הוֹהָם (ho.ham)
ho.ham
Hoham
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 Hoham appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, identifying a Canaanite king of Hebron in Joshua 10:3. The lexicon data defines it as "whom Jehovah impels," a meaning derived from its root components. This etymology is notable because it attributes divine agency to a pagan ruler’s actions, suggesting that even those opposing Israel are moved by the will of Yahweh.
As a proper noun, Hoham serves as a historical marker for the coalition formed against Joshua at Gibeon. The sources confirm he was one of five kings who joined forces to attack the Gibeonites, who had made a treaty with Israel. His single mention anchors him in the specific narrative of the southern conquest campaigns.
Translators typically retain the name as Hoham rather than translating it, preserving its identity as a specific historical figure. The inclusion of his name alongside Adoni-zedek and other kings highlights the organized resistance faced by the Israelites. The text uses this royal title to emphasize the political reality of Canaanite city-states during the conquest period.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Hoham appears only once in Scripture, listed among the five kings who formed a coalition against Israel in Joshua 10:3. Etymologically, it suggests "whom Jehovah impels," a detail that offers a profound theological perspective even for those who oppose God's people.
This single mention reminds us that divine sovereignty extends beyond the boundaries of faith. Even political movements and military alliances formed in opposition to God are ultimately under His watchful eye. No human power operates outside the scope of His permission or purpose, offering comfort that history is never truly chaotic.
When we face opposition or complex global events, this truth anchors our hearts. We do not need to fear the strength of opposing forces, for they too are subject to the same Creator who guides the steps of His people toward His intended ends.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Hoham1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הוֹהָ֣ם1×
Key Verses
-
Joshua 10:3
Therefore Adoni-Zedek king of Jerusalem sent to Hoham king of Hebron, Piram king of Jarmuth, Japhia king of Lachish, and Debir king of Eglon, saying,
This verse records Hoham's inclusion in the southern coalition, highlighting that even opposing leaders are part of a larger historical narrative under God's sovereignty.