SANITY FROM A BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE

From a scriptural perspective, sanity is closely associated with having a sound mind. Conversely, a sense of disorder (chaos) and oppression come along with insanity. 

While the Bible does not explicitly use the term "sanity," biblical principles emphasize that mental clarity and spiritual grounding are closely related. 

The scriptures tell us that wisdom and God's truth are in alignment.  The Jewish and Christian scriptures combined in the Bible teach that the renewal of the mind is a process that prayer facilitates.

Prayer and communion with God brings us the divine power to overcome spiritual chaos and protects us from spiritual turmoil, both of which are hallmarks of insanity.

Key Biblical Insights on Sanity:

Maintaining sanity involves anchoring oneself in God's unchanging truth. Sanity is linked to wisdom and understanding.  Many of the Proverbs portray seeking God's wisdom with a sound mind.

Proverbs 2.6 (NIV) -- For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

By contrast, not being right-minded or having an unsound mind is marked by debased behavior and unsound decision making.

Thr biblical concepts associated to sanity bring greater discernment, which leads us to better life choices.

Common sense, rational thinking and spiritual clarity are connected.  Conversely, those that do not see fit to acknowledge God put themselves on personally destructive paths.  In biblical times, the worst of those with a debased mind were often considered to be possessed by an evil spirit. 

Two renowned self-improvement authors, Napoleon Hill and Earl Nightingale, made the case that "we become what we think about."  Nearly two thousands years prior, the Apostle Paul said, "whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Sanity from  Hebrew Perspective 

The Torah does not have a specific Hebrew word that translates exactly to "sanity," however, several Hebrew words and phrases convey related concepts such as soundness of mind, wisdom, and rationality:

1. שְׁפִי (Shefi) - Meaning calmness, serenity, or clarity of mind. This word can be used to describe a state of mental peace or balance, which is closely related to the idea of sanity.

2. דַּעַת (Da'at) - Meaning knowledge, understanding, or awareness. In a scriptural context, da'at often refers to God-given wisdom and discernment, qualities of a sound mind.

3. חָכמָה chokmah - Wisdom encompasses not just knowledge, but also the ability to judge correctly, follow the best course of action, and see things from a wise perspective. 

4. שֵׂכֶל Sechel is both a Hebrew and a Yiddish word that can mean intelligence, smarts, brains, reason, common sense, cleverness or even wisdom. 

5. תְּבוּנָה (Tevunah) - Meaning understanding or insight. This word is used in the Torah to describe deep comprehension and discernment.

All these words represent qualities associated with sanity.

The modern Hebrew word for "sanity" or "soundness of mind" is שְׁפִיּוּת (shefiyut). Notice that this word begins with the same letter's as #1 above -- שְׁפִי (Shefi). 

Modern Hebrew captures the concept of sanity rooted in the scriptures.  שְׁפִיּוּת (shefiyut) refers to mental health, rationality, or being in a state of soundness of mind. It is commonly used in modern Hebrew to describe sanity in psychological or emotional contexts.

While the modern Hebrew word "shefiyut" is not in the Tenach, it's root word aligns with biblical ideas of mental clarity and peace. For example:

The Hebrew prophet Isaiah said in verse 26.3 that God will bring "shalom shalom" to those that rely (trust) and stay steadfast in Him. This state of "perfect peace" reflects a feeling of calmness and wholeness. This concept is echoed throughout both the Hebrew and Christian scriptures. 

Praying, For a Sound Mind

There is a logical connection between prayer and sanity when examining the Hebrew language and scriptures. The Hebrew word for prayer, תְּפִלָּה (tefillah), is rooted in the verb פלל (palal), meaning "to judge" or "to evaluate oneself." This implies that prayer involves self-reflection and aligning one's thoughts with divine truth, fostering clarity and soundness of mind.

Furthermore, the Hebrew prayer the Shema emphasizes shema ("listen" or "obey"), which calls for attentiveness to God's voice and commands. Listening deeply and responding to God’s guidance cultivates mental clarity and spiritual grounding, essential for sanity. Prayer thus becomes an act of re-centering oneself, promoting inner peace, rationality, and alignment with higher truths.

Renewal 

Spring reminds us of renewal. Spring is a promise of God. 

In the scriptures, renewal of the heart brings renewal of the mind. A spiritual transformation renews the heart and the mind. 

Prayer renews our perspective by replacing worldly patterns of thinking (fear, doubt, pride) with godly ones (faith, trust, humility).

In prayer, we examine our hearts and bring our innermost thoughts to God. This process helps us sort through confusion, confront irrational fears, desires, and align our mind with God's will. It’s like untangling a knot—prayer helps us identify what’s out of place in our thinking and allows God to straighten it out.

Prayer isn’t just a spiritual exercise—it’s also a mental reset. It clears away confusion by shifting our focus from ourselves and our problems to God’s greatness and faithfulness.

Insanity

On the other hand, it stands to reason that the reverse could be true: an unsound mind or lack of sanity might stem, at least in part, from a disconnection from God. 

The Bible often portrays a sound mind as being rooted in a relationship with God, while separation from Him can lead to confusion, irrationality, or spiritual instability. 
For example, Romans 1:28 says, "And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, He gave them up to a debased mind".

Many have heard the expression that there is no rest for the wicked."  This originates from 
Isaiah 57:20-21:l -- "But the wicked are like the tossing sea, which cannot rest... 'There is no peace,' says my God, 'for the wicked.'"

Conclusion

When someone neglects prayer or lives disconnected from God's presence, they may lose the grounding and clarity that prayer and a connection to God provides. 

With this estrangement comes anxiety, confusion, fear and hopelessness. It is enough to drive one insane.  

Ecclesiastes 1:1-2 -- The words of the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem: “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.”

In summary, sanity or soundness of mind is deeply intertwined with one's relationship with God. Disconnection from Him can lead to spiritual and emotional unrest. True mental clarity comes from living in alignment with the Word of God and listening to the still small voice of His Spirit inside us.

Epilogue:

If you're still with me, take an extra moment for a little humor. God has a great sense of humor. 

WE BETTER "GET SMART"  

Do you remember the TV show "Get Smart?"  The star, Don Adams, Agent "Maxwell Smart," was born Donald James Yarmy (DOB 4/1923) in New York City to a father of Hungarian Jewish descent and a mother had German/Irish Catholic ancestry. Perhaps that explains the "Red Line" that Smart straddles as he walks down the center of the stairs in the shows opening. (See video.)

https://youtu.be/AJ6gdRfBW6c?si=FBW238gwN4qsvqww

Notice in the credits that Mel Brooks was a big creator of the show. The co-writer Buck Henry was also Jewish. He was born Henry Zuckerman to father Paul Steinberg Zuckerman, an Air Force brigadier general and stockbroker.  

I'm sure the writers got a laugh at facts that the TV audience was oblivious to some plays on religion that the writers worked in. 

Don Adams played Maxwell Smart, "Agent 86." The gematria value of "Elohim" (אֱלֹהִים) is 86. "Smart" worked for "Control" which fought against "KAOS," the international organization of evil".  Last but not least, there is the name of the show, "Get Smart."  Get Wisdom, to deal with Choas.

TEARS

1 Samuel 1:10-11 -- In her deep anguish Hannah prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. And she made a vow, saying, “Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.”

Hebrews 5:7 (NIV) -- During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.

In Matthew 23:37-39 and Luke 19:41 Jesus wept over Jerusalem's spiritual blindness and its future destruction. His tears reflected anguish over the people's rejection of Him and their impending judgment.

The Hebrew word for "tear" is דִּמְעָה (dimah).  A dimah דִּמְעָה symbolizes human vulnerability and heartfelt pleas to God, reflecting grief or communal suffering. 

Hebrew letters give us a pictographic representation of the meaning of each letter. When applying these to an entire Hebrew word, I look at the root letters of the word.  Biblical Hebrew words are comprised of three root letters. 

The root letters of dimah are root ד-מ-ע (dama), meaning "to weep" or "to shed tears." It is often used in Biblical and modern Hebrew to express deep emotional responses, such as sorrow, repentance, or joy.

The root letters and their images are:

- Dalet - a door/pathway

- Mem - water

- Ayin - eyes

This describes the physical process of tears forming in our eyes and flowing like water down one's face. (So cool.  ❤️ this.)

Together, the root letters of dama forms an image of tears forming in our eyes (ayin) and flowing like water (mem) down our face. When our tears are intended for Hashem, how shall they reach Him. Through a door (dalet). Wow!  (I could also picture the tears rolling into our mouth as one cries out.)

Hannah's Tears

In 1 Samuel 1:10, Hannah cries out to God. In the Hebrew it says: 

יוְהִ֖יא מָ֣רַת נָ֑פֶשׁ וַתִּתְפַּלֵּ֥ל עַל־יְהֹוָ֖ה וּבָכֹ֥ה תִבְכֶּֽה. 

וּבָכֹ֥ה תִבְכֶּֽה -- The Hebrew word בכה (bacha) means "cry" or "weep." You see it twice. The gematria of  בכה is:

- ב (Bet) = 2

- כ (Kaf) = 20

- ה (Hei) = 5

Adding these values together: 2+20+5 = 27.

So, the gematria of בכה (bacha, "cry") is 27.

In Hebrew, 27 corresponds to the word זך (zach), meaning "pure." It is linked to the commandment to light candles, symbolizing purity and light overcoming darkness. 

I said the letters appear TWICE in the last two words in that verse. Therefore, there is actually a value of 27x2=54.  It would take too much space to explain, but I will just say that the number 54 embodies divine grace, stability, and spiritual growth, reflecting God's benevolence and guidance for humanity's redemption. It is tied to covenantal promises and the journey from darkness to light, highlighting God's intervention in human history. Wow!

Despite her pain, Hannah poured out her heart to God, demonstrating unwavering faith. Her silent but fervent prayer shows her reliance on God rather than human intervention.

1 Samuel 1:15 -  "Not so, my lord,” Hannah replied, “I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the Lord.

Hannah's tears led to a vow and eventual blessing—a son, Samuel—highlighting God's compassion for the brokenhearted and His response to Hannah's sincere prayers.

1 Samuel 1:20 -- So in the course of time Hannah became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, “Because I asked the Lord for him.”

Samuel in Hebrew means, "God has heard."

Following the Trail of Tears 

Since "27" relates to Hannah's tears being "pure," I checked to see where this "trail of tears" would lead me. I looked for verses related to "27" and crying out to the Lord. Here is what I found:

Genesis 27:34: Esau cries out with a "great and exceedingly bitter cry" after losing his father's blessing to Jacob. This scene underscores deep emotional pain and the consequences of deception

Psalm 27:7: "Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me." This verse expresses a heartfelt plea for God's presence and deliverance, resonating with themes of trust amidst despair.

Matthew 27:46--  Jesus cries out on the cross, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" This moment reflects profound anguish, fulfilling Psalm 22 and highlighting the depth of His suffering for humanity's sins.

Just after that, the veil tears! 

Matthew 27:51: "At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split"

The temple veil was secured with hooks/nails. In the Torah, the Hebrew letter vav (ו) is symbolically associated with a nail or peg, representing connection and unity. Its ancient pictographic form resembles a hook or nail, emphasizing its role in joining two entities.

The vav appears prominently in the construction of the Tabernacle, where gold covered hooks are used to hang the veil separating the Holy of Holies (Exodus 26:31-32). 

The Hebrew words for "tear" (דִּמְעָה, dimah, meaning a tear shed from crying) and "tear" (קָרַע, qara, meaning to rip or tear apart) share thematic connections in their symbolic meanings.

Root Letters:

• דִּמְעָה (dimah): Root ד-מ-ע (dalet-mem-ayin), which relates to tears and weeping. This root emphasizes emotional expression, sorrow, or repentance.
• קָרַע (qara): Root ק-ר-ע (qof-resh-ayin), which means to tear or rip apart. This root often symbolizes physical separation, mourning, or dramatic change.

Mourning Tears

When Jews lose a family members, at the burial service they tear their clothing. The Jewish practice of tearing clothing, known as Kriah, is a mourning ritual performed upon the death of a loved one. It symbolizes grief and expresses the mourner's pain and sorrow. This ritual tearing is only done by the closets direct relative of the loved one. Typical a child for a parent.

Tearing garments is a physical manifestation of a "broken heart," symbolizing the emotional separation caused by loss of a parent or child.

Conclusion 

The Biblical connection with tearing our clothes is rooted in the stories of Jacob tearing his garments upon believing Joseph was dead (Genesis 37:34) and David mourning Saul and Jonathan (2 Samuel 1:11).  This brings us back to story's related to tears. Hannah's tears produced Samuel. David's tears lead to Messiah.  And with Jesus’s tears, the Temple Veil was torn. 

When a Jewish child loses their parent, if they knew the Christian scriptures as I just described, they might be reminded of Jesus. That's amazing to me! Sadly, My Jewish family and friends don't have ayin (eyes) to see.

Link to my thoughts on the letter Ayin.

Epilogue:

I wrote this today in honor of a friend's tears. Tony, your tears are dear to us. Writing about "tears" brought a amazing revelations to me. I started out to write about Hannah's tears, but now I understand Matthew 27:50-51 much better. Seeing the relationship between a tear and a tear. 

"And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom."

All 22 Hebrew Letters

Above is the integer number for each letter. . Below is a list of 22 Hebrews, their Gematria with links to all my blog posts.

I admit that the quality, consistency and depth of these articles varies.  I didn't follow a design template and some letters simply got more attention than others. 

Aleph (1)

Bet (2)  

Gimel (3)

Dalet (4)

Hey (5) 

Vav (6)

Zayin (7)

Chet (8)

Tet (9)

Yod (10)

Kaf (20)

Lamed (30)

Mem (40)

Nun (50)

Samekh (60)

Ayin (70)

Pey (80) 

Tzade (90)

Qof (100)

Raysh (200)

Shin (300)

TAV (400)

I pray anyone reading these posts is blessed. I believe I was writing it.

TAV -- 22

 

  400 - (ת) TAV 

This post marks the completion of my effort to write about all 22 Hebrew letters. 

Tav (ת) is the 22nd and final letter of the Hebrew aleph-bet. Tav has a "t" sound. We get our English "T" from the Tav. (Among Ashkenazim the Tav has a "S" sound as well.)

The number 22, Tav, has special meaning for me. The Tav, 22, has be following me for years. I journaled about this. The number 22 is alive for me. 

The numerical value of Tav is 400. 400 pertains to the “Covenant between the Parts,” when God caused Abraham to fall into a deep slumber and told him that his children would reside in a foreign land (the land of Egypt) for 400 years, for Tav years, and afterwards go out with great wealth and an out­stretched arm.

400 is also found in Jacob’s encounter with his brother Esau after sojourning 20 years in the house of Laban. When Jacob approaches Esau he is informed that Esau is mighty, for he has with him 400 (Tav) men.

Shape and Meaning of the Tav

Tav means a "mark" or "sign." Before the modern Hebrew seen in the Torah, the early glyph (picture language) of a Tav is shaped like an "X" or cross. It is associated with two sticks that people would put on the ground to mark a spot.

X marks the spot ... on the ground, on maps, etc. 

Adonai "marked" Cain:

Genesis 4.15 -- And the Lord said to him, "Therefore, whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be wrought upon him sevenfold," and the Lord placed a mark (א֔וֹת) on Cain that no one who find him slay him.

Note: א֔וֹת  equals 407.  (See below.)

א֔ =1  
וֹ =6
ת = 400
407

People make an "X," their Tav, to sign an agreement. It is literally how we get making an "X" for one's name.

Adonai "marked" those opposed to the worship of idols with the Tav:

Ezekiel 9.4 -- said to him, “Go throughout the city of Jerusalem and put a mark on the foreheads of those who grieve and lament over all the detestable things that are done in it.”

Christian Symbolism 

Being that the early Tav was shaped like a cross, the letter became associated with Jesus.  In addition, Jesus would refer to himself as "the first and the last," the "Aleph and the Tav" (Omega in Greek).

Jews are uncomfortable with the Tav. How uncomfortable? This explanation about one the most derogatory terms for a Jew, a kike, will illustrate this fact:

Though this etymology is disputed, one idea is that when many illiterate Jews came to Ellis Island, and they had to sign an immigration form, they wouldn’t use the usual “X," because of it's association with the cross and Christianity. Instead, those Jews would sign with a circle. The Yiddish word for circle is "kikel."Immigration officials began calling these new Jewish immigrants “kikes.” 

Here's another example. Most Jews don't cross their fingers for "luck." Crossing fingers is a Christian practice that originated in medieval England, when Christians believed that the cross symbol had the power to ward off evil and bring good fortune. These days, most finger-crossers don’t associate it with any religious belief. But it is still not a Jewish thing to do.

Mark א֔וֹת 

This is gonna be for a reader to get their head around, but I think it is pretty fascinating..

Come back to the word "Mark" and the gematria value of 407 in Genesis 4:25.   407 is the the value of the 6th Hebrew word in Genesis 1.1 The 6th letter in the Hebrew Alpha-beyt is the Vav. 

In the letter א aleph (1), the Vav connects heaven and earth. It is made up of Yod Vav Yod יוִי.  Yod(10) + Vav (6) + Yod (10) = 26.  Y(10) + H(5) + V(10) + H(5) = 26. I explained this connection in my post about Aleph. 

Words beginning with Tav:

תָּו (Tav) - Meaning "mark" or "sign" 

תורה (Torah) - Referring to the law or teachings of God.

תִּכְיֶה (Tikyeh) - Derived from Tav, meaning "life".

תפילין (Tefillin) - The phylacteries used in Jewish prayer

תָּמוּת (Tamut) - Another derivation, meaning "death".

תודה (Todah) - Meaning "thank you" or "gratitude".

תמר (Tamar) - Meaning "date palm" or also used as a name. The daughter of King David. 

Note: Tamar plays a significant role in Christianity as an ancestor of Jesus Christ, showcasing themes of redemption, justice, and God's sovereignty. Her story is found in Genesis 38 and is referenced in Matthew 1:3 as part of Jesus' genealogy. Her inclusion in Christ's lineage highlights God's grace and ability to work through flawed human situations to fulfill divine purposes. Tamar's story also underscores the importance of justice and faithfulness in God's covenantal plan.

In case you are thinking I overlooked "Tov," (good),  טוב (Tov) begins with Tet (9). Tet also has T sound. There are interesting associations between Tov and Tet, but this is for another day. 

Hebrew words that end with a Tav.

Since Tav is the last letter in the Hebrew Alpha-beyt, it is also associated with completion.  I figured I'd look for words that end in Tav:

אמת (Emet) - Truth. Also symbolizing divine truth.

ברית (Brit) - Covenant. Often used in the context of agreements between God and humanity.

שבת (Shabbat) - The Sabbath, a holy day of rest.

מות (Mot) - Death. The opposite of life.

תמות (Tamut) - Meaning "you shall die" is derived from the root for death.

Genesis 2.17 -- But of the Tree of Knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat of it, for on the day that you eat thereof, you shall surely die."

Notice in the English it says ""surely die."  Look at the Hebrew of Genesis 2:17 below:

וּמֵעֵ֗ץ הַדַּ֨עַת֙ ט֣וֹב וָרָ֔ע לֹ֥א תֹאכַ֖ל מִמֶּ֑נּוּ כִּ֗י בְּי֛וֹם אֲכָלְךָ֥ מִמֶּ֖נּוּ מ֥וֹת תָּמֽוּת

The verse in Hebrew ends מ֥וֹת תָּמֽוּת. It appears as:  "death" "you shall die." 

The Aleph Tav את :

In Hebrew grammar, Aleph Tav (את) functions as a direct object marker, indicating the object of a verb. For example, in Genesis 1:1, it appears between "the heavens" (ha'shamayim) and "the earth" (ha'aretz) to mark them as the objects of creation.

In Genesis 1:1, the presence of Aleph Tav (את) is seen by some as connecting heaven and earth through the Messiah. Some interpret Aleph Tav as representing God’s sovereignty over all creation, from beginning to end.

Aleph(1) + Tav(22) = 23

Here is Genesis 1.1 again. Notice the את Aleph Tov is the 4th word. The number 4 in Hebrew is the letter Dalet. A Dalet is a door. 

The number 23 thus represents both consequence and divine grace, inviting reflection on spiritual maturity and faith.

The number 23 is associated with themes of judgment and death. 

Aleph Tav = 23 in Gematria. The word "Hell" appears 23 (Aleph Tov) times in the New Testament.

Romans VAV:ET 6:23 -- For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in[a] Christ Jesus our Lord.

1 Corinthians 10:8 -- We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day.

Conclusion:

I write to think. Thinking is somewhat of a random process in which thoughts connect with other thoughts. Ideas are generated, which leads us to seek out meaning in another place. 

In some respect this is how the brain is designed. The brain is designed to be a mind. What makes the brain a mind is life energy. Otherwise, the brain is a blob of cells, mush. To function a brain needs electricity, light. The expression "Turning off the lights" for someone who stops thinking is very appropriate.  

The pleasure I derive from writing is that it exercises my brain. Writing helps me to think. In doing so I allow my mind to wander, within the framework of the subject. What I am writing about serves like guardrails to keep my focus on the what I am writing about. 

The challenge is trying to keep whatever I'm writing coherent.  Otherwise, all I have is a bunch of notes in no discernable order. Even so, what I write makes less sense to a reader than it does to me. 

A few years ago I started to write about Hebrew letters. I found that the better I understood the a letter, the better I understand a word, a verse and the overall bible. It worked the other way too---the better I understand a verse, the better I understood a hebrew letter. 

My project began with an interest in particular letters, but once I had done several letters I started to entertain the notion of completing the entire Hebrew Alpha-beyt.  

This post marks the completion of that project. The articles naturally order themselves into a collection - Aleph to Tav, 1 - 22, but I didn't go about them in that way! I let God direct me, from one letter to the next. I followed my heart. I ended up at the Tav.  

Epilogue:

Approximately 14 years ago, I was asked by my rabbi and my temple's nominating chair to become the temple president, My temple started in 1848, and I didn't feel worthy of the honor. After saying no a couple times I began to pray on what to do.  It is fair to say that I reached an understanding with God. I agreed to become the president, but I asked for His help with Hebrew.  I can say He has kept his promises to me. 

KAF - 20.

The Hebrew letter Kaf (כ) is the 11th letter of the Hebrew alphabet, with a numerical value of 20.  Kaf is the Sound: "K" and "KH."

Kaf has two forms: the standard form (כ) and the final form (ך), used at the end of words. There are five letters in the Hebrew alphabet that have two forms:  Kaf, Mem, Nun, Fey and Tzadi. 

Kaf's shape symbolizes the "palm of the hand" and it's literal meaning is "palm" or "spoon." 

The ancient glyph symbol of Kaf had a very distinct resemblance to a palm or open hand.

Consider the image of the palms. The palm of a hand can represent holding or containing.

The song "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands," conveys a message of hope and omnipotence. 

"We can accomplish anything with our own two hands."

Here are three more symbolic meanings for Kaf:

1. Build/Create - Our hands hold materials and make things. 

2. Labor - The palm of a hand also represents labor and productivity. 

3. Potential - Kaf, our palms, also represent the capacity to take raw potential and turn it into something tangible. 

These three come together in 1 Kings. Solomon spent 20 years building the temple and his palace. 1 Kings 9:10-11 -- At the end of twenty years, in which Solomon had built the two houses, the house of the Lord and the king's house, 

Awareness and Humilty 

The Hebrew word kippah (כיפה), which is a Jewish skullcap, has a deep connection to the Hebrew letter Kaf (כ). A kippah symbolizes humility and the awareness of God's presence above, as the palm of a hand represents protection and covering. In Jewish tradition, wearing a kippah is a sign of respect and submission to God, inspired by the concept of yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven). 

I can personally relate to this meaning every morning when I put a kippah on my head. It is a daily reminder in the morning to start my day. 

In Genesis 6:14 God instructs Noah to build the ark and "cover it inside and outside with pitch." The Hebrew word for "cover" is ve'chafartah (וְכָפַרְתָּ), derived from the root Kaf-Peh-Resh, emphasizing the idea of protection and covering.

In Exodus 4:4 Moses is told to "stretch out your hand יָֽדְךָ֔ and take it by the tail." Here we see the Kaf in it's final (soffit) form. In that form the gematria value is 500. 

Exodus 33:22 (כב =Kaf  20 + Bet 2) -- And it shall be that when My glory passes by, I will place you into the cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with My hand כַפִּ֛י until I have passed by.

This next verse combines the gematria of Kaf (20) with the symbolism of using our hands and the concept that God is watching over us. 

Genesis 20:41-42 -- Thus have I been twenty years in thy house; I served thee fourteen years for thy two daughters, and six years for thy cattle: and thou hast changed my wages ten times. Except the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the fear of Isaac, had been with me, surely thou hadst sent me away now empty. God hath seen mine affliction and the labour of my hands, and rebuked thee yesternight.

When I think of someone receiving wages, I also think of them being paid into the palms of our hands. 

Isaiah 49.16 -- See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.

Symbolism of Kaf

Kaf's (כ) bent shape is also symbolic of submission and humility. Ironically, it is also associated with the crown (כֶּתֶר - keter) as it's the first letter of the word. Indeed, humility is a key trait for a king in Judaism. This is especially highlighted in the Torah. 

Deuteronomy 17:18-20 -- And it will be, when he sits upon his royal throne, that he shall write for himself two copies of this Torah on a scroll from [that Torah which is] before the Levitic kohanim.

And it shall be with him, and he shall read it all the days of his life, so that he may learn to fear the Lord, his God, to keep all the words of this Torah and these statutes, to perform them,

so that his heart will not be haughty over his brothers, and so that he will not turn away from the commandment, either to the right or to the left, in order that he may prolong [his] days in his kingdom, he and his sons, among Israel.

Mystical Judaism, Kabbalah, associates the spiritual significance of the Keter (crown) with a level beyond intellect.

Hebrew Words Beginning with Kaf

One of the best ways to understand a Hebrew letter is to look at significant Hebrew words that begin with the letter Kaf:

Keter (כתר): Meaning "crown," it symbolizes authority, accomplishment, and the highest spiritual attainment.

Kadosh (קדוש): Meaning "holy" or "sacred," it reflects the sanctity and separation of God and His people.

Kesef (כסף): Meaning "silver" or "money," it represents wealth and the material world.

Kavod (כבד): Meaning "heavy" or "honored," it reflects weightiness, significance, and respect.

Kalah (כלה): Meaning "bride" or "to complete," it symbolizes fulfillment and union, often used in the context of marriage.

Kol (כל) - "all" or "every"

Kokhav (כוכב) - "star"

Kohen (כהן ) - "priest"

Katav (כתב) - "to write" or "writing"

Koach (כח) - "strength" or "power"

Kanaf (כנף) - "wing"

Kli (כלי) - "vessel" or "instrument"

Kerem (כרם) - "vineyard"

Kotel (כותל) - "wall," often referring to the Western Wall in Jerusalem

Kaf In The Root of Words

Hebrew is constructed in such a way that most words are built from a root consisting of three consonants, known as a "shoresh" (שורש). This root conveys the core meaning of the word, and various prefixes, suffixes, and vowel changes can modify this root to create related words with nuanced meanings.

The concept of the three-letter root is integral to understanding the depth and spiritual meaning of Hebrew words. Many of key words with Kaf in their core reflect ideas of holding, covering, or strength. 

The Hebrew word "kadosh" (קדוש), meaning "holy," comes from the root קדש (kaf-dalet-shin). The basic meaning is "to be set apart" or "to consecrate." It can refer to something or someone separated for a sacred purpose.

The root appears in many important Hebrew terms related to holiness and sanctification, including:

• Kiddush (blessing over wine)
• Kedusha (prayer praising God's holiness)
• Kaddish (prayer of sanctification)
• Kiddushin (betrothal/marriage) 

In closing

I will conclude this post with two scripture verses that each incorporate the word Kadosh (Holy). 

Isaiah 6:3 -- "And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory."

Revelation 4:8 (KJV) -- "And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come."

I write to think. I now have a much better appreciation of the letter Kaf.  I hope any reader does as well. 

THERE IS POWER IN THE NAME

Psalm 80:17-19 -- Let your hand rest on the man at your right hand, the son of man you have raised up for yourself. Then we will not turn away from you; revive us, and we will call on your name. Restore us, Lord God Almighty; make your face shine on us, that we may be saved.

The phrase "למען שמו" (lema’an shemo) appears multiple times in the Hebrew Bible, often translated as "for His name's sake" or "for the sake of His name." It signifies actions or interventions by God that are motivated by the desire to uphold or glorify His name, emphasizing His character, reputation, and sovereignty.

Psalm 23:3 - "He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake."

Psalm 106:8 - "Yet he saved them for his name's sake, that he might make known his mighty power."

Psalm 109:21 - "But you, O God my Lord, deal on my behalf for your name's sake; because your steadfast love is good, deliver me!"

Psalm 143:11 - "For your name's sake, O Lord, preserve my life! In your righteousness bring my soul out of trouble!"

Isaiah 48:9 - "For my name's sake I defer my anger, for the sake of my praise I restrain it for you, that I may not cut you off."

Jeremiah 14:7 - "Though our iniquities testify against us, act, O Lord, for your name's sake; for our backslidings are many; we have sinned against you."

Jeremiah 14:21 - "Do not spurn us, for your name's sake; do not dishonor your glorious throne; remember and do not break your covenant with us."

Ezekiel 20:9 - "But I acted for the sake of my name, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations among whom they lived, in whose sight I made myself known to them in bringing them out of the land of Egypt."

Ezekiel 20:14 - "But I acted for the sake of my name, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations, in whose sight I had brought them out."

Ezekiel 20:22 - "But I withheld my hand and acted for the sake of my name, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations, in whose sight I had brought them out."

Ezekiel 20:44 - "And you shall know that I am the Lord, when I deal with you for my name's sake, not according to your evil ways, nor according to your corrupt deeds, O house of Israel, declares the Lord God."

Ezekiel 36:22 - "Therefore say to the house of Israel, Thus says the Lord God: It to act, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations to which you came."

These verses emphasize that God acts "for His name's sake" to uphold His holiness, glory, and reputation, often in the face of human sin or unfaithfulness. 

SO POWERFUL IS HIS NAME THAT GOD GAVE US A COMMANDMENT CONCERNING HIS NAME!

"You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain" (Exodus 20:7)

The 3rd commandment warns against using God’s name in vain, which includes irreverent, deceitful, or hypocritical speech or actions that dishonor His name. The verse emphasizes that God "will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His name."

The principle of the 3rd Commandment is rooted in the holiness and reverence of God’s name. 

The Hebrew phrase "לא תשא את־שם־יהוה אלהיך לשוא" (lo tisa et-shem-YHWH eloheicha lashav) translates to "You shall not carry the name of the Lord your God for nothingness" or "You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God." 

God's name must not be misused in "empty," "worthless" ways.  This commandment forbids using God’s name in a frivolous, disrespectful, or deceitful manner. 

It Stands To Reason 

In the Christian bible, Yeshua Hamashiach was "His Name" in the flesh. It stands to reason Yeshua would apply the concept of למען שמו (lema’an shemo) in powerful scriptures. 

Jesus explicitly spoke about "using His name" in ways that align with the concept of "למען שמו" (lema’an shemo), "for His name's sake"

Here are the verses where Jesus explicitly spoke about "using His name":

John 14:13-14 --"Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it."

John 15:16 -- "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, He may give it to you."
.
John 16:23-24 -- "In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, He will give it to you. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full."

Mark 16:17-18 -- "And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover."

These verses highlight the authority, power, and purpose associated with using Jesus’ name.

Power In the Name

These verses emphasize the power, authority, and salvation found in the name of Jesus:

Acts 4:12 -- "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."

Jesus’ name is the only source of salvation.

Philippians 2:9-11 -- "Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Romans 10:13 -- "For 'everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'" 

Colossians 3:17 -- "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.".

The Great Commission 

With the advent of the "Great Commission," Jesus sent his disciples to spread the "Good News" of the risen savior and to proclaim his name! You could say that Jesus sent them out "למען שמו" (lema’an shemo) "for His name's sake."

Matthew 28:19 -- "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

ISN'T IT INTERESTING 

Jews avoid saying or acknowledging the name of Jesus.  We give theological and cultural reasons. The name Yeshu (used in the Talmud) is often interpreted as a derogatory acronym meaning "May his name and memory be obliterated."  

For a Jew, hearing a Christian end a prayer "in the name of Jesus" is a very uncomfortable feeling, at best. 

As a Jew, getting my mind around the Christian concept of "the name" was extremely difficult. Ironically, there is a clue in Judaism's central prayer, the Shema. 

Deuteronomy 6:4  Hear O Israel, YHVH our God is ONE (Echad). 

Study "echad" to see what I mean.

CONCLUSION

By not saying His name, the irony is that Jews are implicitly saying there is power in the name and the effect of calling on His name. Thus, aligning His name with the scriptures.