Meaning & History
'Aholivama is a Hebrew form of Aholibamah. The name appears in the Old Testament as a variant of Aholibamah, one of the wives of Esau (Genesis 36:2–25). In the biblical narrative, Aholibamah is described as the daughter of Anah and granddaughter of Zibeon the Hivite, and she bore Esau three sons: Jeush, Jalam, and Korah. The name's meaning, “tent of the high place,” may allude to a place of worship or a sacred tent.
Etymologically, 'Aholivama is composed of two Hebrew elements: ohel (tent) and bamah (high place). The form 'Aholivama reflects a variant transcription of the original Hebrew, with the aleph and vav rendering. This name is relatively rare in modern usage but is preserved in biblical contexts.
Notable bearers: In the Old Testament, Aholibamah is listed among Esau's wives in Genesis, though some scholars equate her with Judith, the daughter of Beeri mentioned in Genesis 26:34. The name is also borne by a chieftain ('aleph) among the Edomites, descended from Esau (Genesis 36:41).
Cultural Significance
The name 'Aholivama appears exclusively in genealogical passages, reflecting the importance of lineage in the biblical narrative. It is a part of the Edomite heritage, as Esau's descendants formed the nation of Edom. The name itself evokes a connection to the patriarch Isaac and the complexities of tribal identity in the Genesis account.
- Meaning: “Tent of the high place”
- Origin: Hebrew (Old Testament)
- Type: Biblical name
- Usage: Primarily religious/historical