כָּמַס

כָּמַס

to store away, i.e. (figuratively) in the memory

Definition

The Hebrew verb כָּמַס (kâmaç) means to store away or hide something securely, often with a figurative sense of preserving something in one's memory or keeping it in reserve. In its single biblical occurrence in Deuteronomy 32:34, it describes God's action of storing up His judgments against Israel's future rebellion, likening them to a treasured or sealed item kept for a specific time. This conveys the idea of deliberate, purposeful retention rather than mere forgetfulness or loss. The term implies both safeguarding and intentional withholding until the proper moment for disclosure or execution.

Biblical Usage

כָּמַס is used only once in the Old Testament, in Deuteronomy 32:34, within the Song of Moses. Here, it appears in a poetic and prophetic context, describing God's sovereign control over future events: 'Is this not laid up in store with me, sealed up in my treasuries?' (ESV). The usage is metaphorical, portraying divine judgment as something carefully preserved and set aside. Its occurrence in a solemn covenantal song underscores its role in emphasizing God's foreknowledge and the certainty of His justice.

Etymology

כָּמַס is a primitive root in Hebrew, meaning its origin is not derived from another Hebrew word. Cognates in other Semitic languages, such as Arabic and Aramaic, suggest related meanings of gathering, collecting, or hiding. The root conveys the basic idea of taking something and putting it into a concealed or protected place, which in biblical Hebrew developed the specific nuance of storing up, especially in a figurative or mental sense.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights God's omniscience and justice. In Deuteronomy 32:34, it portrays God as actively preserving the records of human sin and His corresponding judgments, affirming that nothing escapes His notice and that His responses are deliberate and timed. Understanding כָּמַס enriches Bible reading by revealing the certainty and intentionality behind divine justice, contrasting with human forgetfulness or unpredictability. It reinforces the biblical theme that God's judgments are both stored and sure, offering a sobering reminder of His holiness and the accountability of His people. In ancient Near Eastern culture, storing valuables in sealed treasuries or storehouses was a common practice for kings and temples, ensuring protection and signifying ownership. The metaphor in Deuteronomy 32:34 would resonate with listeners familiar with such practices, illustrating God's sovereign control over His judgments as one would guard precious items. This cultural backdrop emphasizes the value and certainty attached to what is stored, differing from modern, more abstract notions of memory or record-keeping. צָפַן (tsâphan, H6845) — to hide or treasure up, often with a sense of protection or secrecy; אָצַר (ʼâtsar, H686) — to store up, typically referring to physical goods or wealth in a storehouse; שָׁמַר (shâmar, H8104) — to keep, guard, or observe, with a broader range including obedience and preservation.

Word Details