### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chûwrâm**, represented by `{{H2361}}`, has a base definition suggesting "whiteness" or "noble." It is used for the name of an Israelite and two Syrians, and is comparable to **Chîyrâm** `{{H2438}}`. It appears **13 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name **Chûwrâm** `{{H2361}}` primarily refers to two key figures involved in the construction of the Temple. The first is **Huram**, king `{{H4428}}` of Tyre `{{H6865}}`, who partners with both David `{{H1732}}` and Solomon `{{H8010}}`. He sends `{{H7971}}` cedar `{{H730}}` timber `{{H6086}}` and skilled workers like masons and carpenters `{{H2796}}` to build `{{H1129}}` a house `{{H1004}}` for David [[1 Chronicles 14:1]] and later assists Solomon with the Temple [[2 Chronicles 2:3]]. This same king sends ships `{{H591}}` and servants `{{H5650}}` with knowledge `{{H3045}}` of the sea `{{H3220}}` to Ophir `{{H211}}` to bring `{{H935}}` back gold `{{H2091}}` [[2 Chronicles 8:18]]. The second figure is a cunning `{{H2450}}` craftsman, also named **Huram**, sent by the king of Tyre to make `{{H6213}}` instruments `{{H3627}}` of bright `{{H4838}}` brass `{{H5178}}` for the house of the LORD `{{H3068}}` ([[2 Chronicles 2:13]], [[2 Chronicles 4:16]]). A third **Huram** is mentioned in a genealogy [[1 Chronicles 8:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the roles of the individuals named **Huram**:
* `{{H2438}}` **Chîyrâm** (Hiram): This is another form of the name **Chûwrâm** and is used for the same Tyrian individuals. It underscores the interchangeability of the names in the text ([[1 Chronicles 14:1]], [[2 Chronicles 4:11]]).
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This root is central to the narrative of Huram, whose primary contribution, whether as a king providing resources or a craftsman fashioning items, was to **build** a house `{{H1004}}` for the LORD `{{H3068}}` and a house for the king's `{{H4428}}` kingdom `{{H4438}}` [[2 Chronicles 2:12]].
* `{{H2796}}` **chârâsh** (craftsman): This term defines the role of the artisan Huram. He was the master **craftsman** among the carpenters `{{H2796}}` and masons sent from Tyre to execute the skilled work `{{H4399}}` required for the royal and sacred buildings [[1 Chronicles 14:1]].
* `{{H2450}}` **châkâm** (wise): Wisdom is a key attribute in this story. King Huram blesses God for giving David a **wise** son `{{H1121}}` [[2 Chronicles 2:12]], and the artisan Huram is specifically described as a **cunning** (`châkâm`) man `{{H376}}` sent to Solomon [[2 Chronicles 2:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of **Chûwrâm** is seen in the actions of the figures who bear the name:
* **Cooperation in Divine Work:** The story of **Huram**, the king of Tyre `{{H6865}}`, demonstrates that God can use even non-Israelite nations and leaders to accomplish His purposes. Huram not only provides materials and men but also blesses `{{H1288}}` the LORD `{{H3068}}`, acknowledging God's hand in Solomon's kingship [[2 Chronicles 2:11-12]].
* **Sanctified Skill:** The artisan **Huram** embodies the principle of using skill and craft for the glory of God. He is described as a cunning `{{H2450}}` man endued with understanding `{{H998}}` [[2 Chronicles 2:13]], and his work `{{H4399}}` in making the brass `{{H5178}}` vessels `{{H3627}}` for the Temple shows that artistic and technical ability can be a form of worship ([[2 Chronicles 4:11]], [[2 Chronicles 4:16]]).
* **Fulfillment of Covenant Promises:** The alliance between Solomon `{{H8010}}` and **Huram** is a direct continuation of the relationship established with David `{{H1732}}` [[2 Chronicles 2:3]]. This partnership enables the construction of the Temple, a central part of God's plan, bringing a long-held vision to fruition.
### Summary
In summary, the name **Chûwrâm** `{{H2361}}`, meaning "noble," is primarily associated with two key Syrian figures who were instrumental in building Solomon's Temple. Through the king of Tyre's royal support and the master craftsman's dedicated skill, the house `{{H1004}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` was constructed and furnished. The narrative of **Huram** illustrates the theological principles of God using all people for His work, the sanctification of skill, and the faithful fulfillment of His purposes across generations.
TRV