Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Adoniram is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily known for his role in the administration of King Solomon's kingdom. His name, which means "my lord is exalted," reflects the high position he held within the Israelite monarchy.Role and Responsibilities Adoniram served as the overseer of forced labor during the reigns of both King David and King Solomon. His primary responsibility was to manage the labor force that was conscripted for the extensive building projects initiated by Solomon, including the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. This role is first mentioned in 1 Kings 4:6, where it states, "Adoniram son of Abda was in charge of the forced labor." The position of overseeing forced labor was crucial in the ancient Near Eastern context, as it involved organizing and directing a large workforce drawn from the tribes of Israel. This workforce was essential for the completion of Solomon's ambitious projects, which not only included the Temple but also the king's palace and various other infrastructure developments throughout the kingdom. Historical Context Adoniram's role must be understood within the broader context of Solomon's reign, which was marked by prosperity, extensive trade, and monumental building projects. The use of forced labor, while common in ancient monarchies, was a source of tension among the Israelites. The burden of labor conscription contributed to the eventual division of the kingdom after Solomon's death. Later References Adoniram is also mentioned in the context of the rebellion against Rehoboam, Solomon's son. In 1 Kings 12:18, it is recorded, "Then King Rehoboam sent out Adoniram, who was in charge of the forced labor, but all Israel stoned him to death." This incident occurred during the revolt led by Jeroboam, which resulted in the secession of the northern tribes and the formation of the separate kingdom of Israel. The stoning of Adoniram symbolizes the deep resentment and unrest among the people due to the heavy burdens imposed during Solomon's reign. Theological Significance From a theological perspective, Adoniram's account highlights the complexities of leadership and governance in ancient Israel. His role underscores the tension between the king's authority and the people's welfare, a recurring theme in the biblical narrative. The use of forced labor, while facilitating the grandeur of Solomon's kingdom, also sowed seeds of division and discontent, illustrating the potential consequences of oppressive policies. Adoniram's life and death serve as a reminder of the importance of just and compassionate leadership, a principle that resonates throughout the biblical text. His account is a testament to the challenges faced by those in positions of power and the impact of their decisions on the broader community. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Adonirammy Lord is most high; Lord of might and elevation Smith's Bible Dictionary Adoniram(lord of heights), (1 Kings 4:6) by an unusual contraction ADORAM, (2 Samuel 20:24) and 1Kin 12:18 Also HADORAM, (2 Chronicles 10:18) chief receiver of the tribute during the reigns of David, (2 Samuel 20:24) Solomon, (1 Kings 4:6) and Rehoboam. (1 Kings 12:18) This last monarch sent him to collect the tribute from the rebellious Israelites, by whom he was stoned to death, (B.C. 1014-973.) ATS Bible Dictionary AdoniramA receiver of tributes under David and Solomon, and director of the thirty thousand men sent to Lebanon to cut timber, 1 Kings 5:14. The same person is also called Adoram, by contraction, 2 Samuel 20:21 1 Kings 12:8; and also Hadoram, 2 Chronicles 10:18. He was stoned to death by the revolted ten tribes, having been sent to them by Rehoboam, either to induce them to return, or to test by gathering the taxes. Easton's Bible Dictionary (Adoram, 1 Kings 12:18), the son of Abda, was "over the tribute," i.e., the levy or forced labour. He was stoned to death by the people of Israel (1 Kings 4:6; 5:14) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ADONIRAMad-o-ni'-ram ('adhoniram, "my lord is exalted"): An official of Solomon (1 Kings 4:6; 1 Kings 5:14). Near the close of the reign of David, and at the opening of the reign of Rehoboam, the same office was held by Adoram (2 Samuel 20:24 1 Kings 12:18). Strong's Hebrew 141. Adoniram -- "my Lord is exalted," one of Solomon's leaders... Adoniram. 142 . "my Lord is exalted," one of Solomon's leaders. Transliteration: Adoniram Phonetic Spelling: (ad-o-nee-rawm') Short Definition: Adoniram. ... /hebrew/141.htm - 6k 151. Adoram -- an Israelite leader Library Missionary Annals. "Nothing is Impossible to Industry, "Said one of the Seven Sages ... Prayer and a Definite Religious Standard Prayer and Importunity (Continued) Brief Memoir of Thomas Watson Behind the Door The Westminster Catechisms. The Westminster Assembly. Rehoboam's Great Mistake Prayer and Fervency Thesaurus Adoniram (4 Occurrences)...ADONIRAM. ... The name Adoram seems to be a contraction of Adoniram, and doubtless the same person held the office in all the three reigns. ... /a/adoniram.htm - 10k Overseer (84 Occurrences) Abda (2 Occurrences) Adoni'ram (2 Occurrences) Levy (19 Occurrences) Taskwork (14 Occurrences) Hadoram (5 Occurrences) Carriage (32 Occurrences) Forced (84 Occurrences) Tribute (67 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Adoniram (4 Occurrences)1 Kings 4:6 1 Kings 5:14 1 Kings 12:18 2 Chronicles 10:18 Subtopics Adoniram: Also Called Adoram, a Tax Gatherer Related Terms |
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