Brief Overview of Ἀράμ (G689: Arám)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: Arám

Root Words:

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• The term Ἀράμ (Arám) is related to the ancient Semitic name for the region and people known as Arameans.

Primary Meanings:

• Geographical Region: Refers to Aram, an ancient region located in what is now modern-day Syria. The area was known for its various city-states and significant role in the ancient Near East.
• People: Denotes the Arameans, the inhabitants of Aram, who were known for their interactions with ancient Israel and other neighboring peoples.

In Greek texts, Ἀράμ signifies both the territory and its people, reflecting their historical and cultural importance.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG describes Ἀράμ as the name of an ancient region in the Near East, primarily in modern-day Syria. It highlights its importance in historical and biblical contexts, especially its interactions with Israel.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon identifies Ἀράμ as referring to the region of Aram and its people. It emphasizes the historical context in which the Arameans played a role.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary notes that Ἀράμ refers to both the geographical region and its inhabitants, stressing its significance in ancient historical and biblical narratives.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon lists Ἀράμ as referring to the region of Aram, including its role in historical texts and its geographical location.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines Ἀράμ as Aram, specifying its use in referring to the region in Syria and its people.

Bible Verses:

• Luke 4:27 (KJV): “And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian.”
• The mention of Naaman as a Syrian reflects the broader context of the Aramean region.
• Matthew 1:3 (KJV): “And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram.”
• This genealogical reference includes Aram, linking it to the lineage of David.
• 2 Kings 5:1 (KJV): “Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honourable, because by him the LORD had given deliverance unto Syria…”
• The mention of Syria (Aram) highlights its historical significance and interactions.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

In classic Greek literature, Ἀράμ is used to refer to the Aramean region and people:

• Herodotus describes various regions and peoples, including Aram, in his historical accounts.
• Strabo includes Aram in his geographical descriptions, noting its location and significance.
• Diodorus Siculus refers to the Arameans in his historical writings, highlighting their interactions with other ancient civilizations.

4. Summary:

The Greek term Ἀράμ (G689: Arám) refers to the ancient region of Aram and its people, known as the Arameans. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, and LSJ provide insights into its historical and geographical significance. Biblical references to Aram reflect its role in the ancient Near East, while classic Greek literature offers additional context regarding its importance and interactions with neighboring regions.