עַמְרָם (am.ram)
am.ram
Amram
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 9 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Amram, meaning "exalted people" or "lofty kin," identifies a pivotal figure in the lineage of Levi. He appears primarily in the genealogical records of Exodus and Numbers as the son of Kohath and the husband of Jochebed. This union produced the three leaders who would guide Israel out of Egypt: Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.
His significance lies not in independent deeds but in his role as a bridge between generations. By linking the tribe of Levi to the deliverance narrative, Amram ensures that the priestly and prophetic lines remain intact during the period of slavery. The text records him briefly, yet his descendants shape the entire history of Israel.
The name also resurfaces in Chronicles and Ezra, where it marks later Levites who maintained their heritage. In these contexts, it serves as a reminder of continuity, connecting the wilderness community with the restored post-exilic congregation. The term Amramite further distinguishes this specific family line within the broader Levitical structure.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Amram appears in Scripture primarily as a link in a chain, connecting the tribe of Levi to the great deliverance of Moses and Aaron. While he does not perform dramatic acts himself, his role is foundational. He represents the quiet faithfulness of generations who preserved their identity and lineage during times of uncertainty. This reminds us that God often works through ordinary family structures and hidden histories to bring about His purposes.
In the New Testament context, this continuity points to how God honors those who remain faithful in their daily lives. The legacy of Amram shows that our ancestors’ obedience can shape the spiritual future of many. We are part of a larger story where each generation plays a vital role in passing down the truth.
When we read these genealogies, we see that God values every link in the chain. Your faithfulness today contributes to a legacy you may never fully see. Trust that your quiet obedience is seen and used by God for good, just as Amram’s lineage led to the Exodus.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Amram9×
- to/ Amram1×
- [were] Amram1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עַמְרָ֣ם2×
- עַמְרָ֖ם2×
- עַמְרָם֙1×
- עַמְרָֽם\׃1×
- עַמְרָ֥ם1×
- עַמְרָ֜ם1×
- עַמְרָ֗ם1×
- עַמְרָ֔ם1×
- לְ/עַמְרָ֗ם1×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 6:20
Amram took Jochebed his father’s sister to himself as wife; and she bore him Aaron and Moses. The years of the life of Amram were one hundred thirty-seven years.
This verse establishes Amram’s direct role in the birth of Moses and Aaron, highlighting how his family line became central to Israel's deliverance.
-
I Chronicles 23:13
The sons of Amram: Aaron and Moses; and Aaron was separated that he should sanctify the most holy things, he and his sons forever, to burn incense before Yahweh, to minister to him, and to bless in his name forever.
It clarifies that while Moses led the people, Aaron was set apart for priestly service, showing how Amram’s descendants had distinct but complementary roles in worship.
-
Numbers 26:59
The name of Amram’s wife was Jochebed, the daughter of Levi, who was born to Levi in Egypt. She bore to Amram Aaron and Moses, and Miriam their sister.
This passage confirms Jochebed’s lineage and reinforces the unity of Levi’s family within Egypt, emphasizing the preservation of tribal identity during slavery.