Lexical Summary Iram: Iram Original Word: עִירָם Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Iram From iyr; city-wise; Iram, an Idumaean -- Iram. see HEBREW iyr NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom ir Definition an Edomite NASB Translation Iram (2). Brown-Driver-Briggs עִירָם proper name, masculine in Edom Genesis 36:43 = 1 Chronicles 1:54, Ζαφω(ε)ιν (A Gen Ηραμ). עֵירֹם see עור Topical Lexicon Etymology and Name Significance Iram (עִירָם) is generally understood to mean “firm,” “stout,” or “strong-town.” Although the Scriptures provide no explicit commentary on the name’s intent, the placement of Iram among the tribal chiefs of Edom suggests a title of stature and fortitude that befits leadership within a developing nation descended from Esau. Biblical Occurrences 1. Genesis 36:43 – “Magdiel and Iram; these were the chiefs of Edom, according to their settlements in the land they possessed. This was Esau the father of the Edomites.” Historical Context The two verses occur in parallel genealogical listings that trace the lineage of Esau, establishing the early political structure of Edom. Moses records the list in Genesis during Israel’s wilderness era, whereas the Chronicler rehearses the same facts for post-exilic Judah. Iram therefore stands as a witness to two distant generations: the original formation of Edomite leadership and the later re-affirmation of God’s historical dealings with Israel’s neighbors. As a chief, Iram would have exercised authority in the trans-Jordanian region south of the Dead Sea. Edom’s chiefs (Hebrew: אַלּוּף, alluph) functioned as tribal chieftains who governed localized territories. Their enumeration in Scripture underscores God’s fulfillment of His word to Rebekah that “two nations are in your womb” (Genesis 25:23), a truth later elaborated by Paul when he speaks of God’s sovereign purposes in Romans 9:10-13. Theological and Ministry Insights 1. Divine Faithfulness in Genealogies Every named chief—including Iram—affirms that Yahweh’s promise to make Esau a nation (Genesis 36:1) was honored despite Esau’s secondary status in the Abrahamic line. That faithfulness strengthens confidence that God likewise preserves His covenant people and fulfills every aspect of His word. 2. Sovereignty and Human Choice Edom often opposed Israel (Numbers 20:14-21; Obadiah 10-14), yet the listing of Iram alongside other chiefs reminds believers that God rules over all nations, shaping their destinies to serve His redemptive plan (Proverbs 21:1). Leaders rise and fall, but the Lord remains the ultimate Governor of history. 3. Warning Against Pride Obadiah 3 indicts Edom’s pride: “The arrogance of your heart has deceived you.” Although Iram’s personal conduct is unrecorded, his nation’s later history serves as a caution to every leader. Authority apart from obedience invites judgment. Christian ministry can apply this principle by cultivating humility and intercession for governing officials (1 Timothy 2:1-4). 4. Inclusion of the “Other” in God’s Story The chronicling of Iram among Israel’s records signals that God’s salvation narrative embraces even those outside the covenant line. The prophetic hope of Amos 9:12 foresees a day when the “remnant of Edom” shares in restored blessing—a promise ultimately realized in the gospel’s reach to “every tribe and tongue” (Revelation 7:9). Lessons for Today • Leadership is entrusted, not earned; like Iram, every steward will answer to God. While Iram appears only twice, his brief mention anchors enduring truths: God keeps His promises, directs history, and calls His people to faithful witness among the nations. Forms and Transliterations עִירָ֑ם עירם ‘î·rām ‘îrām iRamLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Genesis 36:43 HEB: מַגְדִּיאֵ֖ל אַלּ֣וּף עִירָ֑ם אֵ֣לֶּה ׀ אַלּוּפֵ֣י NAS: chief Iram. These KJV: duke Iram: these [be] the dukes INT: Magdiel chief Iram These are the chiefs 1 Chronicles 1:54 2 Occurrences |
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