🔽 The Hebrew Alphabet per Character
| Letter | Name | Name | Meaning Post-Biblical Numerical Value | Meaning Post-Biblical Numerical Value |
| א | Aleph | אלף | The root אלף ( 'aleph) is rare and means ... | 1 |
| ב | Beth | בית | The word בית ( bayit) means house in the ... | 2 |
| ג | Gimel | גמל | The verb גמל ( gamal) means to deal, or ... | 3 |
| ד | Daleth | דלת | From root דלה ( dala ), draw (water). Th ... | 4 |
Full Answer
What are all the symbols in Hebrew?
The four letters on the dreidel are:
- Nun – nothing
- Gimel – all
- Hei – half
- Shin – put in
What are common Arabic and Hebrew symbols?
- / t͡ʃ / is considered a native phoneme/allophone in some dialects, e.g. Kuwaiti and Iraqi dialects.
- / ʒ / is considered a native phoneme in Levantine and North African dialects and as an allophone in others.
- / ɡ / is considered a native phoneme/allophone in most modern Arabic dialects.
What are some symbols and their meanings?
Top 25 Ancient Chinese Symbols and Their Meanings
- Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang symbolize the negative and positive energies in the universe. ...
- Dragon. The dragon symbol, also known as “long” or “lung” in Chinese, is the most important animal symbol in Chinese culture.
- Phoenix. ...
- Horse. ...
- Snake. ...
- Fu Lions. ...
- Monkey. ...
- Peaches of Immortality. ...
- Pearl. ...
- Rooster. ...
Why is the Hebrew alphabet written in symbols?
The numerical system
- Basic rules. The basis of the numerical system is quite simple, at least for numbers less than 1,000. ...
- Exceptions: substitution. If the last two digits of a number are 15 or 16, they should be expressed not as YUD HE (10+5) and YUD VAV (10+6), but as TET ...
- Exceptions: reordering. ...
- Larger numbers. ...
What is the Hebrew symbol for God?
The Tetragrammaton (/ˌtɛtrəˈɡræmətɒn/; from Ancient Greek τετραγράμματον (tetragrámmaton) '[consisting of] four letters'), or Tetragram, is the four-letter Hebrew theonym יהוה (transliterated as YHWH), the name of God in Judaism and Christianity.
What are the most important symbols in Judaism?
The Star of David, a symbol of Judaism as a religion, and of the Jewish people as a whole. It also thought to be the shield (or at least the emblem on it) of King David.
What is the Hebrew symbol for peace?
The dove is a symbol of peace from the biblical story of Noah's ark. Noah released the dove to find dry land after a flood, and the dove returned carrying an olive branch, signaling that the flood had receded.
What is the meaning of Hebrew alphabet?
The Hebrew alphabet (Hebrew: אָלֶף־בֵּית עִבְרִי, Alefbet ivri), known variously by scholars as the Ktav Ashuri, Jewish script, square script and block script, is an abjad script used in the writing of the Hebrew language and other Jewish languages, most notably Yiddish, Ladino, Judeo-Arabic, and Judeo-Persian.
What are the four symbols of Israel?
Contents National flag – flag of Israel. National emblem – emblem of Israel. National anthem – "Hatikvah" National colors – blue and white. National bird – Hoopoe. National flower – Anemone coronaria. National tree – olive. National dog – Canaan Dog.More items...
What are the symbols of Israel?
Emblem of IsraelIsrael / SymbolThe Emblem of Israel depicts a temple menorah surrounded by an olive branch on each side, with the word "Israel" written in Hebrew below it. While it is commonly displayed in blue and white, the emblem has appeared in alternative colour combinations depending on the use, such as on the Israeli Presidential Standard. Wikipedia
What does B shalom mean?
In peace"In peace" (used to sign off in written correspondence).
What do Hebrews call Jesus?
YeshuaJesus' name in Hebrew was “Yeshua” which translates to English as Joshua.
What's the meaning of the Star of David?
The star was almost universally adopted by Jews in the 19th-century as a striking and simple emblem of Judaism in imitation of the cross of Christianity. The yellow badge that Jews were forced to wear in Nazi-occupied Europe invested the Star of David with a symbolism indicating martyrdom and heroism.
What does number 13 mean in Hebrew?
However, for Jews, 13 has been a symbol of strength and… (sometimes) even good luck. For example, when Israel was established in 1948 the first provisional government had 13 members– because its founders said they needed all the luck they could get.
What is the number 7 in Hebrew?
Tim then makes an important note on Hebrew word play. Seven was symbolic in ancient near eastern and Israelite culture and literature. It communicated a sense of “fullness” or “completeness” (שבע “seven” is spelled with the same consonants as the word שבע “complete/full”).
What are the 5 Hebrew vowels?
1) Similar to English, Hebrew vowels compose five basic sounds: A, E, I, O, U. 2) Different from English, vowels make no sound unless they are related to a consonant. To make the sounds A, E, I, O, U in Hebrew, there is a need to use the consonant Alef with each of those vowels.
What does the Hebrew number Aleph represent?
It represents God the Creator, a profound mystery of unity and harmony. Aleph has a numerical value of one (1). It is the first prime number, which signifies a beginning. Aleph is one of two consonants in the Hebrew language that cannot be pronounced.
What is the Hebrew language?
The Symbolism of the Hebrew Language. The written Hebrew language captures the original concept of God's program. It is the only language that survived after the confusion of Babel to retain some of its original design. Many Bible verses contain hidden or confirming messages buried within the text that are revealed when overlaid or analyzed ...
What does the name Aleph mean?
In the Hebrew language, the word Aleph means "head of a bull" or the head of royalty (king). In Exodus 32, when Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the carved stone tables of the Ten Commandments, he saw that the children of Israel had made a golden calf. They wanted to symbolize God with the steer head.
What does the ninth letter of the Hebrew alphabet mean?
The ninth letter, Teth, is not actually a word, but more of a concept. It indicates "new life." Hebrew tradition says that Teth represents a woman giving birth, or a place where something new is brought forth. That which was in the darkness comes forth into light like a seed bursting from the earth.
What are the two parts of the Bible?
There are two parts of the Bible: the Old and New Testaments. Man struggles with the opposing forces of good and evil, life and death, right and wrong. These concepts can only be understood when Beth (the house) is connected with Aleph (God the Creator).
What does the Gimel symbol mean?
Gimel expresses important ideas, thoughts, or things. It is graphically represented in a triangle. The Jewish star is comprised of two interlaced triangles. The triangle pointing up means "perfect manifestation on the physical side of man"; the one pointing down indicates "perfect manifestation of the spiritual.".
Why did the Hebrews use tables?
The Hebrews used tables to show how they prioritized things like metals, fruits and vegetables, planets, and even our weekly cycle: the first day, Sunday (the sun), is followed by Monday (the moon). These concepts connect to the spiritual-physical side of man and are interwoven in the fabric of human history.
What is the symbol of Israel?
Furthermore, we have to mention two symbols that are featured of the emblem of Israel – a menorah and an olive branch. The former one is the seven-branched candelabrum known as the Temple Menorah. It was made out of pure gold and used by Moses to light up the path of Jews on their exile from Egypt.
What is the symbol of the Judah tribe?
A lion is a symbol of the Judah tribe which birthed great kings such as Solomon and David, and also the Messiah. Also, according to David, they must be “lighter than eagles and stronger than lions”. Another popular symbol that is associated with the celebration of the holiday of Hanukkah is the Dreidel.
What does the Hamsa hand represent?
This amulet features a right palm and includes an eye in the middle. An open right hand symbolizes not only the protection against the evil eye but also good luck and fortune.
What does the chai symbol mean?
Besides these two symbols, another extremely popular one is chai. In Hebrew, it literally means ‘life’, ‘alive’ or ‘living’ and it symbolizes the value of it.
What does 18 mean in Jewish culture?
Since the two symbols have a numerological value of 18 this number is considered to stand for good luck in Jewish cultures. Because of this, Jews usually give presents in the multiples of 18 meaning that they are gifting good luck and fortune.
What does the star on the flag of Israel represent?
According to some belief, this star represents the unity between God and the real world (the top three points aim towards God and the lower ones towards the real world). Even though it is a fairly new symbol in this culture, nowadays it is represented on the flag of Israel, as well as on synagogues and tombstones.
What is the significance of the Star of David?
However, in the 17 th century, the Star of David was used as an official symbol and that is when it became a general sign of Judaism.
What did the Hebrews call their God?
With the addition of the letter ה, creating the word אלהים, the Hebrews not only stated essential monotheism (by naming a single God after the plural word "gods") but also marked their God as theirs: Elohim is the singular pantheon of the vowel-people.
What did the Hebrews do with vowels?
The Hebrews were the first to incorporate vowels in their written text (not to be confused with the vowel pointing of the medieval Masoretes ), and by doing this the previously esoteric art of writing and reading became available to the masses. The seemingly casual command to 'write' something on doors or foreheads included the invention of a writing system that could be learned by everybody. A very big deal, and resulting in the most powerful tool of data preservation up to this common age. Hebrew theology is by far the most influential ever, and this is in part due to the Hebrew invention of vowel notation. This power (this theology) contrasted others by use of the vowel notation, using symbols that were already used and until then only represented consonants: the letters ו ( waw ), י ( yod) and ה ( heh ), and to give an example: the word דוד is either the word dod, meaning beloved (and the ו is a vowel), or it is the word dud, meaning jar (and the ו is again a vowel), or it is the word dawid, which is the name David (and the ו is a consonant).
What is the oldest alphabet in the world?
The Hebrew alphabet is among the oldest in the world, and it was either derived of, or equal to the original Phoenician alphabet (even the word alphabet comes from the first two Hebrew letters: aleph and beth ).
What does the word "hayyut" mean in Hebrew?
The derived noun חיות ( hayyut) means "of livelihood". 8. ט.
When did the Canaanite alphabet start?
The formation of the proto- Canaanite alphabet (around Abraham's time; the 19th century BC) was an incredible leap in understanding language.
What does "nun" mean in the Bible?
Nun. נון. The verb נון ( nun) means propagate, increase. Derivative נין means offspring, posterity. The letter is often said to mean and resemble a fish, but the word nun is not used as such in the Bible. instead, the word for fish comes from another verb which means multiply, increase: דגה ( daga ).
What does the root alap mean?
The root אלף ( 'alap) is rare and means to learn or teach but perhaps not in a very good way (Proverbs 22:25, Job 15:5, 33:33, 35:11). The identical word אלף ( 'alep) means to produce thousands (Psalm 144:13 only). Derivation אלף means oxen (the connection lies perhaps in guidance or to team up).
Menorah
One of the most familiar symbols of Judaism, the menorah is a seven-armed candelabra that represents the state of Israel as a “light upon nations.” Interestingly, the menorah that is used to celebrate Hanukkah has nine arms instead of seven so we can light a candle for each night of the festival.
Dreidel
We spin the dreidel – a 4-sided spinning top – during the festival of Hanukkah.
Torah
Judaism is based on the Hebrew bible called the Torah, or the five books of Moses which are Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. The word “Torah” means instruction or law and rabbinic teachings say that the Torah was given to Moses at Mount Sinai to share with the Jewish people.
Tallit
This four-cornered prayer shawl is worn around one’s shoulders while reciting prayers. The Torah commands Jews to fulfill a mitzvah by wearing tzitzit, which are the knotted fringes on the corners of the tallit. The fringes are a reminder to remember and follow God’s commandments.
Siddur
The Jewish prayer book, is a compilation of the Jewish liturgy. Siddur means order in Hebrew and includes fixed texts and structures of prayer from the Torah and from Nevi’im (Prophets). Various prayers have been added to the siddur over time.
Mezuzah
The small little cases you see on the doorposts of Jewish homes is called a mezuzah, and is based upon a teaching in Deuteronomy that commands us to keep G-d’s words in our minds and hearts by writing them on the doorposts of our homes.
Challah
The golden brown twisted loaf of Jewish bread known as a challah dates back to when the Jewish people left Egypt and wandered in the desert for 40 years; the Torah says that during their journey a bread-like substance called manna fell from the heavens.
What are the Hebrew letters?
The Hebrew letters are not just a handy tool to transcribe Hebrew speech. Rather, they are the vessels through which G‑d created the universe. As told in the opening chapters of Genesis, G‑d spoke ten utterances, and the world came into being.
What is the Hebrew script called?
However, it is most commonly used as the preferred typeface for rabbinic commentaries of a more scholarly nature. It is called “ Rashi Script, ” since it was first introduced (and still widely used) by printers for Rashi’s commentary on the Bible. Read more about Rashi Script.
What is block print Hebrew?
Block letters are the most ancient of forms, based closely on (and including) the Ktav Ashurit, the calligraphic letters of the Torah and other sacred books. This is the most common form of printed Hebrew. Read more about the history of Ktav Ashurit, as well as ...
What is the system of letters that are added together to equal a given number?
Similar to Roman numerals, letters are added together to equal a given number, and the letters retain their essential worth no matter where they are placed in a sequence, so tav, khaf, and aleph, for example, equal 421. With this system, any word or phrase can be given a specific numerical value, known as gematria.
What is the sound of two dots stacked below the letter?
Two dots stacked below the letter, can either have no sound at all (this is called a sheva nach) or it can make a quick “ih” sound, as in tick (in which case it is called a sheva na)
Who wrote the Torah commentaries?
Often, great secrets of the Torah are steeped in gematria. In fact, one of the most popular commentaries on the Torah, written by Rabbi Jacob ben Asher , known as the Baal Haturim, uncovers layers of hidden meaning in the text by way of gematria (and other close analysis of the texts).
Who pronounced the Hebrew letters?
The letters and the words they form are holy, with layers of meaning from the literal to the mystical. It was pronounced by G‑d when the Jews received the Torah at Sinai, and it is read from the Torah by Jews all over the world. The Hebrew letters are precise. Every letter and every vowel has a distinct pronunciation.
What is the Hebrew language?
Hebrew is commonly referred to as the Holy Language. It is no surprise that it is a popular choice of language for people who like to get Christian tattoos. Popular Christian Hebrew tattoos include scriptures and phrases such as Hallelujah, Adonai, and Adonai Elohim. The tattoo pictured above reads “God sees me” in Hebrew.
What does a Hebrew Bible verse tattoo mean?
A Hebrew Bible verse tattoo can be a cool reminder of your faith. Get your favorite Bible verse inked in Hebrew and spread the message of love, faith, and encouragement to the people around you. This tattoo reads, “Let there be light.”
What does a Hebrew shoulder tattoo say?
The best thing about getting a Hebrew tattoo on your shoulder is that while it is quite conspicuous, it can also be concealed easily. This tattoo says, “Don’t look back, don’t stop.”.
What is a Hebrew calligraphy tattoo?
If fancy penmanship is your style, a Hebrew calligraphy tattoo is the way to go! Hebrew calligraphy tattoosinvolve intricate lettering and can look very delicate and classy. This unique design features a Hebrew phrase written in calligraphy to create the shape of a heart
What is a religious Hebrew tattoo?
Religious Hebrew Tattoo. thecaptivatedcanvas / Instagram. If you like the idea of flaunting a spiritual tattoo, something that is symbolic of your identity and faith, a tattoo that reads ‘God is gracious’ can serve as a positive and permanent reminder. This tattoo is perfect for sporting on your forearm. 7.
What does a tree tattoo represent?
Tree: The tree tattoo symbolizes strength, wisdom, and confidence. Choosing the right tattoo is a task in itself. Hebrew tattoos are quite unique, and picking the right can be tricky. They need to be done by seasoned tattoo artists because they require good craftsmanship and creativity.
What does the Hamsa symbol mean?
Hamsa: Hamsa is a palm-shaped symbol that denotes the hand of God or the hand of Miriam. It conveys good luck, health, and fortune, and is said to ward off evil. A lot of people like to combine the Hamsa with other floral symbols or short Hebrew prayers. Infinity: The infinity tattoo signifies endless possibilities.
What is the oldest Jewish symbol?
The Star of David graces the oldest surviving complete copy of the Masoretic text, the Leningrad Codex, dated 1008. (Phote: Wikimedia) Probably the most ubiquitous of Jewish symbols, but also the least significant, is the six-pointed star (or hexagram).
What are the decorations on the Torah ark?
Typical Torah ark decorations include lions, crowns, and luchot. (Photo: Chabad-Lubavitch of Hungary) Torah scroll covers and the holy arks in which they are stored are often decorated with lions (their forepaws atop the two Tablets).
What is the logo of Gan Israel?
The logo used by hundreds of Gan Israel camps bears an open Torah scroll. An open Torah scroll is often used as the central part of a logo of a yeshivah or other institution of Torah study. The actual Torah scroll contains the Five Books of Moses, handwritten on parchment in Hebrew by a trained scribe (“sofer”).
How many letters are in the Torah scroll?
The sages say that the 600,000 letters in the Torah scroll correspond to the 600,000 collective Jewish souls ( understand the math of this equation ), as every single Jew has a portion of the Torah, and there is a portion of every Jew within the Torah.
What is Judaism based on?
Judaism is based on learning Torah and doing the mitzvahs, through which we connect with G‑d and make the world a better place. During the course of our history, many symbols have become associated with Jewish people, Jewish scholarship, and Jewish culture.
What is a gravestone marked with a pitcher of water?
A gravestone marked with a pitcher of water is generally that of a Levite, who is honored with washing the hands of the Kohen before the Priestly Blessing is administered. The candelabra marks the grave of a pious Jewish woman.
What is the Jewish menorah?
At times, the eight-branched menorah, the kind used in Jewish homes to celebrate the holiday of Chanukah, is also used as a Jewish symbol on synagogues, letter heads, and more. Explore the differences between the Chanukah and Temple menorahs. 3. Torah Scroll.
Star of David
The Star of David, the Magen David, is one of the most recognizable Jewish symbols. It appears on many Jewish tombstones and is the central symbol on the Israeli flag. Surprisingly, given its widespread popularity, the Star of David is fairly recent and has only been associated with Jews for a few hundred years.
Menorah
The official emblem of the State of Israel, the Menorah is a key Jewish emblem. The Torah relates how God Himself gave Moses instructions for building this holy seven-branched candelabra on Mount Sinai: “You shall make a menorah of pure gold…” ( Exodus 25: 31-40)
Priestly Blessing Hands
This distinctive two handed symbol is sometimes found on tombstones of Jews who were members of the Cohen priestly clan, descendants of the Cohanim who were descended from Moses’ brother Aaron, and who served in the ancient Temple in Jerusalem.
Hamsa
This depiction of a single hand has many names: Hamsa (from the Arabic word for “five”); Yad (the Hebrew word for hand); Hand of Miriam; and Hand of Fatima. Hamsas have been popular throughout the Arab world since the Middle Ages.
Grapes – Israeli Ministry of Tourism Symbol
The symbol of Israel’s Ministry of Tourism is a stylized depiction of two men carrying a bunch of grapes that is so large they have to use a pole with one man holding up each end to transport it.
Lion of Judah – Jerusalem City Council Logo
The official crest of the city of Jerusalem is a lion pictured against a background of the stones of the Western Wall, surrounded by stylized olive leaves, representing peace. It refers to the tribe of Judah, one of the twelve ancient Jewish tribes.
Chai
Chai means “life” in Hebrew. This uplifting word is often found in Jewish jewelry and other Judaica objects, affirming one of the most important values in the Jewish religion: preserving and celebrating life. A common toast on Jewish occasions is L’Chaim, meaning “to life!”
What is the oldest symbol in Judaism?
A Menorah is not only the most important, but the oldest symbol in Judaism. In the early Jewish Temple, it was a tradition to light the seven-branched Menorah (the candelabrum with 7 stands) every evening and clean it every morning. Fresh olive oil was filled in cups and wicks were replaced.
What is the symbol of the five books of the Torah?
Hamsa Hand. Also known as the Hamesh Hand, Khamsa, and Hand of Fatima, in Judaism, this symbol represents the five books of Torah. The number five is known as hamesh in Hebrew, and the Torah consists of five books. The hamesh hand also reminds that a believer should use all five senses to praise God.
Why do Jews wear kippahs?
Also, it is mentioned in the Talmud to “Cover your head in order that the fear of heaven may be upon you.” Therefore, another symbolism of wearing the kippah is to feel the presence of God over you all the time. It is a tradition to wear the kippah at all times, especially during prayer, as it ‘honors the presence of God’.
What are the rules of Jewish life?
The life of each and every Jewish person is governed by a set of rules, customs, and traditions, that need to be followed in order to live as per the commandments of God. They believe that those who follow God and His commandments are the ones who will be rewarded, and those who don’t, will be punished.
What is the Jewish calendar for 2015?
Interestingly, the year 2015 is actually AM 5775, AM being the abbreviation for Anno Mundi , a calendar era used in the Jewish calendar. AM 5776 shall begin at sunset on September 13, 2015.
What does Chai mean in Jewish jewelry?
You will usually see this symbol in Jewish jewelry. In addition to that, numerically, the letters of chai add up to the number 18, which in Judaism is a spiritual number that brings good luck. This is the reason why, when it comes to charity, the Jews always offer gifts in the multiples of 18 (18, 36,54, and so on).
Why did the Jews use the Star of David?
As the Christians took the Cross as their representative symbol, the Jews chose the Star of David to represent their community. There is no reason as to why only this symbol was chosen, however, in the Middle East and North Africa, the shield of King David was considered to bring good luck.
Structure
- The shape of the Aleph is two Yods י, one above and one below, with a diagonal line, the Vav ו, between them, representing the higher world and the lower world, with the Vav separating and connecting the two.
Quotes
- Aleph represents the creation of something from nothing. It is the essential symbol of beginnings and ultimate reality that cannot be talked about, timeless, spaceless, and present everywhere. It is the One that cannot be divided, representing perfection beyond human comprehension. The yod is an infinite dot, the essence of all life. It is the foundation of all foundations. Everything comes fr…
Summary
- Beith is the 2nd letter of the Hebrew alphabet, signifying the number two. Beith is the first letter of the story of creation, starting the entire Torah/Bible ברא בראשית.
Significance
- Beith represents the beginning of duality, with the One Creator bringing forth a created world, so that there can be both a giver (the Creator) and a receiver (the created world) for the Creator to bestow upon. This creates a dramatic leap from Absolute Oneness to the ability for there to be two. It also creates the possibility for all duality and opposites yes and no, hot and cold, man an…
Philosophy
- Beiths literal meaning and form denote a house, and it represents the universal concept of a container or vessel. Thus the created world is meant to house within it the spiritual. The physical world is meant to be a place for the Creators glory to manifest. The body is meant to contain the soul, allowing it to act in this world. The dual world actually contains within it the Ultimate Onene…
Functions
- The Ghimel also represents reward and punishment. The word גמול represents the giving of both reward and punishment. The laws of the created world are based on the rule of judgment blessings are able to flow to those who do good, while wrongdoing blocks the receipt of goodness and abundance. Thus both kindness and justice are maintained in balance.
Purpose
- Heith is like a revolving gateway, a power to enter a higher level, to enter the mysteries of ones soul, and then return to worldly consciousness. The ancient form of the letter looks like a ladder , indicating the ability to go above and beyond limitations. And as the letter for 8, it also signifies transcending nature, as represented by the 7 days of creation. It is the essence of the human bei…
Examples
- Yod also represents the idea of Unity within Multiplicity, of one whole that is comprised of parts. Yod as we see is a single point, but its value is 10. It shows us that many grains of sand are used to make one pot, many pages make up one book, many drops of water make up the ocean. There are many occurrences in the world, but they all stem from One God, perfect and indivisible. It als…
Definition
- Khaf, the 11th letter of the Hebrew Alphabet, means literally the cupped palm of the hand. It is like a cupped, outstretched palm, ready to receive. The shape of all containers a bowl, a cup, a jar, is based on that basic curved shape, and Khaf represents the idea of a container. It represents form. A house is a form that contains the goings on of the people inside it; a body is a form which cont…
Themes
- Nuun indicates constant presence and the humility of the soul. The soul is silent, bent, and humble constantly giving light but staying hidden. The Nuun shows that to be bound to the Creators will, not our own personal egoistic way, we must bend above and below. Nun shows the relationship between the body, which is impermanent, and the soul, which never dies. It can teac…
Language
- The Hebrew letter Ayin means eye and correspondingly, the Ayin has to do with vision and bringing forth lights that are hidden. Ayin teaches us to see beyond and relates to time. It is the aspect of the visionary, to see not just what is happening in front of us, but to envision beyond that to know ones direction 5, 10, 100 years ahead and beyond. The pronunciation of the Ayin is …
Mission
- Ayin implores us to open our eyes, to see beyond the physical. The Ayin is meant to take us from dark to light. It urges us to break through the walls of limitations in order to see what is not yet visible to us.