Brief Overview of κιβωτός (Strong’s G2787: kibōtos)

Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding the Greek words used in the original texts of the New Testament can provide deep insights into the meanings, nuances, and theological implications of Scripture. The Greek word κιβωτός (kibōtos) is particularly significant because it appears in discussions about Noah’s Ark and the Ark of the Covenant. This term helps us understand the physical and symbolic meanings tied to divine protection and covenant in both Jewish and Christian contexts. In Matthew 24:38, κιβωτός is used in a discussion of Noah and the flood, underscoring the word’s importance in understanding themes of judgment and salvation in ancient Greek culture and biblical texts.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κιβωτός, transliterated as kibōtos [kee-BOH-tos].

Etymology: The Greek word κιβωτός is thought to be derived from a Semitic root, possibly Hebrew, with the meaning “box,” “chest,” or “ark.” In ancient Greek, it referred to a large chest or container, which aligns with the description of Noah’s Ark and the Ark of the Covenant as significant vessels.

Part of Speech: κιβωτός is a feminine noun in the Greek language. It is used in the nominative, genitive, dative, and accusative cases, depending on its function in a sentence. The word’s usage in different contexts reflects its role as a significant noun in biblical literature.

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Defining Meanings

The primary meaning of κιβωτός is “ark.” In the New Testament, it generally refers to Noah’s Ark, a massive vessel built according to God’s instructions to save Noah, his family, and a selection of animals from the flood. This meaning is central to the understanding of divine judgment and mercy.

Another meaning relates to the Ark of the Covenant, the sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron’s rod, and manna. It symbolizes God’s presence among His people and is a central element in the Old Testament narrative.

Additionally, κιβωτός can refer to a large chest or box used for storing valuables. This broader meaning helps contextualize its use in both secular and sacred texts of the period.

Exploring Similar Words

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The word λάρναξ (larnax) [LAR-naks] is a similar Greek word meaning “chest” or “coffin.” While it can refer to a container like κιβωτός, λάρναξ often connotes a burial chest or sarcophagus, differing in its specific use and context.

The term κιτών (kitōn) [kee-TON] refers to a “tunic” or “garment,” but by extension can mean a covering or container. While it shares the idea of holding or covering something, κιτών is more related to clothing rather than a physical chest or ark.

Another word is σκεῦος (skeuos) [SKEH-oos], which means “vessel” or “implement.” This term is more general than κιβωτός and could refer to any container or tool used for holding or carrying items.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: κιβωτός is a feminine noun. Its morphological structure adapts to the cases (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative) and numbers (singular, plural) based on its grammatical function within a sentence.

Declension: Below is the declension table for the noun κιβωτός:

For a more detailed exploration of Greek grammar, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

κιβωτός appears in the New Testament to describe both Noah’s Ark and the Ark of the Covenant, signifying divine preservation, covenant, and judgment. Lexicon studies show that κιβωτός conveys the concept of a protective container, whether it’s preserving Noah and the animals or housing sacred relics of the Israelites. In New Testament usage, it ties the narrative of salvation history from the Old Testament to the teachings of Jesus. Classical Greek usage often denotes a simple chest or storage box, but in scriptural contexts, the term takes on deeper theological significance. This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Matthew 24:38: “For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark [κιβωτός].”

Hebrews 11:7: “By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark [κιβωτός] to the saving of his house.”

1 Peter 3:20: “Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark [κιβωτός] was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κιβωτός carries profound significance in Biblical studies. It is not only a term that describes a physical object, like Noah’s Ark or the Ark of the Covenant, but it also holds deep theological meanings. In the context of divine protection and salvation, κιβωτός symbolizes God’s covenant with humanity and His protective grace.

Did You Know?

κιβωτός is used in both the Old and New Testaments, connecting key narratives from the Flood to the presence of God among His people.

In Jewish tradition, the Ark of the Covenant was considered the most sacred object, and it was kept in the Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

The dimensions and design of Noah’s Ark provided in Genesis are unique compared to other ancient flood myths, emphasizing God’s specific instructions for preservation.