Chil'Ion is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Ruth. He is one of the two sons of Elimelech and Naomi, the other son being Mahlon. The family is of Ephrathite descent from Bethlehem in Judah. Chil'Ion's account is brief but significant in the context of the narrative of Ruth, which highlights themes of loyalty, redemption, and divine providence.

Biblical References:

Chil'Ion is introduced in Ruth 1:1-5. The passage describes a time of famine in the land of Judah, prompting Elimelech to move his family to the country of Moab. The text states:

"Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. So a man from Bethlehem in Judah, with his wife and two sons, went to live for a while in the country of Moab. The man’s name was Elimelech, his wife’s name was Naomi, and the names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion. They were Ephrathites from Bethlehem in Judah. And they went to Moab and lived there." (Ruth 1:1-2)

During their time in Moab, Elimelech dies, leaving Naomi with her two sons. Both Mahlon and Chil'Ion marry Moabite women; Chil'Ion marries Orpah, while Mahlon marries Ruth. However, tragedy strikes again as both sons die, leaving Naomi without her husband and sons. This is recorded in Ruth 1:3-5:

"Then Naomi’s husband Elimelech died, and she was left with her two sons. They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other named Ruth. And after they had lived in Moab about ten years, both Mahlon and Chilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband." (Ruth 1:3-5)

Significance:

Chil'Ion's role, though minor, is crucial in setting the stage for the events that follow in the Book of Ruth. His death, along with that of his brother and father, leaves Naomi in a state of destitution and despair, prompting her return to Bethlehem. This return becomes the catalyst for Ruth's famous declaration of loyalty to Naomi and her God, which ultimately leads to Ruth's marriage to Boaz and her inclusion in the lineage of King David and, by extension, Jesus Christ.

The narrative of Chil'Ion and his family underscores the themes of loss and redemption. It highlights the sovereignty of God in orchestrating events that, while initially tragic, lead to the fulfillment of His divine purposes. Chil'Ion's marriage to Orpah, a Moabite, also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's grace extending beyond the boundaries of Israel, foreshadowing the inclusion of Gentiles in the covenant community.

Etymology and Interpretation:

The name Chil'Ion is thought to mean "pining" or "wasting," which some scholars suggest may foreshadow his untimely death. The brevity of his life and the lack of further detail about his character or actions in the biblical text leave much to interpretation. However, his inclusion in the narrative serves to emphasize the dire circumstances faced by Naomi and the subsequent demonstration of God's providence and faithfulness.

In summary, Chil'Ion's brief mention in the Book of Ruth contributes to the unfolding of a larger redemptive account, illustrating the interplay of human suffering and divine intervention.Chil'Ion (3 Occurrences)

Ruth 1:2
And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Beth-lehem in Judah. And they came into the field of Moab, and continued there.
(See RSV)

Ruth 1:5
And Mahlon and Chilion died both of them; and the woman was left of her two children and of her husband.
(See RSV)

Ruth 4:9
And Boaz said unto the elders, and unto all the people: 'Ye are witnesses this day, that I have bought all that was Elimelech's, and all that was Chilion's and Mahlon's, of the hand of Naomi.
(See RSV)

Chil'Ion (3 Occurrences)
Chil'Ion. Chilion, Chil'Ion. Chilion's . Multi-Version Concordance
Chil'Ion (3 Occurrences). Ruth 1:2 And the name of the man was ...
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Chilion (3 Occurrences)

/c/chilion.htm - 8k

Chilion's (1 Occurrence)

/c/chilion's.htm - 6k

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