HEBREW WORDS
An 18-Word Journey to Deepen Your Relationship with God and Discover Your Biblical Heritage
“The of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life”
JOB 33:4
RUACH
[ROO-AKH]
Ruach, a Hebrew word meaning spirit or wind, embodies a deep sense of movement, breath, and vitality. It’s often used to describe the Spirit of God—a divine presence that breathes life into all creation. In Genesis 1:2, the ruach of God hovers over the waters at the dawn of existence, symbolizing God’s creative power. Beyond creation, ruach speaks to inspiration and profound inner transformation, reflecting the sustaining and life-giving essence of the Spirit of God in all living things. It’s the breath that animates humanity, the whisper of guidance, and the force that renews and empowers. Ruach reminds us of our connection to God’s presence, both within us and around us, infusing every moment with divine purpose and energy.
REFLECTION:
Where have you felt God’s ruach moving in your life recently?
CHALLENGE:
Take a moment to pause and notice how God’s ruach is present— in your breath, in prayer, or in moments of kindness—and take a moment to give thanks.
AHAVA [AH-HA-VAH]
Ahava is one of many Hebrew words for love, and it encompasses much more than just an emotion or a fleeting feeling. It is a love that calls for action, devotion, and intentional commitment. This word is used to describe the love shared between friends, family members, or even strangers, as well as the love that God commands us to have for Him and for one another. In the Bible, ahava is closely tied to ideas of loyalty, faithfulness, and service. It is a love that goes beyond affection, requiring care, selflessness, and a deliberate choice to seek the well-being of others.
REFLECTION:
Where have you experienced or shared God’s ahava in your relationships recently?
CHALLENGE:
Look for a moment to actively express love through kindness, care, or service to someone in your life.
“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments.”
DEUTERONOMY 7:9
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.”
PSALM
107:1
HODAYAH [HOH-DAH-YAH]
Hodayah is the Hebrew word for gratitude, a concept deeply woven into the fabric of biblical tradition and the lives of those who follow God. It reflects not just an inward feeling but an outward expression of thankfulness. In Scripture, gratitude is more than saying thank you; it is a call to respond actively and mindfully to God’s provision and grace. The Psalms are filled with moments of hodayah, where gratitude is expressed through praise and acknowledgment of God’s faithfulness. This word invites us to pause and reflect, to recognize God as the source of every blessing, and to give thanks even in the midst of life’s challenges. Hodayah is a reminder that gratitude has the power to transform our perspective and draw us closer to God.
REFLECTION:
What is one thing you are truly grateful for today that you haven’t thanked God for recently?
CHALLENGE:
Write down three ways God has shown His goodness to you and thank Him in prayer, practicing hodayah from your heart.
SIMCHA [SIM-KHAH]
Simcha is the Hebrew word for joy or rejoicing, carrying a deep sense of delight and celebration that goes beyond fleeting happiness. In Scripture, simcha reflects a joy that is rooted in God. Simcha is a joy that flows from His blessings and His presence in our lives. It’s a reminder to rejoice not only in times of abundance but also in the midst of challenges, trusting in His faithfulness. Simcha isn’t just an emotion; it’s a choice to embrace contentment and gratitude, knowing that true joy comes from walking closely with God.
REFLECTION:
Where have you found joy, no matter how small, in your life this week?
CHALLENGE:
During this season, celebrate one moment of joy by sharing it with others or thanking God for it in prayer.
“You turned my mourning into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with .”
PSALM 30:11
“But Moses sought the favor of the Lord his God. ‘Lord,’ he said, ‘why should your anger burn against your people, whom you brought out of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand?’”
EXODUS 32:11
CHUTZPAH[KHUTS-PAH]
If you are familiar with Heather Johnston’s book Uncommon Favor, you might recognize the Hebrew word chutzpah as a recurring theme. In scripture, chutzpah often illustrates the audacious faith and boldness required to step into divine opportunities and challenge the impossible as a son or daughter of God. Traditionally, chutzpah refers to a person’s confidence to act without concern for conventional boundaries or societal norms. This term is often used in Jewish culture to describe individuals who possess a fearless spirit.
REFLECTION:
Where might God be inviting you to step forward with chutzpah and faith?
CHALLENGE:
Take one bold step this week, whether in prayer, sharing your chutzpah, or standing up for what is right.
HALLELUJAH
[HA-LE-LOO-YAH]
Hallelujah is a Hebrew expression meaning praise the Lord. It is a compound word from Hallel, meaning praise, and Yah, a shortened form of Yahweh, the personal name of God. Hallelujah is both a declaration and an invitation for others to join in the praise of God, celebrating His mighty deeds, faithfulness, and love. In the Old Testament, Hallelujah is often used in the Psalms as a call to worship and as an expression of joyous praise to God. It is an exclamation that acknowledges God’s sovereignty and goodness, often used during festive occasions and worship gatherings.
REFLECTION:
What is one way you can praise God for His goodness in your life right now?
CHALLENGE: Set aside a moment to praise God out loud—whether through words, song, or prayer.
“Praise the Lord ! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty heavens!”
PSALM 150:1
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you .”
NUMBERS 6:24-26
SHALOM [SHA-LOME]
Shalom is a Hebrew word meaning peace, but it also encompasses wholeness, well-being, and harmony. More than the absence of conflict, it reflects God’s desire for inner peace, prosperity, and right relationships. Used as both a greeting and farewell, “Shalom” embodies a wish for a complete and balanced life. Isaiah calls the Messiah the Prince of Peace (Sar Shalom), offering divine peace to all who trust in Him (Isaiah 9:6).
REFLECTION:
Where do you need God’s shalom to bring calm and restoration in your life?
CHALLENGE:
Look for ways in your relationships to bring shalom to others.
KADOSH [KA-DOSH]
The Hebrew word kadosh means holy, but its deeper meaning is set apart or distinct. It describes God’s unique nature, separate from all creation. In the Bible, God calls His people to be holy, as He is holy in Leviticus 19:2, meaning they are to be dedicated to His purposes. To be kadosh is not just about purity, but living a life set apart from the world, reflecting our close relationship with a holy God. Daniel exemplifies kadosh by living a faithful, set-apart life, staying true to God while in exile (Daniel 6:10).
REFLECTION:
Where do you see God’s holiness revealed in your life or the world around you?
CHALLENGE:
Ask God to reveal to you new ways you can live kadosh and set apart from the world, such as fasting or solitary times of prayer and worship throughout your day.
“Speak to all the congregation of the people of Israel and say to them, ‘You shall be , for I the Lord your God am .’”
PSALM 150:1
“Hear my , O Lord, and give ear to my cry; hold not your peace at my tears!”
PSALM 39:12
TEFILAH [TFEE-LAH]
Tefilah is the Hebrew word for prayer, but it goes beyond simply asking God for something. It involves connecting with God, listening, and aligning oneself with His will. It includes selfreflection and introspection, asking the Lord to search your heart. Central to Jewish worship, tefilah is a daily practice that helps us draw closer to God. In the Psalms, David exemplifies this by expressing his heart—his desires, fears, and praise. Tefilah is about transforming the heart and aligning with God’s will.
REFLECTION:
How has prayer drawn you closer to God in recent days?
CHALLENGE:
This week, commit to a few minutes of intentional prayer each day, focusing on listening as much as speaking.
BARUCH
[BA-ROOKH]
Baruch is a Hebrew word meaning blessed and is commonly used in Jewish prayers, such as ‘Baruch Atah Adonai’ (Blessed are You, Lord). It expresses not only gratitude but also an acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty and goodness. To be baruch is to experience God’s favor and grace, recognizing His abundance in our lives. When we bless God, we are praising His generosity, not because He lacks anything, but because of His overflowing goodness. Baruch encourages a heart of thankfulness, reminding us that all blessings come from God.
REFLECTION:
Where have you seen God’s blessings in your life?
CHALLENGE:
Take a moment to name and share one specific blessing with someone as a testimony of God’s goodness.
“ be the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things.”
PSALM 72:18
“The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in and faithfulness, maintaining to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.”
EXODUS 34:6
CHESED
[KHEH-SED]
Chesed is one of the most powerful Hebrew words in the Bible, often translated as grace or loving-kindness. It conveys a sense of loyalty, faithfulness, and covenantal love. Chesed is the kind of love that is not based on feelings or emotions but on a committed action. It is a grace that intervenes on behalf of loved ones and comes to their aid, as demonstrated by God’s enduring love for His people. The word chesed is often used in the context of God’s relationship with Israel, reflecting His faithful, unwavering commitment to His covenant. It’s the grace that continues even when undeserved, reflecting God’s character as merciful and compassionate.
REFLECTION:
Where have you witnessed or received God’s chesed in your life recently?
CHALLENGE:
Try practicing hesed by showing unexpected kindness or compassion to someone in need.
RACHAMIM [RA-KCHA-MEEM]
Rachamim is a Hebrew word that conveys a deep, compassionate love, often translated as compassion or mercy. It is derived from the root word for womb (rechem), reflecting a tender, nurturing love, like that of a mother for her child. Rachamim represents a profound sense of empathy and care. God’s rachamim is mentioned frequently in the Psalms, highlighting His tender mercies and compassionate nature. It is a love that sees the needs and pain of others and moves to bring comfort and healing.
REFLECTION:
Where is God calling you to show His rachamim to someone in your life?
CHALLENGE:
Find a way to extend compassion to someone, whether through listening, helping, or simply being present.
“I will grant you , that he may have on you and let you remain in your own land.”
JEREMIAH 42:12
“I am my , and my is mine; he grazes among the lilies.”
SONG OF SONGS 6:3
DODI
[DODEE]
The word dodi is often translated as beloved and is frequently used in the Song of Songs, a poetic book of the Bible that expresses the intimate love between a groom and his bride. Dodi conveys a deep, affectionate love, often used in a romantic context but also applicable to the deep affection and bond between close friends or family members. Dodi is a reminder of the personal and relational nature of love. It is a love that cherishes, honors, and delights in the other person. This word can remind us of our own belovedness in God’s eyes and the intimate, loving relationship He desires with each of us.
REFLECTION:
How do you personally experience God’s love as His beloved?
CHALLENGE:
Take a moment to rest in God’s love, knowing you are His beloved, and reflect that love to someone close to you.
KAVOD
[KA-VOHD]
Kavod is a Hebrew word that means glory, but its root meaning is weight or heaviness, conveying a sense of importance and honor. In the Bible, kavod often refers to the glory of God, which is His manifest presence, power, and majesty. It is the visible expression of God’s greatness and worth. The kavod of God is overwhelming, as seen when Moses could not look directly at God’s face because of its radiance (Exodus 33:20). It is the glory that fills the temple, the splendor that declares God’s supreme authority and divinity. For humans, to give kavod to God means to honor and worship Him, recognizing His supreme worth.
REFLECTION:
How can you bring glory to God in your daily life?
CHALLENGE:
Look for an opportunity to reflect God’s kavod by honoring Him in your words or actions.
“And the of the Lord filled the tabernacle.”
EXODUS 40:34
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a .”
JEREMIAH 29:11
TIKVAH [TEEK-VAH]
Tikvah is a Hebrew word meaning hope. Unlike the modern understanding of hope as mere wishful thinking, tikvah conveys a confident expectation and trust in God’s promises. It is derived from a root word meaning to wait or to expect, reflecting a patient, steadfast waiting for God to act. In the Bible, tikvah is a powerful anchor for the soul, as seen in Jeremiah 29:11. It is the hope that sustains us through trials and challenges, knowing that God is faithful and His promises are sure.
REFLECTION:
Where do you sense God planting tikvah in your heart, even in uncertain times?
CHALLENGE:
Choose one area of your life where you can actively live out hope through trust and action.
EMUNAH
[EH-MOO-NAH]
Emunah is the Hebrew word for faith or faithfulness. It goes beyond simply believing in something or someone; emunah implies a steadfast, unshakeable trust and loyalty. It is faith that is active and lived out daily through consistent obedience and reliance on God. Emunah is more than intellectual assent; it is a wholehearted trust in God’s character and promises. It is about being faithful to God because He is faithful to us. This word encourages us to move beyond passive belief into a dynamic, life-changing faith that impacts every area of our lives.
REFLECTION:
How is your faith in God guiding you through the challenges you face right now?
CHALLENGE:
Take a leap of emunah by trusting God with something you have been hesitant to let go of.
“But the righteous one will live by his .”
HABAKKUK 2:4
“But Noah found in the eyes of the Lord.”
GENESIS 6:8
HEN [KHEN]
Hen is the Hebrew word often translated as grace or favor. It refers to the unmerited favor and kindness that one shows toward another. In the biblical context, hen is closely associated with God’s graciousness towards humanity. It is the favor that God extends not because of our worthiness but out of His character of love and mercy. Hen is seen throughout the scriptures, from God’s favor extended to Noah and his family (Genesis 6:8) to His continual grace shown to David, despite his repetitive downfalls. It is a reminder that grace is a gift, freely given and not earned by works.
REFLECTION:
Where have you received God’s hen in unexpected and uncommon ways?
CHALLENGE:
Try extending grace to someone without expecting anything in return, offering understanding and forgiveness.
CHAIM
[KHA-YIM]
Chaim is the Hebrew word for life, capturing both the gift of physical existence and the deeper spiritual life found in relationship with God. It reflects vitality, energy, and the fullness of being truly alive. The name Chava, given to Eve, means lifegiver and reflects the source of life. The word chaya, associated with living beings, highlights the beauty and diversity of life in its many forms. In scripture, chaim goes far beyond mere survival— it points to the abundant, Spirit-filled life that God desires to give us, a life marked by purpose, joy, and His sustaining presence.
REFLECTION:
How can you celebrate the gift of chaim that God has given you today?
CHALLENGE:
Find a new way to embrace life fully—through joy, gratitude, or simply being present in the moment.
“I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you and death, blessing and curse. Therefore, choose , that you and your offspring may live.”
DEUTERONOMY
30:19
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