of foreign derivation; Kilmad, a place apparently in the Assyrian empire; Chilmad.
Transliteration:Kilmâd
Pronunciation:kil-mawd'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3638}}` (Kilmâd) is identified as a proper noun, specifically a geographical place name. Its base definition explicitly states "of foreign derivation," indicating that its etymology is not rooted in the Hebrew language and thus its intrinsic meaning is not readily decipherable from a Hebrew linguistic perspective. The term refers to a specific locality, described as "a place apparently in the Assyrian empire." This suggests its location within the geopolitical sphere of influence dominated by the Neo-Assyrian Empire during the period of its prominence. The semantic range of `{{H3638}}` is therefore highly restricted, pointing solely to a particular geographical entity rather than an action, attribute, or abstract concept.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H3638}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Ezekiel.
* [[Ezekiel 27:23]]: "Haran, Canneh, Eden, the merchants of Sheba, Asshur, and Chilmad were your merchants."
In this solitary occurrence, Kilmad is listed among a series of places and peoples that engaged in extensive trade with the powerful maritime city of Tyre. Ezekiel 27 is a prophetic lamentation over Tyre, detailing its immense wealth, its vast commercial network, and ultimately, its impending downfall due to its pride and idolatry. The inclusion of Kilmad alongside other significant trading partners like Haran (a major trade city in northern Mesopotamia) and Asshur (referring to Assyria itself or its capital city) underscores its role as a participant in Tyre's far-reaching commercial enterprises. Its placement within this list reinforces the understanding that Kilmad was a recognized and active center within the ancient Near Eastern trade routes, likely situated within or adjacent to the Assyrian sphere of influence, consistent with its definition.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that `{{H3638}}` is a proper noun of foreign derivation, it does not have direct linguistic cognates or etymological relatives within the Hebrew lexicon. However, it is conceptually related to several broader themes and geographical entities:
* **Ancient Near Eastern Geography:** Kilmad is intrinsically linked to the geographical and political landscape of the ancient Near East, particularly the regions under or adjacent to Assyrian dominion.
* **Trade Networks:** Its mention in [[Ezekiel 27:23]] connects it directly to the sophisticated and extensive trade routes that characterized the ancient world, highlighting the interconnectedness of various regions through commerce.
* **Assyrian Empire:** The definition explicitly places Kilmad "apparently in the Assyrian empire," linking it to the dominant geopolitical power of the era. Other places mentioned in the same context, such as Haran `{{H2771}}`, Canneh `{{H7070}}`, and Asshur `{{H804}}`, further contextualize Kilmad within this historical framework.
* **Prophetic Indictment of Tyre:** As part of the exhaustive list of Tyre's trading partners, Kilmad contributes to the overall picture of Tyre's immense worldly power and pride, which forms the basis for the divine judgment pronounced against it in Ezekiel 26-28.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3638}}` does not stem from its intrinsic meaning, as it is a foreign place name, but rather from its role within the broader prophetic message of Ezekiel.
1. **Divine Knowledge and Sovereignty:** The meticulous detail with which Ezekiel lists Tyre's trading partners, including a seemingly minor or obscure place like Kilmad, underscores the comprehensive knowledge of God. It testifies to the divine awareness of all worldly affairs, even the intricate details of international commerce. This demonstrates God's sovereignty over all nations and their economies, not just Israel.
2. **Scope of Divine Judgment:** The inclusion of Kilmad contributes to the portrayal of Tyre's vast global reach and its reliance on worldly alliances and wealth. This extensive network, far from being a source of security, becomes part of the indictment against Tyre. God's judgment is shown to be comprehensive, encompassing all aspects of Tyre's pride and worldly glory, including its far-flung commercial ties.
3. **Historical Veracity of Prophecy:** The specific mention of places like Kilmad, which were historically relevant but perhaps less prominent than major capitals, lends a powerful sense of historical grounding and authenticity to the prophetic text. It suggests that the prophet's message was deeply intertwined with the geopolitical realities of his time, affirming the concrete nature of God's engagement with human history.
### Summary
`{{H3638}}` (Kilmâd) is a proper noun of foreign derivation, referring to a specific geographical location likely situated within the Assyrian Empire. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Ezekiel 27:23]] places it as one of the numerous trading partners of Tyre, highlighting the vastness of Tyre's commercial network. While lacking an inherent Hebrew etymological meaning, Kilmad's inclusion in Ezekiel's prophecy is significant. It serves to illustrate the comprehensive nature of God's knowledge and sovereignty over all nations and their intricate affairs, contributing to the detailed indictment against Tyre's worldly pride. The specific historical detail provided by such a name also underscores the grounded and authentic nature of biblical prophecy within the geopolitical realities of the ancient world.
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