### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Kimhâm**, also rendered as Chimham, is represented by `{{H3643}}`. Its base definition is "pining," and it refers to a specific Israelite. This name appears **4 times** in the biblical text, across **4 unique verses**, primarily detailing his association with King David.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Chimham `{{H3643}}` is introduced as the servant `{{H5650}}` of Barzillai. When King David offers to provide for the aged Barzillai, Barzillai declines but requests that the king take Chimham instead, allowing the king `{{H4428}}` to do for him whatever seems good `{{H2896}}` [[2 Samuel 19:37]]. The king agrees, and Chimham goes over with him [[2 Samuel 19:38]]. He accompanies the king to Gilgal `{{H1537}}`, conducted by the people of Judah `{{H3063}}` and half the people of Israel `{{H3478}}` [[2 Samuel 19:40]]. Much later, a location known as "the habitation `{{H1628}}` of Chimham," which is by `{{H681}}` Bethlehem `{{H1035}}`, is mentioned as a stopping point for a group intending to enter Egypt `{{H4714}}` [[Jeremiah 41:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Kimhâm's story:
* `{{H113}}` **ʼâdôwn** (lord, master, owner): Barzillai uses this term to refer to King David, establishing the relationship of respect and authority that allows him to make his request for Chimham [[2 Samuel 19:37]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (king, royal): This word is used repeatedly to describe David, highlighting the royal authority and favor being bestowed upon Chimham ([[2 Samuel 19:38]], 40).
* `{{H1628}}` **gêrûwth** (a (temporary) residence; habitation): This term is specifically used to name the dwelling place granted to Chimham, indicating a fulfillment of the king's promise to provide for him [[Jeremiah 41:17]].
* `{{H1035}}` **Bêyth Lechem** (Bethlehem): The placement of Chimham's habitation near this significant town connects his legacy to a well-known location within the territory of Judah `{{H3063}}` [[Jeremiah 41:17]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative of Kimhâm, though brief, carries significant themes:
* **Royal Favor:** Kimhâm’s story is a clear example of a king's favor being extended to the servant `{{H5650}}` of a loyal subject. The king's promise to do what seems good `{{H2896}}` results in tangible provision [[2 Samuel 19:38]].
* **Legacy through Provision:** The existence of "the habitation `{{H1628}}` of Chimham" centuries later demonstrates the lasting impact of King David's kindness. A single act of royal favor resulted in a landmark that bore Chimham's name for generations [[Jeremiah 41:17]].
* **Loyalty Rewarded:** While the reward is given to Kimhâm, it originates from Barzillai’s relationship with his lord `{{H113}}`, the king. It illustrates how allegiance to the sovereign can result in blessings for those under one's care.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3643}}` Kimhâm is an individual whose story illustrates the dynamics of loyalty and royal provision in ancient Israel. Initially presented as a servant passed into the care of King David, his name becomes permanently associated with a piece of land near Bethlehem. This serves as a lasting testament to a promise made by a king `{{H4428}}` and the favor shown to one who came into his service.
TRV