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Chimham

biblical_person theological_term standard

Chimham is a minor Old Testament figure associated with Barzillai the Gileadite and David’s return after Absalom’s rebellion.

At a Glance

A little-known Old Testament name tied to David’s gratitude toward Barzillai and to a later place near Bethlehem.

Key Points

Description

Chimham is a minor Old Testament proper name, most likely referring to a son or close descendant of Barzillai the Gileadite. In 2 Samuel 19:31-40, Barzillai declines David’s invitation to come to Jerusalem after helping support the king during Absalom’s rebellion, and Chimham appears in the scene as the one who goes in Barzillai’s place and comes under David’s favor. Jeremiah 41:17 also mentions the “habitation of Chimham,” apparently a lodging place or property near Bethlehem associated with this name or family. Scripture provides only limited information, so interpreters should avoid speculation and simply note the two biblical references and their likely connection.

Biblical Context

Chimham belongs to the narrative of David’s restoration after Absalom’s revolt. Barzillai had supported David in exile, and David offered him honor in return. Chimham appears as part of that gracious exchange. The later mention in Jeremiah suggests that the name remained attached to a place near Bethlehem.

Historical Context

The references to Chimham preserve a small glimpse into royal patronage, gratitude, and land or lodging designations in ancient Judah. The personal name later became associated with a location, which was not uncommon in the ancient Near East. The historical details remain sparse and should not be pressed beyond the text.

Jewish and Ancient Context

In the biblical world, names could become associated with property, memorial sites, or family holdings. The “habitation of Chimham” in Jeremiah may reflect such a memorial or inherited association. The text does not explain the full background, so historical reconstruction should remain tentative.

Primary Key Texts

Secondary Key Texts

Original Language Note

The Hebrew name is usually understood as a personal name, though the precise etymology is uncertain. The biblical text itself gives no explanation of its meaning.

Theological Significance

Chimham has little direct doctrinal significance, but the name sits within a passage that highlights gratitude, covenant loyalty, and royal honor. The broader narrative shows David’s appreciation for loyal support and God’s providential care in restoring the kingdom.

Philosophical Explanation

As a proper name, Chimham is not a theological concept. Its importance is literary and historical: it identifies a real person, or family-associated name, within the biblical record.

Interpretive Cautions

Do not overstate what Scripture does not state. The text does not fully identify Chimham’s relationship to Barzillai beyond close association, and it does not explain the exact origin of the later place-name in Jeremiah. The entry should remain modest and text-bound.

Major Views

Most interpreters treat Chimham as a personal name linked to Barzillai’s household and to a later site near Bethlehem. Details beyond that are uncertain and not doctrinally significant.

Doctrinal Boundaries

This entry should be treated as a biblical proper name, not as a doctrine, office, or theological category. No doctrinal claims should be attached to it beyond the biblical narrative context.

Practical Significance

Chimham’s brief mention reminds readers that God records even minor people and details in Scripture. It also illustrates gratitude, loyal service, and the way biblical names can remain attached to places or memorials.

Related Entries

See Also

Data

Machine-readable JSON for Chimham

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