from קוּם and עַם; (the) people will be raised; Jokmeam, a place in Palestine; Jokmeam. Compare יְקַמְעָם, יׇקְנְעָם.
Transliteration:Yoqmᵉʻâm
Pronunciation:yok-meh-awm'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3361}}` (Yoqmᵉʻâm) is a proper noun, primarily identifying a geographical location. Its etymology is derived from two root words: קוּם (qum, `{{H6965}}`), meaning "to rise, stand up, establish, confirm," and עַם (ʻam, `{{H5971}}`), meaning "people, nation, kindred." Thus, the name Yoqmᵉʻâm carries the intrinsic meaning of "the people will be raised" or "let the people arise/stand." While its primary function in biblical text is as a place name, the inherent meaning of its components offers a subtle yet profound theological resonance, suggesting divine action in the elevation or establishment of a people. Its semantic range is therefore limited to this specific place, but its etymological depth enriches its significance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H3361}}` (Jokmeam) appears once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of 1 Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 6:68]]: "and Jokmeam with its pasture lands, and Beth Horon with its pasture lands, and Aijalon with its pasture lands, and Gath Rimmon with its pasture lands."
In this context, Jokmeam is listed as one of the cities given to the Kohathite families of the Levites in the territory of Ephraim. This list in 1 Chronicles 6 details the Levitical cities, which were designated places for the priestly tribe to reside among the other tribes of Israel. These cities served as centers for religious instruction, justice, and the performance of Levitical duties. The mention of "pasture lands" (מִגְרָשׁ, mig̱rāš) indicates that these cities were not merely urban centers but also included surrounding areas for livestock, essential for the sustenance of the Levites who did not receive a tribal land inheritance. It is worth noting that in the parallel list of Levitical cities in [[Joshua 21:22]], the city of Gezer is mentioned in Ephraim where Jokmeam appears in 1 Chronicles. This discrepancy has led scholars to suggest that Jokmeam might be an alternative name for Gezer, a scribal variation, or a distinct but closely located city within the same region. The placement of Jokmeam among other significant Ephraimite cities like Beth Horon and Aijalon underscores its geographical importance within the central hill country.
### Related Words & Concepts
The entry for `{{H3361}}` specifically points to comparisons with `{{H3362}}` (Yeqamʻam) and `{{H3363}}` (Yoqneʻam).
* `{{H3362}}` (Yeqamʻam) is often considered a variant spelling or a closely related place to `{{H3361}}` (Jokmeam), possibly representing the same location or a very near one. Its etymology is identical, stemming from קוּם and עַם.
* `{{H3363}}` (Yoqneʻam) is a distinct city, Yoqneam of Carmel, located in the territory of Zebulun, far from Ephraim. While phonetically similar, its root is likely קָנָה (qanah, `{{H7069}}`), meaning "to acquire" or "to possess," suggesting a different meaning such as "the people possess" or "possessed by the people." This highlights the importance of precise etymological analysis even for seemingly similar names.
The core components of `{{H3361}}` are קוּם (`{{H6965}}`) and עַם (`{{H5971}}`).
* The verb קוּם is foundational in Hebrew, conveying a wide range of meanings from physical rising (e.g., from sleep, from a seat) to metaphorical establishment (e.g., a covenant, a kingdom) or even resurrection (e.g., Job 19:26). It often implies divine initiation or empowerment.
* The noun עַם refers to a collective group, particularly a people or nation, often in the context of a familial or covenantal relationship (e.g., God's people, Israel).
The combination "the people will be raised" thus connects to broader biblical themes of God's active involvement in the destiny of His people, whether in raising them up from oppression, establishing them in the land, or even in the eschatological hope of resurrection.
### Theological Significance
As a place name, the theological significance of `{{H3361}}` (Jokmeam) is primarily derived from its etymological meaning and its function as a Levitical city. The name "the people will be raised" carries profound implications:
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Providence:** The name subtly points to God's active hand in the affairs of His people. It is God who "raises up" (Hebrew: קוּם) His people, whether from hardship, obscurity, or for a specific purpose. This resonates with numerous biblical narratives where God elevates individuals (e.g., Joseph, David) or the nation of Israel as a whole.
2. **The Role of the Levites:** That Jokmeam was a Levitical city adds a layer of meaning. The Levites were divinely appointed to "stand" (a nuance of קוּם) before the Lord to minister and teach the law. Their presence in these cities was meant to "raise up" the spiritual and moral standards of the surrounding communities. The name could be seen as a prophetic declaration over the city and its inhabitants, implying that through the ministry centered there, the people would be spiritually uplifted or established in their faith.
3. **Hope and Restoration:** The idea of "being raised" also carries connotations of hope and restoration. Throughout Israel's history, there were periods of decline and oppression, yet the consistent biblical message is that God would "raise up" a remnant, a deliverer, or the nation itself to fulfill His covenant promises. The name Jokmeam, therefore, could serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His people, ensuring their ultimate establishment and flourishing.
### Summary
`{{H3361}}` (Yoqmᵉʻâm), transliterated as Jokmeam, is a proper noun denoting a city in ancient Israel. Its name, derived from the Hebrew roots קוּם ("to rise, stand") and עַם ("people"), signifies "the people will be raised" or "let the people arise." Biblically, Jokmeam is identified as one of the Levitical cities within the territory of Ephraim, specifically designated for the Kohathite Levites, as recorded in [[1 Chronicles 6:68]]. While its precise location relative to other Levitical cities like Gezer remains a subject of scholarly discussion, its function as a center for priestly ministry is clear. The theological significance of Jokmeam lies in the evocative meaning of its name, subtly pointing to God's sovereign power to establish and uplift His people, whether physically, spiritually, or in their covenant relationship with Him, particularly through the sacred service of the Levites dwelling within its gates.
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