אֲדֹנִירָם (a.do.ni.ram)
a.do.ni.ram
Adoniram
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Adoniram, meaning "my lord is exalted," identifies a high-ranking official during the United Monarchy. First appearing in 2 Samuel 20:24 as the son of Abda, he held significant administrative power under King Solomon, overseeing forced labor projects (1 Kings 4:6; 5:14). His prominence suggests a key role in managing the kingdom’s extensive building and resource operations.
Translators sometimes render this name as Adoram or Hadoram in different biblical books, reflecting variations in textual transmission. The chronicler uses Hadoram when recounting Solomon’s son Rehoboam sending him to negotiate with the rebellious tribes (2 Chronicles 10:18). This mission ended fatally; the angry Israelites stoned him to death, an event that helped trigger the split between Israel and Judah.
As a proper noun, Adoniram carries theological weight through its etymology. The first element, adon, means "lord" or "master," while ram signifies "exalted." This combination reflects the high status of the individual within the royal court structure. His story illustrates how administrative figures were deeply entangled in the political tensions that reshaped the nation.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Adoniram is a name that means "my lord is exalted." It identifies a high official who managed Solomon’s building projects and forced labor. His story shows how administrative power worked in ancient Israel, handling the kingdom's resources and construction efforts.
This name reminds us that leadership involves responsibility before God. Those in charge of others' work must act with justice and care. The biblical account highlights both the structure of the monarchy and the human cost when authority is misused.
When we read about Adoniram, we see a real person caught in complex political times. His life illustrates that power can lead to both great achievements and serious conflict. We are invited to reflect on how we handle our own responsibilities with integrity and humility.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Adoniram1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וַ/אֲדֹנִירָ֥ם1×
Key Verses
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I Kings 4:6
Ahishar was over the household; and Adoniram the son of Abda was over the men subject to forced labor.
This verse identifies Adoniram specifically as the official in charge of the men subject to forced labor, highlighting his direct administrative role under Solomon.