Chemarim
“Possibly 'those who go about in black' or 'ascetics'”
Summary
A Hebrew term for idolatrous priests, particularly those who served Baal and other false gods, distinguished from legitimate Levitical priests.
☩Definition and Usage
The word chemarim (singular: komer) is used exclusively for idolatrous priests in the Old Testament. It occurs in Zephaniah 1:4 in the Hebrew text, and is translated 'idolatrous priests' in 2 Kings 23:5 and 'priests' in Hosea 10:5. The corresponding Syriac word signifies 'a priest in general,' but the Hebrews restricted it to idol-worship. In Zephaniah, the chemarim are coupled with priests, possibly meaning God will destroy both the idolatrous priests and the Levitical priests who joined in idol worship.
☩Etymology and Character
The derivation is much disputed. Some derive it from a root meaning 'to be black,' suggesting these priests wore black garments like ascetics. Others connect it with 'to be sad,' indicating mournful ascetics. Another theory derives it from 'to burn' or 'blacken,' referring to ministers who felled victims at altars, or from branding idol marks on their foreheads. The term may also relate to their howling during rites. Jews retain this word to the present day, applying it in derision to Christian ministers on account of their black robes.
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Chemarim," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Chemarim," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. I (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.George Morrish, "Chemarim," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).
- 4.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Chemarim," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).