ברית
brit/baˈriːt/
The English word "covenant" is translated into Hebrew as ברית (brit).
The term ברית refers to an agreement to do or not to do something. It is used in both religious contexts, such as describing a covenant with God and in political contexts, such as describing a military alliance.
Meaning: agreement to do or not to do (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun ברית is feminine, which means it requires feminine adjectives and verbs when used in a sentence.
How do you pronounce it?
The romanization is brit and the IPA is /baˈriːt/.
Did you know?
- The root of ברית is related to the verb 'to cut'. In ancient times, a covenant was not signed with a pen but was ratified by cutting an animal in half to symbolize the fate of those who broke the deal.
- The word ברית is also the term used for the Jewish ritual circumcision. This is because the ceremony marks the physical sign of the ancient covenant between God and the people.
- While ברית means 'covenant', the Hebrew word for a standard commercial contract is חוזה. Using ברית for a business deal would sound inappropriately solemn or religious.
Examples in context
- הם חתמו על ברית חדשה.hem khatmu al brit khadasha.They signed a new covenant.
- הייתה ביניהם ברית איתנה.hayta beyneyhem brit eytana.There was a strong covenant between them.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ברית, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
