or חִירוֹםlemma חִירֹם missing vav, corrected to חִירוֹם; another form of חוּרָם; Chiram or Chirom, the name of two Tyrians; Hiram, Huram.
Transliteration:Chîyrâm
Pronunciation:khee-rawm'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H2438}}` (Chîyrâm) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates that it is a variant form of `{{H2361}}` (Chuwram). While the provided Strong's entry does not explicitly state the etymological meaning of the name, scholarly consensus often connects "Hiram" to roots signifying "my brother is exalted" or "noble brother" (from *'ach* "brother" and *ram* "exalted"). This etymology, though not explicitly in the Strong's entry, aligns with the stature of the individual bearing the name in biblical narratives. The definition also notes that it refers to "the name of two Tyrians," although the primary biblical figure is the renowned King of Tyre.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The most prominent figure bearing the name Hiram (`{{H2438}}`) in the biblical text is Hiram I, King of Tyre, who reigned during the time of King David and King Solomon. His interactions with these Israelite monarchs are extensively documented, primarily in 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles.
* **With King David:** Hiram sent cedar wood and skilled craftsmen to David for the construction of his palace in Jerusalem ([[2 Samuel 5:11]], [[1 Chronicles 14:1]]). This initial interaction established a relationship of alliance and cooperation between the two kingdoms.
* **With King Solomon:** Hiram's role became even more significant during Solomon's reign, particularly in the construction of the First Temple and Solomon's own palace. He provided vast quantities of cedar and cypress timber from Lebanon, as well as gold ([[1 Kings 5:1-12]], [[2 Chronicles 2:3-16]]). In return, Solomon supplied Hiram with food provisions ([[1 Kings 5:11]]) and, later, twenty cities in the land of Galilee, though Hiram found these cities unsatisfactory ([[1 Kings 9:10-14]]).
* **Skilled Labor:** Beyond raw materials, Hiram also sent a highly skilled artisan, also named Hiram (or Huram-Abi, `{{H2361}}`), who was an expert in bronze work, gold, silver, iron, stone, and wood, and who played a crucial role in crafting the Temple furnishings and decorations ([[1 Kings 7:13-47]], [[2 Chronicles 2:13-14]], [[2 Chronicles 4:11-18]]).
The relationship between Hiram and Solomon was characterized by a covenant of peace and mutual benefit, marked by trade and shared wisdom ([[1 Kings 5:12]]). The biblical record highlights the immense wealth and resources of Tyre under Hiram's rule, which were instrumental in the ambitious building projects of Solomon.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H2361}}` (Chuwram):** This is the alternate form of the name, sometimes used interchangeably for the King of Tyre or for the master craftsman sent by him.
* **`{{H6865}}` (Tsor):** The Hebrew name for Tyre, the powerful Phoenician city-state ruled by Hiram.
* **`{{H8010}}` (Shlomo):** Solomon, the King of Israel who forged a strong alliance with Hiram for the construction of the Temple.
* **`{{H1732}}` (David):** King David, who initiated the relationship with Hiram.
* **Temple Construction:** The primary context for Hiram's biblical appearances, underscoring the divine purpose behind his cooperation.
* **Cedar (`{{H730}}` 'erez) & Gold (`{{H2091}}` zahab):** Key materials supplied by Hiram, symbolizing the resources and wealth of Tyre.
* **Craftsmanship (e.g., `{{H2796}}` charash):** The skilled labor provided by Tyre, essential for the intricate work of the Temple.
* **Alliance, Treaty, Trade:** Concepts central to the diplomatic and economic relationship between Israel and Tyre during this period.
### Theological Significance
The figure of Hiram, King of Tyre, holds significant theological weight within the biblical narrative.
1. **Divine Providence:** Hiram, a foreign, non-Israelite king, was providentially used by God to facilitate the construction of His holy Temple. This demonstrates God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to orchestrate events and utilize individuals, even outside the covenant community, to accomplish His divine purposes.
2. **International Cooperation for God's Glory:** The alliance between Israel and Tyre under David and Solomon represents a unique period of peaceful and productive international relations. It showcases how diverse nations, with their unique resources and skills, can contribute to the worship and glory of the true God, even if they do not fully acknowledge Him. This cooperation foreshadows a time when all nations will come to Jerusalem to worship the Lord ([[Isaiah 2:2-4]]).
3. **Wisdom and Skill in Service:** The provision of skilled craftsmen and precious materials by Hiram underscores the value of human ingenuity, artistry, and labor when consecrated to God's service. The Temple, a masterpiece of ancient architecture and craftsmanship, would not have been possible without the expertise provided by Tyre.
4. **Contrast and Foreshadowing:** While the relationship with Hiram was largely positive, later prophetic condemnations of Tyre ([[Isaiah 23]], [[Ezekiel 26-28]]) highlight its eventual fall due to pride, idolatry, and commercialism. The initial period of cooperation thus stands as a poignant reminder of missed opportunities for nations to continue in a blessed relationship with God's people.
### Summary
Hiram (`{{H2438}}`), King of Tyre, is a pivotal figure in the Old Testament, primarily known for his strategic alliances with King David and King Solomon. He played an indispensable role in the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem, supplying vast quantities of cedar and cypress timber, gold, and highly skilled craftsmen. This relationship, characterized by mutual respect and trade, exemplifies divine providence, demonstrating God's sovereign use of a foreign monarch to achieve His sacred purposes. The cooperation between Israel and Tyre under Hiram's reign highlights the potential for international collaboration in service of God's kingdom and the value of diverse resources and skills dedicated to His glory.
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