כַּרְמִיל (kar.mil)
kar.mil
crimson
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun kar·mil denotes a deep red or crimson color, specifically referring to the dyed fabric or cloth produced from that hue. It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in 2 Chronicles 2:6, where it describes the materials used for the temple’s construction.
Its singular occurrence highlights its value as a luxury item rather than a common descriptor. The word likely derives from a root meaning "to be red," connecting it to the vivid color of madder or cochineal dyes known in the ancient Near East. Translators typically render it as "crimson" or "scarlet," emphasizing its rich, saturated tone.
While other Hebrew words exist for red materials, kar·mil stands out for its rarity and association with high-status textiles. Its use in a royal building project underscores the wealth and artistic sophistication of Solomon’s reign, marking it as a symbol of prestige rather than everyday utility.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word for crimson appears just once in the Hebrew Bible, marking the materials used to build Solomon’s temple. This rare occurrence highlights how precious such deep red dye was in the ancient world. It was not a color for everyday clothes but a sign of royal wealth and artistic skill.
When we read about this fabric, we see that God’s house was adorned with the finest resources available. The use of crimson suggests that worship involves offering our best to the Lord. It reminds us that the sacred spaces we create should reflect beauty and reverence.
This single mention invites us to consider the value we place on holy things. Just as the temple builders chose the most vibrant colors, we are called to bring excellence and joy into our spiritual lives. The richness of the dye points to the glory of God’s presence among His people.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ crimson1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/כַרְמִ֣יל1×
Key Verses
-
II Chronicles 3:14
He made the veil of blue, purple, crimson, and fine linen, and ornamented it with cherubim.
This verse lists crimson alongside blue and purple as part of the temple veil, showing its role in creating a sacred boundary for worship.