כִּיֹּר (kiy.yor)

kiy.yor

basin

H3595 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 20 verses

H:N-M

Language: Biblical Hebrew
Testament: Old Testament
Occurrences: 20 verses
Root: —
Part of speech: H:N-M

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun kiyor refers to a round, bowl-shaped vessel, most commonly translated as a basin or laver. Its core meaning stems from a root associated with excavation or hollowing out, which explains why it describes both cooking pots and washbasins. In the tabernacle and temple, these bronze vessels held water for the priests’ ritual washing, serving a practical function that underscored the need for ceremonial purity before approaching God.

The word’s range of meaning extends beyond simple containers. It can denote a fire pan or brazier used for burning coals, as seen in Zechariah 12:6, where Jerusalem is metaphorically described as a heavy pan in the hands of God. This versatility arises from the shared physical shape of the objects—a deep, round vessel—whether holding water, food, or fire.

In Kings and Chronicles, kiyor appears frequently in detailed lists of Solomon’s temple furnishings, often paired with stands or bases. One notable usage describes a bronze platform or scaffold where King Solomon stood to pray (2 Chronicles 6:13). This structural use highlights how the term could apply to any raised, bowl-like form, bridging the gap between utilitarian kitchenware and sacred architectural elements.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word kiyor describes a bronze basin used for washing in the tabernacle and temple. It was placed between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, holding water for priests to cleanse themselves before serving God. This simple object highlights how God cares about both spiritual purity and physical preparation. The act of washing was not just hygiene but a sign of reverence and readiness to approach the holy presence.

While most often linked to ritual cleansing, kiyor can also refer to cooking pots or fire pans. In Zechariah 12:6, Jerusalem is compared to a pan of fire, showing how this vessel symbolizes strength and divine purpose. Whether holding water for purity or fire for judgment, the basin reminds us that God uses ordinary things for sacred ends. It invites us to consider how our daily lives can be set apart for His use.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 20 verses where it appears, by frequency.

the/ laver12×
the/ lavers3×
lavers2×
to the/ laver1×
like/ a pot of1×
in the/ pot1×
a platform of1×
a laver of1×
a laver1×

Forms in the text

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

הַ/כִּיֹּ֖ר4×
הַ/כִּיֹּ֔ר3×
הַ/כִּיּ֣וֹר3×
לַ/כִּיֹּר֙1×
כִּיּוֹרִים֮1×
כִּיּ֥וֹר1×
כִּיּ֤וֹר1×
כִּיּ֣וֹר1×
כְּֽ/כִיּ֧וֹר1×
כִיֹּר֖וֹת1×
הַ֨/כִּיֹּר֔וֹת1×
הַ/כִּיֹּרֹ֥ת1×

Key Verses

Exodus 30:18
“You shall also make a basin of bronze, and its base of bronze, in which to wash. You shall put it between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and you shall put water in it.

This verse establishes the primary function of the kiyor as a vessel for washing, placed strategically between the Tent and altar to prepare priests for service.
Exodus 40:30
He set the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and put water therein, with which to wash.

Here the basin is set up with water specifically 'to wash,' emphasizing its role in the ongoing ritual of purification before approaching God.
Zechariah 12:6
In that day I will make the chieftains of Judah like a pan of fire among wood, and like a flaming torch among sheaves. They will devour all the surrounding peoples on the right hand and on the left; and Jerusalem will yet again dwell in their own place, even in Jerusalem.

This metaphorical use describes Jerusalem as a 'pan of fire' among wood, illustrating how the vessel can symbolize divine power and judgment rather than just cleansing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word kiyor mean?

Kiyor refers to a bronze basin or laver used primarily for washing. In the Old Testament, it held water for priests to cleanse themselves before entering the sanctuary or offering sacrifices. The term can also describe cooking pots or fire pans due to their similar bowl-like shape.

Where is kiyor mentioned in the Bible?

It appears frequently in Exodus, Kings, and Chronicles regarding tabernacle and temple furnishings. For example, Exodus 30:18 commands its creation for priestly washing, while Zechariah 12:6 uses it metaphorically to describe Jerusalem as a pan of fire.

Why was the kiyor important in worship?

The basin symbolized the need for purity before approaching God. Priests had to wash their hands and feet in its water, showing that reverence and cleanliness were essential parts of their service. It served as a tangible reminder of spiritual preparation.

Every Occurrence (20 verses across 7 books)

Exodus 9 verses

Exodus 30:18

“You shall also make a basin of bronze, and its base of bronze, in which to wash. You shall put it between the Tent of…

Exodus 30:28

the altar of burnt offering with all its utensils, and the basin with its base.

Exodus 31:9

the altar of burnt offering with all its vessels, the basin and its base,

Exodus 35:16

the altar of burnt offering, with its grating of bronze, its poles, and all its vessels, the basin and its base;

Exodus 38:8

He made the basin of bronze, and its base of bronze, out of the mirrors of the ministering women who ministered at the…

Exodus 39:39

the bronze altar, its grating of bronze, its poles, all of its vessels, the basin and its base,

Exodus 40:7

You shall set the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and shall put water therein.

Exodus 40:11

You shall anoint the basin and its base, and sanctify it.

Exodus 40:30

He set the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and put water therein, with which to wash.

Leviticus 1 verse

I Samuel 1 verse

I Kings 4 verses

II Kings 1 verse

II Chronicles 3 verses

Zechariah 1 verse