Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Hebrew Root Meanings


"Thus, for instance, the usual term for “
meek” is derived from a root which signifies affliction. The usual term for “wicked” comes from a root that expresses the notion of restlessness. [Donna:Think of Isaiah 57:20] A “sinner” is one who misses the mark. To “delight” in anything is literally to bend down towards it. [A dear image when we think about of little children.]

The “
law” is that which indicated the mind of God. “Righteousness” is that which is perfectly straight.Truth” is that which is firm. “Vanity” that which is empty. “Anger” is derived from a root meaning to breathe, quick breathing being a sign of irritated feeling. [See May 18 post] To “trust” is to take shelter under, or to lean upon, or to cast oneself on. To “judge” is radically [as to its root meaning] to smooth or make equal.”'

(Girdlestone, R.B., Girdlestone’s Synonyms of the Old Testament, Hendrickson Publishers, Inc., Peabody, Massachusetts, 1983, pg 19)

3 comments:

  1. Donna, this opens up so much more meaning in many, many scriptures. These are so important I wrote them in my scriptures! Thank you!!

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  2. They sure were helpful to me. I'm so happy that you can use them also.

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  3. These are wonderful. I love the one about delight. I've thought of it several times as I played with the boys. So sweet.

    It has made me ponder, too, about delighting vs. worshiping.

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