כְּלִמּוּת (ke.lim.mut)
ke.lim.mut
shame
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun kelimmut denotes a state of profound shame or disgrace, carrying the weight of public ignominy. It is not merely an internal feeling of embarrassment but a condition of dishonor that affects one’s standing before others. The word appears only once in the Old Testament, located in Jeremiah 23:40.
In this specific instance, the term is used in the construct state, linking it to the "shame" or reproach that God promises to bring upon the false prophets of Judah. This singular usage highlights the severity of the consequence; it is a definitive mark of disgrace rather than a temporary emotional state. The rarity of the word emphasizes its intensity, reserving it for moments where honor is completely stripped away.
Translators typically render kelimmut as "shame" or "disgrace," capturing the social and relational rupture inherent in the concept. Its limited occurrence suggests that the biblical authors chose this term only when describing a total loss of reputation, particularly in the context of divine judgment against those who claimed to speak for God but failed to do so.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word kelimmut describes a deep and lasting disgrace that strips away honor in the eyes of others. It is more than a fleeting feeling of embarrassment; it represents a permanent rupture in reputation and standing within the community. This term appears only once in the Old Testament, highlighting its severity as a definitive mark of shame rather than a temporary emotional state.
In Jeremiah 23:40, this word underscores the serious consequences of false prophecy. It reminds us that integrity matters deeply to God, who values truth over empty claims. While this specific instance speaks of judgment, it also invites reflection on how we handle our own failures and the shame we might feel. We can find comfort in knowing that God’s grace covers our shortcomings, offering restoration even when public standing is damaged.
For your faith life, this word encourages honesty about our weaknesses. Instead of hiding behind a façade of perfection, we can bring our true selves to God. He sees beyond the surface and offers forgiveness that renews our identity. This hope allows us to live with confidence, knowing that our worth is rooted in His love, not in the approval of others.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ shame of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וּ/כְלִמּ֣וּת1×
Key Verses
-
Jeremiah 23:40
I will bring an everlasting reproach on you, and a perpetual shame, which will not be forgotten.’”
This verse uses kelimmut to describe a perpetual shame that serves as an everlasting reproach against false prophets, emphasizing the finality of divine judgment on deceit.