clojure-coffi

Wrap native C libraries for Clojure using the Panama FFI API.

1|Updated Sep 5, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Ramblurr/nix-devenv --skill clojure-coffi
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: clojure-coffi
Source: https://github.com/Ramblurr/nix-devenv/tree/main/prompts/skills/clojure-coffi
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Ramblurr/nix-devenv --skill clojure-coffi

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill simplifies the process of integrating native C libraries into Clojure applications, enabling direct calls to C functions and efficient memory management.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • FFI Wrapper: Provides a high-level Clojure API over the Panama Foreign Function & Memory API (JEP 454).
  • Type System: Supports a rich set of C types, structs, arrays, and function pointers.
  • Memory Management: Offers safe and efficient memory allocation and deallocation using arenas.
  • Use Case: Wrap a complex C library for image processing or scientific computation, making its functionality seamlessly available within your Clojure codebase.

Quick Start

Use the clojure-coffi skill to wrap the native strlen function and call it with the string "hello world".

Frequently Asked Questions about clojure-coffi

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I call C functions from Clojure?

You can call C functions from Clojure by using a Foreign Function Interface (FFI) wrapper that provides a high-level API over the Panama Foreign Function & Memory API. This allows direct invocation of native library functions from your Clojure codebase.

What is the best way to manage off-heap memory when integrating C libraries in Clojure?

Managing off-heap memory for C integration in Clojure is handled safely using memory arenas. This approach provides efficient allocation and deallocation of native memory required when interacting with complex C data structures.

Can I define C structs and arrays in Clojure using the Panama API?

Yes, you can define and manipulate complex C data structures like structs and arrays in Clojure. The FFI wrapper supports a rich type system, enabling seamless mapping and interaction with native memory layouts.

Does Clojure FFI support native callbacks and variable-length arguments?

Yes, native callbacks and variable-length arguments are supported for maximum interoperability. This allows Clojure applications to pass function pointers to C libraries and handle flexible C function signatures.

Do I need the Java Panama API to wrap a C library in Clojure?

The Skill utilizes the Panama Foreign Function & Memory API (JEP 454) as its underlying mechanism to wrap C libraries. It abstracts this layer, providing a high-level Clojure API so you do not interact with Panama directly.