Bible Person

Adoniram

Meaning: my Lord is most high; Lord of might and elevation · Male · 5 cross references

Adoniram, also called Adoram in parallel texts, is the official set over forced labor or tribute under David, Solomon, and Rehoboam. His career ends violently when the northern tribes stone him during their revolt. First appears in 2 Sam 20:24.1

AI summary: Adoniram matters because the cross references present him as the human face of the burdensome state machinery that helped fracture the kingdom. He serves across reigns in the system of levy and labor, and when Rehoboam sends him to the rebels, they kill him immediately. His death is therefore more than personal tragedy; it is a public verdict on oppressive royal administration. Taken together, the material presents Adoniram as an important official whose fate symbolizes the collapse of united kingdom loyalties.1

Central Figure

Adoniram

Meaning: my Lord is most high; Lord of might and elevation

One who was “over the tribute;” i.e., “over the levy.” He was stoned by the Israelites after they had revolted from Rehoboam (2 Chr.