כְּלִי (ke.li)
ke.li
article/utensil
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 251 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The noun kelî refers broadly to any prepared article or vessel, encompassing everything from simple household tools to elaborate temple furnishings. Derived from a root meaning "to complete" or "finish," it describes items that have been made for specific use rather than natural objects left in their raw state. This versatility allows the word to cover implements of labor, weapons of war, musical instruments, and even clothing or jewelry when viewed as prepared adornments.
In Scripture, kelî often appears in lists detailing the construction of the Tabernacle or the treasures of kings. For instance, Exodus 25:9 instructs Moses to build the tabernacle according to the pattern shown, including all its vessels and utensils, highlighting how these objects were integral to worship. The term also extends to military equipment, as seen in Genesis 27:3 when Isaac asks his son to take his quiver and bow, identifying them as essential tools for the task at hand.
The word’s range is further illustrated by its use for both mundane sacks and sacred gold vessels. In Nehemiah 13:8, the prophet notes that the bowls of the temple were empty, a stark contrast to the rich offerings described in Chronicles. This flexibility shows how ancient Hebrew categorized objects by their function and preparedness rather than their material value alone.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word kelî describes an object that has been prepared for a specific purpose. It covers everything from simple household tools to elaborate temple furnishings. This concept reminds us that our lives, like these items, are meant to be shaped and used by God for meaningful work.
In Exodus 25:9, Moses is instructed to build the tabernacle according to a precise pattern, including all its vessels. This shows that even physical objects have spiritual significance when they are dedicated to God’s service. We can find similar purpose in our daily tasks and responsibilities.
Whether holding simple tools or sacred items, kelî points to the idea of being ready and useful. It encourages us to consider how we might be prepared for the work God has set before us, finding value in faithful obedience rather than just outward appearance.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 251 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [the] articles of28×
- articles/ its26×
- the/ articles14×
- articles of12×
- and/ articles of11×
- weapons/ his10×
- article of10×
- armor<s>/ his9×
- [the] vessels of9×
- the/ vessels8×
- [the] weapons of7×
- armor/ his6×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- כְּלֵ֣י22×
- כְּלֵ֥י13×
- כֵּלָ֔י/ו12×
- כְּלִי\־12×
- כֵּלָ֑י/ו11×
- כְּלֵ֖י11×
- הַ/כֵּלִ֔ים11×
- וּ/כְלֵ֥י8×
- כְּלִ֣י7×
- כְּלֵי\־6×
- בִּ/כְלֵי\־6×
- כֵּלָ֖י/ו5×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 25:9
According to all that I show you, the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all of its furniture, even so you shall make it.
This verse establishes the pattern for all tabernacle vessels, showing that kelî refers to items made specifically according to God's design for worship.
-
Genesis 27:3
Now therefore, please take your weapons, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field, and get me venison.
Isaac asks for his quiver and bow, identifying these weapons as essential tools (kelî) for the specific task of hunting venison.
-
Exodus 25:39
It shall be made of a talent of pure gold, with all these accessories.
The lampstand is described as being made with all its accessories, highlighting how kelî includes every component necessary for a sacred object's function.
-
Genesis 42:25
Then Joseph gave a command to fill their bags with grain, and to restore each man’s money into his sack, and to give them food for the way. So it was done to them.
Joseph’s servants fill their bags (sacks) with grain, using kelî to describe the practical containers used for transporting food during famine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hebrew word kelî mean?
How is kelî different from other words for 'vessel'?
Where does kelî appear in the Bible?
Every Occurrence (251 verses across 28 books)
Genesis 7 verses
The servant brought out jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and clothing, and gave them to Rebekah. He also gave…
Genesis 27:3Now therefore, please take your weapons, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field, and get me venison.
Genesis 31:37Now that you have felt around in all my stuff, what have you found of all your household stuff? Set it here before my…
Genesis 42:25Then Joseph gave a command to fill their bags with grain, and to restore each man’s money into his sack, and to give…
Genesis 43:11Their father, Israel, said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: Take from the choice fruits of the land in your…
Genesis 45:20Also, don’t concern yourselves about your belongings, for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours.”
Genesis 49:5“Simeon and Levi are brothers. Their swords are weapons of violence.