### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâmâr**, represented by `{{H3649}}`, is a specific term for an **idolatrous priest**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The base definition indicates an ascetic, but it is used exclusively to denote priests involved in idolatry, sometimes transliterated as the **Chemarims**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3649}}` is consistently associated with apostasy and false worship. These priests were put in place by human authority, as the kings of Judah had ordained them to serve in the high places [[2 Kings 23:5]]. Their duties involved leading idolatrous rites, such as burning incense to Baal, the sun, the moon, and the stars. They are also depicted mourning over the loss of idolatrous objects, such as the calves of Bethaven [[Hosea 10:5]]. Ultimately, they are marked for divine judgment, with God vowing to "cut off... the name of the Chemarims" from Judah and Jerusalem [[Zephaniah 1:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of priesthood and worship:
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (literally one officiating, a priest): This is the general term for a priest. While it can refer to the legitimate priesthood of the LORD [[Exodus 19:6]], it is used alongside `{{H3649}}` in [[Zephaniah 1:4]], where God vows to cut off "the Chemarims with the priests," distinguishing the idolatrous priests from the broader, and in this case also corrupt, priestly class.
* `{{H6999}}` **qâṭar** (to burn incense, sacrifice): This describes the primary ritual action performed by the idolatrous priests [[2 Kings 23:5]]. The verb itself is neutral, as the legitimate priests of the LORD also "burn them upon the altar" as part of sanctioned worship [[Leviticus 4:35]]. The context of who is being worshipped determines whether the act is holy or idolatrous.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3649}}` is significant in understanding Israel's apostasy.
* **Illegitimate Authority:** The `kâmâr` represent a counterfeit priesthood, established by earthly kings to worship false gods in direct violation of God's law [[2 Kings 23:5]].
* **Objects of Judgment:** These priests are not merely misguided; they are specific targets of God's corrective and purifying judgment. The promise to "cut off the... Chemarims" is part of God's action to remove the influence of Baal worship from His people [[Zephaniah 1:4]].
* **Embodiment of Idolatry:** The term is exclusively linked to the worship of idols, from the calves of Bethaven [[Hosea 10:5]] to the host of heaven [[2 Kings 23:5]], serving as a definitive label for those who lead others away from the one true God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3649}}` is far more than a simple synonym for "priest." It is a specialized term that identifies a corrupt, idolatrous priesthood established in defiance of God. Its limited but powerful usage in scripture serves to highlight the severity of apostasy and illustrates God's specific judgment against the infrastructure of false worship. It provides a stark contrast to the legitimate priesthood and defines a key element of religious rebellion in the Old Testament.
TRV