Biblical Hebrew Forum

[Isaac Fried <if AT math.bu.edu>]

Earlier biblical names are a fata morgana. The whimsical partition of the name ABRAM into AB-RAM is not better than ABR-AM, or AB-RA-AM, and the spelling of the name with an aleph instead of with an eyin may be an intentional obfuscation by latter scribes. Why SARAY is spelled with a sin instead of a samek is obvious ––– to make us think it has something to do with SAR, 'prince'. 

Isaac Fried, Boston University

On Mar 10, 2013, at 7:42 AM, lascelles James wrote:

Dear List-Members:

This may have been a subject of past discussion but as I am new to the forum I do seek some help. 

Hebrew names usually have meanings that can be determined from semantic and phonetic analysis. However, the name Abraham seems to be quite a challenge as the traditional interpretation "Father of a multitude" or "Father of many nations" just does not account for the presence of the consonant rosh.

Can anyone help to a better understanding or suggest an approach that could assist with determining a more appropriate meaning.

Thanks,

Lascelles James

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