Who was Chilion?

Son of Elimelech

The story of Chilion

Chilion - 

Chilion was a biblical figure from the book of Ruth in the Old Testament. He w…
Chilion - Chilion was a biblical figure from the book of Ruth in the Old Testament. He w…

Chilion was a biblical figure from the book of Ruth in the Old Testament. He was the son of Elimelech and Naomi, and the brother of Mahlon and Kilion. Chilion was a wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, and he was best known for his generosity and kindness. Chilion and his family were forced to flee their home in Bethlehem due to a famine. During their travels, Chilion and his brother Mahlon both married Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth. Tragically, Chilion and Mahlon both died soon after, leaving their wives widowed. Naomi, Chilion's mother, returned to Bethlehem with her daughters-in-law. She encouraged them to return to their families, but Ruth refused and stayed with Naomi. Ruth eventually married Boaz, a relative of Chilion's, and they had a son named Obed. Obed was the grandfather of King David, making Chilion an ancestor of the great king. Chilion is remembered for his kindness and generosity, as well as his role in the lineage of King David. He is an important figure in the Bible, and his story is an example of faith and loyalty.

Name meaning

The name "Chilion" is of Hebrew origin and is found in the Bible. In the Book of Ruth, Chilion is one of the two sons of Elimelech and Naomi; his brother is Mahlon. The name Chilion is often interpreted to mean "completion" or "finished." However, some sources suggest it can also mean "wasting away" or "pining," possibly reflecting the fate of the character, who, along with his brother, died early in the narrative. As with many ancient names, exact translations can vary based on linguistic and historical interpretations.

Name origin

Hebrew

First mention

Ruth 1:2

Appearances in the Bible

3 mentions

Family

Relatives of Chilion

Chilion in the Bible

Explore all 2 chapters where Chilion appears

Ruth

Chapter 1

Naomi and Her Daughters-in-Law

A man named Elimelech and his family, including his two sons and wife Naomi, move to Moab due to a famine in Israel.

Read Chapter

Ruth

Chapter 4

The Genealogy of Boaz and Ruth

Boaz, a wealthy relative of Elimelech, takes notice of Ruth and shows her kindness.

Read Chapter