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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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