הנני
hineni
The English phrase "here I am" is translated into Hebrew as הנני (hineni).
The phrase is used to announce one's presence or readiness when called upon.
What does it mean word for word?
הנני is a combination of the particle ה (meaning "behold" or "here") and the first-person singular conjugation of the verb "to be" (meaning "am").
Which one should you use?
הנני is used for a formal announcement of presence or readiness. In contrast, the standard, neutral way to say "I am here" in modern Hebrew is אני כאן.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
הנני is a highly formal, literary or biblical form that is not used in casual everyday conversation. For informal situations among friends and family, you should use אני פה.
How do you pronounce it?
hineni
Did you know?
- While הנני is too formal for the street, it is frequently used in modern Hebrew legal documents and official petitions to introduce the speaker.
- The particle ה at the start of הנני functions as a 'deictic' marker, which acts like a finger pointing toward the speaker to draw immediate attention.
- In the Hebrew Bible, הנני is the standard response of prophets and leaders when God calls them, signaling not just presence but a total readiness to serve.
Examples in context
- הנני עומד לרשותכם.heneni omed lereshutchem.Here I am, at your service.
Example conversation
A formal meeting where a supervisor calls for an employee.
- עגור Adiעידו, האם אתה כאן?Ido, ha-im ata kan?Ido, are you here?
- עידו Idoהנני, עגור.Hineni, Agur.Here I am, Agur.
- עגור Adiבוא נתחיל בישיבה.Bo nat-chil ba-yeshiva.Let's start the meeting.
- עידו Idoאני מוכן.Ani mukhan.I am ready.
