Is it not interesting that humanity, by-and-large, traces linage through the seed of man with one exception: the Jewish people? It is a common expression that if “your mother is Jewish, then you are Jewish.” Who else could be called “the seed of woman,” someone who is Jewish, and is also referred to as “heel” other than Ya’akov––the one named “heel” through whom all Jewish people today trace their linage, via their mothers.
Category: Hebrew Lexicon
These articles give insight into the meaning of Hebrew words.
The “Door” of Judah
In today’s Torah portion, Vayechi, we read the beginning of the blessings from Jacob (Israel) to his sons. In particular this year the blessing of Judah stood out to me. “Judah, your brothers shall praise you; Your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; Your father’s sons shall bow down to you. The…
Study – Hebrew: Midrash
Midrash is the Jewish term for hashing out Scripture. In other words, it is a way of finding an answer to a practical or theological question by studying the meaning of words in Torah. Midrash is used to discover halacha or how to walk out the direction of Torah commands. This method of studying the Scriptures has been used by rabbis and students of the Word of God for millennia even though it is most notably used by the Orthodox communities of the past few centuries.
Way – Hebrew: Derech
The Hebrew word derech means ‘way’ and is found 706 times in the Hebrew Scriptures. The word means path, road, distance, and journey. It also has the added meaning of ‘conduct’ and ‘action.’