κιβωτός (kibōtos)
kibōtos
ark: covenant
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun kibōtos literally means a wooden chest or box, but in Scripture it almost always refers to one of two sacred vessels: Noah’s vessel or the Ark of the Covenant. In the Gospels, Jesus uses the image of Noah’s ark to describe the suddenness of judgment and salvation (Matthew 24:38; Luke 17:27). Here, the word evokes a large, protective structure that carried life through destruction.
In Hebrews and Revelation, kibōtos shifts to the Ark of the Covenant, the gold-covered chest holding the tablets of the Law. Hebrews 9:4 describes it within the Holy of Holies, while Revelation 11:19 reveals it in heaven’s temple. The term underscores its function as a container for God’s covenant promises, serving as a tangible sign of His presence among His people.
Though its etymology is uncertain, the word’s usage is precise. It distinguishes these holy containers from ordinary storage boxes by context alone. Translators consistently render it "ark," preserving the link between the vessel that saved Noah and the chest that housed the Law, both pointing to God’s faithfulness in times of crisis.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kibōtos reminds us that God provides shelter when the world feels unstable. In Matthew and Luke, Jesus points to Noah’s ship to show how sudden change can come, yet those who trust in Him are kept safe. This image is not just about survival; it is about faithfulness during a time of waiting.
In Hebrews and Revelation, the focus shifts to the Ark of the Covenant. This golden chest held the Law and God’s promises, sitting in the most holy place or appearing in heaven. It shows that God’s word is solid and enduring, even when circumstances shift around us.
Whether we are in a season of waiting like Noah or standing before the eternal throne, this word points to God’s reliability. He preserves His people and keeps His promises. We can rest in the knowledge that He is our refuge and our strength.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- ark,2×
- ark2×
- an ark1×
- [the] ark,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κιβωτόν,2×
- κιβωτὸν2×
- κιβωτὸς1×
- κιβωτοῦ,1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 24:38
For as in those days which were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ship,
Jesus uses this reference to highlight the normalcy of life before judgment, showing that readiness requires spiritual alertness rather than just physical preparation.
-
Hebrews 9:4
having a golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant overlaid on all sides with gold, in which was a golden pot holding the manna, Aaron’s rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant;
This verse details the contents of the Ark, emphasizing its role as the sacred container for the tangible signs of God's covenant with Israel.