כֻּסֶּ֫מֶת (kus.se.met)
kus.se.met
rye
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun kussemeth refers to spelt, a grain that resembles wheat but is distinct in its agricultural habits. Unlike common wheat, this crop is typically sown in the autumn and harvested in the spring, making it one of the earliest grains ready for use in the ancient Near Eastern calendar.
Its presence in Scripture highlights its role as a staple food source during times of scarcity or necessity. The grain appears in lists of provisions, such as when Jacob instructs his sons to take it as a gift for the ruler of Egypt (Genesis 43:11), and in the detailed inventory of temple offerings (Ezekiel 4:9). These references underscore its practical value as a durable, reliable sustenance for both everyday life and sacred rituals.
Translators often render kussemeth as "spelt" or occasionally "rye," though spelt is the more accurate botanical identification. The word serves as a reminder of the variety of grains cultivated in Israel, each suited to different seasons and needs, reflecting the careful stewardship of the land described throughout the biblical narrative.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kussemeth refers to spelt, a hardy grain that thrives where other crops might struggle. Unlike softer wheat, it withstands cold and damp, making it a reliable source of nourishment during the harsh winter months. This resilience offers a quiet picture of faithfulness — not always the most glamorous, but deeply dependable when conditions are tough.
In Genesis and Exodus, this grain appears as part of God’s provision for His people. It was used in times of scarcity and even in sacred rituals, showing that everyday sustenance can carry spiritual weight. When life feels uncertain, remembering that God provides for both the urgent needs and the details of daily bread brings comfort.
Whether you are facing a season of lack or simply grateful for what you have, this word reminds us that God cares about the practical things in our lives. He knows the seasons, the harvests, and the needs of His people. Trusting Him means believing that He will supply what is truly needed, even if it looks different from what we expect.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ the/ spelt1×
- and/ spelt1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/כֻסֶּ֖מֶת1×
- וְ/הַ/כֻּסֶּ֖מֶת1×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 9:32
But the wheat and the spelt were not struck, for they had not grown up.
This verse highlights the grain's resilience, as it survived the plague that destroyed other crops because it was still rooted in the ground.
-
Isaiah 28:25
When he has leveled its surface, doesn’t he plant the dill, and scatter the cumin seed, and put in the wheat in rows, the barley in the appointed place, and the spelt in its place?
Here the word illustrates God’s orderly design in agriculture, showing how He teaches us to plant each crop according to its specific time and place.