Chilmad is mentioned in the Bible as a region associated with trade and commerce, specifically in the context of the ancient Near Eastern trade networks. The reference to Chilmad is found in the book of Ezekiel, which provides a vivid description of the extensive trading relationships that the city of Tyre maintained with various regions and peoples.

Biblical Reference:

Ezekiel 27:23 states: "Haran, Canneh, and Eden, the merchants of Sheba, Asshur, and Chilmad traded with you."

In this passage, Chilmad is listed among other notable trading partners of Tyre, a prominent Phoenician city known for its wealth and influence in maritime trade. The mention of Chilmad alongside regions such as Haran, Canneh, and Eden suggests its involvement in the bustling trade activities that characterized the ancient world.

Historical and Geographical Context:

The exact location of Chilmad is not definitively known, and it is not frequently mentioned in historical records outside of the biblical text. However, its inclusion in the list of trading partners indicates that it was a place of some significance in the commercial landscape of the time. Scholars have speculated that Chilmad might have been located in Mesopotamia or possibly in the vicinity of other well-known trading centers.

The mention of Chilmad in Ezekiel's oracle against Tyre highlights the interconnectedness of ancient economies and the role of trade in the prosperity of cities like Tyre. The passage underscores the diversity of goods and the wide-ranging trade routes that linked various cultures and regions, facilitating the exchange of commodities, ideas, and cultural influences.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the reference to Chilmad and other trading partners in Ezekiel 27 serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human wealth and power. The chapter is part of a larger prophetic message against Tyre, emphasizing the city's impending downfall due to its pride and reliance on material prosperity. The inclusion of Chilmad in this context illustrates the broader theme of divine judgment against nations and cities that place their trust in economic might rather than in God.

The passage also reflects the biblical worldview that acknowledges the sovereignty of God over all nations and their affairs. The rise and fall of cities like Tyre, and by extension their trading partners such as Chilmad, are ultimately subject to God's will and purpose in history.Ezekiel 27:23
Haran, and Canneh, and Eden, the merchants of Sheba, Asshur, and Chilmad, were your merchants.
Nave's Topical Index

Ezekiel's Discourse
... of thy hand; in lambs, and rams, and goats, in these were they thy merchants. ... Haran
and Canneh and Eden, the traffickers of Sheba, Asshur and Chilmad, were thy ...
/.../various/select masterpieces of biblical literature/vii ezekiels discourse.htm

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus