The term "Chemarim" refers to idolatrous priests mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of ancient Israel's religious practices that deviated from the worship of Yahweh. The word "Chemarim" is derived from the Hebrew root "kamar," which means "to be black" or "to burn," possibly alluding to the black garments these priests wore or their association with burnt offerings to pagan deities.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 23:5 : "Then he removed from the entrance of the house of the LORD all the articles made for Baal, Asherah, and all the host of heaven. He burned them outside Jerusalem in the fields of the Kidron Valley and carried their ashes to Bethel." This passage describes King Josiah's reforms, during which he eradicated idolatrous practices, including those associated with the Chemarim. Although the term "Chemarim" is not explicitly used in this verse, the context of removing idolatrous elements aligns with their role.

2. Hosea 10:5 : "The people of Samaria will fear for the calf of Beth-aven. Indeed, its people will mourn for it, and its idolatrous priests will wail over it, because its glory has departed from it." The idolatrous priests mentioned here are akin to the Chemarim, who served at high places and were involved in the worship of false gods, such as the golden calves.

3. Zephaniah 1:4 : "I will stretch out My hand against Judah and against all who live in Jerusalem. I will cut off from this place every remnant of Baal, the names of the idolatrous and pagan priests." In this verse, the "idolatrous and pagan priests" are identified as the Chemarim, who were targeted for elimination as part of God's judgment against idolatry in Judah.

Role and Significance:

The Chemarim were priests who officiated at altars dedicated to foreign gods, such as Baal and Asherah, and were often associated with the high places that proliferated during periods of spiritual decline in Israel and Judah. Their presence and activities were in direct violation of the first commandment, which forbids the worship of other gods (Exodus 20:3).

The existence of the Chemarim highlights the recurring struggle within Israel to maintain exclusive worship of Yahweh amidst the surrounding pagan cultures. Their practices were often syncretistic, blending elements of Yahweh worship with Canaanite religious customs, which led to spiritual corruption and divine judgment.

Historical Context:

The Chemarim were particularly active during the reigns of kings who tolerated or promoted idolatry, such as Ahab and Manasseh. However, during periods of religious reform, such as under King Josiah, efforts were made to purge the land of their influence. Josiah's reforms, as described in 2 Kings 23, were a significant attempt to restore the worship of Yahweh and eliminate the Chemarim and their practices.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the presence and eventual removal of the Chemarim underscore the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant and the dangers of idolatry. The Chemarim serve as a cautionary example of how easily God's people can be led astray by adopting the religious practices of surrounding cultures. Their eradication was necessary to restore the purity of worship and to reaffirm the centrality of Yahweh as the one true God.

In summary, the Chemarim represent a significant aspect of Israel's religious history, illustrating the tension between faithfulness to God and the temptation of idolatry. Their account is a reminder of the need for vigilance in maintaining the integrity of worship and devotion to God alone.The Chemarim

(those who go about in black , i.e. ascetics). In the Hebrew applied to the priests of the worship of false gods. (2 Kings 23:5; Hosea 10:5) in margin; (Zephaniah 1:4)

The Twelve Minor Prophets.
... probability, that this Hezekiah was the king of that name; though in this case we
should have expected the addition "king of Judah." The "chemarim," verse 4 ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxiii the twelve minor.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... My hand upon Judah, and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and I will cut off
the remnant of Baal from this place, and the name of the Chemarim with the ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

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