What Was Hebrew in the Bible?

Hebrew: The Sacred Language of the Old Testament

Hebrew is a Semitic language that holds a pivotal role in the Bible, especially within the Old Testament. It is the original language in which most of the Old Testament scriptures were written, making it integral to the Judeo-Christian heritage. The Hebrew language, known in Hebrew as “Ivrit” (עִבְרִית), was the vernacular of the ancient Israelites and remains a central language in Jewish religious practices and texts.

Biblical References to the Hebrew Language

In the Bible, specific references to the Hebrew language can be found, underscoring its importance and distinctiveness. Notably, in 2 Kings 18:26 and Isaiah 36:11, the narrative recounts an incident where the Rabshakeh, an Assyrian envoy, addresses the people of Judah in Hebrew rather than in Aramaic. The text reads:

“Then Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and Shebnah, and Joah, said to the Rabshakeh, ‘Please speak to your servants in Aramaic, for we understand it. Do not speak to us in Hebrew in the hearing of the people who are on the wall.'” (2 Kings 18:26 ESV)

This deliberate choice to use Hebrew was intended to intimidate and demoralize the people of Judah by ensuring they understood the Assyrian threats directly. The Hebrew word used in these passages is “יְהוּדִית” (Yehudit), which translates to “Judean” or “Hebrew.” This term is closely associated with the people of Judah, who were a significant part of the southern kingdom of Israel and descendants of the tribe of Judah.

The Significance of Hebrew in Biblical Revelation

From a biblical perspective, Hebrew is not just a language but a vessel through which God chose to communicate His will and reveal His nature to His people. The majority of the Old Testament, including foundational texts such as the Torah (the first five books), the Prophets, and the Writings, were written in Hebrew. This language was used to record God’s covenants, laws, prophecies, and teachings.

The use of Hebrew in the Bible is seen as a testament to God’s faithfulness in preserving His Word. The meticulous transmission of these texts over millennia has allowed the words of the prophets, poets, and historians to be passed down accurately. The Hebrew Bible, or Tanakh, continues to be a cornerstone of Jewish religious life and a foundational text for Christians, who see it as the Old Testament.

Lessons for the Modern Christian

The significance of the Hebrew language in the Bible offers several lessons for modern Christians. First, it underscores the importance of understanding the original languages of Scripture to grasp the full meaning and nuance of the biblical text. While translations are valuable, studying the Bible in its original languages can reveal deeper insights and more precise interpretations.

Additionally, the preservation of the Hebrew Scriptures through centuries of persecution and dispersion is a testament to the resilience of God’s Word. It reminds Christians that God’s truth endures despite human attempts to suppress it. This resilience can inspire modern believers to cherish and uphold the Scriptures, recognizing their divine origin and authority.

Connection to a Loving God

The Hebrew language serves as a conduit for the intimate communication between God and His people. Through Hebrew, God conveyed His commandments, promises, and expressions of love and justice. The personal nature of this communication is evident in the psalms, prayers, and prophecies that capture the depth of human emotion and divine interaction.

For Christians, this connection emphasizes that God desires a personal relationship with His people. The use of Hebrew in the Bible reflects God’s willingness to communicate in the language of His chosen people, illustrating His accessibility and desire for fellowship. This loving engagement invites believers to engage deeply with Scripture, seeking to understand God’s heart and will.

Connection to Jesus Christ

While Hebrew is primarily associated with the Old Testament, it also connects to the New Testament and the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus, known as Yeshua in Hebrew, was born into a Jewish family and was deeply rooted in Jewish culture and tradition. He read the Hebrew Scriptures, taught from them, and fulfilled the Messianic prophecies written in Hebrew.

The New Testament, though primarily written in Greek, frequently references the Hebrew Scriptures, demonstrating the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. Jesus’ life and ministry are seen as the fulfillment of the promises made in the Hebrew Bible. His teachings, parables, and sermons often drew upon the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the Hebrew Scriptures.

Conclusion

The Hebrew language is more than just a means of communication; it is a sacred vessel through which God revealed His nature, will, and plan for humanity. Its significance in the Bible underscores the importance of understanding Scripture in its original context and the enduring relevance of God’s Word. For modern Christians, the Hebrew language offers a deeper appreciation of the Bible’s richness and invites a closer connection with the loving God who speaks through its pages. It also points to the fulfillment of God’s promises in Jesus Christ, who bridges the Old and New Testaments, uniting the Hebrew heritage with the universal message of salvation.

References:
– 2 Kings 18:26
– 2 Chronicles 32:18
– Nehemiah 13:24
– Isaiah 36:11
– Isaiah 36:13