הַרְמוֹן
𐤄𐤓𐤌𐤅𐤍
Haremon
H2038 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A fortified structure, typically a citadel or stronghold, often associated with the central residence of a ruler or a seat of administrative authority. The term generally refers to a prominent architectural building elevated above its surroundings, such as a palace or castle, notable for its fortification and height. Occasionally denotes the main administrative center within a city.
Semantic Range
castle, fortress, citadel, palace, fortified administrative center, elevated residence
Root / Etymology
From the root הרם (haram) meaning 'to be high, to elevate, to lift up'. The form הַרְמוֹן reflects a place that is elevated or set on high, aligned with the basic sense of height or loftiness. The derived meaning is that of a raised or prominent (often fortified) dwelling. There is a phonetic and semantic connection to the noun הֵרֶם ('ban', 'devoted thing'), but the root context here is elevation, not devotion or banning.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In the Hebrew Bible, הַרְמוֹן most commonly appears in poetic or prophetic texts to depict the royal residence or the fortified palace of a king, notably in contexts involving judgment or the downfall of foreign powers (e.g., Amos 4:3). Its usage often contrasts with ordinary dwellings (בָּתִּים) or with less fortified structures (אֶרֶמֶס, מִשְׁכָּן). Later translations and interpretations (e.g., KJV 'palace') may narrow the sense to a king's residence, but in the Iron Age context, the term carries connotations of strategic fortification as well as administrative centrality. In post-exilic or later Judean usage, the terminology and concept of a 'palace' may shift, but the biblical texts referencing הַרְמוֹן point to the seat of power, resistance, or wealth. Unlike the broader Hebrew words for 'house' or 'dwelling,' הַרְמוֹן specifies an elevated structure serving political and military functions.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from the same as הֹרָם; a castle (from its height); palace.
Bantu Hebrew
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+ Add Bantu Hebrew WordRoot Family
הרם (h-r-m) — to be high, to lift up, to exalt
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H2038-01 |
הַ/הַרְמ֖וֹנָ/ה | haharemonah | HTd/Np/Sd |
to Harmon | toward the high citadel | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H2038-01 |
Amos 4:3 | הַ/הַרְמ֖וֹנָ/ה | haharemonah | HTd/Np/Sd |
to Harmon | toward the high citadel |