Learn more about Abram

Introduction to Abram

Abram, whose name means "Exalted Father," is the original name of Abraham before it was changed by God as part of the covenant in Genesis 17. He is a pivotal figure in the biblical narrative, known as the progenitor of the Israelites, and plays a central role in the development of the Abrahamic faiths: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. His story is woven through Genesis 11–25, chronicling his journey from Mesopotamia to Canaan and his transformation into a key figure in God’s redemptive plan.

Abram Pronunciation

“Abram” is pronounced as AY-bram, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Abram in the Bible

Early Life and Family

Abram was born in Ur of the Chaldeans, a city in southern Mesopotamia, and was the son of Terah. He had two brothers, Nahor and Haran, and was married to Sarai, who was later renamed Sarah. His early life reflects the polytheistic environment of his time, though his unique relationship with God sets him apart from his contemporaries (Joshua 24:2-3; Genesis 11:27-32).

Divine Call and Journey

Abram first encountered God in Mesopotamia when he was called to leave his homeland and family to travel to an unknown land that God would show him (Genesis 12:1-4; Acts 7:2-4). This command marked the beginning of his journey of faith. Abram initially settled in Haran with his family before completing his journey to Canaan upon his father Terah’s death.

Life in Canaan

Upon arriving in Canaan, Abram moved through key locations, including Shechem, Bethel, and the Negev, where he built altars to worship God (Genesis 12:7-9). During a famine, Abram went to Egypt, where his deception about Sarai being his sister led to a conflict with Pharaoh, but also resulted in material gain (Genesis 12:10-20). Returning to Canaan, Abram allowed Lot, his nephew, to choose the fertile plain of Jordan, while he settled near Hebron (Genesis 13).

Military Exploits and Covenant

When Lot was captured by a coalition of kings, Abram led a successful rescue mission with 318 trained men from his household, demonstrating his leadership and resourcefulness (Genesis 14:14-16). Abram was blessed by Melchizedek, king of Salem, and reaffirmed his loyalty to God by refusing any reward from the King of Sodom (Genesis 14:18-24).

God established a covenant with Abram, promising him descendants as numerous as the stars and the land of Canaan as their inheritance (Genesis 15). This covenant was symbolized by a ritual involving the dividing of animals and the passing of a smoking firepot and flaming torch between them, signifying God’s unbreakable promise.

Transition to Abraham

At the age of 99, Abram’s name was changed to Abraham, meaning “Father of a Multitude,” to signify the fulfillment of God’s promise to make him the ancestor of many nations. The sign of this covenant was circumcision, which Abraham instituted among his household (Genesis 17). His wife Sarai’s name was also changed to Sarah, and God promised them a son, Isaac, despite their old age.

Related Terms and Meanings

- Abraham: The new name given to Abram as part of God’s covenant. - Sarai: Abram’s wife, later renamed Sarah. - Covenant: The divine promise of land and descendants given to Abram, foundational to Israel’s identity.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Abram

- Abram is one of the few biblical figures whose name is changed as part of a divine promise, signifying a transformation in identity and mission. - The name "Abram" is attested in ancient Mesopotamian documents, aligning with his origin in Ur of the Chaldeans. - His interactions with figures like Pharaoh and Melchizedek underscore his role as a mediator between God and the nations. - Abram’s journey is a model of faith, as described in Hebrews 11:8-10, where he is commended for trusting in God’s promises without knowing the outcome.