israel, and setting the stage for future interactions (often conflictual) between Israel and Edom.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, the theological significance of `{{H1967}}` (Hêymâm) does not reside in its intrinsic meaning but rather in its contextual placement within the inspired Word. Its inclusion in the genealogies underscores several key theological principles:
1. **Divine Sovereignty over History:** The meticulous recording of lineages, including those of non-Israelite peoples like the Edomites, testifies to God's comprehensive oversight of all human history and His meticulous attention to detail in the unfolding of His plan.
2. **Fulfillment of Promise:** The multiplication of Esau's descendants, as evidenced by these chiefs and clans, is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that he would be the father of many nations ([[Genesis 17:4-6]]), a promise that extended to both Isaac and Ishmael, and by extension to their descendants, including Esau.
3. **Historical Veracity:** The presence of such detailed genealogical records lends credibility to the historical claims of the biblical narrative, grounding the theological truths in a concrete, verifiable (though ancient) historical framework.
4. **Interconnectedness of Peoples:** The listing of Edomite chiefs alongside Israelite genealogies highlights the interwoven destinies of nations, even those who would later become adversaries. It reminds us that all peoples exist within God's overarching plan.
The slight variation in spelling between Genesis and Chronicles, while a textual detail, subtly affirms the divine preservation of the text through various transmission paths, where minor orthographic differences do not compromise the identity of the individual or the integrity of the historical record.
### Summary
`{{H1967}}` (Hêymâm) is a proper noun, a personal name appearing once in the Bible ([[1 Chronicles 1:39]]) as a chief among the Edomites, specifically a son of Lotan. It is an orthographic variant of `{{H1950}}` (Hôwmâm), found in the parallel genealogy in [[Genesis 36:22]]. While the name itself, as a proper noun, carries no inherent theological meaning beyond identification, its presence in the biblical genealogies is profoundly significant. It demonstrates God's meticulous record-keeping and His sovereign control over the history of all nations, not just Israel. The inclusion of Edomite lineages underscores the fulfillment of divine promises regarding the multiplication of peoples and highlights the historical interconnectedness of various groups within God's comprehensive plan for humanity.
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