στάμνος (stamnos)
stamnos
jar
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun stamnos refers to an earthenware jar, typically used for storing wine or other liquids. In the ancient world, these vessels were essential for preserving provisions, serving as durable containers that protected their contents from spoilage and contamination.
This specific word appears only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 9:4. The author uses it to describe the container holding the manna within the Ark of the Covenant. By choosing this term, the text highlights the physical reality of the Old Testament sanctuary, where sacred items were kept in tangible, everyday objects.
The usage connects the heavenly reality described by the writer to the historical practices of Israel. The jar represents a place of preservation and covenant memory, reminding readers that the old system relied on physical vessels to hold what pointed toward something greater.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word stamnos describes a sturdy earthenware jar used for storing provisions like wine or oil. In Hebrews 9:4, this ordinary vessel held the manna within the Ark of the Covenant. This detail reminds us that God often uses simple, physical things to preserve what is sacred. The jar protected the food that sustained Israel in the wilderness, showing how God provides for His people even in difficult times.
For your faith, this image offers comfort. Just as the stamnos kept the manna fresh and safe, God preserves the promises He has made to you. You do not need to rely on complex rituals or perfect performance to be secure. Your hope rests in the One who keeps His word, just as that jar kept its contents intact through the years.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [was the] jar1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- στάμνος1×
Key Verses
-
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 is the only New Testament occurrence, where stamnos identifies the specific container holding the manna inside the Ark.