In Lamentations the word goy or ‘nations’ is used. There is no separate reference to ‘pagan’ which suggests that the translators wanted to differentiate it from Isaiah 56:6-7. The ‘nations’ entering the sanctuary was forbidden. During the days of Antiochus Epiphanes, the goyim, the Greeks, entered the sanctuary and defiled it with pig’s blood. Their actions were pagan and they were goyim.
Author: Yahulia
Throw, Cast – Hebrew: Yarah
Yarah in Hebrew means ‘to throw, to cast, direct, teach, instruct.’ Yarah is the root of the word Torah and suggests that Torah is like a target, the goal to which we are to attain. Torah, instructions, and teachings are found 598 times in the Complete Jewish Bible.
Precept – Hebrew: Piqqud
A precept is a a general rule that regulates behavior or thought. A precept is something that is learned through teaching.
Lovingkindness – Hebrew: Chesed
‘Compassion’ is found 61 times in the Hebrew Scriptures and ‘mercy’ is found 52 times. ‘Compassion’ means ‘concern’ for the sufferings and struggles of others.’ ‘Mercy’ means ‘to forgive’ when it’s in your power to harm.’ חסד Chesed in Hebrew means ‘loving-kindness, mercy and compassion.‘ “For Adonai will have compassion on Ya‘akov — he will once again choose Isra’el and…