רחמים
raḥamim
The Hebrew word for mercy is רחמים (raḥamim).
רחמים means forgiveness or compassion. It is frequently used in religious and literary contexts and has a strong connotation associated with divine mercy.
Meaning: forgiveness or compassion (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word רחמים is etymologically related to the word for 'womb' (רחם, raḥam), implying a maternal-like compassion.
How does it change in a sentence?
רחמים is a plural noun used as a singular noun in Hebrew.
How do you pronounce it?
raḥamim
Did you know?
- The Hebrew word רחמים is linguistically linked to the Arabic word رَحْمَة ('mercy'). Both languages derive the concept of compassion from the same ancient root.
- In Jewish liturgy, the request for רחמים is often framed as a plea for the 'Attribute of Mercy' to outweigh the 'Attribute of Justice'.
- While רחמים refers to the feeling of compassion, the action of showing mercy is often expressed through the root חנן, which implies a gift given to someone who does not deserve it.
Examples in context
- רחמים!Have mercy!This example shows how to call for mercy using רחמים.Tatoeba #5444474 by fekundulo, translation #572134 by sacredceltic
- לאש אין רחמים.Fire is without mercy.This example uses רחמים to describe a situation where mercy is absent.Tatoeba #10769724 by fekundulo, translation #1671915 by loghaD
- ה' רחום וחנוןThe Lord is merciful and gracious.
Example conversation
Noa and Itai are discussing a strict teacher.
- נועה Noaהמורה הזו לא מגלה רחמים.Hamora hazu lo megala rachamim.This teacher shows no mercy.
- איתי Itayנכון, היא תמיד נותנת ציונים נמוכים.Nachon, hi tamid notenet tziyunim nemukim.True, she always gives low grades.
- נועה Noaאולי היא תשנה את דעתה מחר.Ulai hi tashne et da'ata machar.Maybe she will change her mind tomorrow.
- איתי Itayאני ממש לא חושב כך, נועה.Ani mamash lo choshev kach, Noa.I really don't think so, Noa.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries רחמים, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
