Joram

Joram is a biblical masculine given name, primarily used in English Bible translations. It is a contracted form of Jehoram (Hebrew Yehoram), meaning "exalted by Yahweh" or "Yahweh is exalted."

Etymology

The name originates from the Hebrew elements yeho, referring to the Hebrew God, and rum, meaning "to exalt." The contracted form Joram (Hebrew: יוֹרָם, Yōrām) appears in the Old Testament as a variant of Jehoram.

Biblical Usage

In the Bible, Joram is used interchangeably with Jehoram for two distinct kings who reigned in the 9th century BC: Joram of Israel (son of Ahab) and Joram of Judah (son of Jehoshaphat). Additionally, the name appears for several minor figures, including a son of Toi, king of Hamath (1 Chronicles 18:10), and a Levite in the reign of Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 17:8).

Historical Bearers

Besides biblical figures, the name Joram has been borne by various notable individuals in modern times. These include Zimbabwean politician Joram Gumbo, former Dutch politician Joram van Klaveren, Israeli mathematician Joram Lindenstrauss, film director Joram Lürsen, and sculptor Joram Mariga. Other bearers include Ugandan military officer Joram Mugume, American biologist Joram Piatigorsky, artist Joram Rozov, and Israeli swimmer Joram Shnider.

Variants and Translations

The name occurs in several linguistic forms: Yehoram (Biblical Hebrew), Yoram (modern Hebrew), and Ioram (Biblical Latin). In English versions of the Bible, Joram is the preferred contracted form.

• Meaning: "exalted by Yahweh"
• Origin: Hebrew
• Type: Given name
• Usage: English Bible, Jewish, African