Article December 21, 1968 Issue

Words of Current Interest

The words in this issue are related to the Lesson-Sermon in the
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE QUARTERLY designated to be read
in Christian Science churches on December 29, 1968.

Abram... Abraham (Neh. 9:7)

The generally accepted meaning of Abram is "exalted father," from the Hebrew ab (father) and ram (high or exalted). The patriarch's alternative name may have been suggested by a similarity of sound between its concluding syllables and hamon (multitude). In Genesis 17: 5, God is reported to have said, "Thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee." Ur of the Chaldees (Neh. 9:7)

A large city in Babylonia (also termed Chaldea), considered by many the birthplace of Abram (Abraham). Archaeological research has proved the wealth and commercial success of Ur, while emphasizing its idolatry. The patriarch came forth from this background to found the Hebrew nation, dedicated to the service of God. He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday (Ps. 37:6)

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