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

כִּמְרִיר (kim.rir)

kim.rir

darkness

H3650 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:N-M

Quick Reference

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

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun kimrir denotes a state of profound blackness or deep gloom. It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Job 3:5, where it describes the thick, impenetrable darkness that Job wishes would cover the day of his birth.

This word carries a heavier weight than simple absence of light; it suggests a heavy, oppressive shadow. By using kimrir, Job expresses a desire for his existence to be swallowed by an eternal night, emphasizing the depth of his despair and the finality he seeks in his curse against his birthday.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The Hebrew word kimrir describes more than just the absence of light; it refers to a heavy, oppressive darkness that feels impenetrable. In Job 3:5, this term captures the depth of despair when life feels overwhelming and shadows seem too thick to bear. It is a raw expression of pain, showing that even the most faithful can feel swallowed by grief.

When you face seasons where hope seems distant, remember that your feelings are valid before God. Job’s honest lament reminds us that we do not need to hide our sorrow or pretend everything is fine. Bringing your heavy burdens into the light of prayer allows God to meet you in your darkest moments with grace and presence.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • [the] darkness<es> of1×

Forms in the text

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

  • כִּֽמְרִ֥ירֵי1×

Key Verses

  • Job 3:5
    Let darkness and the shadow of death claim it for their own. Let a cloud dwell on it. Let all that makes the day black terrify it.

    This verse uses kimrir to describe a terrifying, all-encompassing blackness that Job wishes would cover his birth day, highlighting the weight of his despair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does kimrir mean in the Bible?

Kimrir is a Hebrew noun that denotes profound blackness or deep, oppressive gloom. It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in Job 3:5 to describe the heavy darkness Job wishes would cover his day of birth.

Why does Job use such strong language for darkness?

Job uses kimrir to express the intensity of his suffering and desire for relief from pain. The word suggests a shadow so thick it feels like a physical weight, reflecting his feeling that his life has become unbearable.

How is this word different from other words for darkness?

While other Hebrew words simply mean night or absence of light, kimrir carries a heavier, more emotional weight. It implies a terrifying, impenetrable gloom that mirrors the depth of Job’s despair rather than just a time of day.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Job 1 verse
Job 3:5

Let darkness and the shadow of death claim it for their own. Let a cloud dwell on it. Let all that makes the day black…