Hotham; Hothan
## Two Biblical Figures Named Hotham The name Hotham appears for two distinct individuals in the Old Testament, both found in the book of 1 Chronicles. The first is Hotham the Asherite, a descendant within the tribe of Asher (1 Chronicles 7:32). The second is Hotham the Aroerite, whose sons were among King David's mighty men (1 Chronicles 11:44). The variation 'Hothan' in some older translations (like the KJV) is considered an incorrect rendering based on the Septuagint.
## Hotham the Asherite Hotham is listed as a son of Heber and a grandson of Beriah within the genealogy of the tribe of Asher (1 Chronicles 7:30-40). This genealogical record establishes familial lines and tribal heritage following the Exile, emphasizing the continuity and identity of the Israelite tribes. His inclusion, though brief, signifies his place in the broader story of God's covenant people.
## Hotham the Aroerite This Hotham is identified as the father of Shama and Jeiel, two warriors listed among David's 'mighty men' (1 Chronicles 11:26-47). These men were renowned for their extraordinary valor and loyalty to David. While Hotham himself is not described as a warrior, his sons' notable military service brings honor to his name and connects him to the foundational era of the Davidic monarchy.
## Meaning of the Name The Hebrew name חוֹתָם (Hotham) means 'seal.' In the ancient Near East, a seal was a personal item used to sign documents and mark ownership, symbolizing authority, authenticity, and trustworthiness. While the biblical text does not explicitly connect the individuals' characters to this meaning, names in Scripture often carried aspirational or descriptive significance.
## Significance in Chronicles The appearances of Hotham reflect the Chronicler's theological purposes. Genealogies (like that in 1 Chronicles 7) reaffirm Israel's identity and God's faithfulness to the tribes. Lists of military heroes (like in 1 Chronicles 11) legitimize David's kingship and celebrate the collective effort that secured and established the kingdom. Hotham's mentions, though minor, contribute to these larger themes of community, legacy, and divine orchestration in Israel's history.
Biblical Context
The name Hotham appears exclusively in the book of 1 Chronicles. Hotham the Asherite is found in the tribal genealogy of Asher (1 Chronicles 7:32). Hotham the Aroerite is mentioned in the list of King David's mighty men, as the father of two warriors, Shama and Jeiel (1 Chronicles 11:44). These are passing references within larger lists, with no independent narrative stories provided.
Theological Significance
The inclusion of names like Hotham underscores the Bible's value on every individual within the covenant community. It teaches that God's story encompasses not just kings and prophets, but also lesser-known families and soldiers who contributed to the life and history of Israel. Their recorded names affirm that faithfulness and service in one's appointed role are part of God's collective plan. The genealogies also highlight God's faithfulness in preserving tribal lineages as part of his promises to the patriarchs.
Historical Background
Extra-biblical sources do not mention these specific individuals. However, the contexts in which they appear are historically informative. The genealogy of Asher reflects post-exilic efforts to preserve tribal identities. The list of David's mighty men aligns with a known ancient Near Eastern literary tradition of recording the exploits of a king's elite warriors to enhance his prestige. Aroer, associated with Hothan the father, was a town in the Transjordan, suggesting his family's roots in that region.