babashka-clj

Run Clojure scripts without JVM startup using GraalVM native binaries.

60|13|Updated Dec 22, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/plurigrid/asi --skill babashka-clj
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: babashka-clj
Source: https://github.com/plurigrid/asi/tree/main/skills/babashka-clj
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/plurigrid/asi --skill babashka-clj

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Provides a JVM-free, GraalVM-native path for quick Clojure scripting using Babashka, sci interpreter, and pods.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Instant Clojure scripting without JVM startup
  • REPL, tasks, and task execution via bb
  • GF(3) integration examples with Gay.mcp and related tooling

Quick Start

  • Run a script: bb script.clj
  • Start a REPL: bb nrepl-server
  • List tasks: bb tasks

Frequently Asked Questions about babashka-clj

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I run Clojure scripts without JVM startup overhead?

Babashka eliminates JVM startup overhead by providing GraalVM native binaries for fast Clojure scripting. Run scripts instantly with `bb script.clj`, avoiding the typical JVM initialization delay while maintaining compatibility with most clojure.core APIs.

Can I use Babashka for CLI automation and task orchestration?

Yes, Babashka supports CLI automation and task orchestration through bb commands: `bb script` for scripts, `bb tasks` to list defined tasks, and `bb run` to execute them. It's designed for ad-hoc Clojure code execution and rapid automation workflows.

Does Babashka work with GraalVM native deployments?

Babashka is built on GraalVM native compilation, providing pre-compiled native binaries for instant execution. It enables true native deployments of Clojure code without requiring the full JVM, ideal for containerized and resource-constrained environments.

How do I start a REPL or nREPL server with Babashka?

Babashka provides built-in REPL tooling via `bb nrepl-server` to start an nREPL server for interactive development. This allows real-time Clojure code evaluation and integration with IDE tooling without JVM startup delays.

Can I extend Babashka with custom functionality?

Babashka supports extensibility through pods, allowing you to add custom libraries and functionality beyond the sci interpreter core. This lets you compose specialized scripting solutions while maintaining fast startup times.

What's the difference between Babashka scripting and standard Clojure?

Babashka scripting uses the sci interpreter and GraalVM native binaries to execute Clojure code instantly, compatible with most clojure.core APIs. Standard Clojure requires JVM startup; Babashka trades some advanced features for speed and portability in scripting contexts.