STUFF. The tr. of a number of different Heb. words. 1. An Eng. auxiliary used to supply the idea of “material” or “cloth.” This usage is found most frequently in connection with the fabric materials of blue, purple and scarlet used in the Tabernacle construction (Exod 25:4; 26:1, 31; 36:8, etc.), or the scarlet material used with the hyssop in the ceremony for a leper’s cleansing (Lev 14:4ff.), or the red heifer ceremony (Num 19:6).

2. מְלָאכָה, H4856, the work, workmanship is used of the materials brought by the Israelites to Moses for making the Tabernacle (Exod 36:7).

3. שַׁעַטְנֵז, H9122, mixed stuff. This word is perhaps of Egyp. origin and its precise meaning doubtful. Garments of two “mixed” stuffs are forbidden by Mosaic legislation (Lev 19:19; Deut 22:11). Of the many explanations for why the Lord should forbid this practice, the one cited by Keil and Delitzsch seems most reasonable; namely, that the Israelites were to observe the creation order and keep separate that which God had made distinct.

4. כְּלִי, H3998, vessel, implement, utensil, article. It is a reference to the possessions of certain Israelites who took objects that were “banned” or “accursed” from Jericho (Josh 7:11). Most of the KJV references to stuff come under this category.

5. בְּרֹמִים, H1394, variegated cloth. Used of luxurious carpets of either mixed fabrics or colors imported to Tyre in the 7th cent. b.c. (Ezek 27:24).

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (1915)