The Hebrew word Kilmâd, represented by H3638, is a term of foreign derivation. It is defined as a place apparently within the Assyrian empire, translated as Chilmad. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, making its significance entirely dependent on its single context.
The sole appearance of H3638 is in Ezekiel 27:23, within a prophecy detailing the extensive trade network of Tyre. Chilmad is listed among a group of prominent cities and regions that served as Tyre's trading partners. The verse states, "Haran, and Canneh, and Eden, the merchants of Sheba, Asshur, and Chilmad, were thy merchants." This places Chilmad in the company of well-known commercial centers, highlighting the vast reach of Tyre's influence.
The context of H3638 connects it with several other significant places and terms related to commerce:
- H2771 Chârân (Haran): A place name, defined as "parched," which appears alongside Chilmad as one of Tyre's merchants Ezekiel 27:23.
- H3656 Kanneh (Canneh): Identified as a place in Assyria, it is also listed in the same roster of trading partners in Ezekiel 27:23.
- H5729 ʻEden (Eden): Meaning "pleasure," this refers to a place in Mesopotamia, another one of the merchants trading with Tyre Ezekiel 27:23.
- H7402 râkal (merchant): This root word, meaning "to travel for trading," is used to describe the function of Chilmad and the other entities in their relationship with Tyre Ezekiel 27:23.
- H7614 Shᵉbâʼ (Sheba): A name of foreign origin referring to a people and district, whose merchants also traded with Tyre Ezekiel 27:23.
- H804 ʼAshshûwr (Asshur): Representing Assyria, its people, and its empire, Asshur is also named as a merchant of Tyre Ezekiel 27:23.
The significance of H3638 is derived entirely from its inclusion in the oracle against Tyre.
- A Symbol of Extensive Trade: Chilmad's presence in a list with Haran, Eden, Sheba, and Asshur serves to illustrate the sheer scope of Tyre's commercial network, which formed the basis of its wealth and pride Ezekiel 27:23.
- Component of a Prophetic Message: The name appears within a detailed prophetic declaration from the Lord GOD concerning Tyre Ezekiel 27:3. The meticulous listing of its trade partners, including the otherwise obscure Chilmad, builds the case for the city's immense worldly status, which is the subject of the prophecy.
In summary, Kilmâd H3638 is a unique place name, Chilmad, found only once in scripture. Its importance is not in its independent meaning but in its contextual role in Ezekiel's prophecy against Tyre. It functions as a specific detail that helps paint a picture of a vast, international trade network, underscoring the worldly power and influence that brought about the city's divine judgment.
TRV