Bible Dictionary
GERUTH CHIMHAM
Geruth Chimham was probably a lodging place or caravan station on the road to Egypt, possibly associated with Chimham son of Barzillai. Another reading identifies it with sheep pens or hurdles.
Definition
Geruth Chimham was probably a lodging place or inn on the highway to Egypt. It may have been associated with Chimham, son of Barzillai, or named for him as the owner of the land.
Biblical Usage
The place is mentioned as the destination of those who fled toward Egypt in Jeremiah’s account.
Historical Background
The reading is uncertain. Another proposed reading is “Gidhrōth,” meaning hurdles or sheep pens, a rendering also associated with Josephus.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>ge'-rooth kim'-ham (geruth kimham): If the reading geruth is correct, a "lodging-place" or "khan" on the highway to Egypt, may be meant (Jer 41:17). It may have been built by Chimham son of Barzillai; or it may have been named from him as owner of the land on which it stood. But probably with Josephus we should read gidhroth, "hurdles" or "sheep pens" (Ant., X, ix, 5).</p>