Strong’s H3611

כֶּלֶב

Part of speech

Noun Masculine

Transliteration

keleb

Pronunciation

keh'-leb

Definition

Dog

Meaning

a dog, a male prostitute

Usage

The Hebrew word "keleb" primarily refers to a dog. In the Biblical context, dogs were often seen as unclean animals, scavengers that roamed the streets and fields. The term is sometimes used metaphorically to describe people of low status or those considered impure or contemptible. In some instances, "keleb" is used to denote male prostitutes in pagan worship practices, as seen in Deuteronomy 23:18.

Bible references

Exodus 11:7;Exodus 22:31;Deuteronomy 23:18;Judges 7:5;1 Samuel 17:43;1 Samuel 24:14;2 Samuel 3:8;2 Samuel 9:8;2 Samuel 16:9;1 Kings 14:11;1 Kings 16:4;1 Kings 21:19;1 Kings 21:19;1 Kings 21:23;1 Kings 21:24;1 Kings 22:38;2 Kings 8:13;2 Kings 9:10;2 Kings 9:36;Job 30:1;Psalm 22:16;Psalm 22:20;Psalm 59:6;Psalm 59:14;Psalm 68:23