A rechargeable lithium battery according to the present invention includes a positive electrode including a positive active material being capable of intercalating and deintercalating lithium; a negative electrode including a negative active material being capable of intercalating and deintercalating lithium; and a non-aqueous electrolyte. The negative electrode includes a lithium-containing metal compound that is inactive for water, and can intercalate lithium during at least discharge. The rechargeable lithium battery has an irreversible capacity during a first charge and discharge, and has no problems such dendrite, electrolyte decomposition, or dissolution of a negative current collector.