Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Instructions: Begin building your vocabulary with this dictionary by memorizing these 100
parent roots. Memorize the word, its pronunciation and their verb and noun meanings. Flash
cards may help by placing the word on one side and its details on the other.
Parent Root Dictionary
‫אב‬
(abh)
Stand / Tent Pole
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ א‬represents strength, the ‫ ב‬represents the tent. Combined these
mean "the strength of the house".
Definition: This can be the tent poles which hold up the tent, the house, as well as the father
who holds up the family, the household.
Strong’s #: 1
‫אח‬
(ahh)
Protect / Hearth
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ א‬represents strength. The ‫ ח‬is a wall. Combined these pictographs
mean "strong wall".
Definition: In Hebrew thought, a wall is more than a vertical barrier but anything that separates
or divides. The hearth around the fire protected the house from the heat and embers of the
fire.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫אל‬
(el)
Yoke / Ox
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ א‬is a picture of an ox head and also represents its strength. The ‫ ל‬is
a picture of a shepherd staff and also represents the authority of the shepherd. Combined
these two pictographs mean "the strong authority" and can be anyone or thing of strong
authority.
Definition: The yoke is understood as a "staff on the shoulders" (see Isaiah 9:4) in order to
harness their power for pulling loads such as a wagon or plow. Hence, the two pictographs can
also represent "the ox in the yoke". Often two oxen were yoked together. An older, more
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
experienced ox would be teamed up (yoked) with a younger, less experienced ox. The older ox
in the yoke is the "strong authority" who, through the yoke, teaches the younger ox.
Strong’s #: 410
‫אמ‬
(eym)
Bind / Glue
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ א‬represents strength. The ‫ מ‬is water or any other liquid. Combined
these pictographs mean "strong liquid".
Definition: Glue was made by placing the hides and other animal parts of slaughtered animals
in a pot of boiling water. As the hide boiled, a thick sticky substance formed at the surface of
the water. This substance was removed and used as a binding agent. This word also means
“mother” as the one who binds the family together.
Strong’s #: 517
‫אנ‬
(an)
Produce / Fig
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ א‬represents the ox. The ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed (plant, animal or
man).
Definition: The male searches out the female and approaches her for reproducing (see
Jeremiah 2:24). This can also be a search for the purpose of producing something.
Strong’s #: 575
‫אש‬
(eysh)
Press / Fire
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ א‬represents strength. The ‫ ש‬is a picture of teeth and imply pressing
as one does with the teeth to chew food. Combined these pictures mean "a strong pressing
down".
Definition: A fire is made by firmly pressing a wooden rod down onto a wooden board and
spinning the rod with a bow drill. Wood dust is generated from the two woods rubbing together
and is heated by the friction creating a small ember in the dust. Small tinder is then placed on
the ember and is blown ignited the tinder.
Strong’s #: 784
‫את‬
(et)
Plow / Mark
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ א‬is a picture of an ox. The ‫ ת‬is a picture of two crossed sticks used
to make a sign or mark. Combined these pictures represent "an ox moving toward a mark".
Definition: When plowing a field with oxen, the plowman drives the oxen toward a distant
mark in order to keep the furrow straight. A traveler arrives at his destination by following a
mark. The traveling toward a mark, destination or person. The arrival of one to the mark. A
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
"you" is an individual who has arrived to a "me". The coming toward a mark. A standard, or flag,
with the family mark hangs as a sign. An agreement or covenant by two where a sign or mark of
the agreement is made as a reminder to both parties.
Strong’s #: 853, 854, 885
‫בא‬
(ba)
Come / Void
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The filling of an empty space.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫בד‬
(bad)
Separate / Stick
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ב‬is a representation of a tent. The ‫ ד‬is a picture of the tent door.
These two pictographs represent "the door of the tent".
Definition: The father of the tent often sat alone at the door of the tent. Here he could receive
shade from the sun, watch over his household and watch the road for approaching strangers.
(see Genesis 18:1,2)
Strong’s #: 905, 906
‫בח‬
(bahh)
Slaughter / Knife
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The killing of an animal for slaughter by inserting the point of the knife into throat to
sever the artery.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫בל‬
(bal)
Mix / Fodder
Pictograph: ?
Definition: A flowing of any substance.
Strong’s #: 1077
‫בנ‬
(ben)
Build / Tent panel
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ב‬is a picture of the tent. The ‫ נ‬is a picture of a sprouting seed and
represents continuity as the seed continues the next generation. The combined meaning of
these letters mean “the continuing of the house".
Definition: The tent was constructed of woven goat hair. Over time the sun bleaches and
weakens the goat hair necessitating their continual replacement. Each year the women make a
new panel, approximately 3 feet wide and the length of the tent. The old panel is removed
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
(being recycled into a wall or floor) and the new strip is added to the tent. Since the tent is only
replaced one small piece at a time the tent essentially lasts forever.
Strong’s #: 1121
‫בר‬
(bar)
Feed / Grain
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ב‬is a picture of a tent but also represents the family which resides
inside the tent. The ‫ ר‬is a picture of a head. Combined these have the meaning of "family of
heads".
Definition: The plant families of grains such as wheat and barley have a cluster of seeds at the
top of the stalk called "heads". These grains were used for food for both man and livestock.
Strong’s #: 1250
‫בת‬
(bet)
Lodge / House
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ב‬is the tent or house. The ‫ ת‬is two crossed sticks meaning a mark or
sign.
Definition: The family mark is the name of the patriarch of the family (such as "the house of
Jacob"). The primary function of the tent is to provide a protection and a sleeping area at night.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫גב‬
(gabh)
Lift / Arch
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The high arched curve of the back when digging.
Strong’s #: 1354
‫גד‬
(gad)
Slice / Fortune
Pictograph: ?
Definition: A store of material possessions.
Strong’s #: 1409
‫גו‬
(gaw)
? / Back
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The back as the middle part of the body, used in lifting.
Strong’s #: 1459, 1458, 1460
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫גל‬
(gal)
Roll / Round
Pictograph: ?
Definition: Something that is round or a second time around of a time or event. A dancing in a
circle.
Strong’s #: 1530
‫גנ‬
(gan)
Shield / Garden
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ג‬is a picture of the foot and means to walk with an extended
meaning to gather. The ‫ נ‬is a picture of a sprouting seed. Combined these mean "a gathering of
seeds".
Definition: A place for growing crops and is often surrounded by a rock wall or hedge to protect
it from grazing animals.
Strong’s #: 1588
‫גר‬
(ger)
Sojourn / Traveler
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ג‬is a picture of the foot and means to walk. The ‫ ר‬is a picture of a
man. Combined these mean "a walking man".
Definition: One traveling through a foreign land is a stranger to the people and culture. Fear is
associated with strangers and seen as an enemy. This root also has the idea of laying out flat to
sleep through the idea of spending the night.
Strong’s #: 1616
‫דל‬
(dal)
Back and Forth / Door
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ד‬is a door. The ‫ ל‬is a picture of staff and represents any rod.
Combined these pictures mean "the door on the rod".
Definition: The tent door was hung down as a curtain, covering the entrance to the tent, from a
horizontal pole. The door was then moved to the side for going in and out of the tent.
Strong’s #: 1800
‫דמ‬
(dam)
Silent / Blood
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ד‬is a door representing the idea of moving back and forth. The ‫ מ‬is
a picture of water and can represent any liquid especially blood. Combined these pictures mean
"the moving back and forth of water" or the "flowing of blood".
Definition: Similarly, the grape plant takes water from the ground and moves it to the fruit
where the water becomes the blood of the grape.
Strong’s #: 1818
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫דנ‬
(dan)
Rule / Ruler
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ד‬is a picture of a door. The ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed representing the
idea of life. Combined these pictures mean "the door of life".
Definition: The ancient Hebrew concept of a "judge" is one who restores life. The goal of one
that rules or judges is to bring a pleasant and righteous life to the people. This can also mean a
deliverer as one whom restores life to his people.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫דע‬
(da)
See / Know
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ד‬is a picture of a door. The ‫ ע‬is a picture of the eye. Through the
eyes one experiences his world and learns from it. Combined these pictures mean "the door of
the eye".
Definition: The eye is the window into the man's very being. Experience is gained through
visual observation. Knowledge is achieved through these experiences.
Strong’s #: 1843
‫דר‬
(dar)
? / Circle
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ד‬is a door representing a moving back and forth. The ‫ ר‬is the head
of a man. Combined these mean "the back and forth movement of man".
Definition: A generation is one revolution of the family line. The Hebraic understanding of
order is the continual cyclical process of life and death or renewal and destruction. This root
can also have the meanings of circling around of something in a wide area or to cover a large
area.
Strong’s #: 1858
‫הב‬
(hav)
Give / Gift
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ה‬represents one who is looking at a great sight with his hands
raised as when saying behold. The ‫ ב‬is a representation of the tent or house. Combined these
pictures mean "look toward the house" or "provide for the family".
Definition: One does not choose the household which one is born into, including tribe, parents,
children and wife (as marriages were often arranged by the father), it is a gift from God. These
gifts are seen as a privilege and are to be cherished and protected.
Strong’s #: n/a
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫הה‬
(hah)
Breathe / Breath
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ה‬represents one who is looking at a great sight with his hands
raised and taking a long breath.
Definition: To exist or have breath. That which exists has breath. In Hebrew thought the breath
is the character of someone or something. Just as a man has character, so do objects.
Strong’s #: 1929
‫הל‬
(hal)
Shine / North Star
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ה‬is a picture of a man with his arms raised looking at a great sight.
The ‫ ל‬is a shepherd staff representing the idea of "toward" as the staff is used to move a sheep
toward a direction. Combined these letters mean "a looking toward something" such as the
looking toward a light in the distance.
Definition: The stars have always been used to guide the traveler or shepherd to find his home
or destination.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫הר‬
(har)
High / Hill
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ר‬is a representation of a head.
Definition: In Hebrew thought all things are in motion. A mountain or hill is not inanimate but
the head of the landscape rising up out of the ground.
Strong’s #: 2022
‫זב‬
(zabh)
Issue / Yellow
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ז‬is an agricultural implement representing the idea of harvest or
food. The ‫ ב‬is a representation of the house. Combined these pictures mean "the food of the
house".
Definition: The main staple of the Hebrews was grain and is yellow in color. This grain was
usually ground into a meal for making breads.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫חג‬
(hhag)
Feast / Circle
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ח‬is a picture of a wall representing outside. The ‫ ג‬is a picture of a
foot and represents a gathering. Combined these mean "outside gathering".
Definition: The gathering together for a festival, usually in the form of a circle for dancing and
feasting.
Strong’s #: 2282
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫חד‬
(hhad)
Unite / Unit
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ח‬is a picture of a wall. The ‫ ד‬is a picture of a door. Combined these
mean "wall door".
Definition: A wall separates the inside from the outside. Only through the door can one enter
or exit uniting the inside with the outside.
Strong’s #: 2297
‫חי‬
(hhai)
Sustain / Stomach
Pictograph: ?
Definition: When the stomach is empty one is famished and weak and when it is filled one is
revived. This organ is seen as the life as an empty stomach is like death but a revived stomach is
life.
Strong’s #: 2416
‫חל‬
(hhal)
Bore / Hole
Pictograph: ?
Definition: A hole is drilled with a tool called a bow drill. The string of the bow is wrapped
around the drill. By moving the bow back and forth, and firmly pressing down, the drill spins
around drilling the hole.
Strong’s #: 2455
‫חמ‬
(hham)
Heat / Cheese
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ח‬is a picture of a wall meaning "to separate". The ‫ מ‬is a picture of
water. Combined these mean "separate water".
Definition: Cheese was made by placing milk in a bag made out of an animal skin. The bag was
hung out in the sun and pushed back and forth. The skin of the bag contained an enzyme that
when heated and shaken caused the milk to sour and separate into its two parts, fat (curds or
cheese) and water (whey). The whey could be drunk and the curds eaten or stored for future
consumption.
Strong’s #: 2524
‫חנ‬
(hhen)
Camp / Camp
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ח‬is a picture of a wall. The ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed meaning "to
continue". Combined these mean "wall continues".
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
Definition: A nomad's camp consisted of many family tents, which make up the clan camp. The
camp can have as many as fifty tents or more in it. The tents are placed in a circular
configuration, forming one continuous wall surrounding the camp.
Strong’s #: 2580
‫חר‬
(hhar)
Burn / Flame
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ח‬is a picture of a wall representing the outside. The ‫ ר‬is a picture of
a man. Combined these mean "outside man".
Definition: A man outside in the desert sun becomes pale and hot.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫טב‬
(tabh)
Do Good / Functional
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ט‬is a picture of a basket, used to contain or surround something.
The ‫ ב‬is a picture of a tent or house. Combined these mean "surround the house".
Definition: The house is surrounded by grace, beauty, love, health and prosperity, something
that is functional.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫יד‬
(yad)
Throw / Hand
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ י‬is a picture of a hand, the ‫ ד‬is a picture of door that allows
movement in and out of the tent. Combined these mean "hand moves".
Definition: The hand is the part of the body that enables man to perform many works.
Strong’s #: 3027
‫ימ‬
(yam)
? / Sea
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ י‬is a picture of a hand representing work, the ‫ מ‬is a picture of
water. Combined these mean "working water".
Definition: The sea or other large body of water is the place of storms and heavy surf.
Strong’s #: 3220
‫יר‬
(yar)
Point / Journey
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ י‬is a picture of a hand, the ‫ ר‬is a picture of a man. Combined these
mean "hand of man".
Definition: The hand of man is used for the throwing. A flowing of water in a river. A throwing
of the finger to show a direction to walk or live. The throwing of an arrow. The throwing down
of water in rain. Awe or fear where one throws self to the foot of one in authority.
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫כל‬
(kal)
Complete / Vessel
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ כ‬is a picture of the bent palm representing the bending or subduing
of the will, the ‫ ל‬is a picture of a shepherd staff or yoke. Combined these mean "tame for the
yoke".
Definition: An animal or land that is tamed has been worked and is complete and ready for use.
Taming include; construction of holding pens, putting the soil to the plow, harvesting of crops,
milk or meat. One eats once the harvest is complete.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫כנ‬
(ken)
Stand / Root
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ כ‬is a picture of the open palm, the ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed.
Combined these mean "opening of a seed".
Definition: When the seed opens the roots begin to form the base of the plant by going down
into the soil. The plant rises out of the ground forming the stalk of the plant. A tall tree can only
stand tall and firm because of the strong root system which supports it.
Strong’s #: 3653, 3654, 3651
‫לב‬
(lebh)
Think / Heart
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ל‬is a picture of the shepherd staff representing authority, the ‫ ב‬is a
picture of a tent representing what is inside. Combined these mean "authority inside".
Definition: The consciousness of man is seen as coming from deep inside the chest, the heart.
Thirst as an Inside desire for water.
Strong’s #: 3820
‫לד‬
(lad)
Bear / Child
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The bearing of children.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫לכ‬
(lakh)
Walk / Message
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ל‬is a picture of shepherd staff, the ‫ כ‬is a picture of the palm of the
hand. Combined these mean "staff in the palm".
Definition: A nomad traveled on foot with a staff in his hand to provide support in walking as
well as a weapon to defend against predators or thief's.
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫לק‬
(laq)
Gather / ?
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ל‬is a picture of a shepherd staff that is used to gather the sheep,
the ‫ ק‬is a picture of the sun at the horizon and the light gathered to it. Both of these letters
have the meaning of "gathering".
Definition: To bring together. Acquire.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫מא‬
(ma)
? / Hundred
Pictograph: ?
Definition: Originally an unknowable amount, but also to mean a hundred.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫מה‬
(mah)
? / Water
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ מ‬is a picture of water.
Definition: The sea (Mediterranean) is a place of the unknown (what is beyond or what is
below). It is feared by the Ancient Hebrews because of its size, storms and fierceness. A
hundred as an unknowable amount.
Strong’s #: 4325, 4100,
‫מל‬
(mal)
Speak / Word
Pictograph: ?
Definition: A continuation of segments, which fill the whole.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫מצ‬
(mats)
Squeeze / Strong
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ מ‬is a picture of water representing might, the ‫ צ‬representing the
trail. Combined these mean "water of the trail".
Definition: To be mentally astute, firm, obstinate or courageous. Having or marked by great
physical, moral or intellectual power.
Strong’s #: 4160
‫מר‬
(mar)
? / Bitter
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ מ‬is a picture of water, the ‫ ר‬is a picture of a head. Combined these
mean "water head" or headwaters.
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
Definition: Having a harsh, disagreeably acrid taste.
Strong’s #: 4751
‫מת‬
(mat)
Die / Mortal
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ מ‬is a picture of water representing chaos, the ‫ ת‬is a picture of two
crossed sticks representing a mark or sign. Combined these mean "chaos mark".
Definition: The length of time that something exists and ends.
Strong’s #: 4962
‫נב‬
(nabh)
Flourish / Fruit
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed, the ‫ ב‬is a picture of a tent or house
representing what is inside. Combined these mean "seed inside".
Definition: A fruit hides the seeds inside it.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫נכ‬
(nakh)
Crush / Spice
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed, the ‫ כ‬is a picture of the palm of the hand.
Combined these mean "seed in the palm".
Definition: Seeds of certain plants were placed in the palm and rubbed with the thumb to a
powdery spice.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫נמ‬
(nam)
Sleep / Slumber
Pictograph: ?
Definition: A semi-conscious state between sleep and awake.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫נס‬
(nes)
Lift / Standard
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed representing continuance, the ‫ ס‬is a picture
of a thorn representing the idea of grabbing hold. Combined these mean "continue to grab
hold".
Definition: The tribal flag that is hung from a horizontal pole and lifted up high and seen from a
distance.
Strong’s #: 5251
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫נר‬
(ner)
Plow / Light
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed, the ‫ ר‬is a picture of the head of a man
representing the top or beginning of something. Combined these mean "seed beginning".
Definition: Rains in the mountainous areas cause a flooding of the rivers. The rivers swell
causing the water to flood the land next to the river. This is the only water that the land will see
and is necessary for crop production. After the flood season, the land is plowed by the use of a
plow attached to the yoke of the oxen. The surface of the soil is dry but, when the soil is turned
up it glistens in the sun from the water remaining in the soil. This water is necessary for the
seed to begin germination.
Strong’s #: 5216
‫נש‬
(nash)
Loan / Debt
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed representing continuance, the ‫ ש‬is a picture
of teeth representing pressure. Combined these mean "continual pressing".
Definition: An imposition such as a debt or deception which causes oppression.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫סב‬
(sabh)
Turn / Round
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ס‬is a picture of a thorn representing a turning, the ‫ ב‬is a picture of
a tent or what is inside. Combined these mean "turning of the inside".
Definition: One drunk from strong drink, turns from dizziness. The old, gray headed ones, easily
become dizzy.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫סד‬
(sad)
Level / Field
Pictograph: ?
Definition: A level piece of ground for planting crops or setting up tents or structures.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫סמ‬
(sam)
Place / Spice
Pictograph: ?
Definition: A spice that is pleasing to the nose.
Strong’s #: n/a
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫סנ‬
(san)
Pierce / Thorn
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ס‬is a picture of a thorn, the ‫ נ‬is a picture of seed. Combined these
mean "thorn seed".
Definition: The thorn, the seed of a plant with small sharp points) cause one to turn directions
to avoid them.
Strong’s #: 5465
‫סר‬
(sar)
Rule / Noble
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ס‬is a picture of a thorn representing a turning, the ‫ ר‬is a picture of
a head. Combined these mean "turn the head".
Definition: The turning of the head to another direction. One who rules turns the people to his
direction. The turning the head of the child or student into a particular direction.
Strong’s #: 5620, 8269
‫עד‬
(eyd)
Repeat / Witness
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ע‬is a picture of the eye, the ‫ ד‬is a picture of the door. Combined
these mean "see the door".
Definition: As coming to a tent of meeting and entering in. A place, time or event that is
repeated again and again.
Strong’s #: 5703, 5704, 5707
‫על‬
(al)
Work / Yoke
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ע‬is a picture of they eye representing knowledge and experience,
the ‫ ל‬is a picture of a shepherd staff or yoke. Combined these mean "experience the staff".
Definition: The yoke, a staff is lifted over the shoulder, is attached to the oxen for performing
work.
Strong’s #: 5920, 5921
‫עם‬
(am)
? / People
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ע‬is a picture of the eye, the ‫ מ‬is a picture of the sea representing
mass. Combined these mean "see a mass".
Definition: A large group of people in one location.
Strong’s #: 5971
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫ענ‬
(an)
Watch / Eye
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ע‬is a picture of the eye, the ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed representing
continuance. Combined these mean "eye of continuance".
Definition: The nomadic agriculturist carefully watches over his livestock and crops by keeping
a close eye on them. It was common to construct a shelter consisting of a roof on four posts, as
a shelter from the glare of the sun.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫עס‬
(as)
Do / Work
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The making or doing of anything.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫עפ‬
(aph)
Cover / Wing
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The wing of a bird that gives flight as well as a covering it and its chicks.
Strong’s #: 1611
‫עצ‬
(eyts)
Firm / Tree
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The upright and firmness of the tree.
Strong’s #: 6086
‫פה‬
(pah)
Blow / Mouth
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ פ‬is a picture of the mouth.
Definition: A mouth is the edge of anything such as the place of the beard, a sword, a region.
The edge or border, is often referring to all that is within the borders, the whole country.
Strong’s #: 6310
‫פל‬
(pal)
Fall / Judge
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ פ‬is a picture of mouth, the ‫ ל‬is a picture of a shepherd staff
representing authority. Combined these mean "speak to authority".
Definition: A coming to one in authority falling down on the face to intercede on ones own
behalf or for another.
Strong’s #: n/a
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫פנ‬
(pan)
Turn / Face
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The turning of the face.
Strong’s #: 6434
‫פר‬
(par)
Tread / Bull
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ פ‬is a picture of an open mouth, the ‫ ר‬is a picture of a head.
Combined these mean "open the head".
Definition: The heads of grains are scattered on the threshing floor, a smooth, hard and level
surface. An ox is lead around the floor crushing the heads, opening them to reveal the seed
inside. Also the fruit of trees that harvested.
Strong’s #: 6499
‫פש‬
(pash)
Spread / Excess
Pictograph: ?
Definition: A wide spreading out.
Strong’s #: 6580
‫צא‬
(tsa)
Go out / Excrement
Pictograph: The ‫ צ‬is a picture of a trail, which one follows to go out.
Definition: To issue out of something.
Strong’s #: 6627
‫צב‬
(tsabh)
Stand / Wagon
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ צ‬is a picture of a trail, the ‫ ב‬is a picture of a tent. Combined these
mean "trail of the tent".
Definition: The walls of the tent enclose what is inside. The tent walls stand firm and strong,
protecting it from the harsh elements. As the family swells in size, the tent walls are enlarged.
Strong’s #: 6632
‫צד‬
(tsad)
Hide / Side
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ צ‬is a picture of a trail. The ‫ ד‬is a picture of a door. Combined these
mean “trail door.”
Definition: One lies down to sleep, hide or ambush.
Strong’s #: 6654
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫צו‬
(tsaw)
Direct / Direction
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ צ‬is a picture of a trail, which one is directed to follow.
Definition: A set of instructions given to guide one on a moral or physical path.
Strong’s #: 6673
‫צל‬
(tsal)
Shade / Shadow
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The image or representation of an original.
Strong’s #: 6738
‫קל‬
(qal)
Gather / Shepherd
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ק‬is a picture of the sun at the horizon and the gathering of the
light, the ‫ ל‬is a picture of a shepherd staff representing authority. Combined these mean
"gathering to the staff".
Definition: When the shepherd called the sheep they swiftly came to him. The staff of the
shepherd was his tool of authority. With it he would direct, discipline and protect the flock.
Strong’s #: 7031
‫קם‬
(qam)
Rise / Stalk
Pictograph: ?
Definition: A rising or standing of anything.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫קנ‬
(qen)
Acquire / Nest
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ק‬is a picture of the sun at the horizon and the gathering of the
light, the ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed. Combined these mean "gathering for the seeds".
Definition: The parent birds go about gathering materials to build a nest where they will raise
their seeds (eggs).
Strong’s #: 7064
‫קר‬
(qar)
Call / Meeting
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ק‬is a picture of the sun at the horizon and the gathering of the
light, the ‫ ר‬is a picture of the head of a man. Combined these mean "gather the men".
Definition: The meeting or bringing together of people or objects by arrangement, accident or
purchase.
Strong’s #: 7119, 7120
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫רא‬
(ra)
See / Mirror
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The ability to see, perceive or have a vision.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫רב‬
(rabh)
Rule / Master
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ר‬is a picture of a head, the ‫ ב‬is a picture of the tent representing
the family. Combined these mean "head of the family".
Definition: Each family has a master that rules all cases, trials, conflicts and contests. This
person was the representative for the whole tribe, one abundant in authority and wisdom. (see
Exodus 18:25).
Strong’s #: 7227, 7228
‫רד‬
(rad)
Spread / Sheet
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ר‬is a picture of the head of a man, the ‫ ד‬is a picture of a door that
allows entrance into the tent. Combined these mean "man through the door".
Definition: The floor of a tent is a covered with a spread out sheet.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫רח‬
(rahh)
Travel / Path
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ר‬is a picture of the head of a man, the ‫ ח‬is a picture of wall that
separates the inside from the outside. Combined these mean "man outside".
Definition: The responsibilities of the nomad outside of the tent include the feeding, watering
and caring for the livestock. Livestock are healthier and more productive when on a routine,
therefore the man follows a routine or "a prescribed path" each day when caring for his
livestock.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫רמ‬
(ram)
Lift / Height
Pictograph: ?
Definition: Anything that is high or lifted up.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫רע‬
(ra)
Do Bad / Dysfunctional
Pictograph: ?
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
Definition: Impaired or abnormal action other than that for which a person or thing is intended.
Something that does not function within its intended purpose.
Strong’s #: 7451
‫רצ‬
(rats)
Crush / Potsherd
Pictograph: ?
Definition: Broken pieces of pottery were commonly used as writing tablets as they were
inexpensive and durable. These potsherds were commonly used to send messages from one
person to another, usually carried by runners.
Strong’s #: 7518
‫רש‬
(resh)
Inherit / Head
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ר‬is a picture of the head.
Definition: The head of the tribe (chief) or family (father) is passed from generation to
generation. The head grants permission for the betrothal of his daughters and determines the
inheritor of the tribe or family. The head of a person, place, thing or time.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫שב‬
(shabh)
Turn / Seat
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ש‬is a picture of the two front teeth representing pressing, the ‫ ב‬is
a picture of tent. Combined these mean "Press to the tent".
Definition: A place of dwelling as the place returned to. A turning back or away from someone
or something. A captive is one turned away from a place of dwelling.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫של‬
(shal)
Draw out / Plunder
Pictograph: ?
Definition: To impair or change the quality or effect of.
Strong’s #: 7944, 7945
‫שמ‬
(shem)
Breathe / Breath
Pictograph: ?
Definition: The wind, or breath, of someone or something is its character. A person’s name or
title is descriptive of his character.
Strong’s #: 8034
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
‫שנ‬
(sheen)
Sharp / Tooth
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ש‬is a picture of the teeth, the ‫ נ‬is a picture of a seed representing
continuance. Combined these mean "teeth continue".
Definition: The two front teeth are sharp and used for cutting foods by pressing down.
Strong’s #: 8127
‫שר‬
(shar)
Tie / Cord
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ש‬is a picture of the teeth representing pressure, the ‫ ר‬is a picture
of the head representing the top or beginning. Combined these mean "press the beginning".
Definition: Ropes and cords were usually made of bark strips such as from the cedar or from
the sinew (tendon) of an animal. The rope is made by twisting two fibers together. A single fiber
is attached to a fixed point (top), and the two ends of the fiber are brought together. One fiber
is twisted in a clockwise direction and wrapped over the other fiber in counter clockwise
direction. The second fiber is then twisted in clockwise direction then wrapped around the first
fiber in a counter clockwise direction. The process is repeated through the length of the rope.
The twisting of the fibers in opposite directions causes the fibers to lock (press) onto each other
making a stronger rope. The rope is used to tightly secure or support something, such as a load
to a cart or the poles of the tent.
Strong’s #: 8270
‫תכ‬
(takh)
Bend / Middle
Pictograph: The pictograph ‫ ת‬is a picture of two crossed sticks representing a mark, the ‫ כ‬is a
picture of a bent palm. Combined these mean "mark of the palm".
Definition: The lines or marks in the center of the palm are formed by the bending of the palm.
A bending in the middle, the center of something.
Strong’s #: n/a
‫תמ‬
(tam)
Fill / Whole
Pictograph: ?
Definition: An overfilling or overflowing. One who is mature and upright as one who is
overfilled with integrity.
Strong’s #: 8535
‫תנ‬
(tan)
Give / Gift
Pictograph: ?
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.
Definition: To endow with some power, quality, or attribute; the act, power or right of giving.
What is given.
Strong’s #: n/a
Copyright © 2009 Ancient Hebrew Education Center
Please feel free to use, copy or distribute this material for non-profit educational purposes only.