GospelMount
Search Topics Scripture Prayer Resources Ebooks About Support the mission Saved articles

חֵ֫מֶת (che.met)

che.met

bottle

H2573 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 3 verses

H:N-M

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
3 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:N-M

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun che.met refers to a container for holding liquids, specifically a bottle or waterskin. In the ancient Near East, these vessels were essential tools for daily life, designed to carry water or wine across distances. The word appears only three times in the Hebrew Bible, making it a rare but concrete term for physical sustenance.

Its usage is anchored in the narrative of Genesis, where it highlights the provision and care within family structures. For instance, Rebekah’s servant uses a che.met to draw water from a well (Genesis 24:14), illustrating its role in hospitality and travel. Later, when Jacob sends gifts to Esau, he includes jars of wine, reflecting the same type of vessel used for transport and offering (Genesis 32:20). These instances show the word not just as an object, but as a symbol of provision and peace.

Etymologically, the term is linked to the idea of holding or containing. While it can mean "bottle" in a general sense, its context often implies a flexible skin rather than rigid pottery, suited for carrying water on journeys. This distinction helps readers visualize the practical realities of biblical life, where such containers were vital for survival and social interaction.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word chemet describes a simple waterskin or bottle used for carrying liquids in ancient times. It appears only three times in Scripture, always connected to moments of deep need and divine provision. In Genesis 21, we see Hagar and her son Ishmael cast out into the wilderness with nothing but bread and this single container of water.

When the water runs out, despair sets in. Yet God sees their suffering and opens Hagar’s eyes to a well. This story reminds us that even when our resources are empty, God provides what is necessary for survival. The chemet is not just a container; it represents trust in God’s care during difficult seasons.

We may face situations where we feel as though we have run out of strength or hope. But like Hagar, we can look to God who sees us and provides refreshment. His faithfulness sustains us even when our own supplies are gone.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • the/ skin2×
  • and/ a skin of1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • וְ/חֵ֨מַת1×
  • הַ/חֵ֙מֶת֙1×
  • הַ/חֵ֑מֶת1×

Key Verses

  • Genesis 21:14
    Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread and a container of water, and gave it to Hagar, putting it on her shoulder; and gave her the child, and sent her away. She departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba.

    This verse introduces the chemet as the sole source of water for Hagar and Ishmael, highlighting its critical role in their survival.

  • Genesis 21:15
    The water in the container was spent, and she put the child under one of the shrubs.

    The exhaustion of the water in the container marks the turning point where human resources are fully depleted, leading to despair.

  • Genesis 21:19
    God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. She went, filled the container with water, and gave the boy a drink.

    God’s intervention is shown when Hagar fills the same type of container from a newly revealed well, demonstrating divine provision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word chemet mean?

Chemet refers to a bottle, waterskin, or container used for carrying water or wine. It appears only three times in the Old Testament, always in the context of travel and provision.

Why is chemet significant in Genesis 21?

In Genesis 21, the chemet holds the only water Hagar has with her son. When it runs out, she faces despair until God provides a well, showing His care for those in need.

How is chemet different from other words for container?

While other Hebrew words might refer to rigid jars or cups, chemet often implies a flexible skin or bottle suited for carrying water on journeys. It emphasizes portability and survival.

Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)

Genesis 3 verses
Genesis 21:14

Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread and a container of water, and gave it to Hagar, putting it on her…

Genesis 21:15

The water in the container was spent, and she put the child under one of the shrubs.

Genesis 21:19

God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. She went, filled the container with water, and gave the boy a drink.