Kilmad is a location mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the book of Ezekiel. It is referenced in the context of a prophecy concerning the judgment and downfall of Tyre, a prominent ancient Phoenician city known for its wealth and trade. The mention of Kilmad is found in Ezekiel 27, which details the extensive trade network of Tyre and lists various regions and cities that engaged in commerce with it.

Biblical Reference:

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

In this passage, Kilmad is listed among other notable places that were part of Tyre's vast trading network. The context suggests that Kilmad was a location of some commercial significance, contributing to the wealth and prosperity of Tyre through trade. The exact geographical location of Kilmad is not definitively known, and it is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, which has led to various interpretations and theories among scholars and historians.

Historical and Geographical Context:

The mention of Kilmad alongside other regions such as Haran, Canneh, and Eden indicates its involvement in the extensive trade routes that connected various parts of the ancient Near East. These routes facilitated the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas, contributing to the economic and cultural richness of the region.

The cities and regions listed in Ezekiel 27 were known for trading a variety of goods, including textiles, spices, precious metals, and other commodities. While the specific goods traded by Kilmad are not detailed in the text, its inclusion in this list underscores its role in the economic landscape of the time.

Theological Significance:

The prophecy against Tyre in Ezekiel 27 serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human wealth and power. Tyre's reliance on its commercial success and alliances is portrayed as ultimately futile in the face of divine judgment. The inclusion of Kilmad in this narrative highlights the interconnectedness of nations and the shared vulnerability of those who place their trust in material prosperity rather than in God.

The passage serves as a broader theological lesson about the dangers of pride and self-reliance, themes that are recurrent throughout the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. The downfall of Tyre, despite its extensive trade network and economic might, is a testament to the sovereignty of God over the nations and His ability to humble the proud.

Interpretative Challenges:

The lack of additional biblical or extrabiblical references to Kilmad presents challenges for scholars attempting to identify its precise location or historical significance. Some have speculated that Kilmad may have been a city or region within Mesopotamia or the broader Assyrian Empire, given its association with Asshur in the text. However, without concrete archaeological evidence or historical records, these remain educated conjectures.

In summary, Kilmad's mention in the Bible, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of ancient Near Eastern history and the theological messages conveyed through the prophetic writings. Its role in the trade network of Tyre underscores the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations and serves as a backdrop for the divine pronouncements delivered through the prophet Ezekiel.3638. Kilmad -- a place of unc. location
... 3637, 3638. Kilmad. 3639 . a place of unc. location. Transliteration: Kilmad
Phonetic Spelling: (kil-mawd') Short Definition: Chilmad. ...
/hebrew/3638.htm - 5k

Babylonia and Assyria
... The great canal known as that of "the King," in the northern part of the country,
was either made or re-excavated by him, and at Kilmad, near the modern Bagdad ...
/.../early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter vi babylonia and assyria.htm

Kilmad (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Kilmad (1 Occurrence). Ezekiel 27:23 Haran and Canneh
and Eden, the traffickers of Sheba, Asshur and Chilmad, were your traffickers. ...
/k/kilmad.htm - 6k

Kiln (5 Occurrences)

/k/kiln.htm - 8k

Kills (38 Occurrences)

/k/kills.htm - 17k

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