### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2093}}` *Zaham* (זַהַם) is primarily a proper noun, appearing in the biblical text as the name of an individual. Its base definition indicates derivation "from זָהַם," which conveys the sense of "loathing" or "abhorrence." While the root verb זָהַם (not a distinct Strong's entry itself but implied by the definition) suggests a strong negative emotion of disgust or aversion, `{{H2093}}` itself functions exclusively as a personal name. Thus, its semantic range within the biblical narrative is restricted to its nominative function, with its etymological meaning providing a potential, though not explicitly stated, layer of significance regarding the individual or the circumstances of their birth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H2093}}` *Zaham* appears only once in the Hebrew Bible:
* **[[2 Chronicles 11:19]]**: "And she bore him Jeush, and Shemariah, and Zaham." Here, Zaham is listed as one of the sons born to King Rehoboam of Judah by his wife Abihail, the daughter of Eliab, son of Jesse. The context is purely genealogical, part of an extensive list detailing Rehoboam's family and the vast number of children he fathered. There is no further narrative or descriptive information provided about Zaham himself, nor any indication of how his life or character might have reflected the etymological meaning of his name. His inclusion serves to complete the dynastic record of Rehoboam's lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymological root of `{{H2093}}` *Zaham* points to a concept of "loathing" or "disgust." While the root verb זָהַם does not appear independently as a lexical entry in the Hebrew Bible, the concept it embodies relates to other Hebrew terms that express strong aversion, revulsion, or even divine judgment against that which is morally or ritually impure. For instance, words like `{{H8441}}` *to'evah* (תּוֹעֵבָה), often translated as "abomination" or "detestable thing," express a profound sense of repugnance, particularly in the context of God's view of sin or idolatry. Similarly, terms related to "uncleanness" (e.g., `{{H2931}}` *tum'ah*) or "disgust" (e.g., `{{H6972}}` *quts*) share a semantic field with the underlying meaning of *Zaham*. The naming convention in ancient Israel often held significance, reflecting circumstances of birth, parental hopes, or even prophetic insights. The choice of a name carrying the connotation of "loathing" for a royal son is unusual and might suggest a particular event or sentiment surrounding his birth, though the text offers no elaboration.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2093}}` *Zaham* is primarily indirect, stemming from its etymological root and the broader biblical understanding of names. While the individual Zaham plays no active role in the sacred narrative beyond his genealogical mention, the meaning "loathing" invites reflection. In biblical thought, names are not merely labels but often encapsulate identity, destiny, or a divine pronouncement. The presence of a name with such a strong negative connotation within the royal lineage of Judah is intriguing. It could serve as a subtle reminder of the human condition, the presence of sin and its consequences even within divinely appointed lines, or perhaps a reflection of the tumultuous period of Rehoboam's reign, marked by division and apostasy. From a broader theological perspective, it highlights God's meticulous record-keeping, where even individuals with seemingly obscure names and no narrative prominence are part of His overarching plan and the unfolding of redemptive history. The very existence of such a name within the sacred text underscores the reality that human experience, with all its complexities and sometimes negative aspects, is encompassed within God's sovereign knowledge and providential care.
### Summary
`{{H2093}}` *Zaham* is a Hebrew proper noun, occurring once in [[2 Chronicles 11:19]] as the name of a son of King Rehoboam. While the individual Zaham has no narrative role, his name's etymological root signifies "loathing" or "abhorrence." This underlying meaning, though not explicitly elaborated in the text, connects to broader biblical concepts of aversion and disgust, particularly concerning sin and impurity. The theological significance of Zaham's name lies in its potential reflection of the human condition, the complexities of royal lineage, and the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies, which record all individuals as part of God's comprehensive historical narrative.
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