the same as חוֹתָם; seal; Chotham, the name of two Israelites; Hotham, Hothan.
Transliteration:Chôwthâm
Pronunciation:kho-thawm'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2369}}` (Chôwthâm) functions primarily as a proper noun in the biblical text, specifically as a personal name. Its root, however, is deeply significant, deriving from `{{H2368}}` (chotham), which means "seal," "signet ring," or "stamp." The semantic range of the root `{{H2368}}` encompasses concepts of authenticity, ownership, authority, security, and identification, as a seal was used to mark property, validate documents, or secure possessions. Thus, the name `{{H2369}}` inherently carries these connotations, suggesting one who is "sealed" or "marked," or perhaps one who embodies the characteristics associated with a seal, such as trustworthiness or a distinctive identity. While the proper noun itself does not directly perform the action of sealing, its etymological connection enriches its meaning within the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H2369}}` appears twice in the Old Testament, each instance referring to a distinct individual within genealogical records.
1. In [[1 Chronicles 7:32]], Hotham is identified as a son of Heber, an Asherite. The context is a detailed genealogy of the tribe of Asher, enumerating their families, mighty warriors, and heads of houses. This occurrence places Hotham within the lineage of one of the twelve tribes of Israel, underscoring his tribal identity and familial connections.
2. In [[1 Chronicles 11:44]], Hotham the Aroerite is mentioned as the father of Jeiel and Zetham, two of David's mighty men. This reference highlights Hotham's role as an ancestor to individuals who served King David with distinction. The "Aroerite" designation likely indicates his geographical origin, possibly from one of the towns named Aroer.
In both contexts, `{{H2369}}` functions as a straightforward personal identifier within genealogical lists. These passages do not provide narrative details about the individuals named Hotham, but their inclusion in these sacred records speaks to their place within the historical and covenantal unfolding of God's people. The name’s presence in these significant lists, particularly one connected to David’s elite, subtly elevates its status beyond a mere label.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to `{{H2369}}` is its root, `{{H2368}}` (chotham), meaning "seal" or "signet ring." This connection is paramount for understanding the background meaning of the proper name. The concept of a "seal" in the ancient Near East was multifaceted, embodying:
* **Authority and Sovereignty:** A seal was an emblem of power, used by kings and officials to authenticate decrees (e.g., [[Esther 8:8]]).
* **Ownership and Property:** Sealing an object signified possession or claim (e.g., [[Jeremiah 32:10]]).
* **Security and Protection:** A sealed document or object was protected from tampering (e.g., [[Daniel 6:17]]).
* **Authentication and Verification:** A seal provided proof of identity or truthfulness.
* **Covenant and Promise:** The act of sealing could symbolize the binding nature of an agreement.
While `{{H2369}}` itself is a proper noun, its etymological link to these concepts suggests a subtle echo of these profound themes. Other related concepts include "mark" (e.g., `{{H8420}}` *tav*), "sign" (e.g., `{{H226}}` *'oth*), and "pledge" (e.g., `{{H6161}}` *'aravon*), all of which share semantic overlap with aspects of a seal's function in conveying identity, assurance, or commitment.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, `{{H2369}}` does not carry direct theological doctrine. However, its etymological root in `{{H2368}}` ("seal") imbues it with indirect but profound theological resonance. The concept of "sealing" in Scripture is rich with divine meaning:
* **Divine Ownership and Protection:** God "seals" His people, marking them as His own, protecting them, and setting them apart (cf. the sealing of the 144,000 in [[Revelation 7:3-4]], though a Greek concept, the underlying theological principle is similar).
* **Authentication of Divine Truth:** Prophets and divine messages were often "sealed" by God's authentication through signs and wonders.
* **Security of God's Promises:** God's covenant promises are often depicted as sealed, ensuring their inviolability and permanence.
* **Identity and Belonging:** To be "sealed" by God signifies a unique relationship and an indelible mark of belonging to His kingdom.
While the individuals named Hotham are not presented as theological figures, their very names, derived from "seal," might subtly remind the reader of God's pervasive presence and His sovereign act of marking and identifying His people within the unfolding drama of redemption. The name thus serves as a quiet testament to the broader biblical motif of divine authentication and belonging.
### Summary
`{{H2369}}` (Chôwthâm) is a Hebrew proper noun, appearing as a personal name for two Israelites in the Old Testament genealogical records. Its core meaning is derived from `{{H2368}}` (chotham), meaning "seal" or "signet ring." This etymological connection links the name to concepts of authority, ownership, authenticity, and security. While the biblical occurrences of Hotham are limited to genealogical lists in [[1 Chronicles 7:32]] and [[1 Chronicles 11:44]], their presence within the sacred lineage of Israel and among those connected to King David underscores their historical significance. Theologically, while the name itself does not convey doctrine, its root meaning of "seal" points to profound biblical themes of divine ownership, protection, and the authentication of God's promises and people. Thus, even a seemingly simple personal name in Scripture can carry echoes of God's sovereign and meticulous work in identifying and securing His chosen.
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