Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: The term "Ketab" is not directly found in the English translations of the Bible, but it is derived from the Hebrew word "כְּתָב" (ketab), which generally means "writing" or "document." In the context of the Bible, it is often associated with written records, decrees, or letters. The concept of writing and written documents plays a significant role throughout the biblical narrative, emphasizing the importance of recording God's laws, historical events, and prophetic messages. Biblical Context and Usage: In the Old Testament, the concept of writing is introduced early on. The first mention of writing in the Bible is found in Exodus 17:14, where the LORD instructs Moses, "Write this on a scroll as a reminder and recite it to Joshua, because I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven." This highlights the importance of written records in preserving divine instructions and historical events. The Hebrew word "ketab" and its derivatives appear in various contexts throughout the Old Testament. For instance, in Deuteronomy 31:24, it is recorded, "When Moses had finished writing in a book the words of this law from beginning to end," indicating the completion of the Torah, the foundational written law for the Israelites. In the prophetic books, writing serves as a means of conveying God's messages to His people. In Isaiah 30:8, the prophet is commanded, "Go now, write it on a tablet for them, inscribe it on a scroll, that for the days to come it may be an everlasting witness." Here, the permanence of written records is emphasized as a testimony to future generations. Significance in Jewish Tradition: In Jewish tradition, the written word holds immense significance. The Torah, or the Law of Moses, is considered the central written document, containing the commandments and teachings that guide Jewish life and worship. The meticulous care with which the Torah scrolls are copied and preserved underscores the reverence for the written word as a divine gift. The practice of writing extends beyond the Torah to other sacred texts, including the Prophets (Nevi'im) and the Writings (Ketuvim), which together with the Torah form the Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible. The process of canonization and the transmission of these texts highlight the role of writing in maintaining the integrity and continuity of God's revelation. New Testament Perspective: While the New Testament does not use the Hebrew term "ketab," the concept of writing remains crucial. The Gospels, Epistles, and other writings of the New Testament were penned to document the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as the early church's experiences and doctrinal teachings. In 2 Timothy 3:16, the Apostle Paul affirms the divine inspiration of Scripture, stating, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness." This underscores the belief that the written word is not merely a human endeavor but a divinely guided process. Conclusion: The concept of "ketab" or writing in the Bible underscores the importance of preserving and transmitting God's revelation through written records. From the laws given to Moses to the prophetic messages and the New Testament writings, the act of writing serves as a means of ensuring that God's word endures through generations, providing guidance, instruction, and hope to His people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia KETABke'-tab (Ketab): Ancestor of a family of Nethinim (1 Esdras 5:30). Thesaurus Ketab... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia KETAB. ke'-tab (Ketab): Ancestor of a family of Nethinim (1 Esdras 5:30). ... /k/ketab.htm - 6k Kettle (2 Occurrences) Kesulloth (1 Occurrence) Cetab Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |