Bible Dictionary
Chemarim, The
The Chemarim were priests of false gods, especially those connected with idolatrous worship in Judah and Israel. The term is used unfavorably in passages condemning apostasy.
Definition
The Chemarim were priests associated with the worship of false gods. The term is explained in the supplied material as possibly referring to those who went about in black, or to ascetics.
Biblical Usage
The Old Testament uses the term unfavorably for priests connected with idolatrous worship in Judah and Israel, especially in passages concerning reform and judgment.
Historical Background
The precise meaning of the name is uncertain. It is preserved in marginal readings in passages where the main text translates it as priests or idolatrous priests.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(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)