### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼAbrâhâm**, represented by `{{H85}}`, means **father of a multitude**. It appears 175 times in 159 verses and is the later name given to Abram. Abraham is a foundational patriarch whose life and relationship with God establish key themes of promise, covenant, and faith for the nation of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H85}}` is central to the history of God's covenant people. God makes an oath to **Abraham** and his descendants, promising them land ([[Genesis 26:3]], [[Genesis 28:13]]). This covenant is repeatedly remembered by God throughout Israel's history as the basis for His compassion and graciousness ([[Exodus 2:24]], [[2 Kings 13:23]]). God identifies Himself as "the God of **Abraham**" when speaking to later patriarchs like Isaac and Jacob, establishing a generational link ([[Exodus 3:6]], [[Genesis 26:24]]). Abraham's life is marked by tests of faith, such as God's command in the land of Moriah [[Genesis 22:1]], and his obedience to God's voice and commandments is given as a reason for blessing [[Genesis 26:5]]. For his faithfulness, he is called God's friend [[Isaiah 41:8]] and lives to a good old age [[Genesis 25:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the significance of Abraham's role:
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This word is the root of Abraham's name and defines his primary role as the patriarch. The promises given to Abraham are often recalled as promises made to the "fathers" of Israel ([[Exodus 3:15]], [[Deuteronomy 30:20]]).
* `{{H2233}}` **zeraʻ** (seed): The promise of descendants is a cornerstone of the covenant with Abraham. God promises to multiply his **seed** and give them the land ([[Genesis 26:24]], [[Genesis 28:4]]). The people of Israel are identified as the **seed** of Abraham [[Isaiah 41:8]].
* `{{H1285}}` **bᵉrîyth** (covenant): God's relationship with His people is established through His **covenant** with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This compact is remembered by God as a reason for His mercy ([[Exodus 2:24]], [[2 Kings 13:23]]).
* `{{H7650}}` **shâbaʻ** (to swear): The promises to Abraham are secured by a divine oath. The LORD **sware** to give the land to Abraham and his descendants, an oath that is recalled by later generations ([[Genesis 26:3]], [[Genesis 50:24]], [[Deuteronomy 6:10]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H85}}` is immense, establishing foundational principles of God's relationship with humanity.
* **Covenant Headship:** Abraham serves as the chosen head of a people. God's covenant is established with him and remembered for generations, making him a central figure in Israel's identity [[Exodus 2:24]]. The blessing of Abraham is passed down to his descendants [[Genesis 28:4]].
* **A Model of Faith:** Abraham's life demonstrates profound faith and obedience. God tests him [[Genesis 22:1]], and his willingness to obey God's voice and keep His charge is cited as the reason for future blessings on his descendants [[Genesis 26:5]]. God Himself testifies that He knows Abraham will command his household to follow the LORD [[Genesis 18:19]].
* **Recipient of Divine Promise:** He is the recipient of God's foundational promises of blessing, descendants, and land. The LORD appears to him as God Almighty [[Exodus 6:3]] and swears an oath to fulfill these promises ([[Genesis 26:3]], [[Deuteronomy 30:20]]).
* **Friendship with God:** Abraham's relationship with God is uniquely intimate, as he is called God's friend [[Isaiah 41:8]]. This friendship is demonstrated when the LORD redeems him and establishes the house of Jacob through him [[Isaiah 29:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H85}}` **ʼAbrâhâm** is more than just a name; it represents the origin of a covenant people and a model of faith. As the "father of a multitude," his story is one of divine calling, unwavering promise, and tested obedience ([[Genesis 22:1]], [[Isaiah 51:2]]). From the covenant made with him [[Exodus 2:24]] to the land promised to his seed [[Genesis 28:13]], Abraham stands as a pillar in the narrative of redemption, a man known as the friend of God [[Isaiah 41:8]] whose legacy is the foundation for the nation of Israel.
TRV