כְּרֵשׂ (ke.re.s)
ke.re.s
belly
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 keresh refers specifically to the belly or stomach. It is an uncommon word in the Old Testament, appearing only once in the entire biblical text.
This single occurrence is found in Jeremiah 51:34, where it describes King Nebuchadnezzar’s actions against Jerusalem. The prophet uses vivid imagery, comparing the Babylonian ruler to a sea monster who has devoured God’s people and filled his belly with their wealth and strength.
The word carries no abstract or metaphorical meanings beyond this physical reference. Its rarity highlights the intensity of the image: Nebuchadnezzar is portrayed not just as a conqueror, but as a creature consumed by greed, stuffing himself with the spoils of Judah until he is completely full.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word keresh appears only once in Scripture, located in Jeremiah 51:34. It refers to the belly or stomach of King Nebuchadnezzar, who is described as a monster devouring God’s people. This stark image captures the raw violence of conquest and the greed that drives it.
For your faith, this verse offers a glimpse into how God views injustice. The prophet Jeremiah does not hide the pain of his people; he names it honestly before God. We are invited to bring our own experiences of being overwhelmed or treated unfairly to Him, trusting that He sees the truth even when human power seems absolute.
Though the imagery is intense, it points to a deeper hope. The same God who hears the cry of the oppressed also holds history in His hands. When we face situations where we feel consumed by circumstances beyond our control, we can rest in the knowledge that no force is outside His ultimate authority and justice.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- belly/ his1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- כְרֵשׂ֖/וֹ1×
Key Verses
-
Jeremiah 51:34
“Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon has devoured me. He has crushed me. He has made me an empty vessel. He has, like a monster, swallowed me up. He has filled his mouth with my delicacies. He has cast me out.
The word describes Nebuchadnezzar’s belly being filled with Judah's wealth, emphasizing the predatory nature of his conquest.