Topical Encyclopedia Joram, also referred to as Hadoram in some biblical texts, is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of King David's reign. He is identified as the son of Toi, the king of Hamath, a city-state located in what is now modern-day Syria. The account of Joram is primarily found in 2 Samuel 8:9-10 and 1 Chronicles 18:9-10.Biblical Context and Historical Background During the time of King David, the kingdom of Israel was expanding its borders and consolidating power over neighboring regions. David's military campaigns were successful in subduing various adversaries, including the Philistines, Moabites, and Arameans. It was in this context of regional power dynamics that Joram, son of Toi, enters the biblical narrative. Joram's Mission to King David The biblical account in 2 Samuel 8:9-10 states: "When Toi king of Hamath heard that David had defeated the entire army of Hadadezer, he sent his son Joram to King David to greet him and bless him for fighting against Hadadezer, who had been at war with Toi. Joram brought with him articles of silver and gold and bronze." This passage highlights Joram's diplomatic mission to King David. Toi, recognizing David's growing power and the defeat of a mutual adversary, Hadadezer, sought to establish peaceful relations with Israel. By sending his son Joram with gifts, Toi aimed to secure an alliance or at least ensure peaceful coexistence with the burgeoning Israelite kingdom. Significance of Joram's Gifts The gifts of silver, gold, and bronze that Joram brought to David were significant not only as tokens of goodwill but also as symbols of tribute and recognition of David's authority. These materials were valuable commodities in the ancient Near East, often used in trade, religious offerings, and the crafting of weapons and ornaments. The presentation of such gifts underscored the respect and acknowledgment of David's military prowess and divine favor. Joram's Role in the Biblical Narrative While Joram himself does not play a major role in the broader biblical narrative, his mission to David is emblematic of the shifting political landscape during David's reign. It illustrates the diplomatic efforts of neighboring states to navigate the rise of Israel as a dominant regional power. Joram's actions reflect the broader theme of God's providence in establishing David's kingdom and the fulfillment of the promises made to the patriarchs regarding Israel's prominence among the nations. Textual Variations It is worth noting that in 1 Chronicles 18:9-10, Joram is referred to as Hadoram. This variation in name is not uncommon in ancient texts, where transliterations and translations could result in different renderings of the same name. Despite this discrepancy, the identity and role of Joram/Hadoram as Toi's emissary remain consistent across the accounts. Conclusion Joram, the son of Toi, serves as a minor yet illustrative figure in the biblical account of King David's reign. His mission to David underscores the broader themes of diplomacy, tribute, and the recognition of Israel's divinely ordained rise to power. Through Joram's actions, the narrative highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and the establishment of David's kingdom as a central force in the ancient Near East. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 8:9,10When Toi king of Hamath heard that David had smitten all the host of Hadadezer, Nave's Topical Index Library How David Brought under the Philistines, and the Moabites, and the ... The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Who were the kings of Israel and Judah? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are watchmen in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Arameans? | GotQuestions.org Joram: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Joram: A Son of Toi: Called Hadoram Joram: Also Called Jehoram: Has War With the King of Syria Joram: Also Called Jehoram: Inquires for the Particulars Concerning Elisha's Miracles Joram: Also Called Jehoram: Killed by Jehu Joram: Also Called Jehoram: King of Israel Related Terms |
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