### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term פִּרְאָם (Pirʼâm), Strong's number `{{H6502}}`, is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates a derivation from פֶּרֶא (pereʼ), `{{H6501}}`, which denotes a "wild ass" or "wildness." Thus, the name Piram inherently carries the semantic connotation of "wildly" or "like a wild ass." As a proper noun, its primary function is to identify a specific individual. However, the etymological root suggests a character trait or a destiny associated with untamed nature, freedom, or perhaps an untamed, rebellious spirit.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Piram appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Joshua:
* [[Joshua 10:3]]: "Therefore Adoni-Zedek king of Jerusalem sent to Hoham king of Hebron, to Piram king of Jarmuth, to Japhia king of Lachish, and to Debir king of Eglon, saying..."
In this singular occurrence, Piram is identified as the king of Jarmuth, one of the five Amorite kings who formed an alliance to attack Gibeon after Gibeon made a peace treaty with Israel. This coalition of kings, led by Adoni-Zedek of Jerusalem, sought to punish Gibeon for its defection from the Canaanite league. Their action was a direct challenge to the burgeoning Israelite presence in the land. Piram, as part of this alliance, directly opposed Joshua and the armies of Israel. The narrative proceeds to describe the decisive victory of Israel, aided by divine intervention (hailstones and the sun standing still), leading to the capture and execution of these five kings in the cave of Makkedah ([[Joshua 10:16-27]]). Piram's participation in this futile resistance, culminating in his defeat and death, underscores the theme of divine judgment against the inhabitants of Canaan.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation is to פֶּרֶא (pereʼ), `{{H6501}}`, "wild ass." This term is frequently used in Scripture to describe untamed, free, and often stubborn or unruly behavior (e.g., [[Job 39:5-8]], [[Jeremiah 2:24]], [[Hosea 8:9]]). The association of Piram with "wildness" could be seen as symbolic of the untamed, rebellious nature of the Canaanite kings who resisted God's appointed people.
Other related concepts include:
* **Amorites:** One of the prominent Canaanite groups destined for judgment and displacement by Israel. Their kings, including Piram, represent the entrenched wickedness that God commanded to be removed from the land.
* **Divine Judgment:** Piram's fate, along with the other kings, is a clear demonstration of God's judgment against the nations that opposed His will and His covenant people.
* **Conquest of Canaan:** Piram is a minor figure within the larger narrative of Israel's conquest of the Promised Land under Joshua, a fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham ([[Genesis 15:18-21]]).
### Theological Significance
The name Piram, with its etymological link to "wildness," takes on a poignant theological significance in light of his actions and ultimate demise. Piram, the king of Jarmuth, epitomizes the "wild" and untamed resistance of the Canaanite nations against the divine decree for Israel to inherit the land. His alliance with other kings was an act of defiance against the God of Israel, a desperate and ultimately futile attempt to thwart His sovereign plan. The "wildness" implied by his name, rather than signifying unconquerable strength, ironically foreshadows the unbridled, yet ultimately self-destructive, nature of his rebellion. His defeat and execution by Joshua are not merely historical events but serve as powerful theological statements:
* **God's Sovereignty:** Even the "wildest" and most formidable human opposition cannot stand against the purposes of the Almighty.
* **Fulfillment of Promise:** Piram's fall is part of the unfolding narrative of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, establishing Israel in the land.
* **Justice and Judgment:** The destruction of Piram and his allies underscores the righteous judgment of God against the deep-seated wickedness and idolatry of the Canaanite inhabitants.
### Summary
פִּרְאָם (Pirʼâm), Strong's number `{{H6502}}`, is a proper Hebrew noun, the name of a Canaanite king. Derived from `{{H6501}}` ("wild ass"), the name suggests "wildness" or an untamed character. Piram appears only once in the Bible, in [[Joshua 10:3]], as the king of Jarmuth and one of the five Amorite kings who allied against Gibeon and Israel. His participation in this rebellion led to his defeat and execution by Joshua, serving as a powerful illustration of divine judgment against those who oppose God's sovereign will. The etymological meaning of his name symbolically highlights the futile, "wild" resistance of the Canaanite nations against the divinely ordained conquest of Israel, ultimately demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness and justice.
TRV