חזק ואמץ
chazak ve'ematz
The phrase "be strong and courageous" in Hebrew is חזק ואמץ (chazak ve'ematz).
This phrase is an encouraging command to remain brave and steadfast when facing difficulties. It is most commonly recognized as a biblical command and is frequently used in religious or highly inspirational contexts to encourage steadfastness.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of two adjectives: חזק (strong) and אמץ (courageous/firm), joined by the conjunction ve (and).
How does it change in a sentence?
The default form חזק ואמץ is in the masculine singular imperative, which is used when addressing one male.
How do you pronounce it?
chazak ve'ematz
Did you know?
- In modern Hebrew, the root of אמץ is also used in the word for 'adoption' (אימוץ), reflecting the idea of taking a firm and decisive hold of a new responsibility.
- Because חזק also means 'strong' in the context of a flavor or scent, calling a food חזק suggests it is 'intense' or 'overpowering' rather than physically powerful.
- Because of its heavy biblical origins, saying this phrase to a friend today can sound jokingly dramatic, as if you are a prophet delivering a solemn decree.
Examples in context
- התחזק ותאמץ. האמונה בך חזקה.Be strong and courageous. The belief in you is strong.
- חזק ואמץ בדרך החדשה שלך.chazak ve'ametz be'derech hechadasha shelcha.Be strong and courageous on your new path.
- אל תירא, חזק ואמץ.al tira, chazak ve'ametz.Do not fear, be strong and courageous.
Example conversation
Maya encourages Ido before a difficult job interview.
- מאיה Mayaאתה מוכן לראיון?ata muchan la'riyon?Are you ready for the interview?
- עידו Idoאני קצת לחוץ, מאיה.ani ktsat lachutz, Maya.I'm a bit nervous, Maya.
- מאיה Mayaחזק ואמץ, אתה יעלה בראיון!chazak ve'ematz, ata ya'ale ba'riyon!Be strong and courageous, you will do great in the interview!
- עידו Idoתודה רבה על התמיכה.toda raba al hatmicha.Thank you very much for the support.
