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כָּתַם (ka.tam)

ka.tam

be stained

H3799 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:V

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:V

Word Overview

The Hebrew verb katam appears in the Old Testament exclusively in the Niphal stem, carrying the meaning of being stained or defiled. This rare word describes a state of deep contamination, suggesting that the stain is not merely superficial but penetrates to the core of the subject.

Its single occurrence in Jeremiah 2:22 illustrates this intensity. The prophet uses it to describe the moral corruption of Israel, comparing their sin to dirt that cannot be washed away by even large amounts of lye or soap. The imagery emphasizes that spiritual defilement requires more than external ritual cleansing; it points to a condition that demands divine intervention for removal.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word katam describes a stain so deep it cannot be removed by human effort. In Jeremiah 2:22, the prophet uses this vivid image to show that sin is not just surface dirt. It penetrates to the core of who we are. No amount of lye or soap can wash it away.

This reality might feel heavy, but it points us toward a greater hope. The text implies that only God can remove such a stain. When we recognize our need for divine intervention, we stop trying to fix ourselves and turn to Him. His grace offers a cleansing that human rituals simply cannot provide.

Let this truth bring you peace. You do not have to carry the weight of your past alone. God sees the depth of your struggle and offers a forgiveness that goes deeper than any stain. Rest in the knowledge that He can make all things new.

How it's translated

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

  • [is] stained1×

Forms in the text

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

  • נִכְתָּ֤ם1×

Key Verses

  • Jeremiah 2:22
    For though you wash yourself with lye, and use much soap, yet your iniquity is marked before me,” says the Lord Yahweh.

    This verse uses katam to emphasize that Israel's iniquity remains visible before God despite their attempts at ritual purification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word katam mean?

Katam means to be stained or defiled. It appears only once in the Old Testament, in Jeremiah 2:22, describing a deep moral contamination that cannot be removed by ordinary washing.

Why is this word significant in Jeremiah?

It highlights the futility of relying on external rituals for internal change. The prophet uses it to show that sin requires God's intervention, not just human effort or religious practices.

How does katam relate to Christian forgiveness?

It underscores the need for divine grace. Since human efforts cannot remove deep spiritual stains, Christians look to Christ's sacrifice as the only sufficient cleansing for sin.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Jeremiah 1 verse
Jeremiah 2:22

For though you wash yourself with lye, and use much soap, yet your iniquity is marked before me,” says the Lord Yahweh.