Avraam is the modern Greek form of Abraham. The name Abraham itself derives from the Hebrew ʾAvraham, traditionally interpreted as meaning "father of many" or a contraction of Abram and hamon (“multitude”). According to the biblical book of Genesis 17:5, God changed the patriarch’s name from Abram to Abraham as a sign of the covenant, promising that he would become the father of many nations.Etymology and HistoryThe Hebrew name ʾAvraham (אַבְרָהָם) is composed of elements that suggest ''father of a multitude''—an apt description for the progenitor of the Israelites and, through his son Ishmael, of Arab peoples. While the precise linguistic development remains debated, the Septuagint and later Greek translations rendered the name as Abraam. From Byzantine Greek, the name entered Slavic languages; in Russian, for instance, the Church used forms such as Avraam and Avraamy, while the colloquial variant Abram remained common until the late 19th century. Avraam became established as the standard modern Greek form across the Greek-speaking world, linking to the ancient moniker via a continuous Christian tradition.Cultural and Religious SignificanceIn Greek Orthodoxy, Avraam is revered as the patriarch Abraham, honored for his unwavering faith and obedience to God. The name appears in both the Old Testament and the New Testament, and Saint Abraham is commemorated by the Eastern Orthodox Church. Beyond Greece, avatars of the name—including Ibrahim in Arabic, Ebrahim in Persian, and Avram—appear among Jews, Christians, and Muslims, underlining its interfaith importance.Usage TodayIn modern Greece, Avraam is a relatively uncommon but traditional male name, often passed down through families. It is also present among the Greek diaspora and in Cyprus. Greek tradition often includes patronymics; however, as a given name, Avraam is used independently. The variant Abraam occasionally appears in English-speaking contexts, but the Greek form retains strong ties to both linguistic heritage and Orthodox faith.Meaning: “father of many” / “exalted father”Origin: Modern Greek adaptation of Hebrew AbrahamType: Masculine given nameRegions: Greece, Cyprus, Greek diasporaRelated forms: Abraham, Ibrahim, Abram, Brahim