The Hebrew word Malkîyrâm, represented by H4443, is a proper name meaning king of a high one (i.e. of exaltation). It is used to identify an Israelite named Malchiram. This name is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing just 1 time in 1 unique verse.
The single appearance of H4443 is found within a genealogical list in the book of Chronicles. In this context, Malchiram is named alongside several other individuals. The verse serves to document a specific lineage, listing him with Pedaiah, Shenazar, Jecamiah, Hoshama, and Nedabiah 1 Chronicles 3:18. The text does not provide any further details about his life or actions beyond his inclusion in this record.
The context of H4443 connects it to several other individuals mentioned in the same list:
- H6305 Pᵉdâyâh (Pedaiah): This name means "Jah has ransomed" and is used for six different Israelites in the Bible.
- H8137 Shenʼatstsar (Senazar): This name is noted as being "apparently of Babylonian origin" and identifies an Israelite.
- H3359 Yᵉqamyâh (Jekamiah): Meaning "Jah will rise," this name is given to two Israelites.
- H1953 Hôwshâmâʻ (Hoshama): This name means "Jehovah has heard" and identifies an Israelite.
- H5072 Nᵉdabyâh (Nedabiah): Meaning "largess of Jah," this name identifies an Israelite.
While the name appears only once, its meaning and context offer some insight.
- Aspirational Naming: The name Malkîyrâm, "king of a high one," reflects the Israelite practice of giving names that conveyed status, hope, or a relationship with the divine.
- Theological Environment: Malchiram is listed among individuals whose names explicitly honor God, such as Pᵉdâyâh ("Jah has ransomed") and Hôshâmâʻ ("Jehovah has heard"). This places him in a cultural context where names were a testament to faith.
- Preservation of Lineage: The primary theological function of this name's inclusion is to contribute to the detailed genealogical records of Israel, which underscore God's covenant faithfulness through generations.
In summary, H4443 is the name Malchiram, an Israelite mentioned once in scripture. Its meaning, "king of a high one," and its placement within a genealogical list in 1 Chronicles 3:18 are the only facts known about it from the biblical text. Its significance lies in its contribution to the preservation of Israel's lineage and as an example of the faith-filled names common during the period.
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