משוח
mashuach
The English word 'anointed' is translated into Hebrew as משוח (mashuach).
The adjective describes someone or something that has been anointed.
Meaning: having been anointed (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
משוח is a passive participle derived from the root מ–ש–ח (m-sh-ch), which relates to the act of anointing with oil.
How do you pronounce it?
mashuach
Did you know?
- In modern Hebrew, the same root as משוח is used to describe a 'smear' of something, like a bit of jam or paint on a surface.
- The phrase משיח (Mashiach) can be used in Hebrew to describe any person who was anointed for a specific role, not just the singular promised Messiah.
- In ancient Israel, anointing was not just a religious ritual but a legal mechanism to transfer authority. To be משוח was a public signal that a person had been formally appointed to a royal or priestly office.
Examples in context
- הוא מלך משוח.Hu melech mesuach.He is an anointed king.
Example conversation
Two people are discussing an ancient religious text.
- נועם Noamמי הדמות הזאת בספר?Mi ha-dmut ha-zot ba-sefer?Who is this figure in the book?
- עגור Adiהוא נולד להיות משוח.Hu nolad lihyot meshuach.He was born to be anointed.
- נועם Noamהאם הוא קיבל את השמן?Ha-im hu kibel et ha-shemen?Did he receive the oil?
- עגור Adiכן, נועם, הוא כבר משוח.Ken, Noam, hu kvar meshuach.Yes, Noam, he is already anointed.
