from כָּמַהּ; pining; Kimham, an Israelite; Chimham.
Transliteration:Kimhâm
Pronunciation:kim-hawm'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H3643}}` (Kimhâm) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its etymology is traced to the verbal root `{{H3642}}` (kāmah), which signifies "to long for," "to pine for," or "to yearn." Therefore, the name Kimham itself carries the semantic weight of "pining," "longing," or "yearning." As a proper noun, its primary function is to identify a unique individual, though the root meaning may reflect a characteristic or aspiration associated with the person or their parents.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H3643}}` (Kimhâm) appears in two distinct biblical contexts, separated by several centuries, which attests to the lasting impact of the individual or his legacy.
1. **2 Samuel 19:37-40:** Kimham is introduced in the aftermath of Absalom's rebellion. Barzillai the Gileadite, an elderly and wealthy man who had faithfully provided for King David during his exile, declines David's invitation to come to Jerusalem and live at the royal court. Citing his advanced age, Barzillai suggests that his "servant" or "son" Kimham accompany David instead. The text of [[2 Samuel 19:37]] reads, "Let your servant depart, and let me die in my own city, near the grave of my father and mother. But here is your servant Kimham. Let him go over with my lord the king, and do for him whatever seems good to you." David readily agrees, promising to show Kimham kindness for Barzillai's sake. While some interpretations suggest Kimham was Barzillai's son (as supported by the Septuagint and some later traditions), the Hebrew text in [[2 Samuel 19:40]] simply states "Kimham" in connection with Barzillai, implying a close familial or trusted relationship. This event marks Kimham's entry into the royal sphere, signifying a transfer of favor and a continuation of Barzillai's loyalty through his representative.
2. **Jeremiah 41:17:** Centuries later, in the post-exilic period, `{{H3643}}` reappears in a geographical reference: "Geruth Kimham" (גֵּרוּת כִּמְהָם), meaning "the lodging place of Kimham" or "the dwelling of Kimham." This location is mentioned as a stopping point near Bethlehem for those fleeing after the assassination of Gedaliah. The very existence of a named place, a "lodging place of Kimham," suggests that the favor David showed to Kimham was substantial and resulted in the establishment of a significant property or settlement that bore his name for generations. This indicates that Kimham, or his descendants, likely prospered and maintained a notable presence, perhaps even a caravanserai or a large estate, in the region.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **`{{H3642}}` (kāmah):** The root verb, "to pine, to long for," from which Kimham's name is derived. This etymological connection enriches the understanding of the name itself, though its direct application to Kimham's character is not explicitly stated in the text.
* **Barzillai (`{{H1271}}`):** Kimham's benefactor (and possibly father). The relationship with Barzillai is foundational to Kimham's story, as it is Barzillai's loyalty to David that secures Kimham's future.
* **Loyalty and Gratitude:** Kimham's story is a testament to the biblical themes of loyalty (Barzillai's to David) and reciprocal gratitude (David's to Barzillai and his household).
* **Intergenerational Blessing:** Kimham benefits directly from the good deeds of an elder (Barzillai), illustrating how faithfulness can secure blessings for future generations.
* **Royal Patronage:** David's promise to "do for him whatever seems good to you" indicates a significant act of royal patronage, elevating Kimham's status and ensuring his well-being.
### Theological Significance
While Kimham is not a central theological figure, his narrative subtly illustrates several important biblical principles:
* **The Blessings of Faithfulness:** Barzillai's unwavering loyalty to David, God's anointed king, is an act of faithfulness that results in tangible blessings for his house. Kimham's elevation and the enduring "Geruth Kimham" serve as a concrete example of how God honors those who honor His servants and His purposes. This underscores the theological principle that acts of righteousness and loyalty often yield lasting rewards, not just for the individual but for their descendants.
* **Divine Providence in Human Affairs:** The long-term impact of David's promise, evidenced by "Geruth Kimham" centuries later, suggests a layer of divine providence. God, through David, ensures the prosperity and legacy of those connected to His kingdom's welfare. It highlights how seemingly small acts of kindness and faithfulness can have far-reaching and enduring consequences within God's unfolding plan.
* **The Continuity of Blessing:** The concept of blessings flowing through generations is evident in Kimham's story. He inherits the favor earned by Barzillai, demonstrating a continuity of divine favor and human legacy.
* **Geographical Significance (Subtle):** The location of "Geruth Kimham" near Bethlehem is noteworthy. Bethlehem is the city of David and the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah. While not directly messianic, the association of a place of royal favor and refuge with this significant region adds a layer of historical and geographical resonance within the broader biblical narrative of God's covenant people.
### Summary
`{{H3643}}` (Kimhâm) is a proper noun, a personal name derived from the root `{{H3642}}`, meaning "to pine" or "to yearn." Kimham appears in the biblical narrative primarily as a beneficiary of King David's gratitude towards Barzillai the Gileadite. In [[2 Samuel 19]], Barzillai declines David's invitation to the royal court and instead sends Kimham, who receives David's promise of enduring kindness. This act establishes Kimham's place within the royal patronage system. Centuries later, in [[Jeremiah 41:17]], the name resurfaces as "Geruth Kimham," a significant lodging place near Bethlehem, indicating that the favor shown to Kimham resulted in a lasting legacy and prosperity for his household. Kimham's story, though brief, serves as a poignant illustration of the biblical themes of loyalty, gratitude, intergenerational blessings, and the enduring impact of divine providence within human history.
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