The Hebrew noun kelimmah refers to the experience of shame, disgrace, or public humiliation. It describes the dishonor that comes from defeat, sin, or being put to shame before others. Related to the verb kalam (to be humiliated).
Kelimmah captures the social and spiritual devastation of shame in the biblical world. Israel experienced kelimmah in exile and in spiritual adultery. Yet the prophets promise that God will turn shame to glory — 'Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion' (Isaiah 61:7). This reversal of shame is foundational to the Gospel: Christ took our kelimmah upon himself (Hebrews 12:2).