### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kibōtós**, represented by `{{G2787}}`, is a term for a **box**, specifically used for the sacred **ark** and the **ark** of Noah. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is entirely defined by these two significant objects: one a massive vessel for deliverance from a global flood, the other a sacred chest housing the symbols of God's covenant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2787}}` is used in two distinct contexts. First, it refers to the vessel Noah built by faith after being **warned of God** `{{G5537}}`. This **ark** served for the **saving** `{{G4991}}` of his **house** `{{G3624}}` from the flood [[Hebrews 11:7]]. Life continued with eating, drinking, and marrying until Noah **entered** `{{G1525}}` into the **ark** ([[Matthew 24:38]], [[Luke 17:27]]), at which point judgment came. Only a **few** `{{G3641}}`, eight **souls** `{{G5590}}`, were **saved** `{{G1295}}` in it [[1 Peter 3:20]]. Second, it refers to the **ark** of the **covenant** `{{G1242}}`, a holy chest containing the golden **pot** `{{G4713}}` of **manna** `{{G3131}}`, **Aaron's** `{{G2}}` **rod** `{{G4464}}` that budded, and the **tables** `{{G4109}}` of the covenant [[Hebrews 9:4]]. This **ark** is seen in the **temple** `{{G3485}}` in **heaven** `{{G3772}}` in a vision of divine judgment [[Revelation 11:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and significance of the **ark**:
* `{{G2627}}` **kataklysmós** (an inundation): This word for **flood** is directly linked to Noah's **ark**, which was the vessel of escape from this worldwide judgment ([[Matthew 24:38]], [[Luke 17:27]]).
* `{{G1295}}` **diasṓzō** (to save thoroughly): This term describes the function of the **ark** in preserving life. In the days of Noah, **few**, that is, eight **souls**, were **saved** through water [[1 Peter 3:20]].
* `{{G1242}}` **diathḗkē** (covenant, testament): The sacred **ark** is explicitly identified as the "ark of the **covenant**" [[Hebrews 9:4]] and the "ark of his **testament**" [[Revelation 11:19]], signifying its central role in God's agreement with His people.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2787}}` is tied to its dual representation of salvation and God's presence.
* **Vessel of Salvation and Judgment:** The story of Noah's **ark** illustrates divine salvation amidst judgment. While the disobedient **world** `{{G2889}}` was condemned and destroyed by the **flood** `{{G2627}}`, Noah prepared the **ark** in faith and found deliverance for his family ([[Hebrews 11:7]], [[Luke 17:27]]).
* **Symbol of God's Covenant:** The **ark** of the **covenant** `{{G1242}}` was a sacred object representing God's presence and promises. It contained holy items like the **tables** `{{G4109}}` of the covenant, reminding Israel of their relationship with God [[Hebrews 9:4]].
* **Sign of Heavenly Authority:** The appearance of the **ark** in heaven’s **temple** `{{G3485}}` is a profound event, accompanied by **lightnings** `{{G796}}`, **thunderings** `{{G1027}}`, and an **earthquake** `{{G4578}}`, signaling a moment of divine authority and revelation [[Revelation 11:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2787}}` is not merely a box but a word that points to two of the most significant objects in biblical history. As Noah's **ark**, it is a powerful symbol of faith, judgment, and God's physical deliverance. As the **ark** of the covenant, it represents God's holy presence, His law, and His faithfulness to His people. Through these two distinct uses, **kibōtós** connects the themes of salvation and covenant from the early history of humanity to the eschatological visions of heaven.
TRV