### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼAbrâm**, represented by `{{H87}}`, means **high father** and serves as the original name for the patriarch Abraham. It appears 61 times across 50 unique verses, primarily chronicling the early life of this foundational biblical figure before God renames him. Its meaning points to a position of honor and lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H87}}` is central to the story of God's calling and covenant. The LORD calls **Abram** to leave his father's house and journey to a new land He will show him [[Genesis 12:1]]. Throughout his journey, **Abram** builds altars and calls on the name of the LORD [[Genesis 13:4]]. The name is prominent in the establishment of God's covenant, with God promising to be **Abram's** shield and to give the land to his descendants ([[Genesis 15:1]], [[Genesis 15:18]]). The narrative also details his relationships, such as his plea for peace with his nephew Lot [[Genesis 13:8]] and his life with his wife Sarai [[Genesis 16:1]]. The use of the name ceases when God changes it, marking a pivotal transition in his life [[Genesis 17:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are key to understanding the context of Abram's life:
* `{{H85}}` **ʼAbrâhâm** (Abraham): This is the new name given to Abram, meaning "father of a multitude." This change signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to make him the father of many nations [[Genesis 17:5]].
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This word is the root of Abram's name and identity. It is used when God calls Abram from his "father's house" and when he promises to make him a "father of many nations" ([[Genesis 12:1]], [[Genesis 17:5]]).
* `{{H8297}}` **Sâray** (Sarai): Defined as "dominative; Sarai, the wife of Abraham," she is a central figure in Abram's story. Their journey begins together, and her barrenness is a key element of the narrative leading to God's promises ([[Genesis 12:5]], [[Genesis 16:1]]).
* `{{H3876}}` **Lôwṭ** (Lot): As "Abraham's nephew," Lot's story is intertwined with Abram's early life. Abram travels with him from their homeland and later separates from him to avoid strife between them ([[Genesis 11:31]], [[Genesis 13:8]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H87}}` is significant, establishing foundational themes for the rest of scripture.
* **Divine Calling and Election:** The story of **Abram** begins with God's sovereign choice, calling him out from Ur of the Chaldees to become the progenitor of a special people [[Nehemiah 9:7]].
* **Covenant Relationship:** God initiates a formal covenant with **Abram**, promising him protection, land, and numerous descendants, establishing a pattern for His relationship with Israel [[Genesis 15:18]].
* **The Promise of a Seed:** Central to God's interactions with **Abram** is the promise of a future seed, which carries immediate and long-term redemptive implications ([[Genesis 12:7]], [[Genesis 15:13]]).
* **Precursor to Abraham:** The identity of **Abram**, or "high father," serves as the starting point for his transformation into **Abraham**, the "father of a multitude," signifying that God's plan is one of expansion and fulfillment [[Genesis 17:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H87}}` is more than a simple name; it represents the initial phase of one of the most important figures in the Bible. The story of **Abram** is one of a man called out by God, given monumental promises, and placed at the head of a lineage through which God would carry out His redemptive plan. His life as **Abram** lays the groundwork for the covenantal identity he would later receive as Abraham, father of the faithful.
TRV