GEN (Genesis)
GEN.1 • GEN.2 • GEN.3 • GEN.4 • GEN.5 • GEN.6 • GEN.7 • GEN.8 • GEN.9 • GEN.10 • GEN.11 • GEN.12 • GEN.13 • GEN.14 • GEN.15 • GEN.16 • GEN.17 • GEN.18 • GEN.19 • GEN.20 • GEN.21 • GEN.22 • GEN.23 • GEN.24 • GEN.25 • GEN.26 • GEN.27 • GEN.28 • GEN.29 • GEN.30 • GEN.31 • GEN.32 • GEN.33 • GEN.34 • GEN.35 • GEN.36 • GEN.37 • GEN.38 • GEN.39 • GEN.40 • GEN.41 • GEN.42 • GEN.43 • GEN.44 • GEN.45 • GEN.46 • GEN.47 • GEN.48 • GEN.49 • GEN.50
GEN.1
[GEN.1.1] In the beginning, the Gods created the heavens and the earth. [§]
Bereishit bara Elohim et hashamayim ve'et ha'aretz.
Bereishit means 'in the beginning'. Bara means 'created'. Elohim is a plural form referring to 'the Gods'. Et is a grammatical marker indicating the direct object. Hashamayim means 'the heavens'. Ve'et is a conjunction meaning 'and'. Ha'aretz means 'the earth'.
[GEN.1.2] And the earth was formless and empty, and darkness was upon the face of the deep, and the breath of the Gods was hovering upon the face of the waters. [§]
veha’aretz haytah tohu vavohu vechoshek al-penei tehom veruach Elohim merahefet al-penei hamayim.
This verse describes the state of the earth before creation. 'veha’aretz' means 'and the land/earth'. 'haytah' means 'was'. 'tohu vavohu' is a doubled word signifying formlessness and emptiness. 'vechoshek' means 'and darkness'. 'al-penei tehom' means 'upon the face of the deep'. 'veruach Elohim' means 'and the breath of the Gods'. 'merahefet' means 'hovering'. 'al-penei hamayim' means 'upon the face of the waters'.
[GEN.1.3] And the Gods said, "Let there be light," and there was light. [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim ye-hi or va-ye-hi or.
This verse comes from Genesis 1:3. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Ye-hi' means 'let there be'. 'Or' means 'light'. 'Va-ye-hi' means 'and there was'.
[GEN.1.4] And the Gods saw the light, that it was good, and the Gods separated between the light and between the darkness. [§]
Va-yar Elohim et-ha-or ki-tov va-yavdel Elohim bein ha-or u-bein ha-choshek.
This verse describes God seeing the light and declaring it good, then separating the light from the darkness. "Va-yar" means "and saw". "Elohim" is "the Gods". "Et-ha-or" means "the light". "Ki-tov" means "that it is good". "Va-yavdel" means "and separated". "Bein" means "between". "Ha-or" is again "the light". "U-bein" means "and between". "Ha-choshek" means "the darkness".
[GEN.1.5] And the Gods called the light 'day' and to the darkness, they called 'night'. And there was evening, and there was morning, one day. [§]
Va-yik-ra Elohim la-or yom ve-la-hoshech kara la-yelah va-yehi-erev va-yehi-boker yom echad.
This verse describes God naming light 'day' and darkness 'night', and the creation of the first day. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and called'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'La-or' means 'to the light'. 'Yom' means 'day'. 'Ve-la-hoshech' means 'and to the darkness'. 'Kara' means 'called'. 'La-yelah' means 'to the night'. 'Va-yehi-erev' means 'and there was evening'. 'Va-yehi-boker' means 'and there was morning'. 'Yom echad' means 'one day'.
[GEN.1.6] And the Gods said, "Let there be an expanse in the midst of the waters, and let it be a divider between waters to the waters." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim ye-hi ra-kee-ah be-toch ha-ma-yim ve-hi mav-deel ben ma-yim la-ma-yim.
This verse describes God speaking and creating the expanse (firmament) to separate the waters. "Va-yo-mer" means "and He said." "Elohim" is "the Gods." "Ye-hi" means "let there be." "Ra-kee-ah" is "expanse" or "firmament". "Be-toch" means "in the midst of". "Ha-ma-yim" means "the waters". "Ve-hi" means "and let it be". "Mav-deel" means "a divider". "Ben" means "between". "La-ma-yim" means "to the waters".
[GEN.1.7] And the Gods made the firmament, and He separated between the waters which were below the firmament, and between the waters which were above the firmament, and it was so. [§]
Va-ya-as Elohim et-ha-ra-kee-a, va-ya-bdel bayn ha-ma-yim asher mit-tach-at la-ra-kee-a u-bayn ha-ma-yim asher me-al la-ra-kee-a va-ye-hi khen.
This verse describes God creating the firmament (sky) and separating the waters above it from the waters below. 'Va-ya-as' means 'and He made'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Et-ha-ra-kee-a' means 'the firmament'. 'Va-ya-bdel' means 'and He separated'. 'Bayn' means 'between'. 'Ha-ma-yim' means 'the waters'. 'Asher' means 'which/that'. 'Mit-tach-at' means 'below'. 'La-ra-kee-a' means 'the firmament'. 'Me-al' means 'above'. 'Va-ye-hi khen' means 'and it was so'.
[GEN.1.8] And the Gods called the expanse "heavens." And there was evening, and there was morning, the second day. [§]
Va-yik-ra Elohim la-ra-kee-ah sha-ma-yim va-ye-hee-eh-rev va-ye-hee-bo-ker yom she-nee.
This verse describes God naming the expanse above the earth "heavens," and marks the end of the second day of creation. "Va-yik-ra" means "and He called". "Elohim" is "the Gods". "La-ra-kee-ah" means "to the expanse". "Sha-ma-yim" means "heavens". "Va-ye-hee-eh-rev" means "and there was evening". "Va-ye-hee-bo-ker" means "and there was morning". "Yom she-nee" means "day second".
[GEN.1.9] And the Gods said, "Let the waters gather to one place, and let the dry land be seen." And it was so. [§]
va-yo-mer elohim yi-ka-vu ha-ma-yim mi-ta-chat ha-sha-ma-yim el-ma-kom eh-chad ve-te-ra-eh ha-ya-ba-sha ve-ye-hi khen.
This verse describes God gathering the waters together so that dry land might appear. 'Elohim' is plural, meaning 'the Gods'. 'Yiqavu' is a verb meaning 'let them gather'. 'Ha-mayim' means 'the waters'. 'Mi-tachat ha-shamayim' means 'from under the heavens'. 'El-maqom echad' means 'to a place one', or 'to one place'. 'Ve-te-ra-eh ha-yabasha' means 'and let the dry land be seen'. 'Ve-yehi khen' means 'and it was so'.
[GEN.1.10] And the Gods called the dry land 'Earth', and to the gathering of the waters they called 'Seas'. And the Gods saw that it was good. [§]
va-yik-ra e-lo-heem la-ya-ba-sha eretz u-le-mik-veh ha-ma-yim ka-ra ya-mim va-yar e-lo-heem ki-tov.
This verse describes God naming the dry land 'Earth' and the gatherings of water 'Seas'. Then, God saw that it was good. 'Eloheem' is a plural form, referring to the Gods. 'YHVH' is not present in this verse, instead 'Eloheem' is used. 'Eretz' refers to land or earth. 'Mikveh' means gathering or collection, and is used here for water. 'Yamim' means seas.
[GEN.1.11] And the Gods said, "Let the earth sprout grass, herb yielding seed, trees bearing fruit, each yielding its seed within itself upon the earth." And it was so. [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim tad-sheh ha-ah-retz desheh, eh-sehv maz-ree-ah zeh-rah, etz peh-ree oh-seh peh-ree le-mee-noh ah-sher zar-oh-vo-vo al-ha-ah-retz va-yeh-hee-khen.
This verse describes God speaking and causing the earth to bring forth vegetation. 'Elohim' refers to the Gods. 'Tad-sheh' means to sprout or bring forth. 'Desheh' is grass. 'Esehv' is herb. 'Maz-ree-ah' is seed-bearing. 'Zeh-rah' is seed. 'Etz' is tree. 'Peh-ree' is fruit. 'Le-mee-noh' means according to its kind. 'Zar-oh-vo-vo' refers to its seed within it. 'Al-ha-ah-retz' is upon the earth. 'Va-yeh-hee-khen' means and it was so.
[GEN.1.12] And the earth brought forth grass, grass yielding seed according to its kind, and tree making fruit, which has its seed in it according to its kind. And the Gods saw that it was good. [§]
va-to-tseh ha-ah-retz deh-sheh eh-sehv maz-ree-ah zeh-rah le-mee-neh-hoo ve-etz oh-seh peh-ree ah-sher zar-oh-vo-vo le-mee-neh-hoo va-yar elo-heem kee-tov.
This verse describes the earth producing vegetation and fruit trees. 'Va-to-tseh' means 'and the earth brought forth.' 'Ha-ah-retz' means 'the earth.' 'Deh-sheh' means 'grass.' 'Eh-sehv' means 'grass.' 'Maz-ree-ah' means 'seed bearing.' 'Zeh-rah' means 'seed.' 'Le-mee-neh-hoo' means 'according to its kind.' 'Ve-etz' means 'and tree.' 'Oh-seh' means 'making.' 'Peh-ree' means 'fruit.' 'Ah-sher' means 'which.' 'Zar-oh-vo-vo' means 'its seed in it.' 'Va-yar' means 'and saw.' 'Elo-heem' means 'the Gods.' 'Kee-tov' means 'that it is good.'
[GEN.1.13] And it was evening, and it was morning, the third day. [§]
vayhi erev vayhi boker yom shlishi
This verse states that it was evening and it was morning, the third day. 'Vayhi' means 'and it was'. 'Erev' means 'evening'. 'Boker' means 'morning'. 'Yom' means 'day'. 'Shlishi' means 'third'.
[GEN.1.14] And the Gods said, "Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate between the day and between the night, and they will be for signs and for seasons and for days and for years." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim yehi me-orot bir-kee-a ha-sha-ma-yim le-hav-dil bein ha-yom u-bein ha-lai-la ve-hayu le-otot u-le-mo-a-dim u-le-ya-mim ve-sha-nim.
This verse describes God creating lights in the sky to separate day from night and to serve as signs for seasons, days, and years. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Elohim' refers to the Gods. 'Yehi' means 'let there be'. 'Me-orot' means 'lights'. 'Bir-kee-a ha-sha-ma-yim' means 'in the expanse of the heavens'. 'Le-hav-dil' means 'to separate'. 'Bein ha-yom u-bein ha-lai-la' means 'between the day and between the night'. 'Ve-hayu' means 'and they will be'. 'Le-otot u-le-mo-a-dim u-le-ya-mim ve-sha-nim' means 'for signs and for seasons and for days and for years'.
[GEN.1.15] And they will be for lights in the expanse of the heavens to illuminate upon the earth, and it was so. [§]
vehayu lim’orot bir’kiya hashamayim leha’ir al-ha’aretz vayhi khen.
This verse describes the creation of lights in the sky to illuminate the earth. “Vehayu” means “and they will be.” “Lim’orot” means “for lights.” “Bir’kiya hashamayim” means “in the expanse of the heavens.” “Leha’ir” means “to illuminate.” “Al-ha’aretz” means “upon the earth.” “Vayhi khen” means “and it was so.”
[GEN.1.16] And the Gods made the two great lights: the great light for rulership of the day, and the smaller light for rulership of the night, and the stars. [§]
Va-ya-as Elohim et-shnei ha-ma-orot ha-gedolim et-ha-ma-or ha-gadol le-mem-she-let ha-yom ve-et-ha-ma-or ha-koton le-mem-she-let ha-laila ve-et ha-kochavim.
This verse describes the creation of the two great lights – the sun and the moon – and the stars. 'Va-ya-as' means 'and He made.' 'Elohim' is 'the Gods.' 'Et' is a direct object marker. 'Shnei' means 'two.' 'Ha-ma-orot' means 'the lights.' 'Ha-gedolim' means 'the great.' 'Ha-ma-or' means 'the light.' 'Le-mem-she-let' means 'for rulership of.' 'Ha-yom' means 'the day.' 'Ha-laila' means 'the night.' 'Ha-kochavim' means 'the stars.'
[GEN.1.17] And He placed them, the Gods, in the expanse of the heavens to shine upon the earth. [§]
va-yee-ten o-tam elo-heem bir-kee-ah ha-sha-ma-yim le-ha-eer al-ha-ah-retz.
This verse describes God placing something in the expanse of the heavens to shine upon the earth. 'Va-yee-ten' means 'and He gave/placed'. 'O-tam' means 'them'. 'Eloheem' is 'the Gods'. 'Bir-kee-ah' means 'in the expanse of'. 'Ha-sha-ma-yim' means 'the heavens'. 'Le-ha-eer' means 'to shine/illuminate'. 'Al-ha-ah-retz' means 'upon the earth'.
[GEN.1.18] And to rule over day and over night, and to separate between the light and between the darkness, and the Gods saw that it was good. [§]
ve-lim-shol bah-yohm oo-bah-lah-ee-lah oo-le-hav-deel bein hah-ohr oo-bein hah-ho-shekh vay-rah eh-lo-heem kee-tov
This verse describes God's rule over day and night, and the separation of light and darkness, and that the Gods saw that it was good. 've-lim-shol' means 'and to rule'. 'bah-yohm' is 'over day'. 'oo-bah-lah-ee-lah' is 'and over night'. 'oo-le-hav-deel' means 'and to separate'. 'bein hah-ohr' means 'between the light'. 'oo-bein hah-ho-shekh' is 'and between the darkness'. 'vay-rah eh-lo-heem' means 'and the Gods saw'. 'kee-tov' means 'that it was good'.
[GEN.1.19] And it was evening, and it was morning, the fourth day. [§]
va-yhi-erev va-yhi-boker yom revi'i.
This verse simply states the passing of time, marking the fourth day of creation. 'Erev' means evening, 'boker' means morning, and 'yom' means day. 'Revi'i' is the fourth. The 'va-yhi' construction is a common narrative formula meaning 'and it was'.
[GEN.1.20] And God said, "Let the waters teem with swarming living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the face of the expanse of the heavens." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim yish-tzu ha-mayim shertz ne-fesh chai-ah ve-of ye-o-fef al-ha-aretz al-p'nei re-kee-ah ha-sha-mayim.
This verse describes God speaking and commanding the waters to teem with living creatures, and birds to fly above the earth across the face of the expanse of the heavens. 'Elohim' is a plural form, suggesting 'the Gods'. 'Yish-tzu' implies a teeming, abundant proliferation. 'Shertz' refers to creatures that move and swarm. 'Ne-fesh chai-ah' means 'living soul' or 'living creature'. 'Ye-o-fef' means 'to fly'. 'Re-kee-ah' refers to an expanse, a firmament, or sky. 'Ha-sha-mayim' means 'the heavens'.
[GEN.1.21] And the Gods created the large sea creatures, and all living souls that move, those that teem in the waters according to their kinds, and all winged birds according to their kinds. And the Gods saw that it was good. [§]
Va-yiv-ra Elohim et-ha-tan-nim ha-gdo-lim ve-et kol-ne-fesh ha-chay-ah ha-ro-mesh asher sar-tsu ha-mayim le-mi-nei-hem ve-et kol-of kanaf le-mi-nei-hu va-yar Elohim ki-tov.
This verse describes the creation of large sea creatures, all living things that move in the water according to their kinds, and all birds according to their kinds. The Gods then saw that it was good.
[GEN.1.22] And the Gods blessed them, saying, "Increase and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let the birds increase upon the earth." [§]
va-ye-var-ek otam Elohim le-mor pru u-rev-u u-mil-u et-ha-mayim ba-yamim ve-ha-of yirev ba-aretz.
This verse describes a blessing given by 'the Gods' to a group referred to as 'them'. The blessing includes instructions to increase in number and fill the waters in the seas, and for birds to increase upon the earth.
[GEN.1.23] And it was evening, and it was morning, the fifth day. [§]
va-yhi-erev va-yhi-boker yom chamishi.
This verse describes the completion of the fifth day of creation. 'Erev' means evening, and 'boker' means morning. 'Yom' means day, and 'chamishi' means fifth. 'Va-yhi' is a formula meaning 'and it was'.
[GEN.1.24] And the Gods said, "Let the earth bring forth living souls according to their kinds: livestock and creeping things and beasts of the earth according to their kinds." And it was so. [§]
va'yomer Elohim to'tse ha'aretz nefesh chaya le'mina behama varemesh v'chayto-eretz le'mina vayehi-khen.
This verse describes God commanding the earth to bring forth living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creeping things, and beasts of the earth, each according to its kind. The final phrase indicates that it was so.
[GEN.1.25] And He made the Gods the beasts of the land according to its kind, and the livestock according to its kind, and all the creeping things of the earth according to its kind. And He saw the Gods that it was good. [§]
vayyas adam elohim et khayyat ha’aretz leminah v’et habhemah leminah v’et kol remes ha’adamah lemineyhu vayyar adam elohim ki tov.
This verse describes God creating the animals. 'Vayyas' means 'and He made'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Khayyat ha’aretz' means 'the beasts of the land'. 'Leminah' means 'according to its kind'. 'Habhemah' means 'the livestock'. 'Remes ha’adamah' means 'the creeping things of the earth'. 'Lemineyhu' means 'according to its kind'. 'Vayyar' means 'and He saw'. 'Tov' means 'good'.
[GEN.1.26] And the Gods said, "Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness, and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the Earth and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the Earth." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim na-a-seh a-dam be-tzal-mey-nu ki-dmoo-tey-nu ve-yir-doo bid-gat ha-yam u-ve-of ha-sha-ma-yim u-va-be-he-mah u-ve-chal-ha-a-retz u-ve-chal-ha-re-mes ha-ro-mes al-ha-a-retz.
This verse describes the creation of humankind. "Elohim" refers to the Gods, indicating a plural divine council. The Gods decide to make humankind in their image and likeness and grant them dominion over all living creatures and the Earth.
[GEN.1.27] And the Gods created the human in His image, in the image of the Gods He created him, male and female He created them. [§]
Va-yiv-ra Elohim et-ha-adam be-tselem-o be-tselem Elohim bara oto zachar u-nekeva bara otam.
This verse describes the creation of humanity. "Va-yiv-ra" means "and created". "Elohim" refers to the Gods. "Et-ha-adam" means "the human". "Be-tselem-o" means "in His image". "Be-tselem Elohim" means "in the image of the Gods". "Bara oto" means "created him". "Zachar u-nekeva" means "male and female". "Bara otam" means "created them".
[GEN.1.28] And the Gods blessed them, and the Gods said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living creature that creeps on the earth." [§]
vayvarech otam Elohim vayomer lahem Elohim pru urevu umilu et haaretz vechibshuha urdu bidgat hayam ubeof hashamayim uvechal chaya haromeset al haaretz.
This verse describes God blessing humanity and commanding them to multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. It also includes dominion over creatures of the sea, sky, and land. 'Vayvarech' means 'and blessed'. 'Otam' means 'them'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Vayomer' means 'and said'. 'Lahem' means 'to them'. 'Pru' means 'be fruitful'. 'Urevu' means 'and multiply'. 'Umilu' means 'and fill'. 'Et haaretz' means 'the earth'. 'Vechibshuha' means 'and subdue it'. 'Urdu' means 'and have dominion'. 'Bidgat hayam' means 'over the fish of the sea'. 'Ubeof hashamayim' means 'and over the birds of the sky'. 'Ubechal chaya haromeset al haaretz' means 'and over every living creature that creeps on the earth'.
[GEN.1.29] And the Gods said, "Behold, I have given to you every herb sowing seed which is upon the face of all the land, and every tree in which is fruit of a tree sowing seed, to you it will be for food." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim, hi-neh na-ta-tee la-chem et kol esev, zore-a zera, asher al pnei kol ha-aretz, ve-et kol ha-etz asher bo peri-etz zore-a zera, la-chem yih-yeh le-ach-lah.
This verse describes God giving humans plants and trees as food. 'Elohim' refers to the Gods, a plural form often used to indicate majesty or power. 'Hi-neh' means 'behold' or 'here'. 'Na-ta-tee' is 'I have given'. 'La-chem' means 'to you'. 'Esev' is 'grass' or 'herb'. 'Zore-a zera' means 'sowing seed'. 'Al pnei' means 'upon the face of' or 'on'. 'Ha-aretz' means 'the land' or 'the earth'. 'Ha-etz' means 'the tree'. 'Peri-etz' means 'fruit of a tree'. 'Yih-yeh' means 'will be'. 'Le-ach-lah' means 'for food'.
[GEN.1.30] And to every animal of the land, and to every bird of the heavens, and to everything that creeps on the land, in which is a living soul, I gave all green grass for eating; and it was so. [§]
u-le-chol-khay-at ha-aretz u-le-chol-of ha-shamayim u-le-kol romes al-ha-aretz asher-bo nefesh khayah et-kol yerek esev le-okhlah va-yehi-khen.
This verse details a provision given to all living creatures. 'Khay-at ha-aretz' means 'the animals of the land'. 'Of ha-shamayim' means 'the birds of the heavens'. 'Romes al-ha-aretz' means 'that creeps on the land'. 'Nefesh khayah' means 'a living soul'. 'Yerek esev' means 'green grass'. 'Le-okhlah' means 'for eating'. 'Va-yehi-khen' means 'and it was so'.
[GEN.1.31] And God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day. [§]
va-yar a-lo-heem et-kol-a-sheh a-sah ve-hi-neh tov me-od va-ye-hi erev va-ye-hi boker yom ha-shi-shi.
This verse describes God observing all that He had made and declaring it very good. It also marks the end of the sixth day of creation.
GEN.2
[GEN.2.1] And the heavens and the earth and all their host were finished. [§]
Va-yekh-oo ha-sha-ma-yim ve-ha-a-retz ve-khal tze-va-am.
This verse describes the completion of the heavens and the earth, and all their host. 'Va-yekh-oo' means 'and they finished'. 'Ha-sha-ma-yim' means 'the heavens'. 'Ve-ha-a-retz' means 'and the earth'. 'Ve-khal' means 'and all'. 'Tze-va-am' means 'their host', referring to the armies or multitude of things within the heavens and earth.
[GEN.2.2] And the Gods finished on the day the seventh their work that they made, and they rested on the day the seventh from all their work that they made. [§]
vayekhal elohim bayom hashevii melakhto asher asa vayishbot bayom hashevii mikol melakhto asher asa
This verse describes the completion of God's work on the seventh day and his rest. 'Vayekhal' means 'and finished'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Bayom' means 'on the day'. 'Hashevii' means 'the seventh'. 'Melakhto' means 'his work'. 'Asher asa' means 'that he made'. 'Vayishbot' means 'and he rested'. 'Mikol' means 'from all'.
[GEN.2.3] And the Gods blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it the Gods rested from all work the Gods created to do. [§]
vayvarech elohim et-yom hashevii vaykadesh oto ki bo shavat mikol-melachtehu asher-bara elohim laasot.
This verse describes God blessing and sanctifying the seventh day, because in it God rested from all work God created to do. 'Vayvarech' means 'and blessed'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Et' is a particle that marks the direct object. 'Yom' means 'day'. 'Hashevii' means 'the seventh'. 'Vaykadesh' means 'and sanctified'. 'Oto' means 'it'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Bo' means 'in it'. 'Shavat' means 'rested'. 'Mikol' means 'from all'. 'Melachtehu' means 'work of God'. 'Asher' means 'which' or 'that'. 'Bara' means 'created'. 'Elohim' again means 'the Gods'. 'Laasot' means 'to do'.
[GEN.2.4] These are the origins of the heavens and the earth in their being created, in the day that Yahveh, the Gods, made earth and heavens. [§]
elleh toldot hashamaim vehaaretz behibream beyom asot Yahveh Elohim eretz veshamayim
This verse describes the origins of the heavens and the earth. "elleh" means "these". "toldot" means "generations" or "origins". "hashamaim" means "the heavens". "vehaaretz" means "and the earth". "behibream" means "in their being created". "beyom" means "in the day". "asot" means "making". "Yahveh" is the proper name of God. "Elohim" is "the Gods". "eretz" means "earth". "veshamayim" means "and heavens".
[GEN.2.5] And all the vegetation of the field had not yet been on the earth, and all the grass of the field had not yet sprouted, because Yahveh the Gods had not rained upon the earth, and there was no man to work the ground. [§]
vechol sisach hasadeh terem yihyeh baaretz vechol esev hasadeh terem yitsmach ki lo himtir Yahveh Elohim al haaretz veadam ayin laavod et haadamah.
This verse describes the state of the world before God created Adam and before it rained. 'Sisach' refers to vegetation that sprouts or grows. 'Esev' refers to grass or herbaceous plants. 'Himatir' means to rain. 'Ayin' means none or there was not.
[GEN.2.6] And mist will rise from the earth and it will water all the surface of the land. [§]
ve’ed ya’aleh min-ha’aretz ve’hishkah et kol p’nei ha’adamah.
This verse describes a mist rising from the earth and watering the entire surface of the land. "Ve'ed" means 'and mist'. "Ya'aleh" means 'will rise'. "Min-ha'aretz" means 'from the earth'. "Ve'hishkah" means 'and it will water'. "Et" is a grammatical marker with no direct translation. "Kol" means 'all'. "P'nei" means 'face' or 'surface'. "Ha’adamah" means 'the land'.
[GEN.2.7] And Yahveh the Gods formed the human from dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils breath of life, and the human became a living soul. [§]
Va-yitzer Yahveh Elohim et-ha-adam afar min-ha-adamah va-yippach be-appav nishmat chayim va-yehi ha-adam le-nefesh chayah.
This verse describes the creation of humankind. 'Va-yitzer' means 'and formed'. 'Yahveh Elohim' refers to 'Yahveh the Gods'. 'Et-ha-adam' means 'the human'. 'Afar min-ha-adamah' translates to 'dust from the ground'. 'Va-yippach' signifies 'and breathed'. 'Be-appav' means 'into his nostrils'. 'Nishmat chayim' is 'breath of life'. 'Va-yehi' means 'and it came to be'. 'Ha-adam' again means 'the human'. 'Le-nefesh chayah' means 'to a living soul'.
[GEN.2.8] And Yahveh, the Gods, planted a garden in Eden to the east, and He placed there the man that He had created. [§]
Va-yit-ta Yahveh Elohim gan-be-eden mi-kedem va-ya-sem sham et ha-adam asher yat-zar.
This verse describes Yahveh, the Gods, planting a garden in Eden to the east, and then placing the man He had created there. 'Va-yit-ta' means 'and planted.' 'Va-ya-sem' means 'and He placed.' 'Et' is a grammatical marker indicating the definite direct object. 'Asher' means 'who' or 'that which.'
[GEN.2.9] And Yahveh the Gods caused to sprout from the ground every tree that was pleasing to look at and good to eat. And the tree of life was in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. [§]
vayatzmach Yahveh Elohim min-haadamah kol-etz nechemad lemar'eh vetov lema'achal ve'etz hachayim betoch hagan ve'etz hada'at tov vara.
This verse describes Yahveh the Gods causing to sprout from the ground every tree pleasing to the sight and good for food. It also describes the tree of life being in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
[GEN.2.10] And a river goes out from Eden to water the garden, and from there it divides, and it became into four heads. [§]
veh-nah-har yo-tseh meh-eh-den le-hash-koh-t et-hah-gan oo-mee-sham yip-pah-red veh-hay-ah le-ar-bah-ah rah-sheem
This verse describes a river originating in Eden to water the garden. From there it divides into four heads (or sources). The words 'veh' and 'oo' function as 'and'. 'Meh' means 'from'. 'Le' means 'to'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker with no direct translation. 'Hah' is 'the'. 'Yip-pah-red' means 'to split' or 'to divide'. 'Veh-hay-ah' means 'and it became' or 'and it was'. 'Le' can also mean 'into'. 'Ar-bah-ah' means 'four'. 'Rah-sheem' means 'heads' or 'sources'.
[GEN.2.11] The name of the one is Pishon, it is the surrounding of all the land of Havilah, where there is the gold. [§]
Shem ha-echad Pishon hu ha-sovev et kol-eretz ha-chavila asher-sham ha-zahav.
This verse names one of the rivers flowing out of Eden. 'Shem' means 'name'. 'Ha-echad' means 'the one'. 'Pishon' is the name of the river. 'Hu' means 'it' or 'he'. 'Ha-sovev' means 'the surrounding'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Kol' means 'all'. 'Eretz' means 'land'. 'Ha-chavila' means 'of Havilah'. 'Asher' means 'where' or 'that'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Ha-zahav' means 'the gold'.
[GEN.2.12] And the gold of that land is good, and there is beryl and onyx/carnelian stone. [§]
oo-zah-hav hah-ah-rets hah-hee tov sham hah-ved-o-lach veh-eh-ven hah-shoh-am
This verse describes the quality of the land and its resources. 'Zahav' means gold. 'Erets' means land. 'Tov' means good. 'Vedolach' refers to a type of crystal, often translated as beryl or turquoise. 'Even' means stone. 'Shoham' is a precious stone, often translated as onyx or carnelian. The structure is descriptive, stating that the gold of that land is good, and there is beryl and onyx/carnelian stone.
[GEN.2.13] And the name of the second river is Gichon, it is the one that surrounds all the land of Kush. [§]
ve-shem-ha-nahar ha-sheni gichon hu ha-sovev et kol-eretz kush.
This verse identifies the name of the second river as Gichon. It further describes Gichon as the one encircling all the land of Kush.
[GEN.2.14] And the name of the third river is Hiddekel; it is the one going before Ashur. And the name of the fourth river is Prat. [§]
ve-shem ha-nahar ha-shlishi hiddakel hu ha-holekh kidmat ashur ve-ha-nahar ha-revi'i hu prat
This verse names two of the rivers flowing from the source described in the previous verses. 'Shem' means name. 'Hanaar' means the river. 'Ha-shlishi' means the third. 'Hiddakel' is the name of the third river. 'Hu' means he or it. 'Ha-holekh' means the going, or the one that goes. 'Kidmat' means before or in front of. 'Ashur' is the name of a region or city. 'Ha-revi'i' means the fourth. 'Prat' is the name of the fourth river.
[GEN.2.15] And Yahveh, the Gods, took the man and placed him in the garden of Eden to work it and to guard it. [§]
Va-yik-akh Yahveh Elohim et-ha-adam va-yan-chee-hu be-gan-eden le-av-dah u-le-shom-rah.
This verse describes Yahveh, the Gods, taking the man and placing him in the garden of Eden to work it and to guard it. 'Va-yik-akh' means 'and He took'. 'Yahveh Elohim' is 'Yahveh, the Gods'. 'Et-ha-adam' means 'the man'. 'Va-yan-chee-hu' means 'and He placed him'. 'Be-gan-eden' means 'in the garden of Eden'. 'Le-av-dah' means 'to work it'. 'U-le-shom-rah' means 'and to guard it'.
[GEN.2.16] And Yahveh the Gods commanded upon the man, to say, "From every tree of the garden you may eat." [§]
Va-ya-tsav Yahveh Elohim al-ha-adam le-emor mikol etz-ha-gan akhol to-akhel.
This verse describes God commanding the man. 'Va-ya-tsav' means 'and commanded'. 'Yahveh Elohim' are the Gods. 'Al-ha-adam' means 'upon the man'. 'Le-emor' means 'to say'. 'Mikol etz-ha-gan' means 'from every tree of the garden'. 'Akhol to-akhel' means 'eat you shall eat', or more naturally, 'you may eat'.
[GEN.2.17] And from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat from it, for in the day you eat from it, death you will die. [§]
oo-may-eh-ts hah-dah-aht tohv vah-rah loh toh-khal mee-meh-noo kee bee-yohm ah-khal-kah mee-meh-noo moh-t tah-moot.
This verse comes from Genesis 2:17. It is God’s command to Adam regarding the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. 'Etz' means tree. 'Hadda'at' means knowledge. 'Tov' means good. 'Ra' means evil. 'Lo toh-khal' means 'you shall not eat'. 'Mee-meh-noo' means 'from it'. 'Bee-yohm' means 'in the day'. 'Ah-khal-kah' means 'you eat'. 'Moh-t' means death. 'Tah-moot' means 'you will die'.
[GEN.2.18] And Yahveh the Gods said, "It is not good for the human to be alone. I will make a helper corresponding to him." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh Elohim lo-tov heyot ha-adam le-vad-do, e-eh-seh-loh eh-zer ke-neg-do.
This verse describes God’s assessment that it is not good for humanity to be alone and God’s intention to create a helper for them. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Yahveh Elohim' is 'Yahveh the Gods'. 'Lo-tov' means 'not good'. 'Heyot' means 'to be'. 'Ha-adam' is 'the human'. 'Le-vad-do' means 'alone'. 'E-eh-seh-lo' means 'I will make for him'. 'Eh-zer' is 'helper'. 'Ke-neg-do' is 'as against him' or 'corresponding to him'.
[GEN.2.19] And Yahveh the Gods formed from the ground every beast of the field and every bird of the heavens, and brought them to the human to see what he would call each one. And whatever name the human gave to any living creature, that was its name. [§]
Va yitzer Yahveh Elohim min ha adamah kol chayat hasadeh ve et kol of hashamayim vayavea el ha adam lir'ot mah yikra lo vechol asher yikra lo ha adam nefesh chaya hu shmo.
This verse describes Yahveh the Gods forming every beast of the field and every bird of the heavens from the ground and bringing them to the human to see what he would name them. Whatever the human named them, that name would be its living soul.
[GEN.2.20] And the human called names to all the beasts, and to the birds of the heavens, and to all the living creatures of the field. And to the human, he did not find a helper opposite him. [§]
Va-yik-ra ha-adam she-mot le-chol ha-be-he-mah u-le-of ha-sha-ma-yim u-le-chol cha-yat ha-sa-deh u-le-adam lo-ma-tsa e-zer ke-ne-gdo.
This verse describes Adam naming all the animals. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Ha-adam' means 'the human'. 'She-mot' means 'names'. 'Le-chol' means 'to all'. 'Ha-be-he-mah' means 'the beasts'. 'U-le-of' means 'and to the birds'. 'Ha-sha-ma-yim' means 'the heavens'. 'U-le-chol' means 'and to all'. 'Cha-yat' means 'living creatures'. 'Ha-sa-deh' means 'the field'. 'Lo-ma-tsa' means 'did not find'. 'E-zer' means 'helper'. 'Ke-ne-gdo' means 'opposite him'.
[GEN.2.21] And Yahveh the Gods caused a deep sleep to fall upon the Adam, and he slept. And he took one from his ribs and closed flesh underneath it. [§]
Va-ya-pel Yahveh Elohim tar-deh-mah al-ha-ah-dam va-yee-shahn va-yee-kah ah-hat mee-tsa-leh-totav va-yee-s-gor ba-sar tah-chat-teh-nah
This verse describes God causing a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and then taking a rib from him to create Eve. 'Va-ya-pel' means 'and God caused to fall'. 'Yahveh Elohim' represents 'Yahveh the Gods'. 'Tar-deh-mah' is 'a deep sleep'. 'Al-ha-ah-dam' means 'upon the Adam'. 'Va-yee-shahn' means 'and he slept'. 'Va-yee-kah' means 'and he took'. 'Ah-hat mee-tsa-leh-totav' means 'one from his ribs'. 'Va-yee-s-gor' means 'and he closed'. 'Ba-sar' is 'flesh'. 'Tah-chat-teh-nah' means 'underneath it'.
[GEN.2.22] And Yahveh, the Gods, built the rib that was taken from the man for a woman, and He brought her to the man. [§]
Va-yiven Yahveh Elohim et-ha-tselea asher-lakach min-ha-adam le-ishah va-yvieha el-ha-adam.
This verse describes Yahveh, the Gods, building the rib that was taken from the man to make a woman, and then bringing the woman to the man. 'Va-yiven' means 'and built'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Elohim' is the plural form of 'God', here treated as a plural of majesty, and translated as 'the Gods'. 'Et' is an untranslatable grammatical marker. 'Ha-tselea' means 'the rib'. 'Asher-lakach' means 'that was taken'. 'Min-ha-adam' means 'from the man'. 'Le-ishah' means 'for a woman'. 'Va-yvieha' means 'and He brought her'. 'El-ha-adam' means 'to the man'.
[GEN.2.23] And the man said, "This time, bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh. This shall be called woman, for from man this was taken." [§]
Va-yomer ha-adam, zot ha-pa'am etzem me-etzamai u-vasar mi-basari le-zot yikarei isha ki mei-ish lukchata-zot.
This verse describes Adam's reaction to the creation of Eve. 'Va-yomer' means 'and he said'. 'Ha-adam' is 'the man' (Adam). 'Zot ha-pa'am' means 'this time'. 'Etzem me-etzamai' translates to 'bone of my bones'. 'U-vasar mi-basari' means 'and flesh of my flesh'. 'Le-zot yikarei isha' translates to 'this shall be called woman'. 'Ki mei-ish lukchata-zot' means 'for from man this was taken'.
[GEN.2.24] Therefore, let a man leave his father and his mother, and he will cling to his wife, and they will become one flesh. [§]
Al-ken ya-azav-ish et-aviv ve-et-imo ve-davak be-ishto ve-hayu le-basar echad.
This verse discusses the relationship between a man, his parents, and his wife. "Al-ken" means therefore or for this reason. "Ya-azav-ish" is a verb form meaning "let him leave" or "let a man leave." "Et-aviv" means "his father." "Ve-et-imo" means "and his mother." "Ve-davak" means "and he will cling." "Be-ishto" means "to his wife." "Ve-hayu" means "and they will become." "Le-basar echad" means "to one flesh".
[GEN.2.25] And the two of them were naked, the Adam and his wife, and they would not be ashamed. [§]
va-yee-hoo sh-nay-hem a-roo-meem ha-ah-dahm ve-ish-toh ve-lo yit-bo-shash-shu
This verse describes Adam and his wife being naked and not feeling shame. 'Vayehiu' means 'and they were'. 'Shnayhem' means 'the two of them'. 'Aroomeem' means 'naked'. 'Ha-Adam' means 'the Adam'. 'Ve-Ishto' means 'and his wife'. 'Ve-lo' means 'and not'. 'Yitboshashu' means 'they will be ashamed'.
GEN.3
[GEN.3.1] And the serpent was cunning from all animals of the field, which Yahveh the Gods made. And he said to the woman, "Indeed, for God said, ‘You shall not eat from all trees of the garden.’" [§]
vehanachash hayah arum mikol chayat hasadeh asher asa Yahveh Elohim vayomer el haisha af ki amar Elohim lo tokhlu mikol etz hagan.
This verse describes the serpent in the Garden of Eden. 'vehanachash' means 'and the serpent'. 'hayah' means 'was'. 'arum' means 'cunning' or 'naked'. 'mikol chayat hasadeh' means 'from all animals of the field'. 'asher asa Yahveh Elohim' means 'which Yahveh the Gods made'. 'vayomer el haisha' means 'and he said to the woman'. 'af ki amar Elohim' means 'indeed, for God said'. 'lo tokhlu' means 'you shall not eat'. 'mikol etz hagan' means 'from all trees of the garden'.
[GEN.3.2] And the woman said to the serpent, "We will eat from the fruit of the tree of the garden." [§]
va-to-mer ha-ee-shah el-ha-nach-ash mi-pree etz-ha-gan no-chel.
This verse comes from Genesis 3:1. 'va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'ha-ee-shah' means 'the woman'. 'el-ha-nach-ash' means 'to the serpent'. 'mi-pree' means 'from the fruit'. 'etz-ha-gan' means 'the tree of the garden'. 'no-chel' means 'we will eat'.
[GEN.3.3] And from the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, the Gods said, "You shall not eat from it, and you shall not touch it, lest you die." [§]
oo-meef-ree hah-etz ah-sher beh-toch hah-gan ah-mar el-oh-heem loh toh-kh-loo mee-meh-noo veh-loh tee-geh-oo boh pen teh-moo-toon.
This verse comes from Genesis 2:17. It details God's command regarding the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. 'Oo-meef-ree' means 'from the fruit'. 'Hah-etz' means 'the tree'. 'Ah-sher' means 'which'. 'Beh-toch' means 'in the midst of'. 'Hah-gan' means 'the garden'. 'Ah-mar' means 'said'. 'El-oh-heem' is 'the Gods'. 'Loh toh-kh-loo' means 'you shall not eat'. 'Mee-meh-noo' means 'from it'. 'Veh-loh tee-geh-oo' means 'and you shall not touch'. 'Bo' means 'it'. 'Pen teh-moo-toon' means 'lest you die'.
[GEN.3.4] And the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die." [§]
Va-yo-mer ha-nachash el-ha-isha lo-mot temutun.
This verse comes from Genesis 3:4. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Ha-nachash' means 'the serpent'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Ha-isha' means 'the woman'. 'Lo' means 'not'. 'Mot' means 'death'. 'Temutun' is a future plural form meaning 'you will surely die'.
[GEN.3.5] For the Gods know that in the day you eat from it, your eyes will open, and you will become like the Gods, knowers of good and evil. [§]
ki yodea elohim ki beyom achelechem mimenu venifkchu eineichem vihiyitem ke'elohim yode'ei tov vara
This verse describes God's knowledge of the consequences of humanity eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. 'Yodea' means 'knows'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Beyom' means 'in the day'. 'Achelechem' means 'you eat'. 'Mimenu' means 'from it'. 'Venifkchu' means 'and open'. 'Eineichem' means 'your eyes'. 'Vihiyitem' means 'and you will become'. 'Ke'elohim' means 'like the Gods'. 'Yode'ei' means 'knowers of'. 'Tov' means 'good'. 'Vara' means 'and evil'.
[GEN.3.6] And the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to gain understanding. And she took from its fruit and ate, and she gave also to her husband who was with her, and he ate. [§]
Va-teh-reh ha-ish-shah kee tov ha-etz le-mah-chal ve-kee tah-vah-hoo-ah la-eh-nah-yim ve-nech-mad ha-etz le-has-keel va-tee-kah meef-ree-voh va-toh-chal va-tee-ten gam le-eesh-ah-ah im-ah va-yoh-chal.
This verse describes the woman seeing that the tree was good for food, pleasant to the eyes, and desirable to make one wise, and she took of its fruit and ate. She then gave some to her husband, who also ate.
[GEN.3.7] And the eyes of both of them opened, and they knew that naked they are. And they tore leaves of fig and made for themselves girdles. [§]
va-ti-pa-khah-nah ei-nei sh-nei-hem va-yei-deu ki ei-ru-mim hem va-yit-peru a-lei te-e-nah va-ya-asu la-hem kha-go-rot
This verse describes the moment Adam and Eve become aware of their nakedness after eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. 'Va-ti-pa-khah-nah' means 'and their eyes opened'. 'Ei-nei sh-nei-hem' is 'the eyes of both of them'. 'Va-yei-deu' means 'and they knew'. 'Ki' means 'that'. 'Ei-ru-mim hem' means 'naked they are'. 'Va-yit-peru' means 'and they tore'. 'A-lei te-e-nah' means 'leaves of fig'. 'Va-ya-asu la-hem kha-go-rot' means 'and they made for themselves girdles'.
[GEN.3.8] And they heard the voice of Yahveh the Gods walking in the garden during the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the face of Yahveh the Gods among the trees of the garden. [§]
Va-yishma'u et-kol Yahveh Elohim mit-halech ba-gan le-ruach ha-yom va-yit-chaba' ha-adam ve-ishto mip-nei Yahveh Elohim be-toch etz ha-gan.
This verse describes Adam and his wife hearing the sound of Yahveh the Gods walking in the garden during the cool of the day. They then hid themselves from the presence of Yahveh the Gods among the trees of the garden.
[GEN.3.9] And Yahveh the Gods called to the man, and said to him, "Where are you?" [§]
Va-yik-ra Yahveh Elohim el-ha-adam va-yo-mer lo ayekah.
This verse comes from Genesis 3:9. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and called'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Elohim' is a plural form often interpreted as 'the Gods' or 'Gods'. 'El' means 'to' or 'at'. 'Ha-adam' means 'the man'. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Ayekah' means 'where?'
[GEN.3.10] And he said, "I heard your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I am unclothed, and I hid." [§]
Va-yo-mer et-kol-kha sha-ma-ti ba-gan va-i-ra ki-e-rom a-no-khi va-e-cha-bay
This verse describes a response after a voice is heard in a garden. The speaker expresses fear due to being unclothed and hides. Let's break down the names of God used, although none are directly used here, understanding the principles applied for translation will be helpful. 'Et' is a grammatical marker with no direct translation. 'Kol-kha' means 'your voice'. 'Ba-gan' means 'in the garden'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Erom' means 'unclothed'. 'Ano-khi' means 'I'. 'Va-e-cha-bay' means 'and I hid'.
[GEN.3.11] And He said, "Who told you that you are naked? From the tree that I commanded you not to eat from it, did you eat?" [§]
Va-yo-mer mee hee-gid le-cha, kee eh-rom ah-tah. Ha-min ha-etz ah-sher tzee-veet-ee-cha le-bil-tee ah-chal mee-men-noo ah-chal-tah.
This verse is from Genesis 3:11. It represents God questioning Adam after Adam and Eve ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and He said'. 'Mee hee-gid le-cha' means 'who told you?'. 'Kee eh-rom ah-tah' means 'that you are naked?'. 'Ha-min ha-etz' means 'from the tree'. 'Ah-sher tzee-veet-ee-cha' means 'that I commanded you'. 'Le-bil-tee ah-chal mee-men-noo' means 'not to eat from it'. 'Ah-chal-tah' means 'you ate'.
[GEN.3.12] And the man said, "The woman, whom you gave to be with me, she gave to me from the tree, and I ate." [§]
Va-yo-mer ha-ah-dam ha-ee-shah a-sher na-tah-tah im-ma-dee hee nah-ten-nah-lee min-ha-etz va-o-chel.
This verse is from Genesis 3:12. It records the man, Adam, blaming the woman, Eve, for offering him fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, which he then ate. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Ha-ah-dam' is 'the man'. 'Ha-ee-shah' is 'the woman'. 'A-sher' means 'which' or 'that'. 'Na-tah-tah' means 'you gave'. 'Im-ma-dee' means 'with me'. 'Hee' is 'she'. 'Nah-ten-nah-lee' means 'she gave to me'. 'Min-ha-etz' means 'from the tree'. 'Va-o-chel' means 'and I ate'.
[GEN.3.13] And Yahveh the Gods said to the woman, “What is this that you have done?” And the woman said, “The serpent made me err, and I ate.” [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh Elohim la-ish-shah mah-zot ah-sheet va-to-mer ha-ish-shah ha-nachash hish-ee-ah-nee va-o-chel.
This verse comes from Genesis 3:13. It details God’s questioning of the woman after she ate from the forbidden tree. ‘Va-yo-mer’ means ‘and said’. ‘Yahveh Elohim’ refers to ‘Yahveh the Gods’. ‘La-ish-shah’ means ‘to the woman’. ‘Mah-zot’ means ‘what is this?’ ‘Ah-sheet’ means ‘you have done’. ‘Va-to-mer’ means ‘and she said’. ‘Ha-ish-shah’ means ‘the woman’. ‘Ha-nachash’ means ‘the serpent’. ‘Hish-ee-ah-nee’ means ‘made me err’ or ‘deceived me’. ‘Va-o-chel’ means ‘and I ate’.
[GEN.3.14] And the Gods Yahveh said to the serpent, "Because you did this, cursed are you from all livestock and from all beasts of the field. Upon your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life." [§]
VaYomer Yahveh Elohim el-haNachash ki asita zot; arur ata mikol-haBehemah uMikol chayat haSadeh al-gchoncha telech veafar tochel kol-yemei chayecha.
This verse recounts God's pronouncement of a curse upon the serpent after it convinced Eve to eat from the Tree of Knowledge. 'VaYomer' means 'and said'. 'Yahveh Elohim' refers to 'the Gods Yahveh'. 'el-haNachash' means 'to the serpent'. 'ki asita zot' means 'because you did this'. 'Arur ata' means 'cursed are you'. 'mikol-haBehemah uMikol chayat haSadeh' means 'from all livestock and from all beasts of the field'. 'al-gchoncha telech' means 'upon your belly you shall go'. 'veafar tochel kol-yemei chayecha' means 'and dust you shall eat all the days of your life'.
[GEN.3.15] And enmity I will put between you and between the woman, and between your offspring and between her offspring. He will bruise your head, and you will bruise his heel. [§]
vei-vah ee-vah ah-sheet bay-nkhah oo-bayn hah-ee-shah oo-bayn zar-ah-khah oo-bayn zar-ah-ah hoo hoo-yishuf-khah rosh ve-atah tishuf-ennu akayv.
This verse describes the consequences of the serpent's deception in the Garden of Eden. It outlines a state of hostility that God will establish between the serpent, the woman, their offspring, and the offspring of the woman. The verse describes a specific form of conflict where the serpent will strike at the heel of the woman’s offspring, and the offspring will strike the serpent’s head.
[GEN.3.16] God said to the woman, "Very much I will increase your sorrow and your pain; in pain you will bear sons, and to your husband will be your desire, and he will rule over you." [§]
El-ha-isha amar harbeh arbeh itzbonech vehironch be-etzev teledi banim ve-el-ishech teshuqatech ve-hu yimshol-bach.
This verse describes God’s pronouncement of the consequences of the woman’s disobedience. 'El' refers to God. 'Ha-isha' means 'the woman'. 'Amar' means 'said'. 'Harbeh' means 'much' or 'very'. 'Arbeh' means 'I will greatly increase'. 'Itzbonech' means 'your sorrow'. 'Vehironch' means 'and your pain'. 'Be-etzev' means 'with sorrow' or 'in pain'. 'Teledi' means 'you will bear'. 'Banim' means 'sons'. 'Ve-el-ishech' means 'and to your husband'. 'Teshuqatech' means 'your desire'. 'Ve-hu' means 'and he'. 'Yimshol-bach' means 'will rule over you'.
[GEN.3.17] And to mankind God said, because you listened to the voice of your wife and you ate from the tree that God commanded you, saying, ‘do not eat from it,’ cursed is the ground because of you. With toil you will eat from it all the days of your life. [§]
u-le-Adam amar ki-shama'ta le-kol ishtecha vatochal min ha-etz asher tziviti-cha le-emor lo tochal mi-menu arura ha-adamah ba-avurecha be-itzavon tochalena kol yemei chayecha.
This verse recounts God's pronouncement of a curse upon the ground and Adam after Adam ate from the tree that God had commanded him not to eat from, due to his wife’s influence. 'Adam' refers to mankind. 'etz' means tree. 'avurecha' means because of you. 'itzavon' means with sorrow/toil. 'chayecha' means your life.
[GEN.3.18] And thorns and thistles will sprout for you, and you will eat the grass of the field. [§]
ve-qots ve-dardar tats-mee-akh lakh ve-akhal-ta et-esev ha-sa-deh.
This verse describes a consequence of disobedience. ‘Qots’ refers to thorns, and ‘dardar’ to thistles. ‘Tats-mee-akh’ means ‘you will grow’ or ‘will sprout’. ‘Lakh’ means ‘for you’. ‘Ve-akhal-ta’ means ‘and you will eat’. ‘Esev ha-sadeh’ means ‘grass of the field’.
[GEN.3.19] With the sweat of your face, you will eat bread until your return to the ground, because from it you were taken, because dust you are, and to dust you will return. [§]
bəˈzeʿat ʾapeḵā toḵal leḵem ʿad šuvəḵā ʾel-hāʾădāmā, ki mimenā luḵaḵtā, ki-ʿāfār ʾattā vĕʾel-ʿāfār tāšuv.
This verse describes the consequence of the Fall of Man. It details that humans will obtain food through laborious effort, and ultimately return to the earth from which they were taken. The verse uses the word 'zeʿat' which signifies sweat, implying toil and effort. 'ʾădāmā' refers to the ground or earth, and 'ʿāfār' means dust or earth.
[GEN.3.20] And the Adam called the name of his woman Khavvah, for she was the mother of all living. [§]
Va-yik-ra ha-ah-dam shem ish-to Khav-vah, ki hee ha-yet-ah em kol khai.
This verse describes Adam naming his wife. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Ha-ah-dam' is 'the Adam'. 'Shem' means 'name'. 'Ish-to' means 'his woman' or 'his wife'. 'Khav-vah' is the name given, which we translate literally. 'Ki' means 'because' or 'for'. 'Hee' means 'she'. 'Ha-yet-ah' means 'was'. 'Em' means 'mother'. 'Kol' means 'all'. 'Khai' means 'living' or 'life'.
[GEN.3.21] And Yahveh the Gods made tunics of skin for Adam and for his wife, and He clothed them. [§]
Va-ya-as Yahveh Elohim le-Adam u-le-ishto katnot or va-yalbisem.
This verse describes Yahveh the Gods making garments of skins for Adam and his wife and clothing them. 'Va-ya-as' means 'and He made'. 'Yahveh Elohim' is 'Yahveh the Gods'. 'Le-Adam u-le-ishto' means 'for Adam and for his wife'. 'Katnot or' means 'tunics of skin'. 'Va-yalbisem' means 'and He clothed them'.
[GEN.3.22] And Yahveh the Gods said, "Indeed, the human was like one of us, knowing good and evil. And now, lest he send forth his hand and take also from the tree of life and eat and live forever..." [§]
Va-yo-mer | Yahveh Elohim hen ha-adam haya ke-echad mi-menu lada-at tov va-ra. Ve-atah | pen-yishlach yado ve-lakach gam me-etz ha-chayim ve-achal va-chai le-olam.
This verse comes from Genesis 3:22. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Yahveh Elohim' is 'Yahveh the Gods'. 'Hen' means 'behold' or 'indeed'. 'Ha-adam' is 'the human'. 'Haya' means 'was'. 'Ke-echad' means 'like one'. 'Mi-menu' means 'from us'. 'Lada-at' means 'to know'. 'Tov va-ra' is 'good and evil'. 'Ve-atah' means 'and now'. 'Pen-yishlach' means 'lest he send'. 'Yado' means 'his hand'. 'Ve-lakach' means 'and take'. 'Gam' means 'also'. 'Me-etz' means 'from the tree'. 'Ha-chayim' means 'of life'. 'Ve-achal' means 'and eat'. 'Va-chai' means 'and live'. 'Le-olam' means 'forever'.
[GEN.3.23] And Yahveh, the Gods sent him from the garden of Eden to work the land that was taken from there. [§]
Va-yish-la-che-hu Yahveh Elohim mi-gan-e-den la-a-vod et-ha-a-da-mah a-sher lu-kach mish-sham.
This verse describes God sending humanity from the Garden of Eden to work the land. 'Va-yish-la-che-hu' means 'and He sent him'. 'Yahveh Elohim' refers to 'Yahveh, the Gods'. 'Mi-gan-e-den' means 'from the garden of Eden'. 'La-a-vod' means 'to work'. 'Et-ha-a-da-mah' means 'the land'. 'A-sher lu-kach mish-sham' means 'that was taken from there'.
[GEN.3.24] And God banished the man, and stationed cherubim eastward to the garden of Eden, and the flame of the sword turning every way, to guard the way to the tree of life. [§]
Va-yig-resh et-ha-a-dam, va-ya-sh-ken mi-ke-dem le-gan-e-den et-ha-ker-u-vim ve-et la-hat ha-herev ha-mit-ha-pekhet li-shmor et-derech eetz ha-chaiyim.
This verse describes God banishing the man and then stationing cherubim and a flaming sword that turns every way to guard the way to the tree of life. 'Va-yig-resh' means 'and he banished'. 'Et-ha-a-dam' means 'the man'. 'Va-ya-sh-ken' means 'and he stationed'. 'Mi-ke-dem' means 'from before' or 'eastward'. 'Le-gan-e-den' means 'to the garden of Eden'. 'Et-ha-ker-u-vim' means 'the cherubim'. 'Ve-et la-hat ha-herev ha-mit-ha-pekhet' means 'and the flame of the sword turning'. 'Li-shmor' means 'to guard'. 'Et-derech eetz ha-chaiyim' means 'the way of the tree of life'.
GEN.4
[GEN.4.1] And the man knew Eve, his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain. And she said, “I have acquired a man from Yahveh.” [§]
vehaadam yada et-chavvah ishto vatahar vateled et-qayin vatomer qaniti ish et-Yahveh.
This verse describes Adam knowing Eve, his wife, and her becoming pregnant and giving birth to Cain. She then declares that she has acquired a man from Yahveh.
[GEN.4.2] And she added to bear her brother, Abel, and Abel was a shepherd of sheep, and Cain was a worker of the ground. [§]
va-tosef la-ledet et-achi-hu et-hevel va-yehi-hevel ro-eh tzon ve-kayin haya ov-ed adamah
This verse describes the birth of Abel after Cain, and their respective occupations. "tosef" means 'she added', 'ledet' means 'to bear/give birth', "achi-hu" means 'his brother', "hevel" is a proper noun meaning Abel, "yehi" means 'and he was', "ro-eh" means 'shepherd', "tzon" means 'sheep', "kayin" is a proper noun meaning Cain, "haya" means 'was', and "oved" means 'worker/cultivator', and "adamah" means 'the ground/land'.
[GEN.4.3] And it came to pass after a period of time, and Cain brought from the produce of the ground an offering to Yahveh. [§]
va-yhi mi-ketz yamim va-yaveh qayin mi-peri ha-adamah minchah la-Yahveh.
This verse describes an event happening after a period of time. Cain brings an offering from the produce of the ground to Yahveh. 'Va-yhi' indicates 'and it came to pass'. 'Mi-ketz yamim' means 'at the end of days' or 'after a period of time'. 'Va-yaveh' means 'and he brought'. 'Qayin' is the name Cain. 'Mi-peri ha-adamah' means 'from the produce of the ground'. 'Minchah' is an offering. 'La-Yahveh' means 'to Yahveh'.
[GEN.4.4] And Abel also brought from the firstborn of his flock, and from their fat. And Yahveh regarded Abel and his offering. [§]
veh-he-vel he-vee gam-hoo mee-veh-chor-ote tzo-no-voo oo-mee-heh-leh-veh-hen vay-ee-shah Yahveh el-Hevel ve-el-min-cha-to.
This verse describes the offering of Abel. 'Hevel' means 'breath' or 'vapor,' and is a proper name here, Abel. 'Gam-hoo' means 'also he'. 'Miv'chorot tzonoo' means 'from the firstborn of his flock'. 'Umeihelbehen' means 'and from their fat'. 'Vayisha' means 'and He regarded'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'El-Hevel' means 'to/towards Abel'. 'Veel minhato' means 'and to/towards his offering'.
[GEN.4.5] And to God and to his offering, God did not regard. And it angered Cain greatly, and his face fell. [§]
Ve-el-kayin ve-el-min-chato lo sha-ah va-yi-char le-kayin me-od va-yip-lu panav.
This verse describes God's reaction to Cain's offering. 'Ve-el' means 'and to God.' 'Kayin' is Cain's name. 'Ve-el-min-chato' means 'and to his offering.' 'Lo sha-ah' means 'did not regard' or 'did not pay attention.' 'Va-yi-char le-kayin me-od' means 'and it angered Cain greatly.' 'Va-yip-lu panav' means 'and his face fell,' which is an idiom for becoming angry or dejected.
[GEN.4.6] And Yahveh said to Cain, "Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen?" [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh el-Kayin la-mah charah lach ve-la-mah naf-lu pa-ney-cha.
This verse is from Genesis 4:6. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'el' means 'to'. 'Kayin' is the name Cain. 'la-mah' means 'why'. 'charah' means 'to be angry'. 'lach' means 'to you'. 've' means 'and'. 'naf-lu' means 'fell'. 'pa-ney-cha' means 'your face'. The verse asks Cain why he is angry and why his face has fallen.
[GEN.4.7] Surely, if you make desire good, sin lies in wait, its desire is toward you, and you will rule over it. [§]
Ha-lo im-teiteev se-et ve-im lo teiteev la-petach chat-ta-ot robeitz ve-eleicha te-shu-ka-to ve-atta tim-shal-bo.
This verse discusses the potential for sin to control a person. "Teiteev" means "to be good" or "to succeed". "Se-et" refers to a desire or inclination. "Chat-ta-ot" means "sin". "Robeitz" means "lying in wait" or "predatory". "Te-shu-ka-to" means "its desire". "Tim-shal-bo" means "you will rule over it". The verse presents a conditional statement: If you yield to desire (make it good), sin lies in wait, desiring you; but you will rule over it.
[GEN.4.8] And Cain said to Abel, his brother. And it happened while they were in the field that Cain rose up against Abel, his brother, and he killed him. [§]
Va-yo-mer Kai-in el-Hevel ach-iv va-yehi bi-heyo-tam ba-sa-deh va-ya-kam Kai-in el-Hevel ach-iv va-ya-har-ge-hu.
This verse describes Cain speaking to Abel, his brother, and then Cain rising up against Abel and killing him. The verse establishes a setting of them being in a field. The names are key: 'Kai-in' is Cain, 'Hevel' is Abel. The verb forms show sequence and action.
[GEN.4.9] And Yahveh said to Cain, "Where is Hevel, your brother?" And Cain said, "I do not know. Am I the keeper of my brother?" [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh el-Qayin, ei Hevel achicha? Va-yo-mer lo yada-ti, ha-shomer achi anochi.
This verse recounts a conversation between Yahveh and Cain. Yahveh asks Cain about the whereabouts of his brother, Hevel (Abel). Cain responds that he does not know, and questions whether he is his brother’s keeper.
[GEN.4.10] And He said, "What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood is shouting to me from the land." [§]
Va-yo-mer mah a-sit kah-ol d-may ah-heekha tzo-ay-kim eh-lai mee-han-ha-ah-dah-mah.
This verse is from Genesis 4:10. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Mah' means 'what'. 'A-sit' means 'you did'. 'Kah-ol' means 'the voice of'. 'D-may' means 'blood'. 'Ah-heekha' means 'your brother'. 'Tzo-ay-kim' means 'crying out/shouting'. 'Eh-lai' means 'to me'. 'Mee-han-ha-ah-dah-mah' means 'from the land'.
[GEN.4.11] And now, you are cursed from the earth, which has opened its mouth to take the blood of your brother from your hand. [§]
ve'atah arur ata min-ha'adamah asher patzah et-piha lakachat et-dmei achecha miyadecha.
This verse is from Genesis 4:11. 've'atah' means 'and now'. 'arur' means 'cursed'. 'ata' means 'you'. 'min-ha'adamah' means 'from the ground' or 'from the earth'. 'asher' means 'which'. 'patzah' means 'has opened'. 'et-piha' means 'its mouth'. 'lakachat' means 'to take'. 'et-dmei achecha' means 'the blood of your brother'. 'miyadecha' means 'from your hand'. The verse describes God’s pronouncement of a curse on Cain after he murdered Abel.
[GEN.4.12] Because you will serve the land, it will not add its strength to you. You will be restless and wandering in the land. [§]
ki ta'avod et ha'adamah lo-tosef teh-kochah lahk na'u va-nad tihyeh ba'aretz
This verse describes a consequence of serving the ground or land. 'Ki' introduces a conditional clause, meaning 'because' or 'for'. 'Ta'avod' is a verb meaning 'you will serve'. 'Et' is a particle indicating the direct object. 'Ha'adamah' is 'the land'. 'Lo tosef' means 'will not add'. 'Teh kochah' means 'its strength'. 'Lahk' means 'to you'. 'Na'u va-nad' means 'restless and wandering'. 'Tihyeh' means 'you will be'. 'Ba'aretz' means 'in the land'.
[GEN.4.13] And Cain said to Yahveh, "My sin is great to bear." [§]
Va-yo-mer Kain el-Yahveh ga-dol a-vo-nee mee-ne-soh.
This verse is from Genesis 4:13. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Kain' is the name Cain. 'El' means 'to'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Ga-dol' means 'great'. 'A-vo-nee' means 'my sin'. 'Mee-ne-soh' means 'to bear'. The verse describes Cain speaking to Yahveh about the weight of his sin.
[GEN.4.14] See, you have banished me this day from before the face of the earth, and from your face I will hide. And I will be restless and a wanderer on the earth, and it will be that anyone who finds me will kill me. [§]
hen gerashta oti hayom meal paney ha'adamah u mipaneycha esater vehayiti na'u vanad ba'aretz vehayah kol motzi'i yahar'gheni
This verse expresses a lament from Cain after God banishes him for killing Abel. He fears for his life, believing anyone who finds him will kill him. Let's break down the names of God: There are no direct names of God in this verse, only references to 'face' which, when referring to God, is an acknowledgement of His presence. The verse is a statement of fear and exile.
[GEN.4.15] And Yahveh said to him, therefore whoever kills Cain, sevenfold shall vengeance be taken. And Yahveh set a mark on Cain so that whoever finds him will not strike him. [§]
vayomer lo Yahveh laken kol-horeg Kayin shivatayim yukam vayyasem Yahveh lekayin ot lebil'ti hakhot-oto kol-motze'o.
This verse describes God's response to Cain after Cain murders Abel. God pronounces a punishment for anyone who kills Cain – vengeance will be taken sevenfold. God then places a mark on Cain to protect him from anyone who finds him.
[GEN.4.16] And Cain went out from before Yahveh, and he settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden. [§]
vayyetse qayin milifnei yahveh vayyeshev beeretz nod qidmat eden
This verse describes Cain leaving the presence of Yahveh and settling in the land of Nod, east of Eden. 'Vayyetse' means 'and he went out'. 'Qayin' is Cain. 'Milifnei' means 'from before'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Vayyeshev' means 'and he settled'. 'Beeretz' means 'in the land'. 'Nod' is Nod. 'Qidmat' means 'east of' or 'before'. 'Eden' is Eden.
[GEN.4.17] And Cain knew his wife, and she conceived and bore Chanokh. And he was building a city, and he called the name of the city like the name of his son, Chanokh. [§]
Va-ye-da Kai-in et-ish-to va-ta-har va-te-led et-Chanokh va-ye-hi bone ir va-yi-kra shem ha-ir ke-shem be-no Chanokh.
This verse describes the events following Cain's banishment. 'Va-ye-da' means 'and he knew,' in this context meaning 'and he had relations with.' 'Et-ish-to' means 'his wife.' 'Va-ta-har' means 'and she conceived.' 'Va-te-led' means 'and she bore.' 'Et-Chanokh' means 'Chanokh.' 'Va-ye-hi bone ir' means 'and he was building a city.' 'Va-yi-kra shem ha-ir' means 'and he called the name of the city.' 'Ke-shem be-no Chanokh' means 'like the name of his son Chanokh.'
[GEN.4.18] And he begot to Enoch, Eirad, and Eirad begot Mechuyael, and Mechuyael begot Methushael, and Methushael begot Lamech. [§]
Va-yee-vo-led la-chanokh et-ee-rad ve-ee-rad ya-lad et-me-chu-ya-el u-me-chu-ya-el ya-lad et-me-too-sha-el u-me-too-sha-el ya-lad et-la-mech.
This verse details a genealogy, listing descendants from Enoch. 'Va-yee-vo-led' means 'and he begot'. 'La-chanokh' means 'to Enoch'. 'Et' is an untranslatable marker. 'Ya-lad' means 'he begot'. The names are generational: Enoch, Eirad, Mechuyael, Methushael, and Lamech.
[GEN.4.19] And he took for himself Lamech two women; the name of the one was Ada, and the name of the second was Zillah. [§]
Va-yik-akh-loo Le-mech shte-tee na-shim shem ha-ah-hat A-dah ve-shem ha-she-neet Tzi-lah.
This verse describes Lamech taking two wives. 'Va-yik-akh-loo' means 'and he took for himself'. 'Le-mech' is the name Lamech. 'Shte-tee na-shim' means 'two women'. 'Shem ha-ah-hat' means 'the name of the one'. 'A-dah' is the name Ada. 'Ve-shem ha-she-neet' means 'and the name of the second'. 'Tzi-lah' is the name Zillah.
[GEN.4.20] And Adah bore Jabal, and he was the father of those who dwell in tents and possess livestock. [§]
va-teh-led ah-dah et-yah-val hu ha-yah ah-vee yo-shev oh-hel oo-mik-neh
This verse describes the birth of Jabal. 'vateled' means 'and she bore'. 'adah' is the name 'Adah'. 'et' is a grammatical marker. 'yahval' is the name 'Jabal'. 'hu' means 'he'. 'hayah' means 'was'. 'av' means 'father'. 'yoshev' means 'one who dwells'. 'ohel' means 'tent'. 'oo' means 'and'. 'mikneh' means 'livestock'. Therefore, the verse states that Adah bore Jabal, and he was the father of those who dwell in tents and have livestock.
[GEN.4.21] And the name of his brother was Yuval. He was the father of all who grasp the kinor and the ugav. [§]
ve-shem achiv Yuval hu haya avi kol-tofes kinor ve-ugav.
This verse introduces Yuval, a brother of someone previously mentioned (likely Jubal's brother, Jabal). It states that he was the father of all who grasp the kinor and ugav. 'Kinor' and 'ugav' are musical instruments – the kinor is generally understood as a lyre-like instrument, and the ugav as a pipe or flute. The verse is establishing Yuval as the progenitor of musicians.
[GEN.4.22] And Zilpah also bore Tubal-cain, who worked all kinds of work in copper and iron. And the sister of Tubal-cain was Naamah. [§]
ve-tsi-lah gam-hee yal-dah et-too-val kai-yin lo-tesh kol-cho-resh ne-cho-shet oo-var-zel va-acho-t too-val-kai-yin na-a-mah.
This verse describes the offspring of Zilpah, a maidservant of Leah. It states she bore Tubal-cain, who was a forger of all kinds of work in copper and iron, and names his sister, Naamah.
[GEN.4.23] And Lamech said to his wives, Adah and Zillah, "Listen to my voice, wives of Lamech, heed my words. For a man I have killed for a wound, and a boy for a bruise. If vengeance is taken seven times upon one who wounds me, then seventy-sevenfold vengeance will be taken upon one who kills me." [§]
Va-yo-mer Le-mech le-nashav, Adah ve-tzilah, shma’an qoli, nshei Le-mech, ha-zeinah imrati, ki ish haragti le-fitzei, ve-yeled le-chaburati.
This verse is from Genesis 4:23-24. Lamech is speaking to his wives, Adah and Zillah. He is boasting about revenge. He states that if anyone wounds him, the vengeance will be sevenfold, and if anyone kills him, the vengeance will be seventy-sevenfold. The verse reflects a growing cycle of violence following Cain's murder of Abel.
[GEN.4.24] For seven times will vengeance rise upon Cain, and upon Lamech seventy-seven times. [§]
ki shiv’atayim yookam-qayin ve-lemek shiv’im ve-shiv’ah.
This verse discusses a principle of vengeance. "Shiv’atayim" literally means "seven times". "Yookam" means "will rise" or "will be avenged". "Qayin" is the name Cain. "Ve-lemek" means "and Lamech". "Shiv’im ve-shiv’ah" means "seventy and seven", or seventy-seven.
[GEN.4.25] And Adam knew his wife again, and she bore a son, and she called his name Seth. For God has appointed me another seed in place of Abel, because Cain killed him. [§]
Va-yeda Adam od et ishto va-teled ben va-tikra et shmo Sheth ki shat-li Elohim zera acher tachat Hevel ki harago Kayin.
This verse describes Adam knowing his wife again after their expulsion from the Garden of Eden, and her bearing a son named Seth. The name Seth is explained as being given because 'God has appointed me another seed' in place of Abel, whom Cain had killed.
[GEN.4.26] And to Seth also, a son was born, and he called his name Enosh. Then it began to be called upon the name of Yahveh. [§]
u-le-set gam-hu yulad-ben va-yikra et-shmo Enosh. Az huchal likro b'shem Yahveh.
This verse describes the birth of Enosh, a son of Seth. It also marks a significant point where people began to invoke the name of Yahveh.
GEN.5
[GEN.5.1] This is the book of the origin of Adam. On the day the Gods created Adam, they made him in the image of the Gods. [§]
zeh sefer toldot adam beyom bro’a Elohim adam bidmut Elohim asa oto
This verse introduces the book of the origin of Adam. It states that on the day the Gods created Adam, they made him in the image of the Gods.
[GEN.5.2] God created them male and female, and blessed them, and called their name Adam on the day he created them. [§]
zakhar u-nekevah beram, va-yvarech otam va-yikra et shmam adam be-yom hibram.
This verse describes God creating male and female, blessing them, and naming them 'Adam' on the day of their creation. 'Zakhar' means male and 'nekevah' means female. 'Beram' means 'he created them'. 'Va-yvarech otam' means 'and he blessed them'. 'Va-yikra et shmam adam' means 'and he called their name Adam'. 'Be-yom hibram' means 'on the day he created them'.
[GEN.5.3] And Adam lived one hundred and thirty years, and he bore a son in his likeness, as the image of him, and he called his name Seth. [§]
va-ye-chi Adam shloshim u-me-at shanah va-yoled bi-demut-o ke-tzal-mo va-yikra et-shemo Set.
This verse describes Adam living for 130 years and then having a son in his own likeness, and naming him Seth. ‘Va-yechi’ means ‘and lived’. ‘Adam’ is the name Adam. ‘Shloshim u-me-at’ is literally ‘thirty and hundred’, which equals 130. ‘Shanah’ means ‘year’. ‘Va-yoled’ means ‘and he bore/begat’. ‘Bi-demut-o’ means ‘in his likeness’. ‘Ke-tzal-mo’ means ‘as the image of him’. ‘Va-yikra’ means ‘and he called’. ‘Et-shemo’ means ‘his name’. ‘Set’ is the name Seth.
[GEN.5.4] And the days of Adam were, after he fathered Seth, eight hundred years, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
vayhiu yemei adam acharei holido et shet shmoneh meot shanah vayoled banim ubanot
This verse describes the lifespan of Adam after he fathered Seth. "Vayhiu" means "and were". "Yemei" means "days". "Adam" is the proper name Adam. "Acharei" means "after". "Holido" means "he fathered". "Et" is a grammatical marker with no direct translation. "Shet" is the proper name Seth. "Shmoneh meot" means "eight hundred". "Shanah" means "year". "Vayoled" means "and he fathered". "Banim" means "sons". "Ubanot" means "and daughters".
[GEN.5.5] And all the days of humankind who lived were nine hundred years and thirty years, and he died. [§]
va-yih-yu kol-ye-mei a-dam a-sher-chai te-sha' mei-ot sha-nah u-shlo-shim sha-nah va-ya-mot.
This verse describes the total length of life for the people of the time. "Va-yih-yu" means "and they were". "Kol-ye-mei" means "all the days". "A-dam" means "Adam", or humankind. "A-sher-chai" means "who lived". "Te-sha' mei-ot" means "nine hundred". "Sha-nah" means "years". "U-shlo-shim" means "and thirty". "Va-ya-mot" means "and he died".
[GEN.5.6] And Seth lived five years and one hundred years, and he begat Enosh. [§]
va-ye-chee-sheth cha-mesh sha-neem u-me-at sha-nah va-yo-led et-e-nosh
This verse details the age and offspring of Seth. "Vayechi" means "and he lived". "Chamess" means "five". "Shanim" means "years". "U'meat" means "and one hundred". "Va-yoled" means "and he begat". "Et-Enosh" means "Enosh".
[GEN.5.7] And Seth lived after he fathered Enosh for seven years and eight hundred years, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
Va-yhi-sheth akharei holeedo et-enosh sheva shanim ushmona me'ot shanah va-yoled banim u-banot.
This verse describes the life of Seth after he fathered Enosh. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it happened' or 'and he lived'. 'Akharei' means 'after'. 'Holeedo' refers to 'his begetting' or 'fathering'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker. 'Enosh' is a proper name. 'Sheva' is 'seven'. 'Shanim' is 'years'. 'Ushmona' is 'and eight'. 'Me'ot' is 'hundreds'. 'Shanah' is 'year'. 'Va-yoled' means 'and he fathered'. 'Banim' is 'sons'. 'U-banot' is 'and daughters'.
[GEN.5.8] And all the days of Seth were twenty years and nine hundred years, and he died. [§]
Va-yih-yu kol-ye-mei-sheth sh-teim es-reh sha-nah u-tsha-ah mei-ot sha-nah va-ya-mot.
This verse details the total lifespan of Seth. 'Va-yih-yu' means 'and were'. 'Kol-ye-mei' means 'all the days of'. 'Sheth' is the name Seth. 'Sh-teim es-reh' means 'two times ten', or 'twenty'. 'Sha-nah' means 'year'. 'U-tsha-ah' means 'and nine hundred'. 'Mei-ot' means 'hundreds of'. 'Va-ya-mot' means 'and he died'.
[GEN.5.9] And Enosh lived ninety years, and he begat Keynan. [§]
va-y’chi ‘enosh tish’im shanah va-yoled et-keynan
This verse describes the lifespan and offspring of Enosh. ‘Va-y’chi’ means ‘and lived’. ‘Enosh’ is a proper noun, a name. ‘Tish’im’ means ninety. ‘Shanah’ means year. ‘Va-yoled’ means ‘and he begat’. ‘Et’ is a grammatical marker with no direct translation. ‘Keynan’ is a proper noun, a name.
[GEN.5.10] And Enosh lived after he fathered Kenan fifteen years and eight hundred years, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
va-ye-chi e-no-sh ah-cha-rei ho-lid-o et-kei-nan ha-mesh es-reh sha-nah u-shmo-neh me-ot sha-nah va-yo-led ba-nim u-ba-not.
This verse describes the lifespan of Enosh after he fathered Kenan. It states he lived fifteen years and then eight hundred years, and then had sons and daughters. 'Vayechi' means 'and he lived'. 'Enoch' is 'Enosh'. 'Acharai' means 'after'. 'Holido' means 'he fathered'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Keinan' is 'Kenan'. 'Hamesh' is 'fifteen'. 'Esreh' means 'years'. 'U' means 'and'. 'Shmoneh' is 'eight'. 'Meot' means 'hundreds'. 'Shanah' means 'years'. 'Va-yoled' means 'and he fathered'. 'Banim' is 'sons'. 'Banot' is 'daughters'.
[GEN.5.11] And all the days of Enosh were five years and nine hundred years, and he died. [§]
va-yih-yu kol-ye-mei e-nosh cha-mesh sha-nim u-tesha mei-ot sha-nah va-ya-mot.
This verse describes the lifespan of Enosh. 'Va-yih-yu' means 'and were'. 'Kol-ye-mei' means 'all the days of'. 'E-nosh' is a proper noun, 'Enosh'. 'Cha-mesh' means 'five'. 'Sha-nim' means 'years'. 'U-tesha' means 'and nine'. 'Mei-ot' means 'hundreds'. 'Sha-nah' means 'year'. 'Va-ya-mot' means 'and he died'.
[GEN.5.12] And Kenan lived seventy years, and he fathered Mahalalel. [§]
Va-y'chi Keinan shiv'im shanah va-yoled et-Mahalalel.
This verse describes the lifespan and offspring of Kenan. 'Va-y'chi' means 'and he lived'. 'Keinan' is the name Kenan. 'Shiv'im' means 'seventy'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Va-yoled' means 'and he fathered' or 'and he begot'. 'Et' is an untranslatable grammatical particle. 'Mahalalel' is the name Mahalalel.
[GEN.5.13] And Kenan lived after birthing Mahalalel forty years and eight hundred years, and he birthed sons and daughters. [§]
Va-y'chi Keynan akharei holeedo et-Mahalalel arba'im shanah u-shmoneh me'ot shanah va-yoled banim u-banot.
This verse describes the lifespan and offspring of Kenan. 'Va-y'chi' means 'and he lived'. 'Keynan' is a proper noun, the name Kenan. 'Akharei' means 'after'. 'Holeedo' means 'his birthing' or 'birthing him'. 'Et-Mahalalel' indicates 'Mahalalel' as the direct object. 'Arba'im shanah' means 'forty years'. 'U-shmoneh me'ot shanah' means 'and eight hundred years'. 'Va-yoled' means 'and he birthed'. 'Banim u-banot' means 'sons and daughters'.
[GEN.5.14] And all the days of Kenan were ten years and nine hundred years, and he died. [§]
va-yih-yu kol-ye-mei kei-nan e-ser sha-nim u-tesha mei-ot sha-nah va-ya-mot.
This verse states the total length of Kenan's life. 'Va-yih-yu' means 'and were'. 'Kol-ye-mei' means 'all the days of'. 'Kei-nan' is the name Kenan. 'E-ser sha-nim' means 'ten years'. 'U-tesha mei-ot sha-nah' means 'and nine hundred years'. 'Va-ya-mot' means 'and he died'.
[GEN.5.15] And Mahalalel lived five years and sixty years, and he fathered Yared. [§]
va-ye-chee ma-ha-lal-el cha-mesh sha-nim ve-shi-shim sha-na ve-yo-led et-ya-red.
This verse describes the lifespan and offspring of Mahalalel. "vayechee" means "and he lived". "mahalalel" is a proper noun, a person's name. "chamesh" means five. "shanim" means years. "ve-shishim" means and sixty. "sha-na" means year. "ve-yoled" means and he fathered or begot. "et" is an untranslatable grammatical marker. "yared" is a proper noun, a person's name.
[GEN.5.16] And Mahalalel lived after he begot Yered, thirty years and eight hundred years, and he begot sons and daughters. [§]
vay-khee ma-ha-lal-el akh-ha-rei ho-lee-do et-ye-red shlo-shim sha-nah u-shmo-neh may-ot sha-nah vay-yo-led ba-nim u-ba-not.
This verse describes the lifespan and offspring of Mahalalel. 'Vaykhee' means 'and lived'. 'Mahalalel' is a proper name. 'Akharei holido et-Yered' means 'after he begot Yered'. 'Shloshim shanah' means 'thirty years'. 'U-shmoneh me'ot shanah' means 'and eight hundred years'. 'Vayyoled banim u-banot' means 'and he begot sons and daughters'.
[GEN.5.17] And all the days of Mahalalel were five and ninety years and eight hundred years, and he died. [§]
Va-yee-hyoo kol-yemay Mahalalel chamish ve-tishah shanim ve-shmoneh meot shanah va-yamot.
This verse states the total years lived by Mahalalel. 'Va-yee-hyoo' means 'and were'. 'Kol-yemay' means 'all the days of'. 'Chamish ve-tishah' means 'five and ninety'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Ve-shmoneh meot shanah' means 'and eight hundred years'. 'Va-yamot' means 'and he died'.
[GEN.5.18] And Jared lived sixty-two years and one hundred years, and he fathered Enoch. [§]
vaychi-yered shtayim vesishim shanah umeat shanah vayyoled et-chanoch.
This verse describes the age of Jared when he fathered Enoch. "Vaychi" means "and he lived". "Yered" is Jared's name. "Shtayim vesishim" means "two and sixty", or 62. "Shanah" means "year". "Umeat" means "and one hundred". "Vayyoled" means "and he fathered". "Et" is a particle indicating the direct object. "Chanoch" is Enoch's name.
[GEN.5.19] And Jared lived after he fathered Enoch for eight hundred years, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
vayhi-yered akharei holido et-khanokh shmoneh me'ot shanah vayoled banim ubannot
This verse describes the life of Jared after he fathered Enoch. 'Vayhi' means 'and it happened' or 'and he lived'. 'Yered' is Jared’s name. 'Akharei' means 'after'. 'Holido' means 'he fathered'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Khanokh' is Enoch’s name. 'Shmoneh me'ot' means 'eight hundred'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Vayoled' means 'and he fathered'. 'Banim' means 'sons'. 'Ubannot' means 'and daughters'.
[GEN.5.20] And all the days of Jared were two and sixty years and nine hundred years, and he died. [§]
va-yih-yu kol-ye-mei-ye-red sh-tai-yim ve-shi-shim sha-nah ve-te-sha mei-ot sha-nah va-ya-mot.
This verse describes the length of Jared's life. 'Va-yih-yu' means 'and they were'. 'Kol-ye-mei' means 'all the days of'. 'Ye-red' is the name Jared. 'Sh-tai-yim ve-shi-shim' means 'two and sixty'. 'Sha-nah' means 'year'. 'Ve-te-sha mei-ot' means 'and nine hundred'. 'Va-ya-mot' means 'and he died'.
[GEN.5.21] And Enoch lived sixty-five years, and he fathered Methuselah. [§]
va-ye-chee kha-noch kha-mesh ve-shi-shim sha-nah va-yo-led et-me-tu-shal-ach
This verse describes the life and offspring of Enoch. 'Va-ye-chee' means 'and lived.' 'Kha-noch' is the name Enoch. 'Kha-mesh ve-shi-shim' means 'five and sixty,' or sixty-five. 'Sha-nah' means 'year.' 'Va-yo-led' means 'and he begat' or 'and he fathered.' 'Et' is a grammatical marker. 'Me-tu-shal-ach' is the name Methuselah.
[GEN.5.22] And Enoch walked with the Gods after he had birthed Methuselah for three hundred years, and he birthed sons and daughters. [§]
vayithallekh khanoch et-haElohim akharei holido et-metushelakh shlosh meot shanah vayyoled banim ubanot
This verse describes Enoch’s relationship with ‘the Gods’ after the birth of Methuselah. ‘Vayithallekh’ means ‘he walked’, implying a close, ongoing relationship. ‘Et-haElohim’ denotes ‘with the Gods’. ‘Akharei holido’ means ‘after he birthed’ or ‘after he had’. ‘Shlosh meot shanah’ means ‘three hundred years’. ‘Vayyoled banim ubanot’ means ‘and he birthed sons and daughters’.
[GEN.5.23] And it was all the days of Enoch five and sixty years and three hundred years. [§]
Va-yhi kol yemei chanokh chamesh vesishim shanah ushlosh meot shanah.
This verse states the total years lived by Enoch. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Kol yemei' means 'all the days of'. 'Chanokh' is Enoch’s name. 'Chamesh vesishim' means 'five and sixty'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Ushlosh meot' means 'and three hundred'.
[GEN.5.24] And Enoch walked with the Gods, and he was no more, for God took him. [§]
va-yit-hal-lech chanokh et-ha-elo-him ve-ei-nen-nu ki-la-kach oto elohim.
This verse describes Enoch walking with the Gods, and that he was no longer there because God took him. 'Va-yit-hal-lech' means 'and he walked'. 'Chanokh' is Enoch's name. 'Et-ha-elo-him' is 'with the Gods'. 'Ve-ei-nen-nu' means 'and he was no more'. 'Ki-la-kach oto' means 'because God took him'. 'Elohim' refers to God.
[GEN.5.25] And Methuselah lived seven and eighty years and one hundred years, and he fathered Lamech. [§]
va-y'chi m'tushalakh sheva u-shmonim shanah u-m'at shanah va-yoled et-lamekh.
This verse describes the lifespan of Methuselah and his subsequent fathering of Lamech. 'Va-y'chi' means 'and he lived'. 'M'tushalakh' is the name Methuselah. 'Sheva u-shmonim' means 'seven and eighty'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'U-m'at' means 'and one hundred'. 'Va-yoled' means 'and he fathered'. 'Et-lamekh' means 'Lamech'.
[GEN.5.26] And Methuselah lived after he begot Lemech for ninety years and seven hundred years, and he begot sons and daughters. [§]
vaychi metushelach akharei holido et-lemek shtayim ushmonim shanah usheva meot shanah vayoled banim ubanot.
This verse describes the lifespan and offspring of Methuselah. 'Vaychi' means 'and lived'. 'Metushelach' is the name Methuselah. 'Akharei' means 'after'. 'Holido' means 'he begot'. 'Et-lemek' is 'Lemek' (Lemech). 'Shtayim ushmonim' is 'two and eighty', or 'ninety'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Usheva meot' means 'and seven hundred'. 'Vayoled' means 'and he begot'. 'Banim ubanot' means 'sons and daughters'.
[GEN.5.27] And all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred and sixty years, and he died. [§]
va-yee-hyoo kol-yemay metoo-sheh-lah tay-shah va-shee-sheem sha-nah v-teh-shah may-ot sha-nah va-ya-mot
This verse states the total years lived by Methuselah. 'Va-yee-hyoo' means 'and were'. 'Kol-yemay' means 'all the days'. 'Metoo-sheh-lah' is a proper name. 'Tay-shah' means 'nine'. 'Va-shee-sheem' means 'and sixty'. 'Sha-nah' means 'year'. 'V-teh-shah' means 'and nine'. 'May-ot' means 'hundreds'. 'Va-ya-mot' means 'and he died'.
[GEN.5.28] And Lamech lived to be two and eighty years and one hundred years, and he fathered a son. [§]
vay-chee-leh-mech sh-tai-yim oo-sh-moh-neem sha-nah oo-meh-at sha-nah vay-yo-led ben.
This verse describes the lifespan of Lamech. 'Vaychee' means 'and he lived'. 'Lamech' is a proper noun, a person's name. 'Sh-tai-yim' means 'two'. 'Oo-sh-moh-neem' means 'and eighty'. 'Sha-nah' means 'year'. 'Oo-meh-at' means 'and one hundred'. 'Vay-yo-led' means 'and he fathered'. 'Ben' means 'son'. Therefore the verse speaks of Lamech living for a total of 188 years and then having a son.
[GEN.5.29] And he called his name Noah, to say, "This one will comfort us from our deeds, and from the pain of our hands, from the ground which Yahveh cursed." [§]
va-yik-ra et-sh-mo no-ach le-mor zeh ye-nach-me-nu mi-ma-a-se-nu u-mei-itz-von ya-de-nu min-ha-a-da-mah a-sher er-rah yahveh.
This verse describes the naming of Noah. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Et-sh-mo' means 'his name'. 'No-ach' is the name itself. 'Le-mor' means 'to say'. 'Zeh' means 'this one'. 'Ye-nach-me-nu' means 'he will comfort us'. 'Mi-ma-a-se-nu' means 'from our deeds'. 'U-mei-itz-von ya-de-nu' means 'and from the pain of our hands'. 'Min-ha-a-da-mah' means 'from the ground'. 'A-sher er-rah yahveh' means 'which Yahveh cursed'.
[GEN.5.30] And Lamech lived, after he fathered Noah, one hundred and fifty years and five hundred years, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
vay-hee-lem-ekh ah-khah-rei ho-lee-doh-voh et-noh-akh khah-mesh veh-tee-shaa-eem shah-nah vah-khah-mesh may-ot shah-nah vay-yo-led bah-neem oo-vah-not.
This verse describes the lifespan and offspring of Lamech. 'Vaykhi' means 'and he lived'. 'Lemekh' is the name Lamech. 'Aharei holido et-Nokh' means 'after he fathered Noah'. 'Khamesh v'tish'eem shanah' means 'one hundred and fifty years'. 'V'khamesh me'ot shanah' means 'and five hundred years'. 'Vayyoled banim u'banot' means 'and he fathered sons and daughters'.
[GEN.5.31] And it was all the days of Lemech seven and seventy year, and seven hundreds year, and he died. [§]
va-yhi kol-yemei-lemech sheva veshibim shanah ushva meot shanah va-yamot.
This verse states the total length of Lemech's life. "Va-yhi" means "and it was." "Kol-yemei" means "all the days of." "Lemech" is a proper noun, a name. "Sheva" means "seven." "Ve-shibim" means "and seventy." "Shanah" means "year." "U-shva" means "and seven." "Meot" means "hundreds." "Va-yamot" means "and he died".
[GEN.5.32] And Noah was five hundred years old, and Noah fathered Shem, Ham, and Japheth. [§]
Va-yhi-noach ben-chamesh meot shanah va-yoled noach et-shem et-cham ve-et-yaphēt.
This verse states the age of Noah when he fathered his sons. "Va-yhi" indicates a past event. "Noach" is Noah. "Ben" means son. "Chamesh meot" means five hundred. "Shanah" means year. "Va-yoled" means and he fathered. "Et" is an untranslatable marker. "Shem" is Shem. "Cham" is Ham. "Yaphēt" is Japheth.
GEN.6
[GEN.6.1] And it happened that the human began to increase upon the face of the earth, and daughters were born to them. [§]
Va-yhi ki-hechel ha-adam la-rov al-pnei ha-adamah u-vanot yuladu lahem.
This verse describes the increase of humanity upon the earth and the birth of daughters to them. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it happened'. 'Ki' means 'that' or 'when'. 'Hechel' means 'began'. 'Ha-adam' means 'the human'. 'La-rov' means 'to increase' or 'to become many'. 'Al-pnei' means 'upon the face of' or 'upon'. 'Ha-adamah' means 'the earth'. 'U-banot' means 'and daughters'. 'Yuladu' means 'were born'. 'Lahem' means 'to them'.
[GEN.6.2] And the sons of the Gods saw the daughters of humanity, because they were good. And they took wives for themselves from all those whom they selected. [§]
Va-yir'u b'nei ha-Elohim et b'not ha-Adam ki tovot hena va-yikchu lahem nashim mikol asher bacharu.
This verse describes the 'sons of the Gods' seeing the daughters of Adam (humanity). They found them to be good, and proceeded to take wives from among all those they chose.
[GEN.6.3] And Yahveh said, "My spirit will not rule in humankind forever, because it is flesh. And their days will be one hundred and twenty years." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh lo-ya-don ru-chi ba-a-dam le-o-lam be-sha-gam hu ba-sar ve-ha-yu ya-mav me-ah ve-es-rim sha-nah.
This verse comes from Genesis 6:3. It details Yahveh’s declaration concerning the limited lifespan of humankind. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Lo-ya-don' means 'will not judge/rule'. 'Ru-chi' means 'my spirit'. 'Ba-a-dam' means 'in humankind'. 'Le-o-lam' means 'forever'. 'Be-sha-gam' means 'because it is'. 'Hu' means 'it'. 'Ba-sar' means 'flesh'. 'Ve-ha-yu' means 'and will be'. 'Ya-mav' means 'their days'. 'Me-ah' means 'one hundred'. 'Ve-es-rim' means 'and twenty'. 'Sha-nah' means 'years'.
[GEN.6.4] The Nephilim were on Earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of the Gods came to the daughters of humankind and had children by them. These were the mighty heroes of old, men of the name. [§]
hannefilim hayu ba'aretz bayamim hahem vegam acharei ken asher yavo benei haelohim el benot haadam veyaldu lahem hema hagibborim asher meolam anshei hashem.
This verse discusses the Nephilim, beings who existed on Earth in ancient times. It states that they were present both before and after the sons of the Gods came to the daughters of humankind and bore children to them. These offspring were the mighty heroes of old, people of the name.
[GEN.6.5] And Yahveh saw that great was the wickedness of the human on the earth, and all the inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the day. [§]
Va-yar Yahveh ki rabah ra'at ha-adam ba-aretz ve-chol-yetzer machshvot libbo rak ra kol-ha-yom.
This verse describes God observing the wickedness of humanity. "Va-yar" means 'and saw'. "Yahveh" is the proper name of God. "Ki" means 'that' or 'for'. "Rabah" means 'was great' or 'increased'. "Ra'at" means 'wickedness' or 'evil'. "Ha-adam" means 'the human'. "Ba-aretz" means 'on the earth'. "Ve" means 'and'. "Chol" means 'all'. "Yetzer" refers to the inclination or formation of the heart. "Machshvot" means 'thoughts'. "Libbo" means 'his heart'. "Rak" means 'only'. "Ra" means 'evil'. "Kol" means 'all'. "Ha-yom" means 'the day'. The phrase 'kol-ha-yom' means continually or all the time.
[GEN.6.6] And Yahveh regretted that He had made the human on the earth, and He grieved to His heart. [§]
vayinahem Yahveh ki-asah et-haadam ba-aretz vayitaetzev el-libbo.
vayinahem - and He regretted; Yahveh - the name of God; ki-asah - that He made; et-haadam - the human; ba-aretz - on the earth; vayitaetzev - and He grieved; el-libbo - to His heart.
[GEN.6.7] And Yahveh said, "I will wipe out the human that I created from the face of the earth, from human to animal, to creeping thing and to bird of the heavens, for I have regretted that you have done." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh Em-cheh Et-ha-Adam Asher-bara-ti Me-al Pnei Ha-Adamah Me-Adam Ad-be-hemah Ad-remes Ve-ad-of Ha-shamayim Ki-nichamti Ki-asitem.
This verse describes God’s decision to destroy all life on Earth. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Em-cheh' means 'I will wipe out'. 'Et-ha-Adam' means 'the human'. 'Asher-bara-ti' means 'that I created'. 'Me-al Pnei Ha-Adamah' means 'from the face of the earth'. 'Me-Adam Ad-be-hemah' means 'from human to animal'. 'Ad-remes' means 'to creeping thing'. 'Ve-ad-of Ha-shamayim' means 'and to bird of the heavens'. 'Ki-nichamti' means 'for I have regretted'. 'Ki-asitem' means 'for you have done'.
[GEN.6.8] And Noah found favor in the eyes of Yahveh. [§]
Ve-noach matza chen be-einei Yahveh.
This verse discusses Noah finding favor in the eyes of Yahveh. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Noach' is Noah's name. 'Matza' means 'found'. 'Chen' means 'favor' or 'grace'. 'Be-einei' means 'in the eyes of'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God.
[GEN.6.9] These are the accounts of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generations. Noah walked with the Gods. [§]
el-leh toh-lo-dot no-ach, no-ach eesh tza-deek ta-meem ha-yah beh-dor-o-tav, et-ha-el-o-heem hit-hal-lech-noch.
This verse introduces Noah and describes his righteousness. "Elleh" means "these". "Toledot" means "generations" or "accounts of". "Noach" is the name Noah. "Eesh" means "man". "Tzadik" means "righteous". "Tamim" means "blameless" or "complete". "Hayah" means "was". "Be-dorotav" means "in his generations". "Et-ha-elohim" means "with the Gods". "Hithallech" means "walked". "Noach" is Noah again.
[GEN.6.10] And Noah begot three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. [§]
Va-yo-led No-ach shlo-sha-yim ba-nim et-Shem et-Cham ve-et-Ya-fet.
This verse states that Noah begot three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. 'Va-yo-led' means 'and he begot'. 'No-ach' is the name Noah. 'Shlo-sha-yim' means 'three'. 'Ba-nim' means 'sons'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker indicating a direct object. 'Shem', 'Cham', and 'Ya-fet' are the names of the three sons.
[GEN.6.11] And the Earth was corrupted before the Gods, and the Earth was filled with violence. [§]
va-tee-shah-chet ha-ah-retz lee-fay-nee ha-el-o-heem va-tee-mah-leh ha-ah-retz khah-mas
This verse describes the corruption of the Earth before the Gods, and how it became filled with violence. 'Va' indicates 'and'. 'Tishachet' means 'was corrupted'. 'Ha-aretz' means 'the Earth'. 'Lifnei' means 'before'. 'Ha-Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Va-timale' means 'and was filled'. 'Chamas' means 'violence'.
[GEN.6.12] And the Gods saw the Earth, and behold, it was corrupted, for all flesh had corrupted its way upon the Earth. [§]
Va-yar ah-lo-heem et-ha-ah-rets ve-hee-neh neesh-chah-tah kee-heesh-heet kol-bah-sar et-dar-kho al-ha-ah-rets.
This verse describes God seeing the Earth and observing its corruption. 'Va-yar' means 'and saw'. 'Ah-lo-heem' is 'the Gods'. 'Et-ha-ah-rets' is 'the Earth'. 'Ve-hee-neh' means 'and behold'. 'Neesh-chah-tah' means 'was corrupted'. 'Kee' means 'for'. 'Heesh-heet' means 'corrupted'. 'Kol-bah-sar' means 'all flesh'. 'Et-dar-kho' means 'its way'. 'Al-ha-ah-rets' means 'upon the Earth'.
[GEN.6.13] And the Gods said to Noah, "The end of all flesh has come before me, because the earth is filled with violence because of them. And behold, I will destroy them and the earth." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim le-Noach, ketz kol-basar ba lifanai, ki-mala ha-aretz chammas mipenehem, ve-hinni mashchit-am et ha-aretz.
This verse comes from Genesis 6:13. "Va-yo-mer" means "and said". "Elohim" refers to the Gods. "le-Noach" means "to Noah". "ketz" means "end". "kol-basar" means "all flesh". "ba lifanai" means "has come before me". "ki-mala" means "because has filled". "ha-aretz" means "the earth". "chammas" means "violence". "mipenehem" means "because of them". "ve-hinni" means "and behold I". "mashchit-am" means "will destroy them". "et ha-aretz" means "the earth".
[GEN.6.14] Make for yourself an ark of gopher wood. Compartments you will make in the ark, and you will cover it from inside and from outside with covering. [§]
ah-seh lach-kah teh-vah ah-tsei-goh-fer kee-neem tah-ah-seh et-ha-teh-vah veh-kah-far-tah oh-tah mee-bah-yeet oo-mee-hoo-tz bah-koh-fer.
This verse instructs Noah to build an ark. "Aseh" means 'make'. "Lach" means 'for you'. "tevah" means 'ark'. "atsei gopher" means 'wood of gopher'. "kinim" means 'compartments'. "ta'aseh" means 'you will make'. "et-ha-tevah" means 'the ark'. "v'chafarta" means 'and you will cover'. "otah" means 'it'. "mibayit umichutz" means 'from inside and from outside'. "bakopher" means 'with covering'.
[GEN.6.15] And this is what you will make it: three hundred cubits will be the length of the Ark, fifty cubits its width, and thirty cubits its height. [§]
ve-zeh asher ta'aseh otah, shlosh me'ot amah orech hatevah, chamishim amah rachbah, u-shloshim amah komatah.
This verse details the dimensions for building the Ark. 'Vezeh' means 'and this'. 'Asher' means 'that'. 'Ta'aseh' means 'you will make'. 'Otah' refers to 'it' (the Ark). 'Shlosh me'ot' is 'three hundred'. 'Ammah' is a unit of measurement, commonly translated as 'cubit'. 'Orech' means 'length'. 'Hatevah' means 'the Ark'. 'Chamishim' means 'fifty'. 'Rachbah' means 'width'. 'U' means 'and'. 'Shloshim' means 'thirty'. 'Komatah' means 'height'.
[GEN.6.16] A window you shall make for the ark, and to a cubit you shall finish it from above, and the opening of the ark at its side you shall set. Lower levels, two and thirty, you shall make it. [§]
tsohar ta'aseh la-tebah ve-el-amah tekhalenah milma'alah u-petach ha-tebah be-tsidah tashim takhtiyim shniyim u-shlishim ta'aseha.
This verse describes the construction of a window and levels within the ark. 'Tsohar' refers to a window or skylight. 'TeBah' means ark. 'Ammah' is a cubit, a unit of measurement. 'Petach' means opening or door. 'Tsidah' means side. 'Takhtiyim' means lower or bottom levels. 'Shniyim' means two, and 'shlishim' means thirty.
[GEN.6.17] And I, here I am, bringing the flood waters upon the earth to destroy all flesh in which is the spirit of life under the heavens. All that is in the earth will perish. [§]
va-ani hin-nee me-vee-ah et-ha-mav-bool ma-yim al-ha-ah-retz le-sha-chet kol-bas-ar a-sher-bo roo-ach chai-eem mit-tach-at ha-sha-ma-yim kol a-sher-ba-ah-retz yig-va.
This verse describes God’s intention to bring a flood upon the earth to destroy all living creatures. 'Va-ani' means 'and I'. 'Hin-nee' means 'here I am'. 'Me-vee-ah' is a future tense verb meaning 'bringing'. 'Ha-mav-bool' means 'the flood'. 'Ma-yim' means 'waters'. 'Al-ha-ah-retz' means 'upon the earth'. 'Le-sha-chet' means 'to corrupt/destroy'. 'Kol-bas-ar' means 'all flesh'. 'A-sher-bo' means 'in which'. 'Roo-ach chai-eem' means 'spirit of life'. 'Mit-tach-at ha-sha-ma-yim' means 'under the heavens'. 'Kol a-sher-ba-ah-retz' means 'all that is in the earth'. 'Yig-va' means 'will perish'.
[GEN.6.18] And I will establish my covenant with you, and you shall come to the ark, you and your sons and your wife and the wives of your sons with you. [§]
va-ha-ki-mo-ti et-bri-ti it-tach u-va-ta el-ha-te-vah at-tah u-van-ei-cha ve-ish-tech-cha u-ne-shei-banei-cha it-tach.
This verse describes God establishing a covenant with someone and instructing them to enter an ark with their family. Let's break down the names: 'Et' is a grammatical marker with no direct translation. 'Bri-ti' means 'my covenant.' 'It-tach' means 'with you.' 'Ha-te-vah' means 'the ark.'
[GEN.6.19] And from all the living, from all flesh, two of every kind you shall bring to the ark to keep them alive with you. Male and female they shall be. [§]
oo-mee-kahl-hah-chai mee-kahl-bah-sahr shuh-nah-yeem mee-kohl tah-veeh ah-el-hah-teh-vah leh-hah-chay-oht ee-tah-kh zah-kahr oo-neh-keh-vah yee-heh-yoo.
This verse instructs Noah to bring pairs of every living creature, of all flesh, into the ark to keep them alive with him. 'Every living thing' and 'all flesh' are emphasized, and both male and female are specified. The verb 'to be' is used to state the requirement that both sexes exist within the ark.
[GEN.6.20] From the flying creatures according to their kind, and from the beasts according to their kind, from all the creeping things of the land according to their kind, two of each will come to you to live. [§]
meh-ha-oof le-mee-neh-hoo oo-meen-ha-beh-heh-mah le-mee-nah, mee-kol reh-mesh ha-ah-dah-mah le-mee-neh-hoo, shna-yeem mee-kol yah-voo eh-lay-kah le-ha-ha-yoht.
This verse describes Noah bringing pairs of animals onto the ark. 'meh-ha-oof' means 'from the flying creatures', 'le-mee-neh-hoo' means 'according to its kind', 'oo-meen-ha-beh-heh-mah' means 'and from the beasts', 'mee-kol reh-mesh ha-ah-dah-mah' means 'from all the creeping things of the land', 'shna-yeem' means 'two', 'mee-kol' means 'of each', 'yah-voo' means 'they will come', 'eh-lay-kah' means 'to you', and 'le-ha-ha-yoht' means 'to live'.
[GEN.6.21] And you, take for yourself from all food that is eaten, and you shall gather it to yourself, and it shall be for you and for them for eating. [§]
ve-atah kah-leh-cha mi-kol-ma-achal asher ye-e-achel ve-asap-ta e-lei-cha ve-haya le-cha ve-la-hem le-ach-lah
This verse describes God instructing Moses to take provisions for himself and for the Israelites. 'atah' means 'you'. 'kah-leh-cha' means 'take for yourself'. 'mi-kol-ma-achal' means 'from all food'. 'asher ye-e-achel' means 'that is eaten'. 've-asap-ta e-lei-cha' means 'and you shall gather to yourself'. 've-haya le-cha ve-la-hem' means 'and it shall be for you and for them'. 'le-ach-lah' means 'for eating'.
[GEN.6.22] And Noah did everything that the Gods commanded him, thus he did. [§]
Va-ya-as No-ach ke-chol asher tzi-vah oto Elohim, ken a-sah.
This verse describes Noah doing everything that the Gods commanded him, and that he did it as commanded. 'Va-ya-as' means 'and he did'. 'No-ach' is the name Noah. 'Ke-chol' means 'everything'. 'Asher' means 'that'. 'Tzi-vah' means 'commanded'. 'Oto' means 'him'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Ken' means 'thus' or 'so'. 'A-sah' means 'he did'.
GEN.7
[GEN.7.1] And Yahveh said to Noah, "Enter, you and all your house, into the ark, for you I have seen as righteous before me in this generation." [§]
va-yo-mer Yahveh le-noch bo-atah ve-chol-beyt-cha el-ha-te-vah ki-ot-cha ra-iti tza-dik le-fanai ba-dor ha-zeh.
This verse recounts God speaking to Noah. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said.' 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Le-noch' means 'to Noah.' 'Bo-atah' means 'enter you.' 'Ve-chol-beyt-cha' means 'and all your house.' 'El-ha-te-vah' means 'into the ark.' 'Ki-ot-cha' means 'for you.' 'Ra-iti' means 'I have seen.' 'Tza-dik' means 'righteous.' 'Le-fanai' means 'before me.' 'Ba-dor ha-zeh' means 'in this generation.'
[GEN.7.2] From all the clean animals, you shall take seven, a man and his wife. And from the animals that are not clean, two, a man and his wife. [§]
mikol habhemah hatehorah tikach lecha shiv'ah shiv'ah ish ve'ishto vemin habhemah asher lo tehorah hi shnayim ish ve'ishto.
This verse instructs someone to take animals for a sacrifice or offering. 'Mikol' means 'from all'. 'Habhemah' means 'the beasts' or 'the animals'. 'Hatehorah' means 'the clean' or 'the pure'. 'Tikach' means 'you shall take'. 'Lecha' means 'for you'. 'Shiv'ah shiv'ah' means 'seven seven' or 'a pair of seven'. 'Ish' means 'man' or 'husband'. 'Ve'ishto' means 'and his wife'. 'Vemin' means 'and from'. 'Asher' means 'that' or 'which'. 'Lo tehorah' means 'not clean' or 'not pure'. 'Hi' means 'it' or 'she'. 'Shnayim' means 'two'.
[GEN.7.3] Also, from the birds of the sky, two by two, male and female, to keep living creatures with offspring over all the earth. [§]
Gam me'of ha'shamayim shiv'ah shiv'ah zachar u'nekevah l'chayot zera al-p'nei kol-ha'aretz.
This verse describes Noah taking pairs of every kind of bird onto the Ark. 'Gam' means 'also'. 'Me'of' means 'from the birds'. 'Ha'shamayim' means 'the heavens' or 'the sky'. 'Shiv'ah shiv'ah' means 'seven seven' which is a way of saying 'pairs' or 'two of each'. 'Zachar u'nekevah' means 'male and female'. 'L'chayot' means 'to the living creatures'. 'Zera' means 'seed' or 'offspring'. 'Al-p'nei' means 'on the face of' or 'over'. 'Kol-ha'aretz' means 'all the earth'.
[GEN.7.4] For still seven days I will rain upon the land forty days and forty nights, and I will wipe out all the universe that I made from over the face of the earth. [§]
kee leyameem od shiv'ah anochi mamteer al-ha'aretz arba'eem yom ve arba'eem laylah u machiti et-kol-hayekoom asher asiti me'al p'nei ha'adamah.
This verse details a coming flood. 'Kee' means 'for' or 'because'. 'Leyameem' means 'for days'. 'Od' means 'still' or 'yet'. 'Shiv'ah' means 'seven'. 'Anochi' means 'I'. 'Mamteer' means 'I will rain'. 'Al' means 'on' or 'upon'. 'Ha'aretz' means 'the land'. 'Arba'eem' means 'forty'. 'Yom' means 'day'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Laylah' means 'night'. 'U' means 'and'. 'Machiti' means 'I will wipe out'. 'Et' is a direct object marker. 'Kol' means 'all'. 'Hayekoom' means 'the universe' or 'everything'. 'Asher' means 'that' or 'which'. 'Asiti' means 'I made'. 'Me'al' means 'from over'. 'P'nei' means 'face of'. 'Ha'adamah' means 'the earth'.
[GEN.7.5] And Noah did according to all that Yahveh commanded him. [§]
Va-ya-as No-ach ke-chol a-sher tzi-vah-hu Yahveh.
This verse describes Noah doing as Yahveh commanded him. 'Va-ya-as' means 'and he did'. 'No-ach' is the name Noah. 'Ke-chol' means 'according to all'. 'A-sher' is a relative pronoun meaning 'that' or 'which'. 'Tzi-vah-hu' means 'he commanded him'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God.
[GEN.7.6] And Noah was six hundred years old, and the flood was waters upon the earth. [§]
ve-no-ach ben-shesh me-ot sha-nah ve-ha-ma-bul ha-yah ma-yim al-ha-aretz
This verse describes Noah's age when the flood occurred. 've' means 'and'. 'no-ach' is the name Noah. 'ben' means 'son' or 'of'. 'shesh' means 'six'. 'me-ot' means 'hundreds'. 'sha-nah' means 'year'. 'ha-ma-bul' means 'the flood'. 'ha-yah' means 'was'. 'ma-yim' means 'waters'. 'al' means 'upon'. 'ha-aretz' means 'the earth'.
[GEN.7.7] And Noah entered, and his sons, and his wife, and the wives of his sons with him into the ark, from the face of the waters of the flood. [§]
va-yo-vo No-ach u-vanav v'-ishtto u-neshei-vanav itto el-ha-teivah mi-pnei mei ha-mabool.
This verse describes Noah, his sons, his wife, and the wives of his sons, entering the ark to escape the floodwaters. 'Noah' is a proper noun. 'sons' is plural. 'wife' is singular. 'the ark' is a noun. 'the flood' is a noun. The preposition 'from the face of' indicates escape or protection from something.
[GEN.7.8] From the pure beasts and from the beasts which are not pure, and from the birds, and all that creeps upon the ground. [§]
min-habehemah hatehorah umin-habehemah asher einennah tehorah umin-ha'of vechol asher romes al-ha'adamah
This verse details a selection of animals. 'min' means 'from'. 'habehemah' means 'the beasts'. 'hatehorah' means 'the pure'. 'asher' means 'which'. 'einennah' means 'is not'. 'ha'of' means 'the birds'. 'vechol' means 'and all'. 'romes' means 'that creeps'. 'al' means 'upon'. 'ha'adamah' means 'the ground'. The verse lists animals from the pure beasts, and from the beasts which are not pure, and from the birds, and all that creeps upon the ground.
[GEN.7.9] Two by two they came to Noah, to the ark, male and female, as the Gods commanded Noah. [§]
Sh’nayim sh’nayim bau el-Noach el-ha-teivah zachar u-nekevah ka-asher tzivah Elohim et-Noach.
This verse describes pairs of every living creature entering Noah’s Ark, as God commanded. ‘Sh’nayim sh’nayim’ means ‘two by two’. ‘Bau’ means ‘they came’. ‘El-Noach’ means ‘to Noah’. ‘El-ha-teivah’ means ‘to the ark’. ‘Zachar u-nekevah’ means ‘male and female’. ‘Ka-asher tzivah’ means ‘as commanded’. ‘Elohim et-Noach’ means ‘the Gods Noah’.
[GEN.7.10] And it was, after seven days, that the waters of the flood were upon the earth. [§]
Va-yi-hee le-shiv-at ha-ya-meem oo-may ha-ma-bool ha-yoo ah-al ha-ah-rets.
This verse describes the completion of seven days and the presence of the floodwaters covering the earth. 'Va-yi-hee' means 'and it was'. 'Le-shiv-at ha-ya-meem' means 'for seven days'. 'Oo-may ha-ma-bool' means 'and the waters of the flood'. 'Ha-yoo' means 'were'. 'Ah-al ha-ah-rets' means 'upon the earth'.
[GEN.7.11] In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, in the second month, on the seventeenth day of the month, on this day all the springs of the great deep burst open, and the floodgates of the heavens were opened. [§]
bishnat shesh meot shanah lechayei Noach, bachodesh hasheni, beshiva-asar yom lachodesh, bayom hazeh nivkeu kol ma'yanot tehom rabah va'arubot hashamayim niftachu.
This verse describes the year, month, and day that the flood began. It states that in the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, in the second month, on the seventeenth day of the month, all the springs of the great deep burst forth, and the floodgates of the heavens were opened.
[GEN.7.12] And it happened, the rain was upon the earth for forty days and forty nights. [§]
va-yhi ha-geshem al-ha-aretz arba'im yom ve-arba'im laylah
This verse describes the flood. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it happened'. 'Ha-geshem' means 'the rain'. 'Al-ha-aretz' means 'upon the earth'. 'Arba'im' means 'forty'. 'Yom' means 'day'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Laylah' means 'night'.
[GEN.7.13] On this very day, Noah came, and Shem, Ham, and Japheth, the sons of Noah, and the wife of Noah, and the three wives of his sons came with them to the ark. [§]
Be’etsem hayom hazeh ba Noah veshem vecham vayefet benei Noah ve’eshet Noah ushloshet neshei banav itam el hatevah.
This verse describes Noah, his wife, his three sons (Shem, Ham, and Japheth) and the wives of his sons, all entering the ark. “Be’etsem” means “on this day.” “Hazeh” means “this.” “Ba” means “came” or “entered.” “Benei” means “sons of”. “Itam” means “with them”. “El” means “to”. “Hatevah” means “the ark”.
[GEN.7.14] These and every living creature according to its kind, and every livestock according to its kind, and every creature that creeps upon the earth according to its kind, and every bird according to its kind, every bird with every wing. [§]
hem-mah ve-chol-ha-chay-yah le-mee-nah, ve-chol-ha-be-he-mah le-mee-nah, ve-chol-ha-remes ha-romes al-ha-aretz le-mee-neh-hoo, ve-chol-ha-of le-mee-neh-hoo, kol tzip-por kol-kanaf.
This verse describes God creating living creatures according to their kinds. 'Hemah' means 'these'. 'Chayah' refers to living creatures. 'Behemah' means livestock. 'Remes' refers to creatures that creep or swarm. 'Of' means birds. 'Minnah' and 'minehu' both translate to 'kind' or 'sort'. 'Tzipor' means bird. 'Kanaf' means wing.
[GEN.7.15] And they came to Noah to the ark, two by two from all the living creatures, in which there is breath of life. [§]
va-yo-vo-u el-no-ach el-ha-te-vah shna-yim shna-yim mi-kol-ha-ba-sar a-sher-bo ru-ach chai-yim
This verse describes pairs of every living creature entering the ark. 'Va-yo-vo-u' means 'and they came'. 'El-no-ach' means 'to Noah'. 'El-ha-te-vah' means 'to the ark'. 'Shna-yim shna-yim' means 'two by two'. 'Mi-kol-ha-ba-sar' means 'from all the flesh/living creatures'. 'A-sher-bo ru-ach chai-yim' means 'in which there is breath of life'.
[GEN.7.16] And those coming, male and female, from all flesh came, as the Gods commanded him, and Yahveh closed behind him. [§]
vehahba’im zakhar unkevah mikol basar ba’u ka’asher tzivah oto elohim vayisgor yahveh ba’ado
This verse describes the entry of pairs of all living creatures into Noah's Ark, as commanded by 'the Gods', and then Yahveh closing the door behind them. 'Vehahba’im' means 'and those coming'. 'Zakhar unkevah' means 'male and female'. 'Mikol basar' means 'from all flesh', referring to all living creatures. 'Ba’u' means 'they came'. 'Ka’asher tzivah oto elohim' means 'as the Gods commanded him'. 'Vayisgor yahveh ba’ado' means 'and Yahveh closed behind him'.
[GEN.7.17] And it happened, the flood, forty days upon the earth, and the waters increased and they carried the ark, and it rose above the earth. [§]
vayhi hamabbul arba'im yom al ha'aretz vayirbu hammayim vayis'u et hatevah vataram me'al ha'aretz
This verse describes the flood. 'Vayhi' means 'and it happened'. 'Hamabbul' refers to the flood. 'Arba'im yom' means 'forty days'. 'Al ha'aretz' means 'upon the earth'. 'Vayirbu hammayim' means 'and the waters increased'. 'Vayis'u et hatevah' means 'and they carried the ark'. 'Vataram me'al ha'aretz' means 'and it rose above the earth'.
[GEN.7.18] And the waters grew strong and increased very much upon the land, and the ark went upon the face of the waters. [§]
va-yig-beh-roo hah-mah-yeem va-yir-boo me-ode al-hah-ah-rets va-teh-lech hah-teh-vah al-peh-nei hah-mah-yeem.
This verse describes the rising of the waters of the flood and the ark floating upon them. 'vayigb'roo' means 'and grew strong/increased'. 'hamayim' is 'the waters'. 'vayirboo' means 'and they increased'. 'me'od' means 'very'. 'al' means 'upon'. 'ha'aretz' means 'the land'. 'vatelech' means 'and it went'. 'hatevah' is 'the ark'. 'al penei' means 'upon the face of'.
[GEN.7.19] And the waters became very very strong upon the land, and they covered all the mountains, the high ones, which are under all the heavens. [§]
vehamayim gavru meod meod al-haaretz vayekussu kol-heharim hagevohim asher-tachat kol-hashamayim.
This verse describes the floodwaters rising and covering the earth. 'vehamayim' means 'and the waters'. 'gavru' means 'became strong' or 'increased'. 'meod meod' means 'very very'. 'al-haaretz' means 'upon the land'. 'vayekussu' means 'and they covered'. 'kol-heharim' means 'all the mountains'. 'hagevohim' means 'the high ones'. 'asher-tachat' means 'which are under'. 'kol-hashamayim' means 'all the heavens'.
[GEN.7.20] Fifteen cubits from above, the waters increased and they covered the mountains. [§]
chamesh esreh amah milma'alah gavru hamayim vayekhussu heharim
This verse describes the rising of the waters during the flood. 'Chamesh esreh' means fifteen. 'Amah' is a unit of measurement, a cubit. 'Milma'alah' means from above. 'Gavru' means grew strong, or increased. 'Hamayim' is 'the waters'. 'Vayekhussu' means 'and they covered'. 'Heharim' is 'the mountains'.
[GEN.7.21] And all flesh that moves upon the Earth died: the birds, the beasts, the wild animals, and all that creeps that creeps upon the Earth, and all humankind. [§]
va-yig-va kol-bah-sar ha-ro-mes al-ha-ah-retz ba-oof u-va-be-he-mah u-va-cha-yah u-ve-kol-ha-sheretz ha-shorets al-ha-ah-retz ve-kol ha-ah-dahm
This verse describes the widespread death of all living creatures on Earth. 'Bah-sar' refers to all flesh, or living beings. 'Ha-ro-mes' means that crawls or moves on the Earth. 'Ba-oof' is bird, 'ba-be-he-mah' is beast, 'u-va-cha-yah' is wild animal, 'ha-sheretz' is that creeps or swarms, and 'ha-ah-dahm' is humankind. The verse states that everything that lived perished.
[GEN.7.22] All that has the breath of a living spirit in its nostrils, from all that is in the devastation, has died. [§]
kol asher nishmat-ruach chayim be-apav mikol asher becharavah metu
This verse describes everything that has the breath of living spirit in its nostrils dying from everything that is in the waste places. 'Kol' means 'all' or 'everything'. 'Asher' is a relative pronoun, meaning 'that' or 'which'. 'Nishmat' is from the root 'nasham', meaning 'breath'. 'Ruach' means 'spirit' or 'wind'. 'Chayim' means 'living'. 'Be-apav' means 'in its nostrils'. 'Mikol' means 'from all'. 'Becharavah' means 'in the waste places' or 'in the devastation'. 'Metu' means 'died'.
[GEN.7.23] And the Gods wiped out all the living things that were on the face of the earth, from man to beast, to creeping thing, and to bird of the heavens, and they were wiped out from the earth. And he left remaining only Noah and those with him in the ark. [§]
Va-yee-mach et-kol-ha-yay-koom asher al-peh-nee ha-ah-dah-mah may-ah-dahm ad-beh-hay-mah ad-re-mesh ve-ad-of ha-shah-may-eem va-yee-mah-hoo min-ha-ah-retz va-yee-sha-er ach-Noah va-asher it-toh ba-te-vah.
This verse describes the flood. 'Va-yee-mach' means 'and he wiped out.' 'Et' is an untranslatable marker. 'Kol-ha-yay-koom' means 'all the living things.' 'Asher' means 'that.' 'Al-peh-nee ha-ah-dah-mah' means 'on the face of the earth.' 'May-ah-dahm' means 'from man.' 'Ad-beh-hay-mah' means 'to beast.' 'Ad-re-mesh' means 'to creeping thing.' 'Ve-ad-of ha-shah-may-eem' means 'and to bird of the heavens.' 'Va-yee-mah-hoo' means 'and they were wiped out.' 'Min-ha-ah-retz' means 'from the earth.' 'Va-yee-sha-er' means 'and he left remaining.' 'Ach-Noah' means 'only Noah.' 'Va-asher it-toh' means 'and those with him.' 'Ba-te-vah' means 'in the ark.'
[GEN.7.24] And the waters increased over the earth for fifty and one hundred days. [§]
va-yig-bə-roo ha-ma-yim al-ha-ā-rets cham-ish-shim oo-mə-at yohm
This verse describes the increasing of waters over the earth for a period of time. 'vayigb'ru' means 'and increased'. 'ha-mayim' means 'the waters'. 'al-ha-aretz' means 'over the earth'. 'chamishim u-me'at yohm' means 'fifty and one hundred days'.
GEN.8
[GEN.8.1] And God remembered Noah, and all living creatures, and all animals that were with him in the ark. And God caused a wind to pass over the earth, and the waters subsided. [§]
Va-yiz-kor Elohim et-Noach ve-et kol-ha-chayah ve-et kol-ha-behemah asher itto ba-tebah va-ya-a-ver Elohim ruach al-ha-aretz va-yashochu ha-mayim.
This verse describes God remembering Noah, all living creatures, and all animals that were with him in the ark. Then, God caused a wind to pass over the earth, and the waters subsided. Each word is translated as literally as possible. 'Et' is a particle indicating the direct object of a verb.
[GEN.8.2] And the springs of the deep were stopped, and the openings of the heavens were closed, and the rain was restrained from the heavens. [§]
va-yis-ka-ru ma-yan-ot te-hom va-a-ru-bot ha-sha-ma-yim va-yi-ka-lei ha-ge-shem min-ha-sha-ma-yim
This verse describes a stopping or closing up of sources of water. "ma-yan-ot" refers to springs or fountains. "te-hom" refers to the deep, the abyss. "a-ru-bot" refers to openings or sluices. "ha-sha-ma-yim" means the heavens. "yi-ka-lei" means to restrain or to hold back. "ha-ge-shem" means the rain.
[GEN.8.3] And the waters returned from above the earth, going and returning, and the waters decreased from the end of one hundred and fifty days. [§]
va-ya-shoo-vu ha-ma-yim mei-al ha-a-retz ha-loch ve-shov va-ya-chas-ru ha-ma-yim mi-kitz-eh cha-mish-shim u-me-at yom.
This verse describes the receding of the floodwaters after the Great Flood. 'vayashuvu' means 'and they returned,' referring to the waters. 'hameyim' means 'the waters'. 'me'al ha'aretz' means 'from above the earth'. 'haloch vashov' means 'going and returning' implying a gradual process. 'vayachseru' means 'and they lacked/decreased.' 'mikitzeh chamishim u’me’at yom’ means 'from the end of fifty and one hundred days' which is understood to mean 150 days.
[GEN.8.4] And the Ark rested in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month, on the mountains of Ararat. [§]
va-ta-nach ha-te-vah ba-chodesh ha-shvi-ee be-shiv-ah-ah-sar yom la-chodesh al ha-rei a-ra-rat.
This verse describes the Ark coming to rest. 'Va-ta-nach' means 'and it rested'. 'Ha-te-vah' means 'the Ark'. 'Ba-chodesh' means 'in the month'. 'Ha-shvi-ee' means 'the seventh'. 'Be-shiv-ah-ah-sar yom' means 'on the seventeenth day'. 'La-chodesh' means 'of the month'. 'Al ha-rei a-ra-rat' means 'on the mountains of Ararat'.
[GEN.8.5] And the waters were going and becoming less until the tenth month. In the tenth month, on the first of the month, the heads of the mountains were seen. [§]
vehamayim hayu haloch vechasor ad hachodesh ha'asiri ba'asiri be'echad la'chodesh nir'u rashei heharim
This verse describes the waters receding. 'vehamayim' means 'and the waters'. 'hayu haloch vechasor' means 'were going and becoming less'. 'ad hachodesh ha'asiri' means 'until the tenth month'. 'ba'asiri be'echad la'chodesh' means 'in the tenth, on the first of the month'. 'nir'u rashei heharim' means 'the heads of the mountains were seen'.
[GEN.8.6] And it happened at the end of forty days, and Noah opened the window of the ark which he made. [§]
Va-yhi mi-ketz arba'im yom, va-yiftach Noah et-challon ha-teivah asher asah.
This verse describes the events following the flood. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it happened'. 'Mi-ketz' means 'at the end of'. 'Arba'im yom' means 'forty days'. 'Va-yiftach' means 'and he opened'. 'Noah' is a proper noun, the name of the person. 'Et-challon' means 'the window'. 'Ha-teivah' means 'the ark'. 'Asher asah' means 'which he made'.
[GEN.8.7] And he sent the raven, and it went out, going and returning, until the drying of the waters from upon the earth. [§]
va-yishal-lach et-ha-orev va-yeitze ya-tzoh va-shov ad-yevoshet ha-mayim me-al ha-aretz
This verse describes Noah releasing a raven and then it flying back and forth as the waters receded from the earth. 'Vayeshalach' means 'and he sent'. 'Et-ha-orev' means 'the raven'. 'Vayeitze ya-tzoh va-shov' means 'and it went out, going and returning'. 'Ad-yevoshet ha-mayim' means 'until the drying of the waters'. 'Me-al ha-aretz' means 'from upon the earth'.
[GEN.8.8] And he sent forth the dove from with him to see if the waters had lessened from above the face of the earth. [§]
va-yishal-lach et-ha-yo-nah me-it-to lir-ot ha-kal-lu ha-mayim me-al p’nei ha-adama
This verse describes Noah sending out a dove to see if the waters had receded from the earth. Let's break down the names of God used here. There are none in this verse.
[GEN.8.9] And the dove did not find a resting place for its foot, and it returned to him to the ark, because water was on the face of all the earth. And he sent out his hand and took it, and he brought it to him to the ark. [§]
ve-lo-ma-tza-a ha-yo-na ma-noch le-kaf-rag-la-a va-ta-shav ei-lav el-ha-te-vah ki-ma-yim al-pnei kol-ha-a-retz va-yish-lach ya-do va-yi-ka-che-ha va-ya-ve-a o-ta-a ei-lav el-ha-te-vah
This verse describes the dove returning to Noah after being released during the flood. The dove could not find a place to rest its foot, so it returned to the ark. Noah then reached out and brought the dove back inside.
[GEN.8.10] And he waited still seven other days, and he again sent the dove from the ark. [§]
va-yachel od shiv’at yamim acherim va-yosef shalach et-ha-yona min-ha-teva
This verse describes Noah sending out the dove again after another seven days. 'Va-yachel' means 'and he waited' or 'and he began'. 'Od' means 'still' or 'again'. 'Shiv’at yamim' means 'seven days'. 'Acherim' means 'others' or 'again'. 'Va-yosef' means 'and he added' or 'and he again'. 'Shalach' means 'he sent'. 'Et-ha-yona' means 'the dove'. 'Min-ha-teva' means 'from the ark'.
[GEN.8.11] And the dove came to him at the time of evening, and behold, a leaf of olive was plucked in her mouth. And Noah knew that the waters were light from above the land. [§]
va-to-vo elav ha-yo-na le-et erev ve-hi-neh a-leh za-yit ta-raf be-fee-ha va-ye-da Noah ki-kal-lu ha-ma-yim me-al ha-aretz
This verse describes the dove returning to Noah with an olive leaf, signifying that the floodwaters had receded. 'Vato-vo' means 'and came'. 'Elav' means 'to him'. 'Ha-yo-na' means 'the dove'. 'Le-et erev' means 'at the time of evening'. 'Ve-hi-neh' means 'and behold'. 'A-leh za-yit' means 'a leaf of olive'. 'Ta-raf' means 'plucked'. 'Be-fee-ha' means 'in her mouth'. 'Va-ye-da' means 'and knew'. 'Noah' is the proper name Noah. 'Ki-kal-lu' means 'that were light'. 'Ha-ma-yim' means 'the waters'. 'Me-al' means 'from above'. 'Ha-aretz' means 'the land'.
[GEN.8.12] And he waited another seven days, and he sent out the dove, and it did not return to him again. [§]
vayikhel od shiv'at yamim acherim vayishalach et-hayona velo yasfa shuv elav od
This verse describes Noah sending out a dove again after seven more days, and the dove not returning to him.
[GEN.8.13] And it was in the six hundred and first year, in the first month, on the first day, that the waters had receded from above the earth. And Noah removed the covering of the ark, and he saw, and behold, the face of the ground was dry. [§]
Va-yhi be'achat ve'shesh me'ot shanah ba'rishon be'echad la'chodesh charvu ha'mayim me'al ha'aretz va'yasar Noach et mikseh ha'tebah va'yar vehine charvu penei ha'adamah.
This verse describes the moment Noah removed the covering of the ark after the flood. It states that after 600 years plus one month and one day, the waters had receded from the earth, and Noah saw that the face of the ground was dry. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Be'achat' means 'in one'. 'Ve'shesh me'ot' means 'and six hundred'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Ba'rishon' means 'in the first'. 'Be'echad la'chodesh' means 'on the first of the month'. 'Charvu ha'mayim' means 'the waters had receded'. 'Me'al ha'aretz' means 'from above the earth'. 'Va'yasar' means 'and he removed'. 'Noach' is Noah's name. 'Et mikseh ha'tebah' means 'the covering of the ark'. 'Va'yar' means 'and he saw'. 'Vehine' means 'and behold'. 'Charvu penei ha'adamah' means 'the face of the ground was dry'.
[GEN.8.14] And in the second month, on the twenty-seventh day of the month, the earth became dry. [§]
oo-vah-ho-desh ha-sheh-nee beh-shiv-ah veh-eh-ser-eem yoam lah-ho-desh yav-shah ha-ah-rets.
This verse describes the drying of the earth on the 27th day of the second month. "ho-desh" means month, "yav-shah" means dried, and "ha-ah-rets" means the earth. The verse does not specify *which* earth, so the definite article 'the' is used.
[GEN.8.15] And the Gods spoke to Noah to say. [§]
Va-ye-da-ber Elohim el-Noach le-emor
This verse begins with a conjunction 'and' implied in the verb 'va-ye-da-ber' meaning 'and he spoke'. 'Elohim' refers to the Gods. 'El' is a root word meaning 'God' and the plural form 'Elohim' refers to the Gods. 'El-Noach' means 'to Noah'. 'Le-emor' means 'to say'. The entire verse indicates that the Gods spoke to Noah to say something.
[GEN.8.16] Go out from the ark, you and your wife and your sons and the wives of your sons with you. [§]
tseh min-ha-tehvah-ah at-tah veh-ish-teh-kah oo-vah-neh-kah oo-neh-sheh-bah-neh-kah it-tahk
This verse instructs Noah to leave the ark, taking his wife, sons, and their wives with him. Let's break down each element for a literal translation: ‘tseh’ means ‘go out’ or ‘leave’. ‘min’ means ‘from’. ‘ha-tehvah’ means ‘the ark’. ‘atah’ means ‘you’. ‘ve’ means ‘and’. ‘ishtehkah’ means ‘your wife’. ‘ubahnehkah’ means ‘and your sons’. ‘unehshehbahnaykah’ means ‘and the wives of your sons’. ‘ittahk’ means ‘with you’.
[GEN.8.17] All the living things that are with you, from all flesh, in the bird and in the animal, and all the creatures that crawl on the land, bring with you, and they will swarm on the land and be fruitful and multiply on the land. [§]
kal-ha-khaya asher it-kha mikhal-basar ba-of uvav-hema uvkhall-ha-remes ha-romes al-ha-aretz hav-tse it-kha veshartzu ba-aretz ufru veravu al-ha-aretz.
This verse instructs Noah to bring animals onto the ark. 'Kal' means 'all', 'ha-khaya' means 'the living things', 'asher' means 'that are with you', 'mikhal-basar' means 'from all flesh', 'ba-of' means 'in the bird', 'uvav-hema' means 'and in the animal', 'uvkhall-ha-remes ha-romes' means 'and all the creatures that crawl', 'al-ha-aretz' means 'on the land', 'hav-tse it-kha' means 'bring with you', 'veshartzu ba-aretz' means 'and they will swarm on the land', 'ufru' means 'and they will be fruitful', 'veravu' means 'and they will multiply', 'al-ha-aretz' means 'on the land'.
[GEN.8.18] And Noah exited, and his sons, and his wife, and the wives of his sons were with him. [§]
Va yetze Noah uvanav v'ishto u'neshei vanav ito.
This verse describes Noah exiting the ark with his family. 'Va yetze' means 'and he exited'. 'Noah' is Noah's name. 'Uvanav' means 'and his sons'. 'V'ishto' means 'and his wife'. 'U'neshei vanav' means 'and the wives of his sons'. 'Ito' means 'with him'.
[GEN.8.19] All the living, all the creeping things, and all the birds, all creeping things on the land, went out according to their families from the ark. [§]
kal-ha-khayah, kal-ha-remes ve-kol-ha-of, kol romes al-ha-aretz le-mishpechotehem yatzu min-ha-tebah.
This verse describes all living creatures exiting the ark. 'Kal' means 'all'. 'Ha-khayah' means 'the living'. 'Ha-remes' means 'the creeping things'. 'Ha-of' means 'the birds'. 'Romes' means 'creeping things'. 'Al-ha-aretz' means 'on the land'. 'Le-mishpechotehem' means 'according to their families'. 'Yatzu' means 'they went out'. 'Min-ha-tebah' means 'from the ark'.
[GEN.8.20] And Noah built an altar to Yahveh, and he took from all the pure animals and from all the pure birds, and he offered burnt offerings on the altar. [§]
Va-yiven Noach mizbeach la-Yahveh va-yikach mi-kol ha-behemah ha-tehorah u-mi-kol ha-of ha-tahor va-ya'al olot ba-mizbeach.
This verse describes Noah building an altar to Yahveh and offering sacrifices. 'Va-yiven' means 'and he built'. 'Mizbeach' means 'altar'. 'La-Yahveh' means 'to Yahveh'. 'Va-yikach' means 'and he took'. 'Mi-kol' means 'from all'. 'Ha-behemah' means 'the animals'. 'Ha-tehorah' means 'the pure'. 'Ha-of' means 'the birds'. 'Va-ya'al' means 'and he offered'. 'Olot' means 'burnt offerings'. 'Ba-mizbeach' means 'on the altar'.
[GEN.8.21] And Yahveh smelled a pleasing aroma, and Yahveh said to his heart, “I will not again curse the ground because of humankind, for the inclination of humankind’s heart is evil from his youth, and I will not again strike all living creatures as I have done.” [§]
Va-yarach Yahveh et-reichach ha-nichoch; va-yomer Yahveh el-libbo, lo osif le-kallel od et-ha-adamah ba-avor ha-adam, ki yetzer lev ha-adam ra min-ne'urav; ve-lo osif od le-hachot et-kol chai ka-asher asiti.
This verse describes Yahveh smelling a pleasing aroma and resolving not to curse the ground or strike down all living creatures again because of humankind's inherent wickedness. 'Va-yarach' means 'and smelled pleasantly'. 'Reichach' is 'the aroma', 'ha-nichoch' is 'the pleasing'. 'Va-yomer' means 'and said'. 'Libbo' is 'his heart'. 'Lo osif' means 'I will not add [to]', signifying 'I will not again'. 'Le-kallel' means 'to curse'. 'Od' means 'again'. 'Et-ha-adamah' means 'the ground'. 'Ba-avor' means 'because of'. 'Ha-adam' means 'the human'. 'Ki' means 'for'. 'Yetzer lev ha-adam' means 'the inclination of the human heart'. 'Ra' means 'evil'. 'Min-ne’urav' means 'from his youth'. 'Le-hachot' means 'to strike'. 'Kol chai' means 'all living creatures'. 'Ka-asher asiti' means 'as I have done'.
[GEN.8.22] Still, all the days of the Earth, seed and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will not cease. [§]
od kol-yemei ha-aretz zera ve-katsir ve-kor va-chom ve-kayits va-choref ve-yom va-layla lo yishbotu.
This verse speaks of the consistent, unending cycles of nature on Earth. 'Od' means 'still' or 'yet'. 'Kol yemei ha-aretz' means 'all the days of the Earth'. The following words are pairs describing natural phenomena: 'zera' (seed) and 'katsir' (harvest), 'kor' (cold) and 'chom' (heat), 'kayits' (summer) and 'choref' (winter), 'yom' (day) and 'layla' (night). 'Lo yishbotu' means 'will not cease' or 'will not rest'.
GEN.9
[GEN.9.1] And the Gods blessed Noah and his sons, and said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth." [§]
vayvarech elohim et-noch ve'et-banav vayomer lahem pru urevu umilu et-ha'aretz
This verse describes God blessing Noah and his sons, and commanding them to increase in number and fill the earth. 'Vayvarech' means 'and blessed'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker indicating the direct object. 'Noch' is 'Noah'. 'Ve'et-banav' means 'and his sons'. 'Vayomer' means 'and said'. 'Lahem' means 'to them'. 'Pru' means 'be fruitful'. 'Urevu' means 'and multiply'. 'Umilu' means 'and fill'. 'Et-ha'aretz' means 'the earth'.
[GEN.9.2] And the fear of you and the trembling caused by you will be upon all the animals of the land, and upon all the birds of the sky, in all that moves upon the earth and in all the fish of the sea, into your hands they were given. [§]
oo-mo-rah-keh-hem veh-heet-keh-hem yih-yeh al kol-khah-yat hah-ah-rets ve-al kol-of hah-shah-mah-yim beh-kol ah-sher tir-moh-sah hah-ah-dah-mah oo-veh-khal-deh-ghey hah-yahm beh-yed-keh-hem nee-tah-nu.
This verse details God’s granting of dominion over all living creatures to humankind. ‘Morah’ refers to fear or terror, ‘heet’ to trembling. The verse says that the fear and the trembling caused by humankind will be ‘upon’ all creatures. ‘Yed’ means hand, implying control or power. 'Nitannu' is the passive form, meaning 'were given'.
[GEN.9.3] All moving creatures that are alive will be for you to eat, as vegetation and herb I have given to you all things. [§]
kal-remes asher hu-khai lakhem yihyeh le'akhla keyrek esev natati lakhem et-kol.
This verse discusses what is permissible to eat. "Kal" means "all". "Remes" refers to living creatures that move on the ground, essentially animals. "Asher" means "which" or "that". "Hu-khai" means "is alive". "Lakhem" means "to you". "Yihyeh" means "will be". "Le'akhla" means "for eating". "Keyrek" is like "as vegetable". "Esev" means "grass" or "herb". "Natati" means "I have given". "Lakhem" again means "to you". "Et-kol" means "all things".
[GEN.9.4] But the flesh with its life, its blood you shall not eat. [§]
akh-bah-sar beh-naf-sho da-mo lo to-kh-eh-loo
This verse concerns a prohibition regarding the consumption of blood. "Akh" functions as 'but' or 'only'. "Basar" means flesh or meat. "Be-nafsho" means 'in its life' or 'in its soul'. "Damo" means 'its blood'. "Lo tokh-eh-loo" means 'you shall not eat'. The verse is instructing that the blood within the flesh is what is prohibited.
[GEN.9.5] And certainly, your life I will demand for your lives, from the hand of every living creature I will demand it, and from the hand of humanity, from the hand of each person, his brother, I will demand the life of the person. [§]
ve'ach et dimchem le'nafshoteichem edrosh miyad kol chaya edreshennu u'miyad ha'adam miyad ish achiv edrosh et nefesh ha'adam.
This verse concerns the sanctity of life and the accountability for taking a life. 'Dimchem' refers to your blood, symbolizing life. 'Nafshoteichem' means your souls or lives. The verse states that life will be demanded (sought after) from any living creature and from humanity, even from a brother’s hand. 'Yad' literally means 'hand' but is used here to represent agency or power over something.
[GEN.9.6] One who sheds the blood of a human in a human, their blood will be shed, because the Gods made the human in their image. [§]
shofek dam ha'adam ba'adam damo yishafek ki betzelem Elohim asa et-ha'adam
This verse discusses the consequence of shedding human blood. 'Shofek dam' means 'shedder of blood'. 'Ha'adam' means 'the human'. 'Ba'adam' means 'in the human'. 'Damo yishafek' means 'his blood will be shed'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Betzelem' means 'in the image of'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Asa' means 'made'. 'Et-ha'adam' means 'the human'. The verse establishes a principle of retribution: whoever sheds human blood will have their own blood shed, because humans are made in the image of the Gods.
[GEN.9.7] And you, be fruitful and multiply, swarm in the land and multiply in it. [§]
ve-athem pru u-revu shir-tsu ba-aretz u-revu-vah.
This verse contains imperatives – commands – directed towards humans. 've' means 'and'. 'athem' means 'you' (plural). 'pru' means 'be fruitful'. 'u' means 'and'. 'revu' means 'multiply'. 'shir-tsu' means 'swarm' or 'teem'. 'ba-aretz' means 'in the land'. 'u-revu-bah' means 'and multiply in it'.
[GEN.9.8] And the Gods said to Noah and to his sons with him, to say: [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim el-Noach ve-el-banav ito le-amor
This verse begins with the conjunction 'and', followed by the verb 'said'. 'Elohim' refers to 'the Gods'. 'El' means 'to' and 'Noach' is the name 'Noah'. 'Ve' is 'and', 'el' is 'to' again, and 'banav' means 'his sons'. 'Ito' means 'with him'. Finally, 'le-amor' is 'to say'.
[GEN.9.9] And I, here am I, establishing my covenant with you, and with your offspring after you. [§]
va-ani hin-nee me-keem et-bree-tee it-chem ve-et-zar-a-chem ach-a-re-chem
This verse contains several key terms. "Ani" means "I". "Hin-nee" means "here am I". "Me-keem" means "raising up" or "establishing". "Bree-tee" means "my covenant". "It-chem" means "with you". "Ve" means "and". "Zar-a-chem" means "your seed" or "your offspring". "Ach-a-re-chem" means "after you". The structure is a statement of intent by the speaker, declaring the establishment of a covenant with the addressed party and their descendants.
[GEN.9.10] And all living creatures which are with you, in the bird, in the beast, and all animals of the land which are with you, from all those coming out of the ark, to all animals of the land. [§]
ve'et kol-nefesh ha-chayah asher it-chem ba'of ba-behemah u-vechol-chayyat ha-aretz it-chem mikol yotzei ha-tebah lechol chayyat ha-aretz.
This verse details what God commanded Noah to bring onto the ark. ‘ve’et’ means ‘and’. ‘kol’ means ‘all’. ‘nefesh’ is literally ‘soul’ but in this context refers to ‘living creature’. ‘ha-chayah’ means ‘the living’. ‘asher’ means ‘which’. ‘it-chem’ means ‘with you’. ‘ba’of’ means ‘in the bird’. ‘ba-behemah’ means ‘in the beast’. ‘u-vechol’ means ‘and all’. ‘chayyat ha-aretz’ means ‘animals of the land’. ‘mikol’ means ‘from all’. ‘yotzei ha-tebah’ means ‘those coming out of the ark’. ‘lechol’ means ‘to all’. The final ‘chayyat ha-aretz’ is another repetition of ‘animals of the land’.
[GEN.9.11] And I will establish my covenant with you, and all flesh shall no longer be cut off by the waters of the flood, and there shall no longer be a flood to destroy the land. [§]
va'heqimoti et briti itkem v'lo yikaret kol basar od mimei hamabool v'lo yihyeh od mabool leshacheit ha'aretz.
This verse concerns God establishing a covenant with all life. 'Va'heqimoti' means 'and I will establish'. 'Et briti' means 'my covenant'. 'Itkem' means 'with you'. 'V'lo yikaret' means 'and shall not be cut off'. 'Kol basar' means 'all flesh'. 'Od' means 'again'. 'Mimei hamabool' means 'from the waters of the flood'. 'V'lo yihyeh' means 'and there shall not be'. 'Leshacheit' means 'to destroy'. 'Ha'aretz' means 'the land'.
[GEN.9.12] And the Gods said, "This is the sign of the covenant which I am giving between me and you, and between every living soul which are with you, for generations forever." [§]
vayomer elohim zot ot habrit asher ani noten beinai uveineichem ubein kol nefesh chaya asher itchechem ledorot olam.
This verse describes a covenant being established by 'the Gods' with humanity and all living creatures. 'Vayomer' means 'and said'. 'Zot' means 'this'. 'Ot' means 'sign'. 'Habrit' means 'the covenant'. 'Asher' means 'which'. 'Ani' means 'I'. 'Noten' means 'giving'. 'Beinai uveineichem' means 'between me and you'. 'Ubein kol nefesh chaya' means 'and between every living soul'. 'Asher itchechem' means 'which are with you'. 'Ledorot olam' means 'for generations forever'.
[GEN.9.13] I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be as a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. [§]
et-qash-ti na-ta-ti be-a-nan ve-ha-ye-ta le-ot brit bei-ni u-bei-n ha-a-retz.
This verse describes God establishing a covenant with the earth after the flood. "et" is an untranslatable particle. "qash-ti" means "my bow". "na-ta-ti" means "I have set". "be-a-nan" means "in the cloud". "ve-ha-ye-ta" means "and it shall be". "le-ot" means "as a sign". "brit" means "covenant". "bei-ni" means "between me". "u-bei-n" means "and between". "ha-a-retz" means "the earth".
[GEN.9.14] And it will be that in a cloud, a cloud is upon the earth, and the rainbow will be seen in the cloud. [§]
vehaya be’ani anan al-ha’aretz venir’eta ha’keshet be’anan.
This verse describes a cloud covering the earth and a rainbow appearing within that cloud. ‘Ani’ means cloud. ‘Aretz’ means earth. ‘Keshet’ means rainbow. ‘Anan’ also means cloud. The verse uses the future tense ‘hayah’ (became/will be).
[GEN.9.15] And I will remember my covenant which is between me and between you, and between every living soul in all flesh. And there will no longer be waters for a flood to destroy all flesh. [§]
veh-zah-khar-tee et ber-tee asher bee-nee oo-bee-ney-khem oo-bee-en kol nefesh khah-yah beh-kol bah-sar veh-lo yih-yeh ohd hah-ma-yim le-mah-bool le-shah-khet kol bah-sar
This verse describes God remembering a covenant made with Noah and all living creatures. It details a promise that there will never again be a flood to destroy all flesh. The verse utilizes several forms of 'God' ('El'), and references 'between me and you' and 'between every living soul in all flesh'.
[GEN.9.16] And the rainbow will be in the cloud, and I will see it as a reminder of the everlasting covenant between the Gods and between every living soul in all flesh that is on the earth. [§]
vehayah hakashet be’anan ure’itiha lizkor brit olam bein Elohim ubein kol nefesh chayah bekhal basar asher al haaretz.
This verse describes the rainbow as a sign of a covenant. 'Vehayah' means 'and it will be.' 'Hakashhet' is 'the rainbow.' 'Be’anan' is 'in the cloud.' 'Ure’itiha' means 'and I will see it.' 'Lizkor' means 'to remember.' 'Brit' is 'covenant.' 'Olam' is 'forever' or 'world.' 'Bein' means 'between.' 'Elohim' is 'the Gods.' 'Kol nefesh chayah' means 'every living soul.' 'Bekhal basar' means 'in all flesh.' 'Asher al haaretz' means 'that is on the earth.'
[GEN.9.17] And the Gods said to Noah, "This is the sign of the covenant which I established between me and all flesh which is on the earth." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim el-Noach, zot ot-ha-brit asher ha-ki-mo-ti bein-i u-bein kol-basar asher al-ha-aretz.
This verse begins with 'and said'. 'Elohim' refers to the Gods. 'El-Noach' means 'to Noah'. 'Zot' means 'this'. 'Ot-ha-brit' means 'sign of the covenant'. 'Asher' means 'which'. 'Ha-ki-mo-ti' means 'I established'. 'Bein-i' means 'between me'. 'U-bein' means 'and between'. 'Kol-basar' means 'all flesh'. 'Asher al-ha-aretz' means 'which is on the earth'.
[GEN.9.18] And the sons of Noah, the exiting ones from the ark, were Shem, Cham, and Ya-fet, and Cham was the father of Ke-na-an. [§]
Va-yee-hyoo b’nee-No-ach ha-yo-tzee-eem meen ha-teh-vah Shem ve-Cham va-Ya-fet ve-Cham hoo av-ee Ke-na-an.
This verse describes the sons of Noah who exited the ark. 'B’nee-No-ach' means 'sons of Noah'. 'Ha-yo-tzee-eem' means 'the exiting ones'. 'Meen ha-teh-vah' means 'from the ark'. 'Shem ve-Cham va-Ya-fet' lists the three sons: Shem, Cham, and Ya-fet. 'Hoo av-ee Ke-na-an' means 'he is the father of Ke-na-an', referring to Cham.
[GEN.9.19] These three are the sons of Noah, and from these, the whole earth was populated. [§]
Shloshah eleh benei-Noah umei'eleh nafetsa kol-ha'aretz.
This verse lists the sons of Noah and states that the whole earth was populated from them. 'Shloshah' means 'three'. 'Eleh' means 'these'. 'Benei' means 'sons of'. 'Noah' is a proper noun, 'Noah'. 'Umei'eleh' means 'and from these'. 'Nafetsa' means 'spread out' or 'populated'. 'Kol' means 'all' or 'whole'. 'Ha'aretz' means 'the earth'.
[GEN.9.20] And Noah began to be a man of the soil, and he planted a vineyard. [§]
Va-yachel Noah ish ha-adamah va-yita Noah karem.
This verse describes Noah beginning to be a man of the soil and planting a vineyard. 'Va-yachel' means 'and he began'. 'Noah' is the proper name Noah. 'Ish' means 'man'. 'Ha-adamah' means 'the soil' or 'the earth'. 'Va-yita' means 'and he planted'. 'Karem' means 'vineyard'.
[GEN.9.21] And he drank from the wine and became drunk, and he uncovered himself inside his tent. [§]
vayesht min-hayayin vayishkar vayitgal betoch oholo.
This verse describes Noah drinking wine from what had grown, becoming drunk, and uncovering himself inside his tent. 'Vayesht' means 'and he drank'. 'Min-hayayin' means 'from the wine'. 'Vayishkar' means 'and he became drunk'. 'Vayitgal' means 'and he uncovered'. 'Betoch' means 'inside'. 'Oholo' means 'his tent'.
[GEN.9.22] And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father, and he told his two brothers outside. [§]
Va-yar cham avi kena’an et ervat avi, va-yaged li-shnei-echav ba-chutz.
This verse describes Ham, the father of Canaan, seeing the nakedness of his father. He then told his two brothers about it outdoors. 'Va-yar' means 'and he saw'. 'Cham' is the name Ham. 'Avi' means 'father of'. 'Kena’an' is the name Canaan. 'Et' is a particle marking the direct object. 'Ervat' means 'nakedness'. 'Va-yaged' means 'and he told'. 'Li-shnei-echav' means 'to his two brothers'. 'Ba-chutz' means 'outside' or 'outdoors'.
[GEN.9.23] And Shem and Japheth took the garment, and they placed it upon their shoulders, and they went backwards, and they covered the nakedness of their father. And their faces were turned backwards, and they did not see the nakedness of their father. [§]
Va-yikach Shem ve-Phet et-ha-simlah va-yasimu al-shkhem shneihem va-yelkhu achoraniit va-yekassu et ervat avihm ufneihem achoraniit ve-ervat avihm lo rau.
This verse describes Shem and Japheth covering their father Noah’s nakedness after he became drunk. 'Va-yikach' means 'and took'. 'Shem' is a proper noun, a name. 've-Phet' means 'and Japheth'. 'et-ha-simlah' means 'the garment'. 'va-yasimu' means 'and they placed'. 'al-shkhem' means 'on their shoulders'. 'shneihem' means 'both of them'. 'va-yelkhu' means 'and they went'. 'achoraniit' means 'backwards'. 'va-yekassu' means 'and they covered'. 'et ervat avihm' means 'the nakedness of their father'. 'ufneihem' means 'and their faces'. 've-ervat avihm' means 'and the nakedness of their father'. 'lo rau' means 'did not see'.
[GEN.9.24] And Noah awoke from his wine, and he knew what his youngest son had done to him. [§]
va-yee-kets no-ach mee-yay-no, va-yay-da ay-t ah-shehr-ah-sah-loh leh-vno ha-kah-tahn.
This verse describes Noah awakening from his wine and discovering what his youngest son had done to him. 'Vayiketz' means 'and he awoke'. 'Noah' is the proper name Noah. 'Miyyeino' means 'from his wine'. 'Vayedah' means 'and he knew'. 'Et asher' is a grammatical construct often translated as 'what'. 'Asah lo' means 'he did to him'. 'Bno hakatan' means 'his youngest son'.
[GEN.9.25] And he said, “Cursed is Canaan; a servant of servants he will be to his brothers.” [§]
va-yo-mer a-ru-r ke-na-an, e-ved a-va-dim yi-hyeh le-e-cha-v
This verse comes from Genesis 9:25. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'A-ru-r' means 'cursed'. 'Ke-na-an' is the name Canaan. 'E-ved' means 'servant'. 'A-va-dim' is the plural of 'e-ved', meaning 'servants'. 'Yi-hyeh' means 'he will be'. 'Le-e-cha-v' means 'to his brothers'.
[GEN.9.26] And he said, "Blessed be Yahveh, the Gods of name, and let Canaan be a servant to them." [§]
Va-yo-mer ba-ruch Yahveh Elohim shem, vi-hi ke-na-an e-ved la-mo.
This verse consists of several components. "Va-yo-mer" means "and he said". "Ba-ruch" means "blessed". "Yahveh" is the proper name of God. "Elohim" is 'the Gods'. "Shem" means 'name'. "Vi-hi" means 'and it will be'. "Ke-na-an" means 'like Canaan'. "E-ved" means 'servant'. "La-mo" means 'to them'. Therefore, the verse is about someone blessing the Gods and prophesizing Canaan's servitude to them.
[GEN.9.27] May the Gods expand Japheth’s territory, and may he dwell in the tents of Shem, and may Canaan be a servant to them. [§]
yaf-teh elo-heem le-yeh-fet ve-yish-kon be-oh-holei-shem ve-hee ke-na-an eh-ved la-moh
This verse describes a prophecy concerning the descendants of Noah's sons. "Yafteh" means "may God expand", referring to a blessing or prophecy. "Eloheem" is the plural form of "El", indicating the Gods. "Le-yeh-fet" means "to Japheth". "Ve-yish-kon" means "and may he dwell". "Be-oh-holei-shem" means "in the tents of Shem". "Ve-hee" means "and may he be". "Ke-na-an" means "like Canaan". "Eh-ved" means "a servant". "La-moh" means "to them". The verse predicts that God will expand Japheth's territory, he will dwell in the tents of Shem, and Canaan will be a servant to them.
[GEN.9.28] And Noah lived after the flood three hundred years and fifty years. [§]
va-ye-chee No-ach a-char ha-mav-bool shal-osh may-ot sha-nah va-cha-mish-shim sha-nah.
This verse states the length of Noah's life after the flood. 'Va-ye-chee' means 'and lived'. 'No-ach' is the name Noah. 'A-char' means 'after'. 'Ha-mav-bool' means 'the flood'. 'Shal-osh may-ot' means 'three hundred'. 'Sha-nah' means 'years'. 'Va-cha-mish-shim' means 'and fifty'.
[GEN.9.29] And all the days of Noah were nine hundred and fifty years, and he died. [§]
va-yih-yu kol-ye-mei-noch te-shah me-ot sha-nah va-ha-mi-shim sha-nah va-ya-mot.
This verse states the total years of Noah's life and then states that he died. 'Va-yih-yu' means 'and were', indicating a total count. 'Kol-ye-mei' means 'all the days of'. 'Noah' is a proper noun, the name of the person. 'Te-shah me-ot' means 'nine hundred'. 'Sha-nah' means 'year'. 'Va-ha-mi-shim' means 'and five'. 'Va-ya-mot' means 'and he died'.
GEN.10
[GEN.10.1] And these are the accounts of the sons of Noah: Shem, Cham, and Japheth. And they had sons after the flood. [§]
veh-eh-leh toh-loh-doht ben-ay no-akh shem cham vay-a-fet vay-yo-val-du la-hem ba-nim a-char ha-ma-bool
This verse introduces the genealogy of Noah’s sons. ‘Veh-eh-leh’ means ‘and these’. ‘Toh-loh-doht’ translates to ‘generations’ or ‘accounts of’. ‘Ben-ay No-akh’ means ‘sons of Noah’. ‘Shem, Cham, vay-a-fet’ are the names of those sons – Shem, Cham, and Japheth. ‘Vay-yo-val-du la-hem ba-nim’ means ‘and they had sons’. ‘A-char ha-ma-bool’ means ‘after the flood’.
[GEN.10.2] The sons of Japheth are Gomar and Magog and Madai and Javan and Tubal and Meshech and Tiras. [§]
bə·nê ye·fet go·mer ū·mā·gōg ū·mā·day wə·yā·wān wə·tu·ḇāl ū·me·šek wə·ti·rās
This verse lists the descendants of Japheth. Each name represents a people group or tribe. The words 'bə·nê' means 'sons of'. 'ye·fet' is the name Japheth. The 'ū' and 'wə' are conjunctions meaning 'and'. The remaining words are the names of the descendants: 'go·mer', 'mā·gōg', 'mā·day', 'yā·wān', 'tu·ḇāl', 'me·šek', and 'ti·rās'. 'Yāveh' is not present in this verse.
[GEN.10.3] And the descendants of Gomar are Ashkenaz and Riphath and Togarmah. [§]
oo-v’nay Go-mer Ash-keh-naz v’ree-fat v’toe-gar-mah
This verse lists the descendants of Gomar. ‘B’nai’ means ‘sons’ or ‘descendants of’. ‘Gomer’ is a proper noun, a name. ‘Ashkenaz’, ‘Riphath’ and ‘Togarmah’ are also proper nouns, names of peoples or places. The ‘v’ represents ‘and’.
[GEN.10.4] And the sons of Javan are Elishah and Tarshish, the Kittim and the Dodanim. [§]
oo-ve-nay Yavahn eh-lee-shah ve-tar-shish kee-teem ve-doe-da-neem
This verse lists the descendants of Javan (son of Japheth). 'Yavahn' is a variant spelling of 'Javan'. 'elisha' means 'belonging to'. 'tarshish' is a place name. 'keetim' refers to Kittim, a people. 'dodanim' refers to the Dodanim, a people.
[GEN.10.5] From these, the islands of the nations were scattered in their lands, each to their language, to their families among the nations. [§]
may-eh-leh nip-reh-doo ee-yay ha-goy-eem be-ar-tzo-tam ee-ish lee-lish-ono le-mish-pah-cho-tam be-goy-ei-hem.
This verse describes the division of the nations after the flood. "May-eh-leh" means "from these". "Nip-reh-doo" means "they were scattered". "Ee-yay ha-goy-eem" means "islands of the nations". "Be-ar-tzo-tam" means "in their lands". "Ee-ish lee-lish-ono" means "each to their language". "Le-mish-pah-cho-tam" means "to their families". "Be-goy-ei-hem" means "among the nations".
[GEN.10.6] And the sons of Ham are Cush, Egypt, Put, and Canaan. [§]
oo-ve-nee khaam koosch oo-meetz-rah-yeem oo-foot oo-keh-nah-ahn
This verse lists the sons of Ham. Each name is a proper noun referring to a people or land. 'Benei' means 'sons of'. 'Cham' is the name of a person, Ham. 'Kush' is the name of a person, Cush. 'Mitzrayim' is the name of a place, Egypt. 'Foot' is the name of a person, Put. 'Kenahan' is the name of a person, Canaan.
[GEN.10.7] The descendants of Kush are Sheba, Havilah, Sabtah, Raamah, and Sabtechah. The descendants of Raamah are Sheba and Dedan. [§]
ooov’nei kohsh s’vah v’chavilah v’savtah v’ra’mah v’savtechah oov’nei ra’mah sh’vah ooode’dan
This verse lists the descendants of Kush. Each name represents a people or a place. "B’nei" means "sons of" or "descendants of". The verse simply states who came from whom.
[GEN.10.8] And Cush fathered Nimrod. He began to be a mighty one on the earth. [§]
Ve-koosh ya-lad et-nim-rod, hu he-chel li-hyot gib-bor ba-aretz.
This verse describes Cush fathering Nimrod, and Nimrod beginning to be a mighty one on the earth. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Koosh' is a proper noun, a person's name. 'Ya-lad' means 'he fathered' or 'he bore'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker indicating a definite object. 'Nim-rod' is a proper noun, a person's name. 'Hu' means 'he'. 'He-chel' means 'he began'. 'Li-hyot' means 'to be'. 'Gib-bor' means 'mighty one' or 'hero'. 'Ba-aretz' means 'on the earth'.
[GEN.10.9] He was a mighty hunter before Yahveh; therefore, it is said, like Nimrod, a mighty hunter before Yahveh. [§]
Hu-ha-yah gib-bor-tzayd lif-nei Yahveh al-ken ye-emar k’nim-rod gib-bor tzaid lif-nei Yahveh.
This verse describes a man as a mighty hunter before Yahveh. It then states that because of this, he is spoken of as Nimrod, a mighty hunter before Yahveh. The verse is establishing a reputation or a title based on this individual’s skill as a hunter in relation to Yahveh.
[GEN.10.10] And the beginning of his kingdom was Babel, and Erech, and Akkad, and Calneh, in the land of Shinar. [§]
va-tee re-sheet mam-lak-hto ba-vel ve-e-rech ve-ak-kad ve-kal-neh be-eretz shin-ar
This verse lists the initial cities within the kingdom of Nimrod. 'Re'sheet' means 'beginning' or 'first'. 'Mamlakhto' refers to 'his kingdom'. 'Ba-vel' is Babel, 'Erech' is Erech, 'Akad' is Akkad, and 'Kalneh' is Calneh. 'Be-eretz Shin'ar' means 'in the land of Shinar'.
[GEN.10.11] From that land Ashur went out and built Nineveh, and the cities Rechovot and Calah. [§]
min-ha-aretz ha-hi yatsa Ashur vayiven et Ninveh et Rechovot ir ve'et Kalah.
This verse describes the origin of Ashur and the cities it built. 'Min' means 'from'. 'Ha-aretz' means 'the land'. 'Ha-hi' means 'that'. 'Yatsa' means 'went out' or 'came forth'. 'Ashur' is a proper noun, the name of a nation and a god. 'Vayiven' means 'and built'. 'Et' is an accusative marker. 'Ninveh', 'Rechovot', and 'Kalah' are names of cities. 'Ir' means 'city'. 'Ve'et' is 'and' followed by the accusative marker.
[GEN.10.12] And Resen is between Nineveh and between Calah. It is the great city. [§]
veh-et-re-sen bein nee-neh-veh oo-bein kee-lah hee hee-eer hah-goh-doh-lah
This verse describes the location of Resen, a city. 'Veh-et' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'Resen' is a proper noun, the name of a city. 'Bein' means 'between'. 'Nee-neh-veh' is the city of Nineveh, another proper noun. 'Oo-bein' means 'and between'. 'Kee-lah' is a proper noun, the name of a city. 'Hee' is a demonstrative pronoun, equivalent to 'it' or 'she'. 'Ha-eer' means 'the city'. 'Ha-goh-doh-lah' means 'the great'. The overall structure is defining the location of Resen as being between two other cities.
[GEN.10.13] Egypt brought forth the Ludites, and the Anamites, and the Lehabites, and the Naphtuhites. [§]
oo-mitz-rah-yim yah-lahd et-loo-deem ve-et-ah-nah-meem ve-et-leh-hah-veem ve-et-naf-too-heem
This verse describes the descendants of Egypt. "Mitzrayim" refers to Egypt. "Yahlad" means "brought forth" or "fathered". The remaining words are proper nouns representing different tribes or peoples.
[GEN.10.14] And the Patrusians and the Kasluchians, which came forth from there, the Philistines, and the Kaftorians. [§]
ve'et-patrusim ve'et-kasluchim asher yatzu misham pelishtim ve'et-kaftorim.
This verse lists the origins of the Philistines. "Patrusim", "Kasluchim", and "Kaftorim" are understood to be regions or peoples from which the Philistines originated. The word 'asher' means 'which' or 'that'. 'Yatzu' means 'they came forth' or 'they went out'. 'Misham' means 'from there'. 'Pelishtim' is the plural form of 'Philistine'. 'Ve'et' is a combination of conjunction and direct object marker.
[GEN.10.15] And Canaan fathered Sidon, his firstborn, and Heth. [§]
u-khna'an ya-lad et-tsidon bekho-ro ve-et-khet.
This verse comes from Genesis 10:15. 'U' means 'and'. 'Khna'an' is Canaan. 'Ya-lad' means 'he fathered' or 'he begat'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker indicating the direct object. 'Tsidon' is Sidon. 'Bekho-ro' means 'his firstborn'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Khet' is Heth.
[GEN.10.16] And the Jebusite, and the Amorite, and the Girgashite. [§]
ve'et-hayevusi ve'et ha'emori ve'et hagirgashi
This verse lists the names of Canaanite peoples. Each name is prefixed with 'et', a grammatical particle indicating a direct object. 'Hayevusi' refers to the Jebusites, 'ha'emori' to the Amorites, and 'hagirgashi' to the Girgashites. Each of these are proper nouns referring to a people group.
[GEN.10.17] And the Hivites, and the Arkites, and the Sinites. [§]
ve'et-hakhivi ve'et-ha'arki ve'et-hasini
This verse lists the names of peoples. 'Et' is a particle marking the direct object. 'Hakhivi' refers to the Hivites. 'Ha'arki' refers to the Arkites. 'Hasini' refers to the Sinites.
[GEN.10.18] And the Arvadite, and the Zemarite, and the Hamathite, and after they were scattered, the families of the Canaanite. [§]
ve'et-ha'arvadi ve'et-hatzemari ve'et-hachamati ve'achar napotsu mishpechot hakkenani
This verse lists several peoples who descended from Canaan. 'Arvadi' refers to the Arvadites, 'Tzemari' to the Zemarites, and 'Chamati' to the Hamathites. The phrase 'achar napotsu' means 'after they were scattered,' and 'mishpechot hakkenani' means 'the families of the Canaanite.'
[GEN.10.19] And the border of the Canaanite was from Sidon, in the direction of Gerarah, to Gaza, in the direction of Sodom and Gomorrah, and Admah and Zeboim to Lasha. [§]
vayhi g'vul hak'na'ani mitsidon bo'akha gerara ad-azza bo'akha s'doma va'amora v'adma utzvoyim ad-lasha
This verse describes the border of the Canaanites. 'Vayhi' indicates a past event – 'and it was'. 'G'vul' means border. 'Hak'na'ani' means 'the Canaanite'. 'Mitsidon' is 'from Sidon'. 'Bo'akha' implies 'toward' or 'in the direction of'. 'Gerara' is a place name. 'Ad-azza' means 'to Gaza'. 'Bo'akha s'doma va'amora' means 'toward Sodom and Gomorrah'. 'V'adma' means 'and Admah'. 'Utzvoyim' means 'and Zeboim'. 'Ad-lasha' means 'to Lasha'. This is a geographical description, outlining the extent of Canaanite territory.
[GEN.10.20] These are the sons of Ham, to their families, to their languages, in their lands, in their nations. [§]
eh-leh ben-ay kham le-mish-pakh-otam leel-shon-otam be-ar-tzotam be-go-yay-hem.
This verse lists the descendants of Ham. "eh-leh" means "these". "ben-ay" means "sons of". "khahm" is the name "Ham". "le-mish-pakh-otam" means "to their families". "leel-shon-otam" means "to their languages". "be-ar-tzotam" means "in their lands". "be-go-yay-hem" means "in their nations".
[GEN.10.21] And to Shem, a son will also be born; he will be the father of all the sons of Eber, the brother of Japheth the great. [§]
u-le-shem yulad gam-hu av-i kol-bnei-ever achi yefet ha-gadol.
This verse discusses the lineage of Shem. 'u-le-shem' means 'and to Shem'. 'yulad' means 'will be born'. 'gam-hu' means 'also he'. 'av-i' means 'father of'. 'kol-bnei-ever' means 'all the sons of Eber'. 'achi' means 'brother of'. 'yefet' is a proper noun, the name Japheth. 'ha-gadol' means 'the great'. Overall, the verse states that a son will be born to Shem, who will be the father of all the sons of Eber, the brother of Japheth the great.
[GEN.10.22] The sons of Shem are Elam and Asshur and Arpachshad and Lud and Aram. [§]
bə-nê shêm ‘êlām wə-’ashūr wə-’arpakshad wə-lûd wa-’aram
This verse lists the descendants of Shem. ‘bə-nê’ means ‘sons of’. ‘shêm’ is the name ‘Shem’. ‘êlām’ is the name ‘Elam’. ‘wə’ is a conjunction meaning ‘and’. ‘ashūr’ is the name ‘Asshur’. ‘arpakshad’ is the name ‘Arpachshad’. ‘lûd’ is the name ‘Lud’. ‘aram’ is the name ‘Aram’.
[GEN.10.23] And the sons of Aram were Utz and Chool and Geter and Mash. [§]
oo-ve-nei a-ram oo-tz ve-chool ve-ge-ter va-mash
This verse lists the names of sons of Aram. 'Benei' means 'sons of', 'Aram' is a proper noun denoting a people and territory, and the following words are individual names of people or places. The 've' conjunction means 'and'.
[GEN.10.24] And Arpakhshad fathered Shalak, and Shalak fathered Ever. [§]
ve-ar-pak-shad ya-lad et-sha-lakh ve-sha-lakh ya-lad et-e-ver
This verse lists descendants in a genealogy. 've' means 'and'. 'ar-pak-shad' is a proper name, likely a person’s name. 'ya-lad' means 'he begat' or 'he fathered'. 'et' is a grammatical marker, indicating a definite direct object. 'sha-lakh' is another proper name. 'e-ver' is yet another proper name.
[GEN.10.25] And to Eber were born two sons. The name of the one was Peleg, because in his days the land was split. And the name of his brother was Yak-tan. [§]
u-le-e-ver yu-lad shnei banim shem ha-echad peleg ki be-yamav nif-lega ha-aretz ve-shem achiv yak-tan.
This verse describes the sons of Eber. 'Eber' is a proper noun, a person's name. 'Yu-lad' means 'were born'. 'Shnei banim' means 'two sons'. 'Shem ha-echad' means 'the name of the one'. 'Peleg' is a proper noun, a person's name. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Be-yamav' means 'in his days'. 'Nif-lega' means 'was split'. 'Ha-aretz' means 'the land'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Shem achiv' means 'the name of his brother'. 'Yak-tan' is a proper noun, a person's name.
[GEN.10.26] And Joktan fathered Almodad, and Shelef, and Hatzarmavet, and Yarach. [§]
ve-yak-tan ya-lad et-al-mo-dad ve-et-sha-lef ve-et-cha-tzar-ma-vet ve-et-ya-rach.
This verse lists the sons of Joktan. "Ve" means "and". "Yak-tan" is the name Joktan. "Ya-lad" means "he bore" or "he fathered". "Et" is a grammatical particle marking the direct object. "Al-mo-dad", "Sha-lef", "Cha-tzar-ma-vet", and "Ya-rach" are the names of Joktan’s sons.
[GEN.10.27] And with the glory, and with strength, and with the palm tree. [§]
ve'et-ha-doram ve'et-uzal ve'et-diklah
This verse consists of a conjunction 'and' followed by a prepositional phrase 'and with' repeated three times, each time followed by a noun. 'ha-doram' means 'the glory', 'uzal' means 'strength', and 'diklah' means 'palm tree'. This appears to be a listing of attributes or possessions.
[GEN.10.28] And Obal, and Avimael, and Shevah. [§]
veh-et-oh-val veh-et-ah-vee-mah-el veh-et-sheh-vah
This verse lists three names. 'Et' is a particle that does not translate directly, but indicates the following word is the direct object of a verb that has been omitted. 'Obal', 'Avimael', and 'Shevah' are all proper names, likely of people.
[GEN.10.29] And Ophir, and Havilah, and Yobab, all these are sons of Yahveh. [§]
veh-et-oh-feer veh-et-khah-vee-lah veh-et-yo-vahv kah-kol-eh-leh beh-nay yahk-tahn
This verse lists the descendants of Joktan. 'Veh-et' means 'and'. 'Oh-feer' is a place name. 'Khah-vee-lah' is a place name. 'Yo-vahv' is a place name. 'Kah-kol-eh-leh' means 'all these'. 'Beh-nay' means 'sons of'. 'Yahk-tahn' is a proper name.
[GEN.10.30] And it was that their settlements were from Mesha, to the inlet, to Sephar, the mountain of the east. [§]
va-ye-hi mo-sha-vam mi-me-sha bo-a-chah se-fa-rah har ha-kedem
This verse describes the places where Israel camped after leaving Egypt. 'vayhi' means 'and it was'. 'moshavam' means 'their settlements' or 'their places of rest'. 'mi-mesha' means 'from Mesha'. 'boachah' refers to a specific location, 'the inlet'. 'sefarah' is a place name, 'Sephar'. 'har ha-kedem' means 'mountain of the east'.
[GEN.10.31] These are the sons of Shem, according to their families, according to their languages, in their lands, according to their nations. [§]
el-leh ben-ay-shem le-mish-pah-hot-am li-lesh-on-ot-am be-ar-tzot-am le-goy-ay-hem.
This verse lists the descendants of Shem. "Elleh" means "these". "Benei" means "sons of". "Shem" is a proper noun, the name of a person. "L'mishpachotam" means "to their families". "L'lishonotam" means "to their languages". "Be'artzotam" means "in their lands". "Le'goyeihem" means "to their nations".
[GEN.10.32] These are the families of the sons of Noah, according to their origins among their nations. And from these the nations were separated across the earth after the flood. [§]
Elleh mishpekhot benei-Nokh letoledotam begoyeihem umei'elleh nifredu hagoyim ba'aretz akharei hamabool.
This verse lists the families descended from Noah, according to their nations, and states that the nations dispersed across the earth after the flood. "Elleh" means these. "Mishpekhot" means families. "Benei-Nokh" means sons of Noah. "Letoledotam" means according to their generations/origins. "Begoyeihem" means among their nations. "Umei'elleh" means and from these. "Nifredu" means they were separated/dispersed. "Hagoyim" means the nations. "Ba'aretz" means in the land/earth. "Akharei hamabool" means after the flood.
GEN.11
[GEN.11.1] And it happened that all the earth had one language and unified words. [§]
Va-yhi kol-ha-aretz safah echat u-dvarim achadim.
This verse describes a time when all the earth had one language and shared common words. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it happened'. 'Kol-ha-aretz' means 'all the earth'. 'Safah' means 'language'. 'Echat' means 'one'. 'U' means 'and'. 'Dvarim' means 'words'. 'Achadim' means 'same' or 'unified'.
[GEN.11.2] And it came to pass as they traveled from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar, and they settled there. [§]
Va-yi-hi be-nas-am mi-ke-dem va-yim-tzo-u biq-ah be-eretz shin-ar va-yesh-vu sham.
This verse describes a group traveling from the east and finding a plain in the land of Shinar, where they then settled. 'Va-yi-hi' signifies 'and it came to pass'. 'Be-nas-am' means 'as they traveled'. 'Mi-ke-dem' is 'from the east'. 'Va-yim-tzo-u' means 'and they found'. 'Biq-ah' is 'a plain'. 'Be-eretz' means 'in the land of'. 'Shin-ar' is the name of a place. 'Va-yesh-vu' means 'and they settled'. 'Sham' is 'there'.
[GEN.11.3] And they said, man to his fellow, "Let us make bricks and bake them thoroughly." And the brick became for them as stone, and the clay was for them as mortar. [§]
vayomeru ish el re’ehu hava nilbena levanim venisrepha lisrepha vathehi lahem halevena le’aven vehachemar haya lahem lachomer
This verse describes the people deciding to make bricks and bake them to use as stone and mortar. 'Vayomeru' means 'and they said'. 'Ish el re’ehu' means 'man to his fellow'. 'Hava nilbena' means 'let us make'. 'Levanim' means 'bricks'. 'Venisrepha' means 'and bake'. 'Lisrepha' means 'to bake'. 'Vathehi lahem' means 'and it became for them'. 'Halevna' means 'the brick'. 'Le’aven' means 'to stone'. 'Vehachemar' means 'and the clay'. 'Haya lahem' means 'was for them'. 'Lachomer' means 'to mortar'.
[GEN.11.4] And they said, "Let us build for ourselves a city and a tower, and let its head be in the heavens, and let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered upon the face of all the earth." [§]
Va'yomru hava nivneh lanu ir u'migdal v'rosho bashamayim v'na'aseh lanu shem pen nafu tz al p'nei kol ha'aretz.
This verse describes the builders of Babel. 'Va'yomru' means 'and they said'. 'Hava' means 'let us'. 'Nivneh' means 'we will build'. 'Lanu' means 'for us'. 'Ir' means 'city'. 'U'migdal' means 'and tower'. 'V'rosho' means 'and its head'. 'Bashamayim' means 'in the heavens'. 'V'na'aseh' means 'and we will make'. 'Shem' means 'a name'. 'Pen' means 'lest'. 'Nafutz' means 'scattered'. 'Al p'nei' means 'upon the face of'. 'Kol ha'aretz' means 'all the earth'.
[GEN.11.5] And Yahveh descended to see the city and the tower that the children of humankind built. [§]
Va-yered Yahveh li-re-ot et-ha-ir ve-et-ha-mig-dal a-sher banu b-nei ha-adam.
This verse describes Yahveh descending to see the city and the tower that the children of humankind built. "Va-yered" means "and descended". "li-re-ot" means "to see". "et-ha-ir" means "the city". "ve-et-ha-mig-dal" means "and the tower". "a-sher banu" means "that built". "b-nei ha-adam" means "children of humankind".
[GEN.11.6] And Yahveh said, "Behold, there is one people and one language for all of them, and this is their beginning to do. And now, nothing will be restrained from them, all that they have devised to do." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh hen am echad ve-safah achat le-kul-lam ve-zeh ha-chil-lam la-asot ve-atah lo-yi-bat-zer me-hem kol asher yaz-mu la-asot.
This verse describes God observing humanity’s unity of language and purpose. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Hen' means 'behold'. 'Am' means 'people'. 'Echad' means 'one'. 'Ve-safah' means 'and language'. 'Achat' means 'one'. 'Le-kul-lam' means 'to all of them'. 'Ve-zeh' means 'and this'. 'Ha-chil-lam' means 'their beginning'. 'La-asot' means 'to do'. 'Ve-atah' means 'and now'. 'Lo-yi-bat-zer' means 'will not be restrained'. 'Me-hem' means 'from them'. 'Kol' means 'all'. 'Asher' means 'that'. 'Yaz-mu' means 'they have devised'. 'La-asot' means 'to do'.
[GEN.11.7] Come, let us descend and confuse there their language, that no person will hear the language of his neighbor. [§]
ha-vah nerdah ve-navlah sham se-fa-tam asher lo yish-me-u ish se-fat re-eh-hu.
This verse discusses a divine plan to confuse the language of humanity. "Hava" is an interjection suggesting 'let us'. "Nerdah" means 'let us descend'. "Navlah" means 'let us confuse'. "Se-fa-tam" means 'their language'. "Asher" means 'that' or 'which'. "Lo yish-me-u" means 'they will not hear'. "Ish" means 'a person'. "Se-fat" means 'the language of'. "Re-eh-hu" means 'his neighbor'.
[GEN.11.8] And Yahveh scattered them from there across the face of all the land, and they ceased building the city. [§]
va-yafetz Yahveh otam misham al-pnei kol-ha-aretz va-yachdelu livnot ha-ir.
This verse describes God scattering people across the face of the earth and their ceasing to build the city. 'va-yafetz' means 'and scattered'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'otam' means 'them'. 'misham' means 'from there'. 'al-pnei' means 'upon the face of'. 'kol-ha-aretz' means 'all the land'. 'va-yachdelu' means 'and they ceased'. 'livnot' means 'to build'. 'ha-ir' means 'the city'.
[GEN.11.9] Therefore its name was called Babel, because there Yahveh confused the language of all the earth, and from there Yahveh scattered them upon the face of all the earth. [§]
al-ken kara shmah babel ki-sham balal Yahveh sefat kol-ha'aretz u-misham hefitzam Yahveh al-pnei kol-ha'aretz.
This verse explains the origin of the name Babel (Babylon). It states that it was named thus because there Yahveh confused the language of all the earth, and from there Yahveh scattered them across the face of all the earth.
[GEN.11.10] These are the generations of Shem. Shem was one hundred years old and he begot Arpakhshad, two years after the flood. [§]
elleh toledot shem, shem ben me’at shanah vayyoled et arpakhshad, shnatayim akhar hamabool.
This verse begins with “elleh toledot shem,” which means “these are the generations of Shem.” “Shem” is a proper noun, a name. “Ben” means “son.” “Me’at shanah” means “one hundred years.” “Vayyoled” means “and he begot.” “Et” is a grammatical particle. “Arpakhshad” is a proper noun, a name. “Shnatayim” means “two years.” “Akhar” means “after.” “Hamabool” means “the flood.” The verse details Shem having a son, Arpakhshad, two years after the flood.
[GEN.11.11] And Shem lived five hundred years after he fathered Arpachshad, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
va-ye-chee-shem ah-cha-rei ho-lee-do et-ar-pach-shad cha-mesh may-ot sha-nah va-yo-led ba-nim u-ba-not.
This verse describes Shem living for five hundred years after he fathered Arpachshad, and then having sons and daughters. "Vayechi" means "and he lived". "Shem" is a proper name. "Acharei" means "after". "Holido" means "fathered". "Et" is a grammatical marker. "Arpachshad" is a proper name. "Chamesh" means "five". "Meot" means "hundreds". "Shanah" means "years". "Vayoled" means "and he fathered". "Banim" means "sons". "U" means "and". "Banot" means "daughters".
[GEN.11.12] And Arpachshad lived for five and thirty years, and he bore Shelah. [§]
ve-ar-pakh-shad khai khah-mesh oo-shlo-shim sha-nah va-yo-led et-she-lakh.
This verse describes Arpachshad living for thirty-five years and then having a son named Shelah. The words are fairly straightforward in their grammatical structure. 've' means 'and', 'khai' means 'lived', 'khah-mesh' is 'five', 'oo' is 'and', 'shlo-shim' is 'thirty', 'sha-nah' is 'year', 'va' is 'and', 'yo-led' is 'he bore/brought forth', 'et' is a direct object marker, and 'she-lakh' is the name Shelah.
[GEN.11.13] And Arpachshad lived after he fathered Shelah, three years and four hundred years, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
va-ye-khi ar-pak-shad akh-a-rei ho-li-do av-et-she-lakh sha-losh sha-nim ve-ar-ba me-ot sha-nah va-yo-led ba-nim u-va-not.
This verse details the age of Arpachshad after he fathered Shelah. "Vayechi" means "and he lived". "Arpachshad" is a proper name. "Akharei holido et-Shelakh" means "after he fathered Shelah". "Shalosh shanim" means "three years". "Ve-arba meot shanah" means "and four hundred years". "Vayoled banim u-banot" means "and he fathered sons and daughters".
[GEN.11.14] And Shelah lived for thirty years, and he begot Eber. [§]
ve-she-lach chai shlo-shim sha-nah va-yo-led et-e-ver
This verse describes Shelah living for thirty years and then having Eber. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'She-lach' is the name 'Shelah'. 'Chai' means 'life' or 'living'. 'Shlo-shim' means 'thirty'. 'Sha-nah' means 'year'. 'Va-yo-led' means 'and he begot'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'E-ver' is the name 'Eber'.
[GEN.11.15] And Shelah lived after he fathered Eber for three years and four hundred years, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
Va-y'chi-she-lach akh-a-rei ho-lid-o et-e-ver sha-losh sha-nim ve-ar-ba me-ot sha-nah va-yo-led ba-nim u-va-not.
This verse describes the lifespan and offspring of Shelah after he fathered Eber. 'Va-y'chi' means 'and he lived'. 'Akh-a-rei' means 'after'. 'Ho-lid-o' means 'his birthing/fathering'. 'Et-e-ver' signifies 'Eber'. 'Sha-losh sha-nim' means 'three years'. 'Ve-ar-ba me-ot sha-nah' means 'and four hundred years'. 'Va-yo-led' means 'and he fathered'. 'Ba-nim u-va-not' means 'sons and daughters'.
[GEN.11.16] And Eber lived forty and three years, and he fathered Peleg. [§]
Va-yhi Eber arvah u-shloshim shanah va-yoled et-Pelegg.
This verse states the age of Eber when he fathered Peleg. 'Va-yhi' means 'and he lived' or 'and it happened'. 'Arvah u-shloshim' means 'forty and three'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Va-yoled' means 'and he fathered'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker with no direct translation. 'Pelegg' is a proper noun, a name.
[GEN.11.17] Eber lived after he fathered Peleg for thirty generational periods and four hundred generational periods, and then he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
vaychi-ever akharei holido et-peleg shloshim shanah ve'arba me'ot shanah vayoled banim ubanot.
This verse describes Eber living after he fathered Peleg. It states that Eber lived for thirty years and four hundred years, and then fathered sons and daughters. Note that the numbers are likely representing generational time periods rather than literal years, and are thus translated as such.
[GEN.11.18] And Peleg lived thirty years, and he fathered Reu. [§]
Va-y'chi Pelegh shloshim shanah va-yoled et-Re'u.
This verse describes the age and offspring of Peleg. 'Va-y'chi' means 'and he lived'. 'Pelegh' is a proper noun, a name. 'Shloshim shanah' means 'thirty years'. 'Va-yoled' means 'and he fathered'. 'Et-Re'u' means 'Reu'. The 'et' is a grammatical particle and doesn't have a direct translation.
[GEN.11.19] And Peleg lived after he fathered Reu nine years and two hundred years, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
vaychi-peleg acharei holido et-reu tesha shanim uma'atayim shanah vayoled banim ubanot.
This verse describes Peleg's life after he fathered Reu. It states he lived nine years and two hundred years more, and then had sons and daughters. 'Vaychi' means 'and he lived', 'Peleg' is a name, 'acharei' means 'after', 'holido' means 'he fathered', 'et' is a grammatical particle, 'Reu' is a name, 'tesha' means 'nine', 'shanim' means 'years', 'uma'atayim' means 'and two hundred', 'shanah' means 'year', 'vayoled' means 'and he fathered', 'banim' means 'sons', and 'banot' means 'daughters'.
[GEN.11.20] And Reu lived thirty-two years, and he fathered Serug. [§]
Va-y'chi Re'u shtayim u'shloshim shanah va-yoled et-Serug.
This verse describes the life and offspring of Reu. "Va-y'chi" means "and he lived". "Shtayim u'shloshim" means "two and thirty", or "thirty-two". "Shanah" means "year". "Va-yoled" means "and he begat" or "and he fathered". "Et-Serug" means "Serug".
[GEN.11.21] And Reu lived after he birthed Serug for seven years and two hundred years, and he birthed sons and daughters. [§]
vaychi reu acharei holeedo et-serug sheva shanim umaatayim shanah vayoled banim ubanot.
This verse describes Reu's life after the birth of Serug. 'Vaychi' means 'and he lived'. 'Reu' is a proper name. 'Acharei' means 'after'. 'Holeedo' means 'his birthing' (of). 'Et-Serug' indicates the object of the birthing – Serug. 'Sheva shanim' means 'seven years'. 'Umaatayim shanah' means 'and two hundred years'. 'Vayoled' means 'and he birthed'. 'Banim ubanot' means 'sons and daughters'.
[GEN.11.22] And Serug lived thirty years, and he fathered Nahor. [§]
vay-chee ser-oog shlosh-eem sha-nah vay-yo-led et-nah-chor
This verse describes Serug living for thirty years and then fathering Nahor. 'Vaychee' means 'and he lived'. 'Serug' is a proper noun, a name. 'Shloshim' means 'thirty'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Vayyoled' means 'and he fathered'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Nachor' is a proper noun, a name.
[GEN.11.23] And Serug lived after he fathered Nachor for two hundred years, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
Va-yichi Serug acharei holido et-Nachor ma'atayim shanah va-yoled banim u-banot.
This verse describes the life of Serug after he fathered Nachor. 'Va-yichi' means 'and he lived'. 'Acharei' means 'after'. 'Holido' means 'he fathered'. 'Et' is an untranslatable particle. 'Nachor' is a proper noun, a name. 'Ma'atayim shanah' means 'two hundred years'. 'Va-yoled' means 'and he fathered'. 'Banim u-banot' means 'sons and daughters'.
[GEN.11.24] And Nahor lived for twenty-nine years, and he fathered Terah. [§]
va-ye-chee na-chor tay-sha ahv-sar-eem sha-nah va-yo-led et-ta-rach
This verse describes Nahor living for 29 years and then fathering Terah. Each word corresponds to a specific action or entity: 'va-ye-chee' means 'and he lived', 'na-chor' is the name Nahor, 'tay-sha' means nine, 'ahv-sar-eem' means and twenty, 'sha-nah' means years, 'va-yo-led' means and he fathered, 'et' is a grammatical marker, and 'ta-rach' is the name Terah.
[GEN.11.25] And Nahor lived after he fathered Terah nineteen years and one hundred years, and he fathered sons and daughters. [§]
va-yikhi nakhor akharei holeedo et-terakh tesha-esreh shanah u-me’at shanah va-yoled banim u-banot.
This verse describes the lifespan of Nahor after he fathered Terah. ‘Va-yikhi’ means ‘and lived.’ ‘Nakhor’ is a proper noun, a person's name. ‘Akharei’ means ‘after.’ ‘Holeedo’ means ‘his birthing’ or ‘fathering.’ ‘Et-Terah’ is ‘Terah’ with a direct object marker. ‘Tesha-esreh’ means ‘nineteen.’ ‘Shanah’ means ‘year.’ ‘U-me’at’ means ‘and one hundred.’ ‘Va-yoled’ means ‘and he fathered’ or ‘and he bore.’ ‘Banim’ means ‘sons’ and ‘banot’ means ‘daughters.’
[GEN.11.26] And Terah lived seventy years, and he birthed Abram, Nachor, and Haran. [§]
Va-yhee-terah shiv-eem shanah va-yoled et-Avram et-Nachor ve-et-Haran.
This verse describes Terah’s lifespan and the birth of his sons. ‘Va-yhee’ means ‘and lived’ or ‘and it happened’. ‘Terah’ is a proper noun, a person's name. ‘Shiv-eem’ means ‘seventy’. ‘Shanah’ means ‘year’. ‘Va-yoled’ means ‘and he birthed’. ‘Et’ is a particle marking a definite direct object. ‘Avram’, ‘Nachor’, and ‘Haran’ are the names of Terah’s sons.
[GEN.11.27] And these are the accounts of Terah. Terah fathered Abram, Nahor, and Haran. And Haran fathered Lot. [§]
Ve'eleh toledot Terah, Terah holid et-Avram, et-Nachor ve'et-Haran. VeHaran holid et-Lot.
This verse lists the genealogy of Terah. "Ve'eleh" means "and these". "Toledot" means "generations" or "accounts of". "Terah" is a proper noun, a name. "Holid" means "begot" or "fathered". "Et" is a particle marking the direct object. "Avram", "Nachor", and "Haran" are proper nouns, names. "Ve" means "and". "Lot" is a proper noun, a name.
[GEN.11.28] And Haran died before Terach his father, in the land of his birth, in Ur of the Chaldees. [§]
Va-ya-mat Ha-ran al-pe-nei Te-rach a-vee-v bee-eretz mo-la-det-to bee-oor Kash-dee-eem.
This verse states that Haran died before his father Terach, in the land of his birth, which is Ur of the Chaldees. 'Va-ya-mat' means 'and died'. 'Ha-ran' is a proper noun, the name Haran. 'Al-pe-nei' means 'before' or 'in the presence of'. 'Te-rach' is a proper noun, the name Terach. 'A-vee-v' means 'his father'. 'Bee-eretz' means 'in the land'. 'Mo-la-det-to' means 'his birth'. 'Bee-oor' means 'in Ur'. 'Kash-dee-eem' refers to the Chaldees.
[GEN.11.29] And Abraham and Nahor took for themselves wives. The name of Abraham’s wife was Sarai, and the name of Nahor’s wife was Milkah, daughter of Haran, father of Milkah, and father of Yiska. [§]
Va-yikach Avram ve-Nachor lahem nashim shem eshet Avram Sarai ve-shem eshet Nachor Milkah bat Haran avi Milkah va-avi Yiska.
This verse describes Abraham and Nahor taking wives. It specifies the names of their wives: Sarai (wife of Abraham), and Milkah (wife of Nahor). It also clarifies Milkah’s family line, stating she is the daughter of Haran, who is also the father of Yiska.
[GEN.11.30] And it happened that Sarai was barren; she had no child. [§]
va-tee hee sarai akarah ein lah volad
This verse describes Sarai's barrenness. 'va-tee' indicates 'and it happened'. 'hee' is a pronoun meaning 'she'. 'sarai' is the name Sarai. 'akarah' means barren. 'ein lah' means 'she has not'. 'volad' means offspring or child.
[GEN.11.31] And Terach took Abram his son, and Lot the son of Haran, son of his son, and Sarai his bride, the wife of Abram his son, and they went with them from Ur of the Chaldees to go to the land of Canaan, and they came until Haran and they settled there. [§]
Va-yikach Terach et-Avram bno ve-et-Lot ben-Haran ben-bno ve-et-Sarai kalato eishet Avram bno va-yezt’u itam me-Ur Kasdim la-lechet artzah Kna’an va-yavo’u ad-Charan va-yeshvu sham.
This verse describes Terach taking Abram (later Abraham), Lot, and Sarai, and their journey from Ur of the Chaldees toward the land of Canaan, eventually settling in Haran. 'Terach' is a proper noun, the name of a person. 'Avram' and 'Lot' are proper nouns, names of people. 'Haran' is a proper noun, the name of a place. 'Sarai' is a proper noun, the name of a person. 'Kasdim' is a place name, Chaldees. 'Kna’an' is a place name, Canaan. The 'et' is a particle often untranslated, marking a direct object. 'Bno' means 'his son'. 'Ben-bno' means 'son of his son'. 'Kalato' means 'his bride'. 'Eishet' means 'wife'. 'Me' means 'from'. 'Ad' means 'until/to'. 'Sham' means 'there'.
[GEN.11.32] The years of Terah were five hundred and one hundred years, and Terah died in Haran. [§]
va-yih-yu yə-may-ter-ach cha-mesh sha-nim u-mə-a-tayim sha-nah va-ya-mat ter-ach bə-charan.
This verse states the length of Terah's life and the place of his death. "Yəmey" means 'days of' or 'years of', implying the lifespan. "Chamish" means 'five'. "Me'ah" means 'hundred'. "Va-yamet" means 'and he died'. "Bə-charan" means 'in Haran'.
GEN.12
[GEN.12.1] And Yahveh said to Abraham, "Go for yourself from your land and from your birthplace and from the house of your father to the land that I will show you." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh el-Avram lech-lechah mei-artzcha u-mi-moladtecha u-mi-beit avicha el-ha-aretz asher arecha.
This verse begins with 'and said'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'El' means 'to' or 'belonging to'. 'Avram' is the name Abraham. 'Lech-lechah' is a command meaning 'go for yourself,' or 'go'. 'Mei' means 'from'. 'Artzcha' means 'your land'. 'Moladtecha' means 'your birthplace'. 'Beit avicha' means 'the house of your father'. 'Ha-aretz' means 'the land'. 'Asher' means 'that' or 'which'. 'Arecha' means 'I will show you'.
[GEN.12.2] And I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you, and I will magnify your name, and you will be a blessing. [§]
ve’es’cha le’goy gadol va’avarecha va’agadd’la shemecha ve’heyeh brachah.
This verse contains a series of verbs and nouns related to promise and blessing. “Ve” means “and”. “Es’cha” is a pronoun combination meaning “you”. “Le’goy” means “to a nation”. “Gadol” means “great”. “Va’avarecha” means “and I will bless”. “Va’agadd’la” means “and I will magnify”. “Shemecha” means “your name”. “Ve’heyeh” means “and you will be”. “Brachah” means “a blessing”. The verse is a promise of God to someone.
[GEN.12.3] And I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse those who curse you, and through you all families of the earth will be blessed. [§]
va-a-var-cha me-var-che-cha u-me-ka-le-le-cha a-or ve-niv-re-chu ve-cha kol mish-pa-chot ha-a-da-mah.
This verse contains several names for God, and verbs relating to blessing and cursing. 'Va' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'Avar'cha' relates to the root 'barak' meaning to bless. 'Mevar'checha' means 'those who bless you'. 'Mekallelecha' means 'those who curse you'. 'Aor' is a verb meaning 'I will curse'. 'Nivrechu' relates to the root 'barak' as well, and means 'will be blessed'. 'Ve' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'Kol' means 'all'. 'Mishpachot' means 'families'. 'Ha-adamah' means 'the earth'.
[GEN.12.4] And Abram went as God spoke to him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. [§]
Va-yelech Avram ka-asher diber elav Yahveh va-yelech ito Lot ve-Avram ben-chamesh shanim ve-shiv'im shanah be-tzeito me-Charan.
This verse describes Abram (Abraham) departing as Yahveh had spoken to him. Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.
[GEN.12.5] And Abram took Sarai, his wife, and Lot, his nephew’s son, and all their possessions which they had gained, and the people they had acquired in Haran, and they departed to go to the land of Canaan and they came to the land of Canaan. [§]
va-yikach Avram et-Sarai ishto ve-et-Lot ben-achiuv ve-et-kol-rechusham asher rachashu ve-et-hanefesh asher-asu be-Charan va-yeztu la-lechet artzah Kenaan va-yavo artzah Kenaan.
This verse describes Abram (Abraham) taking his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, all their possessions which they had acquired, and the people they had made (acquired or brought into their household) in Haran. They then departed to go to the land of Canaan and arrived in the land of Canaan.
[GEN.12.6] And Abram passed through the land until the place of Shechem, until the oak of Moreh. And the Canaanites were then in the land. [§]
Va-ya-vor Av-ram ba-aretz ad me-kom She-chem ad Ei-lon Moreh ve-ha-ke-na-ani az ba-aretz.
This verse describes Abram traveling through the land to the place of Shechem and the oak of Moreh. It also notes that the Canaanites were then in the land.
[GEN.12.7] And Yahveh appeared to Abram, and said to your seed, I will give this land. And he built there an altar to Yahveh, the appearing one to him. [§]
Va-ye-ra Yahveh el-Avram, va-yo-mer le-zar-ah-cha, et-ten et-ha-aretz ha-zot, va-yiven sham miz-be-ach la-Yahveh ha-nire-eh ei-lav.
This verse describes Yahveh appearing to Abram and promising him the land. Abram then builds an altar to Yahveh, the one who appeared to him. "Va-ye-ra" means "and appeared". "El" means "to". "Avram" is the name Abram. "Va-yo-mer" means "and said". "Le-zar-ah-cha" means "to your seed". "Et-ten" means "I will give". "Et-ha-aretz ha-zot" means "this land". "Va-yiven" means "and he built". "Sham" means "there". "Miz-be-ach" means "altar". "La-Yahveh" means "to Yahveh". "Ha-nire-eh" means "the appearing". "Ei-lav" means "to him".
[GEN.12.8] And he moved from there to the mountain, eastward to Bethel, and he turned his tent, between Bethel on the west and the city of Hai on the east, and he built there an altar to Yahveh, and he called out in the name of Yahveh. [§]
Va-ya-tek mee-sham ha-ha-rah mee-kedem le-beit-el va-yet a-ho-loh beit-el mee-yam ve-ha-ai mee-kedem va-yiven-sham miz-bech la-Yahveh va-yik-ra be-shem Yahveh.
This verse describes someone moving from a mountain, eastwards, to Bethel. They pitched their tent between Bethel and the city of Hai, eastwards. Then they built an altar to Yahveh and called out in the name of Yahveh.
[GEN.12.9] And Abram lifted up, going and traveling toward the South. [§]
Va-yis-sa Ah-vram ha-loch ve-na-so Ah-ha-neg-bah.
This verse describes Abram traveling. 'Va-yis-sa' indicates a completed action of lifting up or setting out. 'Ah-vram' is the name Abram. 'Ha-loch' means 'going'. 'Ve-na-so' is 'and traveling'. 'Ah-ha-neg-bah' refers to 'the South' or 'toward the South'.
[GEN.12.10] And there was famine in the land, and Abram went down to Egypt to dwell there, because the famine was severe in the land. [§]
Va-yhi ra'av ba-aretz va-yered Avram Mitzraymah la-gur sham ki-kaved ha-ra'av ba-aretz.
This verse describes a famine in the land, causing Abram to go down to Egypt to live there because the famine was severe in the land. Each word is translated as directly as possible, maintaining English grammatical structure. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Ra'av' means 'famine'. 'Ba-aretz' means 'in the land'. 'Va-yered' means 'and he descended'. 'Avram' is the name 'Abram'. 'Mitzraymah' is 'Egypt'. 'La-gur' means 'to dwell'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Kaved' means 'heavy' or 'severe'. 'Ha-ra'av' means 'the famine'.
[GEN.12.11] And it happened, as he drew near to enter Egypt, that he said to Sarai, his wife, "Behold, indeed I have known that you are a woman beautiful in appearance." [§]
Va-yhi ka-asher hikriv le-vo mi-tzra-yim va-yomer el-sarai ishto hineh na yada-ti ki ishah yefat-mar’eh at.
This verse recounts Abraham speaking to his wife Sarai as they approached Egypt. He is preparing to tell her what he is about to do, anticipating trouble. 'Va-yhi' indicates 'and it happened'. 'Ka-asher' means 'as'. 'Hikriv' means 'he drew near' or 'he approached'. 'Mi-tzra-yim' is 'to Egypt'. 'Va-yomer' means 'and he said'. 'El-sarai' means 'to Sarai'. 'Ishto' means 'his wife'. 'Hineh na' is an expression indicating 'indeed' or 'behold'. 'Yada-ti' means 'I have known'. 'Ki' means 'that' or 'because'. 'Ishah' means 'woman'. 'Yefat-mar’eh' means 'beautiful in appearance'. 'At' is a pronoun indicating 'you'.
[GEN.12.12] And it will be that when the Egyptians see you, they will say, "This one is his wife," and they will kill me, but they will let you live. [§]
vehaya ki yiru otach hamitzrim ve'amru ishto zot vehargu oti ve'otach yechayu.
This verse describes a situation where the Egyptians will see a man and his wife, identify the wife as his, and then kill the man but spare the woman’s life. Each word is translated literally. 'Vehaya' means 'and it will be'. 'Ki' means 'that'. 'Yiru' means 'they will see'. 'Otach' means 'you'. 'Hamitzrim' means 'the Egyptians'. 'Ve'amru' means 'and they will say'. 'Ishto' means 'his wife'. 'Zot' means 'this one'. 'Vehargu' means 'and they will kill'. 'Oti' means 'me'. 'Ve'otach' means 'and you'. 'Yechayu' means 'they will live/let live'.
[GEN.12.13] Say, please, my sister, that it may go well with me on account of you, and my soul may live because of you. [§]
im-ree-nah ah-kho-tee aht; le-ma-an yee-tav-lee ba-ah-voo-rehkh, ve-kha-yeh-tah naf-shee bee-ge-lah-lehkh.
This verse comes from Genesis 30:18, spoken by Rachel to Leah. It translates roughly as “Say, please, my sister... that it may go well with me because of you, and my life may be preserved because of you.” The verse uses several names for God, and uses possessive pronouns that need to be unpacked for an accurate literal translation.
[GEN.12.14] And it happened, when Abraham came to Egypt, that the Egyptians saw the woman, because she was very beautiful. [§]
va-yi-hi ke-vo av-ram mitz-ra-yim va-yir-u ha-mitz-rim et-ha-i-sha ki-ya-fah hee me-od.
This verse describes Abraham’s arrival in Egypt and the Egyptians’ reaction to his wife Sarah's beauty. ‘Va-yi-hi’ means ‘and it happened’. ‘Ke-vo’ means ‘when he came’. ‘Av-ram’ is Abraham’s name. ‘Mitz-ra-yim’ means Egypt. ‘Va-yir-u’ means ‘and they saw’. ‘Ha-mitz-rim’ means ‘the Egyptians’. ‘Et-ha-i-sha’ means ‘the woman’. ‘Ki-ya-fah’ means ‘because beautiful’. ‘Hee’ means ‘she’. ‘Me-od’ means ‘very’.
[GEN.12.15] And the officials of Pharaoh saw her, and they praised her to Pharaoh, and the woman was taken into the house of Pharaoh. [§]
vayiru otah sarei par’oh vayhall’lu otah el-par’oh vatuka’ch ha’ishah beit par’oh
This verse describes the reaction of Pharaoh's officials to a woman, and how she was taken into Pharaoh's house. ‘Vayiru’ means ‘and they saw’. ‘Ota’ means ‘her’. ‘Sarei’ means ‘officials/princes’. ‘Par’oh’ is ‘Pharaoh’. ‘Vayhall’lu’ means ‘and they praised’. ‘El’ means ‘to’. ‘Vatuka’ch’ means ‘and she was taken’. ‘Ha’ishah’ means ‘the woman’. ‘Beit’ means ‘house’.
[GEN.12.16] And Yahveh dealt well with Abram because of her, and there were for him sheep and cattle and donkeys and male servants and female servants and female donkeys and camels. [§]
oo-le-av-rahm hey-teev bah-ah-voor-ah vah-yhee-lo tsohn oo-vah-kar vah-chah-mor-eem vah-ah-vah-deem oo-shif-chah-t vah-ah-toh-noht oo-guh-mah-leem.
This verse describes how Yahveh dealt well with Abram because of Sarai. It details the possessions that Abram acquired, including livestock, servants, and animals of burden. 'Heyteev' means 'deal well' or 'do good'. 'Ba'avorah' means 'because of her'. 'Vayehi-lo' means 'and it came to pass to him' or 'and there was for him'. 'Tsohn' refers to sheep and goats collectively. 'Vavkar' means cattle. 'Vachamorim' refers to donkeys. 'Vaavadim' means male servants. 'Ushifchah' means female servants. 'Vaatonot' means female donkeys. 'Ugmalim' means camels.
[GEN.12.17] And Yahveh afflicted Pharaoh with great plagues and his house because of Sarai, Abraham’s wife. [§]
vayenaga Yahveh et-paroh negaim gedolim ve’et-beyto al-devar sarai eshet Avram
This verse describes Yahveh afflicting Pharaoh and his household with severe plagues because of Sarai, Abraham’s wife. 'Vayenaga' means 'and afflicted'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker indicating the direct object. 'Paroh' is 'Pharaoh'. 'Negaim' are 'plagues'. 'Gedolim' means 'great'. 'Ve’et-beyto' means 'and his house'. 'Al-devar' means 'because of'. 'Sarai' is the name of Abraham's wife. 'Eshet' means 'wife of'. 'Avram' is Abraham.
[GEN.12.18] And Pharaoh called to Abram and said, "What is this that you have done to me? Why did you not tell me that your wife she is?" [§]
Va-yik-ra Par-oh le-Av-ram va-yo-mer ma-zo-at as-ita li? Lam-ah lo hig-da-ta li ki isht-cha hi?
This verse recounts Pharaoh summoning Abram and questioning him about why he presented his wife, Sarai, as his sister. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Par-oh' is 'Pharaoh'. 'le-Av-ram' is 'to Abram'. 'va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'ma-zo-at' means 'what is this?'. 'as-ita' means 'you did'. 'li' means 'to me'. 'Lam-ah' means 'why'. 'lo hig-da-ta' means 'you did not tell'. 'ki' means 'that'. 'isht-cha' means 'your wife'. 'hi' means 'she is'.
[GEN.12.19] Why did you say, "She is my sister"? And I took her for myself as a wife. And now, behold, your wife, take and go. [§]
lamah amarta ahoti hee va'ekach otah li le'ishah ve'atah hineh ishtechah kah velech.
This verse comes from Genesis 16:8. It is Hagar speaking to Abram (Abraham) after discovering she is pregnant. She is questioning why Abram said she was his sister, which led him to allow Pharaoh to take her as a wife. She is now asking him to take his wife (Sarai) and leave her alone.
[GEN.12.20] And Pharaoh commanded people concerning him, and they sent him and his wife and all that belonged to him. [§]
Va-ye-tsav a-lav Par-oh a-nash-im va-ye-shal-chu oto ve-et ishto ve-et kol asher lo.
This verse describes Pharaoh commanding people concerning a man, and then sending that man, his wife, and all that belonged to him away. “Par-oh” is a title, so it is not translated. “Va” is a conjunction meaning “and”. “Ye-tsav” means “he commanded”. “A-lav” means “upon him”. “A-nash-im” means “men”, in the sense of people. “Va-ye-shal-chu” means “and they sent”. “Oto” means “him”. “Ve-et” is a combination of conjunction and definite article - roughly meaning “and his/her/their”. “Ishto” means “his wife”. “Ve-et kol asher lo” translates to “and all that was his.”
GEN.13
[GEN.13.1] And Abram went up from Egypt, he and his wife and all that belonged to him, and Lot was with him, to the Negev. [§]
va-ya'al avram mi-mitzrayim hu ve-ishto ve-kol asher lo ve-lot immo ha-negev
This verse describes Abram (Abraham) leaving Egypt with his wife, all that belonged to him, and Lot who was with him, traveling toward the Negev.
[GEN.13.2] And Abram was very great in livestock, in silver, and in gold. [§]
ve-avram kaved me-od ba-mikneh ba-kesef u-vazahav
This verse describes Abram being very heavy or great in livestock, silver, and gold. "Avram" is a name. "Kaved" means heavy or great. "Me-od" is an adverb meaning very or exceedingly. "Ba-mikneh" means in livestock. "Ba-kesef" means in silver. "U-vazahav" means and in gold.
[GEN.13.3] And he went to his journeys from the South and up to Beit-el, to the place that was there her tent in the beginning, between Beit-el and Hai. [§]
va-ye-lekh le-mas-sa-av mee-neh-gev ve-ad-beit-el ad-ha-ma-kom ah-sher-ha-yah sham oh-hol-ah bat-teh-hil-ah bein beit-el u-bein ha-ai.
This verse describes a journey. 'va-ye-lekh' means 'and he went'. 'le-mas-sa-av' means 'to his journeys'. 'mi-neh-gev' means 'from the South'. 've-ad-beit-el' means 'and up to Beit-el'. 'ad-ha-ma-kom' means 'to the place'. 'ah-sher-ha-yah sham' means 'that was there'. 'oh-hol-ah' means 'her tent'. 'bat-teh-hil-ah' means 'in the beginning'. 'bein beit-el u-bein ha-ai' means 'between Beit-el and Hai'.
[GEN.13.4] God, at the place of the altar which he had made there previously, Abraham called upon the name of Yahveh. [§]
El-mekom ha-mizbeach asher-asah sham barishonah vayikra sham Avram beshem Yahveh.
This verse describes Abraham calling upon the name of Yahveh at the place of the altar he had made previously. 'El' means God. 'Mekom' means place. 'Mizbeach' means altar. 'Asher' is a relative pronoun meaning 'which' or 'that'. 'Asah' means 'made'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Barishonah' means 'in the first time' or 'previously'. 'Vayikra' means 'and he called'. 'Avram' is Abraham's name. 'Beshem' means 'by the name of'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God.
[GEN.13.5] And also, to Lot who walked with Abram, there were sheep and cattle and tents. [§]
ve-gam-le-lot ha-holech et-avram haya tzon u-vakar ve-ohalim.
This verse describes what Lot, who traveled with Abram, possessed. ‘ve-gam’ means ‘and also’. ‘le-lot’ means ‘to Lot’. ‘ha-holech’ means ‘the walking one’ or ‘who walked’. ‘et-avram’ means ‘with Abram’. ‘haya’ means ‘there was’ or ‘he had’. ‘tzon’ means ‘sheep’ or ‘flock’. ‘u-vakar’ means ‘and cattle’. ‘ve-ohalim’ means ‘and tents’.
[GEN.13.6] And the land did not lift them up to dwell together, because their possessions were numerous, and they could not dwell together. [§]
ve-lo-na-sa otam ha-aretz la-shevet yach-da; ki-ha-yah re-ku-sham rav, ve-lo yach-lu la-shevet yach-da.
This verse describes a situation where the land was unable to support a group of people living together. The reason given is that their possessions (livestock/wealth) were too numerous, and therefore they could not all reside in the same place. 'Ha-aretz' refers to 'the land'. 'Re-ku-sham' is possessions or wealth. 'Yach-da' means 'together'.
[GEN.13.7] And there was a dispute between the herdsmen of Abram and between the herdsmen of Lot, and the Canaanite and the Perizzite were dwelling in the land at that time. [§]
Va-yhi-riv ben ro'ei mikneh-Avram u-vein ro'ei mikneh-Lot ve-ha-Kena'ani ve-ha-Perizi az yoshev ba-aretz.
This verse describes a dispute between the herdsmen of Abram and the herdsmen of Lot. It also notes that the Canaanite and the Perizzite were dwelling in the land at that time. 'Va-yhi' signifies 'and it happened' or 'and there was'. 'Riv' means 'strife' or 'dispute'. 'Ro'ei mikneh' translates to 'herdsmen of livestock'. 'Avram' and 'Lot' are proper names. 'Ha' is 'the'. 'Kena'ani' and 'Perizi' are names of people groups. 'Az' means 'then' or 'at that time'. 'Yoshev' means 'dwelling' or 'sitting'. 'Ba-aretz' means 'in the land'.
[GEN.13.8] And Abraham said to Lot, "Please let there not be strife between me and you, and between my herdsmen and your herdsmen, for we are men who are brothers." [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ram el-Lot al-na te-hi me-ree-vah be-nee u-ve-nee-cha u-bein ro-ai u-bein ro-ei-cha ki a-na-shim a-chim a-nach-nu.
This verse recounts Abraham speaking to Lot. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Av-ram' is Abraham. 'el-Lot' is to Lot. 'al-na' is 'please let not'. 'te-hi' means 'be'. 'me-ree-vah' is 'strife'. 'be-nee u-ve-nee-cha' means 'between me and you'. 'u-bein ro-ai u-bein ro-ei-cha' means 'and between my herdsmen and your herdsmen'. 'ki' means 'for'. 'a-na-shim' means 'men'. 'a-chim' means 'brothers'. 'a-nach-nu' means 'we are'.
[GEN.13.9] Is not all the land before you? Be separated from me, if the left and the right, or if the right and the left. [§]
Ha-lo kol-ha-aretz lifanecha, hifared na me'alay, im-ha-semol ve'eminah, ve'im-ha-yamin ve'esma'ilah.
This verse is a challenge from Bilhah to her master, Yahveh. Bilhah asks Yahveh to separate from her, suggesting that He is not fully present or in control. She presents options for how He might do this – to the left, to the right, or to either side – as if He is merely a localized force. 'Ha-lo' is a rhetorical question expecting a 'yes' answer, meaning 'is not…?', 'Kol-ha-aretz' means 'all the land', 'lifanecha' means 'before you', 'hifared' means 'be separated', 'me'alay' means 'from me', 'im' means 'if', 'ha-semol' means 'the left', 've'eminah' means 'and the right', 'ha-yamin' means 'the right', 've'esma'ilah' means 'and the left'.
[GEN.13.10] And Lot lifted his eyes and saw all the plain of the Jordan, because it was all well-watered before Yahveh destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, as the garden of Yahveh, as the land of Egypt, approaching Zoar. [§]
Va-yisa-lo-t et-ei-nav va-yar' et-kol-kichar ha-yar-den ki-kulah mashkeh lifnei shachat Yahveh et-sedom ve-amorah ke-gan Yahveh ke-eretz mitzrayim bo'achah tzoar.
This verse describes Lot lifting his eyes and seeing the entire plain of the Jordan. It notes that the land was well-watered before Yahveh destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. It compares the land to the garden of Yahveh and to the land of Egypt as one comes to Zoar.
[GEN.13.11] And He chose for Lot all the plain of the Jordan, and Lot journeyed from the east, and they separated, each from his brother. [§]
Va-yiv-char-loo Loht et kol-kee-kar ha-yar-den va-yis-sah Looht mee-keh-dem va-yip-par-doo eesh may-al ah-heehu.
This verse describes a choice and separation between two individuals, Lot and Abram (implied). 'Va-yiv-char-loo' means 'and he chose for him'. 'Loht' is Lot's name. 'Et' is a grammatical marker. 'Kol-kee-kar' means 'all the plain'. 'Ha-yar-den' means 'the Jordan'. 'Va-yis-sah' means 'and he journeyed'. 'Mee-keh-dem' means 'from the east'. 'Va-yip-par-doo' means 'and they separated'. 'Eesh' means 'man' or 'each'. 'May-al' means 'from upon' or 'from over'. 'Ah-heehu' means 'his brother'.
[GEN.13.12] Abram dwelt in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelt in the cities of the plain. And he pitched his tent toward Sodom. [§]
Avram yashav be'eretz kena'an velot yashav be'arei hakikar vaya'hel ad-sedom.
Avram means "father of exaltation". Yashav means "he sat" or "he dwelt". Be'eretz kena'an means "in the land of Canaan". Velot means "and Lot". Be'arei hakikar means "in the cities of the plain". Vaya'hel means "and he pitched his tent". Ad-sedom means "toward Sodom". This verse describes Abram and Lot settling in Canaan, with Lot choosing to live near Sodom and Abram pitching his tent in the direction of Sodom.
[GEN.13.13] And the people of Sodom were evil and sinners to Yahveh very much. [§]
ve-anshei sedom ra'im ve-chata'im laYahveh me'od.
This verse describes the people of Sodom. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Anshei' means 'men of' or 'people of'. 'Sedom' is the name of the city, Sodom. 'Ra'im' means 'evil ones' or 'wicked ones'. 'Ve' again means 'and'. 'Chata'im' means 'sinners'. 'LaYahveh' means 'to Yahveh'. 'Me'od' means 'very' or 'greatly'. Thus, the verse states the people of Sodom were evil and sinners to a great degree to Yahveh.
[GEN.13.14] And Yahveh said to Abram after Lot separated from him, "Please lift your eyes and look from the place where you are, toward the north and toward the south and toward the east and toward the west." [§]
Va-Yahveh amar el-Avram acharei hippared-Lot me-imo, sa na einecha u-re’eh min-ha-makom asher-atah sham, tzaphonah va-negevah va-qedmah va-yamah.
This verse recounts Yahveh speaking to Abram after Lot separated from him. Yahveh instructs Abram to lift his eyes and look from where he is standing, in the directions of north, south, east, and west.
[GEN.13.15] For all the land which you see, I will give it to you and to your seed forever. [§]
ki et-kol-ha-aretz asher-atah ro'eh lecha etnenah u-lezar'acha ad-olam.
This verse contains several key terms. "Ki" means "for" or "because". "Et" is a particle that marks the definite direct object. "Kol" means "all". "Ha-aretz" means "the land". "Asher" means "which" or "that". "Atah" means "you". "Ro'eh" means "you see". "Lecha" means "to you". "Etnenah" means "I will give it". "U-lezar'acha" means "and to your seed". "Ad-olam" means "forever".
[GEN.13.16] And I will make your seed like the dust of the land, that if a man is able to count the dust of the land, your seed will also be counted. [§]
ve-sam-ti et-zar-a-cha ka-a-far ha-a-retz asher im-yu-chal ish li-menot et-a-far ha-a-retz gam-zar-a-cha yim-a-neh.
This verse contains several key terms. "ve-sam-ti" means "and I will set" or "and I will make". "zar-a-cha" means "your seed" or "your offspring". "ka-a-far" means "like dust". "ha-a-retz" means "the land" or "the earth". "asher" means "that" or "which". "im-yu-chal" means "if he is able". "ish" means "man". "li-menot" means "to count". "et-a-far" means "the dust". "gam" means "also". "yim-a-neh" means "will be counted". The verse is a promise concerning the multitude of offspring.
[GEN.13.17] Rise, walk in the land, for its length and for its breadth, for to you I will give it. [§]
koom hit-hal-ekh bah-ah-retz le-or-khah oo-le-rokh-bah kee le-khah et-ten-neh-nah
This verse contains a command from God. "Koom" means "rise" or "stand up." "Hit-halekh" means "to walk." "Bah-ah-retz" means "in the land." "Le-or-khah oo-le-rokh-bah" means "for its length and for its breadth." "Kee" means "for" or "because." "Le-khah" means "to you." "Et-ten-neh-nah" means "I will give it". This is a directive for someone to walk the land, because it will be given to them.
[GEN.13.18] And Abraham journeyed and came and dwelt in the oaks of Mamre, which is in Hebron. And he built there an altar to Yahveh. [§]
vayehale avram vayavo vayeshev be'eloney mamre asher bechevron vayiven sham mizbeach layahveh.
This verse describes Abraham settling in the region of Mamre, which is near Hebron, and building an altar to Yahveh. "Vayehale" means 'and he journeyed' or 'and he encamped'. "Avram" is a variant of Abraham. "Vayavo" means 'and he came'. "Vayeshev" means 'and he sat' or 'and he dwelt'. "Be'eloney mamre" means 'in the oaks of Mamre'. "Asher" means 'which'. "Bechevron" means 'in Hebron'. "Vayiven sham mizbeach" means 'and he built there an altar'. "Layahveh" means 'to Yahveh'.
GEN.14
[GEN.14.1] And it came to pass in the days of Amraphel, king of God, Aryokh, king of Elasar, Kedorlaomer, king of Elam, and Tid'al, king of nations. [§]
Va-yhi bi-y'mei Amraphel melekh Shinear, Aryokh melekh Elasar, Kedorlaomer melekh Elam, ve-tid'al melekh goyim.
This verse begins with a standard introductory phrase meaning 'and it came to pass.' It then lists four kings: Amraphel, king of Shinar; Aryokh, king of Elasar; Kedorlaomer, king of Elam; and Tid'al, king of nations (or peoples). The kings are being introduced as characters in an upcoming narrative.
[GEN.14.2] They waged war against Bera, the king of Sodom, and against Birsha, the king of Amorah. Shin'av, the king of Admach, and Sheme'eber, the king of Tzvoyim, and the king of Bela, it is Tzoar. [§]
Asu milchama et-Bera melech Sedom ve-et-Birsha melech Amorah, Shin'av melech Admach ve-Sheme'eber melech Tzvoyim u-melech Bela hi-Tzoar.
This verse describes a war that was waged. 'Asu' means 'they made' or 'they waged', in this context, 'they waged'. 'Milchama' is 'war'. 'Et' is a particle indicating the direct object. 'Bera melech Sedom' is 'Bera, king of Sodom'. 'Ve-et' continues the list of direct objects. 'Birsha melech Amorah' is 'Birsha, king of Amorah'. The structure continues with 'Shin'av melech Admach' which is 'Shin'av, king of Admach'. 'Ve-Sheme'eber melech Tzvoyim' is 'and Sheme'eber, king of Tzvoyim'. Finally, 'u-melech Bela hi-Tzoar' is 'and the king of Bela, it is Tzoar'.
[GEN.14.3] All these joined to the valley of thorns, that is the sea of salt. [§]
kal-eleh khavru el-emek hasidim hu yam hamelah.
This verse describes a group of entities joining a specific valley. 'kal-eleh' means 'all these'. 'khavru' means 'they joined'. 'el-emek' means 'to the valley of'. 'hasidim' is a descriptor of the valley, meaning 'the sidian ones', and is translated as 'thorn'. 'hu' means 'it/he/she is', which in this context is equivalent to 'that is'. 'yam hamelah' means 'the sea of salt'.
[GEN.14.4] For twelve years they served Kedarleomer, and for thirteen years they rebelled. [§]
shtayim asarah shanah avdu et-kedarleomer ushlosh esarah shanah maradu.
This verse details a period of servitude and rebellion. 'Shtayim asarah' means 'twelve'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Avdu' means 'they served'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Kedarleomer' is a proper noun, a name. 'U' means 'and'. 'Shlosh esarah' means 'thirteen'. 'Maradu' means 'they rebelled'.
[GEN.14.5] And in the fourteenth year, Chedorlaomer and the kings who were with him came and struck down the Rephaim at Ashtaroth Karnaim, and the Zuzim in Ham, and the Emim in Shaveh Kiriathaim. [§]
Oo-ve-ar-bah-ah-eh-sah-reh shah-nah vah vah-ah kh’dar-lah-oh-mer ve-ham-lah-khim ah-sher it-toh vay-ah-koo et ref-ah-eem be-ash-ter-ot kar-nah-yim ve-et haz-zoo-zeem be-hahm ve-et hah-ay-eem be-shah-veh kir-yah-taym.
This verse describes an event that took place in the fourteenth year, involving Chedorlaomer and the kings with him. They struck down the Rephaim at Ashtaroth Karnaim, the Zuzim in Ham, and the Emim in Shaveh Kiriathaim. The names are generally understood to be nations or tribes. The 'et' particles indicate a direct object.
[GEN.14.6] And the region of the Horites in Mount Seir, until the strength of Paran, which is upon the desert. [§]
ve'et-hachori beharam se'ir ad eil paran asher al-hamidbar
This verse lists geographical locations. 'Hachori' refers to a specific region or its inhabitants. 'Haram' means mountain or hill country. 'Se'ir' is a mountain range. 'Ad' means 'until' or 'to'. 'Eil' means strength or mighty one, used here as a location name. 'Paran' is a desert wilderness. 'Asher' means 'which' or 'that'. 'Hamidbar' means the desert or wilderness.
[GEN.14.7] And they returned and came to the spring of judgment, that is Qadesh, and they struck down all the fields of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites who dwelt in Chatztson Tamar. [§]
va-yashuvu va-yavo el-ein mishpat hi qadesh va-yaku et-kol-sdeh ha-amaleqi ve-gam et-ha-emori ha-yoshev be-chatztson tamar.
This verse describes a return and arrival at a place called 'Ein Mishpat' which is also identified as 'Qadesh'. There, they struck down all the fields of the Amalekites and also the Amorites who dwelt in Chatztson Tamar.
[GEN.14.8] And the king of Sodom and the king of Amora and the king of Admah and the king of Tsovoyim and the king of Bele, which is Tsoar, went out and they prepared war with them in the valley of the fields. [§]
va yetze melech sdom u melech amora u melech admah u melech tsovoyim u melech bele hu tsoar va ya'archu itam milchama be'emek ha shiddim
This verse describes the kings going out to battle. 'Melech' means 'king'. 'Sdom', 'Amora', 'Admah', 'Tsovoyim', and 'Bele' (which is also called 'Tsoar') are the names of cities, and thus the kings are identified by their cities. 'Va ya'archu' means 'and they arrayed/prepared'. 'Itam' means 'with them'. 'Milchama' means 'war/battle'. 'Be'emek' means 'in the valley'. 'Ha shiddim' means 'of the fields/demons'.
[GEN.14.9] And Kedarlaomer, king of Elam, and Tid'al, king of nations, and Amraphel, king of Shinar, and Aryokh, king of Ellasar, four kings, the five. [§]
Et Kedarlaomer melekh Eylam veTid'al melekh Goyim veAmraphel melekh Shinear veAryokh melekh Ellasar arba'ah melakhim et-hachamisha.
This verse lists four kings who are associated with a conflict. "Et" is an untranslatable particle used to mark the direct object. "Kedarlaomer" is a proper noun, a king's name. "Melekh" means king. "Eylam" is a place name, Elam. "Ve" means and. "Tid'al" is another king’s name. "Goyim" means nations, or people. "Amraphel" is another king’s name. "Shinear" is a place name, Shinar. "Aryokh" is another king’s name. "Ellasar" is a place name, Ellasar. "Arba'ah" means four. "Melakhim" is the plural of king, kings. "Et-hachamisha" indicates five, marking them as the direct object in some way, likely referring to cities or rulers.
[GEN.14.10] And the valley of the demons was with pits, pits of tar, and the king of Sodom and Amorah fled and fell there, and the remaining ones fled to the mountains. [§]
ve-emek ha-sid-dim be-arot be-arot che-mar va-ya-nu-su me-lech-sedom va-amora va-yip-lu-sha-ma ve-ha-nish-ar-im he-ra na-su
This verse describes the Valley of Shiddim, full of tar pits. The king of Sodom and Amorah fled and fell there. Those who remained also fled to the mountains.
[GEN.14.11] And they took all the possessions of Sodom and Gomorrah, and all of their food, and they went. [§]
va-yik-hu et-kol-re-khush se-dom va-a-mo-rah ve-et-kol-a-kh-lam va-ye-le-khu.
This verse describes the taking of all the possessions of Sodom and Gomorrah, and all of their food, and then their departure. 'Va' indicates 'and', 'Yikhu' is 'they took', 'et' is a grammatical marker often untranslated, 'kol' means 'all', 'rekhush' means 'possessions', 'sedom' is 'Sodom', 'va' indicates 'and', 'amorah' is 'Gomorrah', 've' indicates 'and', 'a-kh-lam' means 'their food', and 'va-ye-le-khu' means 'and they went'.
[GEN.14.12] And they took Lot and his possessions, the nephew of Abram, and they went, and he sat in Sodom. [§]
va-yik-hoo et-lot ve-et-rechush-o ben-achi av-ram va-ye-lech-oo ve-hoo yoshev bi-sedom.
This verse describes Lot and his possessions being taken by Abram’s nephew, and their departure, while Abram remained seated in Sodom. ‘Va-yik-hoo’ means ‘and they took’. ‘Et’ is a grammatical particle marking the direct object. ‘Lot’ is a proper name. ‘Ve-et-rechush-o’ means ‘and his possessions’. ‘Ben-achi’ means ‘nephew of’. ‘Av-ram’ is Abram’s name. ‘Va-ye-lech-oo’ means ‘and they went’. ‘Ve-hoo’ means ‘and he’. ‘Yoshev’ means ‘sitting’. ‘Bi-sedom’ means ‘in Sodom’.
[GEN.14.13] The refugee came and told Abram the Hebrew, and he was living among the oaks of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshkol and brother of Aner, and they were allies of Abram. [§]
Va-ya-vo ha-pa-lit va-ya-ged le-Av-ram ha-Iv-ri ve-hu shoch-en be-e-lo-nei mam-rei ha-Em-o-ri a-chi Esh-kol ve-a-chi A-ner ve-hem ba-alei brit-Av-ram.
This verse describes a refugee coming to tell Abram the Hebrew about events that have occurred. It states Abram was dwelling among the oaks of Mamre the Amorite, and that he was the brother of Eshkol and Aner, and they were allies of Abram.
[GEN.14.14] And Abraham heard that his brother had been taken captive. So he armed his trained ones, those born in his house, eight hundred and eighteen and three hundred, and he pursued until Dan. [§]
Va-yishma Avram ki nishb’ah achiv va-yarek et chanikhayv yelidei beito shmoneh asar ush’loh me’ot va-yirdof ad dan.
This verse describes Abraham hearing that his brother Lot has been captured. In response, Abraham arms his trained servants, those born in his household – a total of 318 – and pursues the capturers as far as Dan.
[GEN.14.15] And he divided upon them the night, he and his servants, and he struck them, and he pursued them until a place which is to the left of Damascus. [§]
va-ye-chal-ek a-lei-hem lai-lah hu va-a-va-dav va-ya-keh-m va-yir-def-em ad-cho-vah a-sher mis-semol le-da-mas-ek.
This verse describes a night attack. 'Va-ye-chal-ek' means 'and he divided,' implying a division of forces or a specific time frame – here, night. 'A-lei-hem' means 'upon them,' indicating the target of the attack. 'Lai-lah' is 'night.' 'Hu va-a-va-dav' is 'he and his servants.' 'Va-ya-keh-m' means 'and he struck them.' 'Va-yir-def-em' means 'and he pursued them.' 'Ad-cho-vah' means 'until,' followed by a location. 'A-sher' is 'which.' 'Mis-semol' means 'from the left.' 'Le-da-mas-ek' is 'to Damascus'. Thus, the verse details an attack during the night by someone and their servants, followed by a pursuit to a location to the left of Damascus.
[GEN.14.16] And he restored all the possessions, and also Lot his brother and his possessions he restored, and also the women and the people. [§]
va-ya-shev et kol-ha-rechush ve-gam et-lot achiv ur’chusho heshiv ve-gam et-ha-nashim ve-et-ha-am.
This verse describes Abram restoring all the possessions and people he had lost. "Va-ya-shev" means "and he restored." "Et" is a direct object marker. "Kol-ha-rechush" means "all the possessions." "Ve-gam" means "and also." "Lot achiv" means "Lot his brother." "Ur’chusho" means "his possessions." "Heshiv" means "he restored." "Ha-nashim" means "the women." "Ha-am" means "the people."
[GEN.14.17] And the king of Sodom went out to meet him, after his return from striking Kedorlaomer and the kings who were with him, to the Valley of Shaveh, it is the Valley of the King. [§]
VaYetze Melech Sedom Likrato Acharei Shuvo MeHakot Et Kedarlaomer VeEt HaMelachim Asher Ito Elemek Shaveh Hu Emek HaMelech.
This verse describes the king of Sodom going out to meet Abram after Abram's return from defeating Kedorlaomer and the kings who were with him, to the Valley of Shaveh, which is the Valley of the King.
[GEN.14.18] And Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought forth bread and wine, and he is a priest to God, the Most High. [§]
u-mal-kee-tseh-dek me-lek sha-lem hot-zee le-chem va-yin ve-hoo ko-hen le-El el-yon.
This verse describes Melchizedek, king of Salem, bringing forth bread and wine. It states that he is a priest to God, the Most High.
[GEN.14.19] And he blessed him, and he said, “Blessed is Abraham to God the Most High, possessor of the heavens and the earth.” [§]
vayvarechehu vayomer baruch avram leel elyon koneh shamayim vaaretz
This verse describes a blessing and a declaration. 'vayvarechehu' means 'and he blessed him'. 'vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Baruch' means 'blessed'. 'Avram' is the name Abraham. 'leel' means 'to God'. 'elyon' means 'the most high'. 'koneh' means 'possessor' or 'purchaser'. 'shamayim' means 'heavens' and 'aretz' means 'earth'.
[GEN.14.20] Blessed is God supreme, who shields your enemies by your hand, and he gave to him a tenth of all. [§]
Oo-vah-rookh ay-l el-yohn ah-sher mee-gain tzah-ray-khah bee-yah-dekhah vah-yee-ten lo mah-ah-seh-r mee-kol.
This verse contains several key names and phrases. "Oo-vah-rookh" means blessed. "Ay-l" is 'God'. "El-yohn" is 'God supreme'. "Ah-sher" means 'who'. "Mee-gain" means 'shield'. "Tzah-ray-khah" means 'your enemies'. "Bee-yah-dekhah" means 'by your hand'. "Vah-yee-ten" means 'and he gave'. "Mah-ah-seh-r" means 'a tenth'. "Mee-kol" means 'of all'. The verse speaks of a blessing upon the God supreme, who shields your enemies by your hand, and gave to him a tenth of all.
[GEN.14.21] And the king of Sodom said to Abraham, "Give the people to me, and take the possessions for yourself." [§]
Va-yo-mer me-lech-sedom el-Av-ram ten-lee ha-ne-fesh ve-ha-rechush kah-lach.
This verse is spoken by the king of Sodom to Abraham. He is offering Abraham the people and the possessions. 'Ten-lee' means 'give to me', 'ha-ne-fesh' is 'the soul/person', 've-ha-rechush' is 'and the possessions', and 'kah-lach' means 'take for yourself'.
[GEN.14.22] And Abraham said to the king of Sodom, "I have lifted my hand to Yahveh, God Most High, possessor of the heavens and the earth." [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ram el-me-lech Sedom ha-ri-mo-ti ya-di el-Yahveh El el-yon ko-neh sha-ma-yim va-aretz.
This verse comes from Genesis 14:22. It is Abraham speaking to the king of Sodom. Abraham is swearing an oath to Yahveh, identifying Yahveh as God Most High, Creator of the heavens and the earth. 'Avram' is a variant spelling of 'Abraham'. 'El' means 'God', 'melech' means 'king', 'sedom' refers to the city of Sodom. 'ha-ri-mo-ti ya-di' means 'I have lifted my hand' – an oath-taking gesture. 'el-yon' means 'most high'. 'ko-neh' means 'possessor' or 'creator' - in this context, creator. 'sha-ma-yim' means 'heavens' and 'aretz' means 'earth'.
[GEN.14.23] If from a thread even to a shoelace, and if I take anything that is yours, you will not say, 'I have made Abraham rich.' [§]
Im-michut ve'ad s'roch-na'al ve'im ekach mi-kol asher-lach ve-lo tomar ani he'esharti et-Avram.
This verse comes from Genesis 14:23. It details a covenant made by Abraham, and is a promise that he will not take even the smallest item from Lot, even a shoelace, and claim he made Lot rich by doing so. 'Im' means 'if'. 'Michut' means 'a thread'. 'Ve'ad' means 'and until/to'. 'S'roch-na'al' means 'a shoelace'. 'Ekach' means 'I will take'. 'Mi-kol' means 'from all'. 'Asher-lach' means 'that is yours'. 'Lo tomar' means 'you will not say'. 'Ani he'esharti' means 'I made rich'. 'Et-Avram' means 'Abraham'.
[GEN.14.24] Apart from me, only what the young men consumed, and the portion of the men which went with me – Aner, Eshkol, and Mamrei – they will take their portion. [§]
Bil'adai, rak asher akhlu hanearim vehekhalek ha'anashim asher halkhu itti, Aner eshkhol umamrei hem yikhu helkam.
This verse details the portion of the spoils that Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh are to receive. 'Bil'adai' seems to be an introductory phrase meaning 'without me' or 'apart from me'. 'Rak' means 'only' or 'but'. 'Asher' means 'which' or 'that'. 'Akhlu' means 'ate' or 'consumed'. 'Hanearim' means 'the young men'. 'Vehekhalek' means 'and the portion'. 'Ha'anashim' means 'the men'. 'Asher halkhu itti' means 'which went with me'. 'Aner eshkhol umamrei' refers to specific locations or people. 'Hem yikhu helkam' means 'they will take their portion'.
GEN.15
[GEN.15.1] After these events, a word of Yahveh came to Abram in a vision, saying, "Do not be afraid, Abram. I, Yahveh, am your shield; your reward will be very great." [§]
akhah'r had'varim ha'eleh hayah d'var-Yahveh el-Avram bamakhzeh le'emor al-tira Avram anokhi magen lakh sekhar'kha harbeh me'od.
This verse describes a word from Yahveh to Abram in a vision. It begins by stating that after these events, a word of Yahveh came to Abram. Then, Yahveh speaks to Abram, telling him not to be afraid and declaring that Yahveh is Abram's shield and his reward will be very great.
[GEN.15.2] And Abraham said, "My Lord Yahveh, what will you give to me, seeing that I go childless, and the son of my household is Eliezer of Damascus?" [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ram A-do-nai Yah-veh mah-ti-ten-li ve-a-no-chi ho-lech a-ri-ri u-ven-mesh-ek be-ti hu Dah-meh-sek E-lie-zer.
This verse comes from Genesis 15:2. Abraham is speaking to 'my Lord Yahveh' and is questioning what will be given to him, as he is currently going childless, and his heir will be a servant from his house, specifically, Eliezer of Damascus.
[GEN.15.3] And Abram said, "Behold, to me you have not given seed, and indeed a member of my household will inherit me." [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ram Hen lee lo na-ta-ta za-ra ve-hi-neh ben-beit-i yo-resh oti.
This verse comes from Genesis 15:3. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Av-ram' is the name Abram. 'Hen lee' means 'behold to me' or 'look, to me'. 'Lo natata' means 'you have not given'. 'Zara' means 'seed' or 'offspring'. 'Ve-hi-neh' means 'and behold'. 'Ben-beit-i' means 'son of my house' or 'a member of my household'. 'Yoresh' means 'will inherit'. 'Oti' means 'me'. Therefore, Abram is lamenting his lack of offspring and expressing concern about who will inherit him.
[GEN.15.4] And behold, the word of Yahveh to him, to say, "This will not be inherited by you, but that which comes forth from your insides, he will inherit you." [§]
vehineh devar-yahveh elayv leemor lo yirash-chah zeh ki im asher yetzeh mime'echah hu yirash-chah.
This verse is a prophecy. 'Vehineh' means 'and behold'. 'Devar-Yahveh' is 'the word of Yahveh'. 'Elayv' means 'to him'. 'Leemor' means 'to say'. 'Lo yirash-chah zeh' means 'this will not be inherited by you'. 'Ki im' means 'but'. 'Asher yetzeh mime'echah' means 'that which comes forth from your insides'. 'Hu yirash-chah' means 'he will inherit you'.
[GEN.15.5] And he brought him outside and said, "Look now at the heavens and count the stars, if you are able to count them." And he said to him, "So will be your offspring." [§]
vayotzei oto hachutza vayomer habet-na hashamaymah usfor hakochavim im-tukhal lispor otam vayomer lo koh yihiyeh zarecha
This verse describes a scene where someone is taken outside and asked to count the stars. It's part of a covenant God makes with Abram (Abraham). The verse speaks of God promising Abram countless descendants, comparing their number to the stars in the sky. Let's break down the names of God used here. 'Elohim' appears as 'the Gods', reflecting the plural form. 'Yahveh' appears as 'Yahveh'.
[GEN.15.6] And he believed in Yahveh, and it was counted to him as righteousness. [§]
vehe’emin bah-Yahveh vayachshvehah lo tsedakah
This verse describes Abraham believing in Yahveh, and it being counted to him as righteousness. 'Vehe’emin' means 'and he believed'. 'Bah-Yahveh' means 'in Yahveh'. 'Vayachshvehah' means 'and it was counted'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Tsedakah' means 'righteousness'.
[GEN.15.7] And God said to him, "I am Yahveh, who brought you out of the land of the Chaldeans to give you this land to inherit." [§]
Va-yo-mer e-la-v a-nee Yahveh a-sher ho-tzee-tee-cha me-oor kas-dee-eem le-tet le-cha et ha-a-retz ha-zo-at le-reesh-tah.
This verse contains several key names and words. "Va-yo-mer" means "and he said". "E-la-v" is the singular form, referring to "God". "A-nee" means "I". "Yahveh" is the proper name of God. "A-sher" means "who" or "which". "Ho-tzee-tee-cha" means "I brought you out". "Me-oor kas-dee-eem" means "from the land of the Chaldeans". "Le-tet le-cha" means "to give you". "Et ha-a-retz ha-zo-at" means "this land". "Le-reesh-tah" means "to inherit".
[GEN.15.8] And my Lord Yahveh said, "By what may I know that I have surely visited them?" [§]
vayomer adonai yevah bamah eda ki irashanah
This verse is from Exodus 3:15. 'Vayomer' means 'and said'. 'Adonai' is 'my Lord'. 'Yevah' is the name of God, Yahveh. 'bamah' means 'by what'. 'eda' means 'I will know'. 'ki' means 'that'. 'irashanah' means 'I have surely visited'.
[GEN.15.9] And He said to him, "Take for me a spotted calf, and a spotted goat, and a spotted ram, and an ox, and a lamb." [§]
Va-yo-mer ei-lav ke-chah lee eg-lah me-shu-leh-sheh-tet ve-ez me-shu-leh-sheh-tet ve-ah-yil me-shu-lahsh ve-tor ve-go-zal.
This verse contains instructions for a sacrifice. "Va-yo-mer" means "and He said." "Ei-lav" means "to him." "Ke-chah lee" means "take for me." "Eg-lah" means "calf" (a young cow). "Me-shu-leh-sheh-tet" means "three-colored" or "spotted." "Ve" means "and." "Ez" means "goat." "Ah-yil" means "ram." "Me-shu-lahsh" also means "spotted." "Tor" means "ox" or "bull." "Go-zal" means "lamb".
[GEN.15.10] And he took all these, and he cut them in the middle, and he put each portion toward his companion, and he did not cut the birds. [§]
va-yik-akh-loo et-kol-eh-leh va-ye-vah-teir o-tam ba-tah-veh-kh va-yit-ten eesh-bit-ro li-krat re-eh-hu ve-et ha-tzip-por lo ba-tar.
This verse describes Abraham cutting up animals into pieces and arranging them, but not the birds. "Vayikakh" means "and he took". "Et" is a direct object marker. "Kol-eh-leh" means "all these". "Vayevateir" means "and he cut". "Otam" means "them". "Ba-tah-veh-kh" means "in the middle". "Vayitten" means "and he put". "Eesh bitro" means "each his portion". "Likrat re’eh-hu" means "toward his companion". "Ve-et ha-tzip-por" means "and the birds". "Lo batar" means "he did not cut".
[GEN.15.11] And the eagle came down upon the carcasses, and Abraham drove them away. [§]
vay-ered ha-ayit al-ha-pgar-im vay-shav otam av-ram
This verse describes Abraham driving away the birds from the carcasses. 'Vay-ered' means 'and descended' or 'and came down'. 'Ha-ayit' means 'the eagle' or 'the vulture'. 'Al-ha-pgar-im' means 'upon the carcasses'. 'Vay-shav' means 'and he drove away' or 'and he scared off'. 'Otam' means 'them'. 'Av-ram' is the name Abraham.
[GEN.15.12] And it happened, the sun being to set, and a sleep fell upon Abram. And behold, a terror, a great darkness, was descending upon him. [§]
va-yi-hi ha-she-mesh la-vo, ve-tar-de-mah naf-la al-av-ram ve-hi-neh ei-mah chash-eh-kah ged-o-lah no-fe-let a-lav.
This verse describes the setting of the sun and a deep sleep falling upon Abram, followed by a great and terrifying darkness descending upon him. The words are fairly straightforward in their literal meanings, describing a sequence of events.
[GEN.15.13] And He said to Abram, "Know, know that your seed will be a sojourner in a land not theirs, and they will enslave them and afflict them for four hundred years." [§]
Va-yo-mer le-Av-ram ya-doe ta-da ki-ger yi-hye zar-ach-cha be-eretz lo la-hem va-av-doom ve-ee-noo o-tam ar-ba-ma-ot sha-nah.
This verse is from Genesis 15:13. It describes God telling Abram (Abraham) about the future hardship his descendants will face. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and He said'. 'Le-Av-ram' means 'to Abram'. 'Ya-doe ta-da' is a doubled verb meaning 'know, know'. 'Ki-ger yi-hye zar-ach-cha' means 'that a sojourner will be your seed'. 'Be-eretz lo la-hem' means 'in a land not theirs'. 'Va-av-doom ve-ee-noo o-tam' means 'and they will enslave them and afflict them'. 'Ar-ba-ma-ot sha-nah' means 'four hundred years'.
[GEN.15.14] And also the nation which they will serve, I, the Judge, am. And after that they will depart with great wealth. [§]
ve-gam et-ha-goy asher ya'avodu dan anokhi ve-acharei-chen yets'u bir'khush gadol.
This verse contains several key terms. "Goy" refers to a nation or people. "Ya'avodu" means "they will serve". "Dan" is a divine name, typically understood as 'judge'. "Anokhi" is the first-person pronoun, meaning 'I'. "Yets'u" means 'they will go out' or 'they will depart'. "Bir'khush gadol" means 'with great possessions' or 'with great wealth'.
[GEN.15.15] And you will come to your fathers in peace. You will be buried in a good old age. [§]
veh-ah-tah tah-voe el-ah-bo-teh-cha be-shah-lom tee-kah-ver be-say-vah toh-vah
This verse speaks of a peaceful death and burial in old age. 'Veh-ah-tah' means 'and you'. 'Tah-voe' means 'you will come'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Ah-bo-teh-cha' means 'your fathers'. 'Be-shah-lom' means 'in peace'. 'Tee-kah-ver' means 'you will be buried'. 'Be-say-vah' means 'in old age'. 'Toh-vah' means 'good'.
[GEN.15.16] And the fourth generation will return there, for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet finished until now. [§]
veh-dor reh-vee-ee ya-shoo-voo hay-nah kee lo-sha-lem ah-von ha-Em-o-ree ad-hay-nah.
This verse discusses the Amorites and their iniquity. 'Dor' means generation. 'Revee'ee' means fourth. 'Yashuvoo' means they will return. 'Haynah' means there. 'Kee' means because or for. 'Lo-shalem' means not complete or not finished. 'Avon' means iniquity or wickedness. 'Ha-Emoree' means the Amorite. 'Ad-haynah' means until there or until now.
[GEN.15.17] And it was, the sun came and darkness was. And behold, a furnace of smoke and a torch of fire, which passed between the sections these. [§]
Va-yhi ha-shemesh ba’ah va’alatah hayah ve-hinneh tanur ashan ve-lapid esh asher avar bein ha-gezarim ha-elleh.
This verse describes a vision experienced. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Ha-shemesh' is 'the sun'. 'Ba’ah' means 'came'. 'Va’alatah hayah' means 'and darkness was'. 'Ve-hinneh' means 'and behold'. 'Tanur ashan' is 'a furnace of smoke'. 'Ve-lapid esh' is 'and a torch of fire'. 'Asher avar' means 'which passed'. 'Bein ha-gezarim ha-elleh' means 'between the sections these'.
[GEN.15.18] On that day, Yahveh cut a covenant with Abram, saying, “To your seed, I have given this land from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates.” [§]
bayom hahu karat Yahveh et-Avram brit le'emor lezar'acha natati et-ha'aretz hazot min-nahar mitzrayim ad-hanahar hagadol nehar-prat.
This verse describes the covenant God makes with Abram. 'bayom hahu' means 'on that day'. 'karat' means 'cut' - referring to the cutting of a covenant. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'et-Avram' means 'with Abram'. 'brit' means 'covenant'. 'le'emor' means 'saying'. 'lezar'acha' means 'to your seed'. 'natati' means 'I have given'. 'et-ha'aretz hazot' means 'this land'. 'min-nahar mitzrayim' means 'from the river of Egypt'. 'ad-hanahar hagadol nehar-prat' means 'to the great river, the river Euphrates'.
[GEN.15.19] and the Keynite and the Kenizzite and the Kadmonite. [§]
et-ha-key-nee ve-et-ha-ken-ee-zee ve-et ha-kad-mo-nee
This verse lists three groups of people. "et" is a grammatical particle indicating the direct object. "ha" is the definite article, meaning "the". "Keynee" and "Kenizzee" are likely names of tribes or clans. "Kadmoni" refers to people from the East, or possibly the firstborn. The verse simply names these groups.
[GEN.15.20] And the Hittites and the Perizzites and the Rephaim. [§]
ve'et-hachitti ve'et-hape'rizzi ve'et-harfa'im
This verse lists three peoples. 'Ve'et' is a conjunction meaning 'and' followed by a direct object marker. 'Hachitti' refers to the Hittites, 'hape'rizzi' refers to the Perizzites, and 'harfa'im' refers to the Rephaim. These are all names of nations or groups of people.
[GEN.15.21] And the Emori and the Canaanites and the Girgashites and the Jebusites. [§]
ve'et-ha'emori ve'et-hakena'ani ve'et-hagirgashi ve'et-hayevusi.
This verse lists several peoples. 'Ve'et' means 'and' connecting each people group. 'Ha' indicates 'the'. 'Emori', 'Kena'ani', 'Girgashi', and 'Yevusi' are the names of those peoples. The final character is a paragraph break or section marker.
GEN.16
[GEN.16.1] And Sarai, the wife of Abram, had not borne to him, and to her was a maidservant, an Egyptian, and her name was Hagar. [§]
ve-sarai eshet avram lo yaldah lo ve-lah shifchah mitzrit ush-mah-ah hagar
This verse describes Sarai, the wife of Abram, being barren and having an Egyptian maidservant named Hagar. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Eshet' means 'wife of'. 'Lo' means 'not'. 'Yaldah' means 'she bore'. 'Lah' means 'to her'. 'Shifchah' means 'maidservant'. 'Mitzrit' means 'Egyptian'. 'Ush-mah-ah' means 'and her name'. 'Hagar' is a proper name.
[GEN.16.2] And Sarai said to Abram, "Behold, please, Yahveh has hindered me from bearing children. Please, go to my maidservant, perhaps I may have a child through her." And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai. [§]
va-to-mer sa-rai el-av-ram hi-neh na atz-ra-ni ye-ho-vah mi-le-det bo na el shif-cha-ti oo-lai i-ba-neh mi-meh-nah va-yish-ma av-ram le-kol sa-rai
This verse describes Sarai speaking to Abram. She states that Yahveh has hindered her from bearing children. Therefore, she suggests that Abram go to her maidservant, hoping to have a child through her. Abram listens to Sarai's voice.
[GEN.16.3] And Sarah, the wife of Abram, took Hagar, the Egyptian maidservant, after ten years of Abram dwelling in the land of Canaan, and she gave her to Abram as his wife, to be his wife. [§]
Va-tee-kah Sa-rai eshet Av-ram et Ha-gar Ha-mitz-reet shif-cha-tah mi-ketz eser sha-nim le-she-vet Av-ram be-eretz Ke-na-an va-tee-ten otah le-Av-ram ee-shah lo le-ee-shah.
This verse describes Sarah, the wife of Abram, giving Hagar, her Egyptian maidservant, to Abram as a wife after ten years of Abram dwelling in the land of Canaan. The verb 'take' is used in a way that indicates giving someone *to* another. 'Esh' means 'wife' but in this context describes Sarah's role. 'Shifcha' means 'maidservant' or 'servant'. 'Mi-ketz' means 'after'.
[GEN.16.4] And he came to Hagar, and she conceived. And she saw that she was pregnant, and her mistress was diminished in her eyes. [§]
Va-yo-vo el-ha-gar va-ta-har, va-te-re ki ha-rata, va-tekal g'vir-ta-ah be-ei-nav
This verse describes Hagar conceiving a child. 'Va-yo-vo' means 'and he came'. 'El' means 'to' or 'toward'. 'Ha-gar' is the name Hagar. 'Va-ta-har' means 'and she conceived'. 'Va-te-re' means 'and she saw'. 'Ki' means 'that'. 'Ha-rata' means 'she was pregnant'. 'Va-tekal' means 'and she despised'. 'G'vir-ta-ah' means 'her lady' or 'her mistress'. 'Be-ei-nav' means 'in her eyes'.
[GEN.16.5] And Sarai said to Abram, "My wrong is upon you. I gave my handmaid into your embrace, and now that she is with child, I am despised in her eyes. May Yahveh judge between me and you." [§]
va-to-mer sarai el-avram chamasi alecha anochi natati shifchati be-cheikcha va-teira ki harata va-ekal be-eineha yishpot Yahveh beini u-beinecha
This verse details a conversation between Sarai and Abram. Sarai expresses her frustration towards Abram, claiming he is responsible for her trouble. She states that she gave her handmaid into his embrace, and now that she is with child, she is held in contempt in Sarai’s eyes. Sarai requests that Yahveh judge between her and Abram.
[GEN.16.6] And Abraham said to Sarai, "Behold, your maidservant is in your hand, do to her what is good in your eyes." And Sarai afflicted her maidservant, and she fled from before her. [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ram el-Sa-rai hi-neh shif-cha-tech be-ya-dech a-see-lah ha-tov be-ei-na-yich va-te-a-neh-ha Sa-rai va-tib-rach mi-pa-neh-ha.
This verse describes Abraham speaking to Sarai, giving her permission regarding Hagar, her maidservant. He tells her to do what is good in her eyes concerning Hagar. Then, Sarai afflicted Hagar, and Hagar fled from her.
[GEN.16.7] And an angel of Yahveh found her at the spring of water in the wilderness, at the spring on the road to Shur. [§]
va-yim-tza-ah mal-akh Yahveh al-ayin ha-mayim ba-mid-bar al-ha-ayin be-derech shur.
This verse describes an encounter with an angel of Yahveh. 'Va-yim-tza-ah' means 'and found her.' 'Mal-akh' means 'angel' or 'messenger.' 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Al-ayin ha-mayim' means 'at the eye of the waters,' or 'at the spring.' 'Ba-mid-bar' means 'in the wilderness.' 'Al-ha-ayin' means 'at the spring.' 'Be-derech shur' means 'on the road to Shur.'
[GEN.16.8] And Hagar, the maidservant of Sarah, said, “From where have you come, and where are you going?” And she said, “I am fleeing from Sarah, my mistress.” [§]
Va-yo-mar Ha-gar shif-chat Sa-rai ei-miz-zeh va-tah ve-a-nah te-le-chi va-to-mar mip-nei Sa-rai gebir-ti a-no-chi bo-ra-chat.
This verse recounts Hagar, Sarah’s maidservant, being questioned about her destination. The verse begins with ‘and she said’, then introduces Hagar as the maidservant of Sarah. She is asked ‘from where have you come’ and ‘where are you going?’ Hagar responds that she is fleeing from Sarah, her mistress.
[GEN.16.9] And the messenger of Yahveh said to her, "Return to your mistress, and humble yourself under her hand." [§]
Va-yo-mer lah mal-ach Yahveh, shuvi el-gevirteych, ve-hit-an-ni tachat yadeha.
This verse describes an angel speaking to a woman. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Lah' means 'to her'. 'Mal-ach' means 'messenger' or 'angel'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Shuvi' means 'return'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Gvirteych' means 'your mistress'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Hit-an-ni' means 'humble yourself'. 'Tachat' means 'under'. 'Yadeha' means 'her hand'.
[GEN.16.10] And the messenger of Yahveh said to her, "I will greatly increase your seed, and it will not be counted from abundance." [§]
va-yo-mer lah mal-akh Yahveh har-bah ar-beh et-zar-ehkh ve-lo yi-sa-fer me-rov
This verse features several key names and words. "Malakh" means messenger, or angel. "Yahveh" is the proper name of God. "Zar'ehkh" is 'your seed'. "Harbeh" means 'much' or 'many'. The verb 'arbeh' means 'I will increase'. "Yi-sa-fer" means 'will be counted'. "Me-rov" means 'from abundance'.
[GEN.16.11] And the angel of Yahveh said to her, "You are pregnant and will bear a son, and you shall call his name Ishmael, for Yahveh has heard your affliction." [§]
Va-yo-mer lah malakh Yahveh, hi-nakh harah ve-yo-led-t ben ve-karat shmo Yishma-el ki-shama Yahveh el-aniyek.
This verse comes from Genesis 16:11. It describes an angel speaking to Hagar. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Lah' means 'to her'. 'Malakh' means 'angel'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Hi-nakh' means 'you are'. 'Harah' means 'pregnant'. 'Ve-yo-led-t' means 'and will bear'. 'Ben' means 'a son'. 'Ve-karat' means 'and you shall call'. 'Shmo' means 'his name'. 'Yishma-el' is the name 'Ishmael'. 'Ki' means 'for'. 'Shama' means 'heard'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Aniyek' means 'your affliction'.
[GEN.16.12] And he will be a wild man, his hand in everything and the hand of everyone against him, and he will dwell among all his brothers. [§]
veh-hoo yih-yeh peh-reh ah-dahm yah-doh bah-kohl veh-yahd kohl boh veh-ahl peh-neh kohl eh-hahv yish-khon.
This verse describes a person who will be wild and untamed, having a relationship of dominance and subjection with all others. 'Peh-reh' literally means 'wild donkey' or 'wild ass', representing someone untamed. 'Yad' means 'hand', used here to represent control or power. 'Kohl' means 'all' or 'everyone'. 'Eh-hahv' is brothers. 'Yish-khon' means 'he will dwell' or 'he will reside'. 'Yahveh' refers to the name of God, so is translated as Yahveh.
[GEN.16.13] And she called the name of Yahveh, the one speaking to her, "You are God, one who sees me!" Because she said, "Have I really seen one who sees me even here after seeing one who sees me?" [§]
va-tee-krah shem-Yahveh ha-doh-ber eh-lay-ha ah-tah el ro-ee kee ah-mah-rah ha-gam ha-lom ra-ee ah-ha-ray ro-ee
This verse recounts Hagar naming the God who spoke to her. 'Vatikra' means 'and she called'. 'Shem' means 'name'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Ha-doh-ber eh-lay-ha' means 'the one speaking to her'. 'Ata' means 'you'. 'El' means 'God'. 'Ro-ee' means 'one who sees me'. 'Kee' means 'because'. 'Ha-gam' means 'even'. 'Ha-lom' means 'here'. 'Ra-ee' is again 'one who sees me'. 'Ah-ha-ray' means 'after'.
[GEN.16.14] Therefore, he called the well "Well of the Living One Who Sees Me," behold, it is between Kadesh and Bared. [§]
Al-ken kara la-beer beer Lachai Ro'i, hineh bein-Kadesh u-bein-Bared.
This verse describes naming a well. "Al-ken" means "therefore". "Kara" means "he called". "La-beer" means "to the well". "Beer" means "well". "Lachai Ro'i" is a descriptive phrase meaning "to the living one who sees me". "Hineh" means "behold" or "here". "Bein" means "between". "Kadesh" is a place name. "U-bein" means "and between". "Bared" is a place name.
[GEN.16.15] And Hagar bore a son to Abram, and Abram called the name of his son, that she bore, Ishmael. [§]
Va-teled ha-gar le-av-ram ben, va-yik-ra av-ram shem-ben-o asher-yal-da ha-gar yish-ma-el.
This verse describes Hagar giving birth to a son for Abram and Abram naming the son Ishmael. 'Va-teled' means 'and she bore'. 'Ha-gar' is the name Hagar. 'Le-av-ram' means 'to Abram'. 'Ben' means 'son'. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Shem-ben-o' means 'the name of his son'. 'Asher-yal-da' means 'that she bore'. 'Yish-ma-el' is the name Ishmael.
[GEN.16.16] And Abram was the son of eighty years and six years in the birthing of Hagar, Ishmael to Abram. [§]
ve-avram ben-shmonim shanah ve-shesh shanim be-ledet ha-Hagar et-Yishma’el le-Avram.
This verse states the age of Abram when Hagar bore Ishmael to him. "ve" means "and". "Avram" is the name Abram. "ben" means "son", often used in the sense of "age of". "shmonim" is eighty. "shanah" means "year". "ve" means "and". "shesh" is six. "shanim" means "years". "be-ledet" means "in the birthing of". "ha-Hagar" means "the Hagar". "et" is a grammatical particle. "Yishma’el" is the name Ishmael. "le-Avram" means "to Abram".
GEN.17
[GEN.17.1] And it happened that Abram was ninety-nine years old, and Yahveh appeared to Abram, and said to him, "I am the God Shaddai. Walk before me, and be blameless." [§]
Va-yhi Avram ben-tish'a shanah v'tesha shanim, va-yera Yahveh el-Avram, va-yomer elav ani-El Shaddai, hithalech lefanai ve-hye tamim.
This verse describes a moment when Yahveh appeared to Abram. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it happened.' 'Ben-tish'a shanah v'tesha shanim' means 'son of ninety years and nine years,' or simply 'ninety-nine years old.' 'Va-yera' means 'and appeared.' 'El-Avram' means 'to Abram.' 'Va-yomer' means 'and said.' 'Elav' means 'to him.' 'Ani-El Shaddai' means 'I am the God Shaddai.' 'Hithalech lefanai' means 'walk before me.' 'Ve-hye tamim' means 'and be blameless.'
[GEN.17.2] And I will establish my covenant between me and you, and I will greatly increase you very, very much. [§]
ve-et-na beriti bein-i u-bein-cha ve-arbeh otcha bima'od me'od
This verse outlines a covenant being established. 'Ve' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker. 'Beriti' means 'my covenant'. 'Bein-i u-bein-cha' means 'between me and you'. 'Arbeh' means 'I will increase'. 'Otcha' means 'you'. 'Bima’od me’od’ means 'very, very much'.
[GEN.17.3] And Abram fell upon his face, and the Gods spoke with him, saying: [§]
va-yipol avram al-panav va-yedaber ito elohim le’emor
This verse describes Abram falling face down and then speaking with 'Elohim'. 'Va-yipol' means 'and he fell'. 'Avram' is the name Abram. 'Al-panav' means 'on his face'. 'Va-yedaber' means 'and he spoke'. 'Ito' means 'with him'. 'Elohim' is the plural form of 'El', meaning 'gods'. 'Le’emor' means 'saying'.
[GEN.17.4] I behold, my covenant is with you, and you will be to a father of many nations. [§]
a-nee hee-neh b'ree-tee eet-tahk v'ha-yee-tah l'av hah-mon go-yeem
This verse contains several key names and phrases. "a-nee" means 'I'. "hee-neh" means 'behold'. "b'ree-tee" is a combination of 'b'reet' (covenant) and the possessive pronoun 'ee' (my), so it means 'my covenant'. "eet-tahk" means 'with you'. "v'ha-yee-tah" means 'and you will be'. "l'av" means 'to a father'. "hah-mon" means 'of many'. "go-yeem" means 'nations'.
[GEN.17.5] And your name shall no longer be called Avram, and your name shall be Avraham, for I have made you father of a multitude of nations. [§]
v’lo yikare od et shimcha Avram v’hayah shimcha Avraham ki av-hamon goyim nataticha.
This verse discusses a name change. “v’lo yikare od” means “and your name shall no longer be called.” “et shimcha Avram” means “your name Avram”. “v’hayah shimcha Avraham” means “and your name shall be Avraham”. “ki av-hamon goyim” means “for father of a multitude of nations”. “nataticha” means “I have made you”.
[GEN.17.6] And I will greatly multiply you, very greatly, and I will make you into nations, and kings will come forth from you. [§]
vehifretee otcha bim’od m’od un’tatteecha l’goyim um’lachim mimcha yeitzeu.
This verse contains several key terms. 'Hifretee' comes from the root 'parah' meaning 'to break, scatter, or spread.' 'Otcha' means 'you.' 'Bim’od m’od' means 'very, very' or 'exceedingly.' 'Untatteecha' means 'I will make you.' 'L’goyim' means 'to nations.' 'Um’lachim mimcha yeitzeu' means 'and kings from you will come forth.' The verse speaks of a promise of multiplication and the rise of kings from the individual addressed.
[GEN.17.7] And I will establish my covenant between me and you, and between your offspring after you, for their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be to you the Gods, and to your offspring after you. [§]
vah-kah-mee-tee et-bree-tee bay-nee oo-bay-nekh-ah oo-bayn zar-ah-khah akh-har-aykhah le-dor-otam li-bree-t oh-lahm li-hee-yot le-khah le-elohim oo-le-zar-akhah akh-har-aykhah.
This verse describes the establishment of a covenant. 'Vah-kah-mee-tee' means 'and I will establish'. 'Et-bree-tee' means 'my covenant'. 'Bay-nee oo-bay-nekh-ah' means 'between me and you'. 'Oo-bayn zar-ah-khah akh-har-aykhah' means 'and between your offspring after you'. 'Le-dor-otam' means 'for their generations'. 'Li-bree-t oh-lahm' means 'for an everlasting covenant'. 'Li-hee-yot le-khah le-elohim' means 'to be to you the Gods'. 'Oo-le-zar-akhah akh-har-aykhah' means 'and to your offspring after you'.
[GEN.17.8] And I will give to you, and to your seed after you, the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan for an everlasting possession. And I will be to them as the Gods. [§]
ve-natati lecha u-le-zarcha acharicha et eretz megurecha et kol eretz Kenaan la-achuzat olam ve-hayiti lahem leElohim.
This verse details a promise of land and a covenant relationship. "Ve-natati" means "and I will give". "Lecha" means "to you". "U-le-zarcha acharicha" means "and to your seed after you". "Et eretz megurecha" means "the land of your sojournings". "Et kol eretz Kenaan" means "all the land of Canaan". "La-achuzat olam" means "for an everlasting possession". "Ve-hayiti lahem" means "and I will be to them". "LeElohim" means "as Gods".
[GEN.17.9] And the Gods said to Abraham, "And you shall keep my covenant, you and your offspring after you for their generations." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim el-Avraham ve-atah et-briti tishmor atah ve-zara-cha acharei-cha le-dorotam.
This verse recounts God speaking to Abraham, instructing him to keep the covenant. "Va-yo-mer" means 'and He said'. "Elohim" refers to the Gods. "el-Avraham" means 'to Abraham'. "ve-atah" means 'and you'. "et-briti" means 'my covenant'. "tishmor" means 'you shall keep'. "ve-zara-cha" means 'and your offspring'. "acharei-cha" means 'after you'. "le-dorotam" means 'for their generations'.
[GEN.17.10] This is my covenant that you shall keep between me and between you, and between your seed after you. Every male among you shall be circumcised. [§]
zoht bri-ti asher tish-me-ru bein-i u-bein-ei-chem u-bein zar-a-cha a-cha-rei-cha hi-mol la-chem kol-zachar.
This verse details a covenant. "Zoht" means 'this'. "Briti" means 'my covenant'. "Asher" means 'that'. "Tishmeru" means 'you shall keep'. "Beini" means 'between me'. "Ubeiniechem" means 'and between you'. "Ubein zaracha" means 'and between your seed'. "Achareicha" means 'after you'. "Himol lachem" means 'circumcise for you'. "Kol zachar" means 'every male'.
[GEN.17.11] And you shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin, and it will be as a sign of the covenant between me and between you. [§]
oo-nemal-tem et be-sar ar-lat-chem ve-ha-yah le-ote brit bay-nee oo-bay-nekhem
This verse describes the covenant sign of circumcision. 'Nemal' means to circumcise. 'Be-sar ar-lat-chem' means 'the flesh of your foreskin'. 'Ve-ha-yah' means 'and it will be'. 'Le-ote brit' means 'as a sign of the covenant'. 'Bay-nee oo-bay-nekhem' means 'between me and between you'.
[GEN.17.12] And on the eighth day, every male shall be circumcised among you, for all your generations, whether born in your house or purchased with money from any foreigner who is not of your seed. [§]
u-ven-shmonat yamim yimol lakhem kol-zachar le-doroteichem yelid bayit u-miknat-kesef mi-kol ben-nechar asher lo mizaracha hu.
This verse details the covenant of circumcision. "ben-shmonat yamim" means "son of eight days". "zachar" means "male". "doroteichem" means "your generations". "yelid bayit" means "born in the house". "miknat-kesef" means "bought with money". "ben-nechar" means "son of a foreigner". "mizaracha" means "your seed".
[GEN.17.13] You must circumcise, you must circumcise, every male born in your house, and one you purchased with money. Thus, my covenant will be in your flesh as an eternal covenant. [§]
himmole | yimmole yelid beit’cha u’miknat kaspecha ve’hayta briti bibsarechem librit olam
This verse discusses the covenant of circumcision. "himmole" and "yimmole" are both forms of the verb ‘to circumcise’. "yelid beit’cha" means ‘born in your house’ or ‘your son’. “miknat kaspecha” means ‘your purchased with money’ or ‘your slave bought with money’. “briti bibsarechem” means ‘my covenant in your flesh’. “librit olam” means ‘to a covenant of forever’.
[GEN.17.14] And an uncircumcised male, who does not circumcise the flesh of his foreskin, that soul shall be cut off from among her people; he has broken my covenant. [§]
ve-arel zaw-kar ah-sher lo-yee-mole et-bes-ar ar-lat-o ve-nee-khre-tah ha-neh-fesh ha-hee mee-am-me-ha et-bree-tee heh-far.
This verse discusses the covenant of circumcision. 'Arel' refers to foreskin. 'Zaw-kar' means male. 'Lo-yee-mole' means 'will not circumcise'. 'Bes-ar ar-lat-o' means 'the flesh of his foreskin'. 'Nee-khre-tah' means 'will be cut off'. 'Ha-neh-fesh ha-hee' means 'that soul'. 'Mee-am-me-ha' means 'from among her people'. 'Et-bree-tee' means 'my covenant'. 'Heh-far' means 'he has broken'.
[GEN.17.15] And the Gods said to Abraham, "Do not call your wife’s name Sarai, for her name is Sarah." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim el-Avraham, Sarai ishtecha, lo-tikra et-shemah Sarai, ki Sarah shemah.
This verse recounts God speaking to Abraham. 'Elohim' refers to the Gods. 'Sarai ishtecha' means 'Sarai, your wife'. 'Lo-tikra et-shemah Sarai' means 'do not call her name Sarai'. 'Ki Sarah shemah' means 'for Sarah is her name'.
[GEN.17.16] And I blessed her, and also I gave to you a son from her. And I blessed her, and she will be to nations, kings of peoples will be from her. [§]
uvrakhti otah vgam natati mimena lcha ben uvrakhtiha vehayta legoyim malchei amim mimena yihyu.
This verse contains several key names and grammatical structures. 'uvrakhti' means 'and I blessed'. 'otah' means 'her'. 'vgam' means 'and also'. 'natati' means 'I gave'. 'mimena' means 'from her'. 'lcha' means 'to you'. 'ben' means 'son'. 'uvrakhtiha' means 'and I blessed her'. 'vehayta' means 'and she will be'. 'legoyim' means 'to nations'. 'malchei' means 'kings of'. 'amim' means 'peoples'. 'yihyu' means 'will be'. The name 'Yahveh' does not appear in this verse.
[GEN.17.17] And Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said in his heart, “Will the old man be born?” And if Sarah, the woman of ninety years, will bear? [§]
vayipol avraham al panav vayitzchak vayomer belibo halben meah shanah yivaled ve’im sarah habat tisim shanah teleid.
This verse describes Abraham falling to the ground and laughing after hearing that he and Sarah will have a son in their old age. 'Vayipol' means 'and he fell.' 'Avraham' is Abraham. 'Al panav' means 'on his face.' 'Vayitzchak' means 'and he laughed.' 'Vayomer' means 'and he said.' 'Belibo' means 'in his heart.' 'Halben' means 'the old man.' 'Meah shanah' means 'one hundred years.' 'Yivaled' means 'will be born.' 'Ve’im sarah' means 'and if Sarah.' 'Habat tisim shanah' means 'the woman of ninety years.' 'Teleid' means 'will bear.'
[GEN.17.18] And Abraham said to the Gods, "If only Ishmael may live in your presence." [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ra-ham el-ha-Elo-him, lu yish-ma-el yih-yeh le-fa-nev-cha.
This verse comes from Genesis 17:18. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Av-ra-ham' is Abraham. 'El' is God, and 'ha-Elo-him' is 'the Gods'. 'Lu' indicates a wish or 'if only'. 'Yish-ma-el' is Ishmael. 'Yih-yeh' means 'may he live'. 'Le-fa-nev-cha' translates to 'before your face', meaning 'in your presence'.
[GEN.17.19] And God said, "However, Sarah, your wife, will bear you a son, and you will call his name Isaac. And I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant with his offspring after him." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim, aval Sarah ishtechah yoleideteh lecha ben, ve-kara-tah et-shmo Yitzchak, va-ha-ki-moti et-briti itto livrit olam lezar-o acharayv.
This verse recounts God's promise to Abraham that Sarah, his wife, will bear him a son, and that the son's name will be Isaac. It also states that God will establish his covenant with Isaac and his descendants forever.
[GEN.17.20] And to Ishmael, I have heard you. Behold, I have blessed him, and I have caused him to flourish, and I have greatly multiplied him, exceedingly. Twelve leaders he will beget, and I will make him a great nation. [§]
u-le-yish-ma-el shma-ti-cha, hineh ber-ek-ti oto, ve-hip-rei-ti oto, ve-hir-bei-ti oto bim-od me-od, shnei-im-asar nesi-im yo-lid, u-nat-ti-hu le-goy gadol.
This verse comes from Genesis 21:18 and details God’s promise to Hagar concerning her son Ishmael. It states that God has heard Ishmael’s affliction, and will bless him, cause him to multiply greatly, and make him the father of twelve leaders, establishing him as a great nation.
[GEN.17.21] And my covenant I will establish with Isaac, who you, Sarah, will bear for Abraham at this appointed time, in the next year. [§]
ve'et-beriti akim et-yitzchak asher teled lecha sarah la'moed hazeh bashanah ha'acheret.
This verse details a covenant God will establish with Isaac, who Sarah will bear for Abraham at a specified time, in the coming year. 'Ve'et' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'Beriti' means 'my covenant'. 'Akim' means 'I will establish'. 'Et' is a direct object marker. 'Yitzchak' is Isaac’s name. 'Asher' means 'who' or 'which'. 'Teled' means 'you will bear'. 'Lecha' means 'for you'. 'Sarah' is Sarah’s name. 'La'moed' means 'at the appointed time'. 'Ha'zeh' means 'this'. 'Bashanah' means 'in the year'. 'Ha'acheret' means 'the next'.
[GEN.17.22] And he finished speaking with him, and the Gods ascended from above Abraham. [§]
va-yekhal le-da-ber it-to va-ya’al Elohim me-al Avraham
This verse describes the completion of God’s speaking with Abraham and God’s departure from above Abraham. ‘Vayekhal’ means ‘and he finished’, referring to God finishing speaking. ‘Ledaber’ means ‘to speak’. ‘Ito’ means ‘with him’ referring to Abraham. ‘Vaya’al’ means ‘and he ascended’. ‘Elohim’ is ‘the Gods’. ‘Me’al’ means ‘from above’. ‘Avraham’ is Abraham’s name.
[GEN.17.23] And Abraham took Ishmael, his son, and all those born in his house, and all that he had acquired with his money – every male among the people of Abraham’s house – and he circumcised the flesh of their foreskins on that very day, as the Gods had spoken to him. [§]
Va-yik-akh Av-ra-ham et-Yish-ma-el ben-o ve-et kol-ye-li-dei beit-o ve-et kol-mik-nat kas-po kol-za-char be-an-shei beit Av-ra-ham va-ya-mal et-besar ar-lat-am be-etzem ha-yom ha-zeh ka-asher di-ber it-to Elohim.
This verse describes Abraham circumcising Ishmael, his son, and all the males of his household. It states that Abraham took Ishmael and all those born in his house, and all those he acquired with his money – every male among the people of Abraham’s house – and circumcised the flesh of their foreskins on that very day, just as the Gods had spoken to him.
[GEN.17.24] And Abraham was ninety-nine years old when his foreskin of flesh was circumcised. [§]
ve-avraham ben-tish'iim va-tesha shanah be-himolo be-sar arlatoh
This verse describes Abraham being circumcised. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Avraham' is Abraham's name. 'Ben' means 'son of'. 'Tish'iim va-tesha' means 'ninety and nine', or ninety-nine. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Be-himolo' means 'in his circumcision'. 'Be-sar' means 'of flesh'. 'Arlato' means 'his foreskin'.
[GEN.17.25] And Ishmael, his son, being thirteen years old, had his foreskin circumcised, his flesh. [§]
ve-yish-ma-el beno ben-shlosh es-reh shanah be-hi-mollo et besar orlatoh.
This verse describes Ishmael's circumcision. 've' means 'and'. 'yishmael' is a proper noun, Ishmael. 'beno' means 'his son'. 'ben-shlosh es-reh' means 'son of thirteen'. 'shanah' means 'year'. 'be-hi-mollo' means 'in his circumcision'. 'et' is a direct object marker. 'besar' means 'flesh'. 'orlatoh' means 'his foreskin'.
[GEN.17.26] At this very day, Abraham was circumcised, and Ishmael his son. [§]
Be’etzem hayom hazzeh nimol Avraham ve’Yishmael beno.
This verse describes the circumcision of Abraham and Ishmael. “Be’etzem” means “in the exactness of”, or “at this very”. “Hayom” means “the day”. “Hazzeh” means “this”. “Nimol” means “was circumcised”. “Avraham” is Abraham’s name. “Ve” means “and”. “Yishmael” is Ishmael’s name. “Beno” means “his son”.
[GEN.17.27] And all the men of his house, those born in the house and those acquired with money from a son of a foreigner, were circumcised with him. [§]
vekhol-anshei beitav yelid bayit umiknat-kesef me'et ben-nechar nimolu ito.
This verse details the circumcision of those in Abraham’s household. ‘Vekhol’ means ‘and all’. ‘Anshei beitav’ means ‘men of his house’. ‘Yelid bayit’ means ‘born in the house’. ‘Umiknat-kesef’ means ‘and purchased with money’. ‘Me’et ben-nechar’ means ‘from a son of a foreigner’. ‘Nimolu ito’ means ‘were circumcised with him’. The verse states that all the men in his house, those born in his house and those bought with money from foreigners, were circumcised together with Abraham.
GEN.18
[GEN.18.1] And Yahveh appeared to him in the oaks of Mamre, and he was sitting in the opening of the tent like the heat of the day. [§]
Va-ye-ra e-la-v Yahveh be-e-lo-nei mam-re, ve-hu yo-shev pe-tach ha-o-hel ke-chom ha-yom.
This verse describes an appearance of Yahveh to someone. 'Va-ye-ra' means 'and appeared'. 'E-la-v' means 'to him'. 'Be-e-lo-nei mam-re' means 'in the oaks of Mamre'. 'Ve-hu' means 'and he'. 'Yo-shev' means 'sitting'. 'Petch ha-o-hel' means 'the opening of the tent'. 'Ke-chom ha-yom' means 'like the heat of the day'.
[GEN.18.2] He lifted his eyes and saw, and behold, three men were standing before him. And he saw and ran to meet them from the entrance of the tent, and he bowed to the ground. [§]
vayisa eineiv vayara vehineh shloshah anashim nitzavim alav vayara vayaratz likratam mipetach ha'ohel vayishtachu artzah.
This verse describes someone lifting his eyes and seeing three men standing before him. He then runs to meet them from the tent entrance and bows to the ground. Let's break down the names used:
* 'El' isn't explicitly present, but the actions towards these men imply reverence for the divine.
Therefore, the translation will reflect the literal meaning of the words, including the plural implications of 'Elohim' where appropriate.
[GEN.18.3] And he said, "my Lord, if, please, I have found favor in your eyes, please do not pass over your servant." [§]
Va-yo-mar Adonai im-na matzati chen be-einecha al-na ta-avor me-al avdecha.
This verse is spoken by Jacob to an angel (understood to be God manifesting). Let's break down the names: 'Va-yo-mar' means 'and he said'. 'Adonai' means 'my Lord'. 'Im-na' is a plea, roughly meaning 'if, please'. 'Matzati' means 'I have found'. 'Chen' means 'favor'. 'Be-einecha' means 'in your eyes'. 'Al-na' is another plea, meaning 'please, not'. 'Ta-avor' means 'you pass'. 'Me-al' means 'over'. 'Avdecha' means 'your servant'. Thus, the verse is a plea for God not to pass by his servant without blessing him.
[GEN.18.4] Let a little water be taken, and wash your feet, and rest under the tree. [§]
yu-kah-nah me-at-ma-yim ve-ra-ha-tzoo rag-lay-khem ve-hee-sha-a-nu ta-hat ha-etz
This verse consists of several parts. "yu-kah-nah" is an imperative form meaning "let it be taken." "me-at-ma-yim" means "a little water." "ve-ra-ha-tzoo" means "and wash." "rag-lay-khem" means "your feet" (plural). "ve-hee-sha-a-nu" means "and lean" or "rest". "ta-hat ha-etz" means "under the tree". The verse is a request or offer of hospitality.
[GEN.18.5] And I will take bread, and sustain your hearts after you pass by, for thus you have passed over your servant. And they said, "Yes, do as you have spoken." [§]
ve’ekchah pat-lechem ves’adu liv’chem achar ta’avoru ki-al-kev’chem avarteem va’yomru ken ta’aseh ka’asher dibarta
This verse describes a situation where someone offers bread to others after they have passed by. The speaker states they will provide sustenance to their hearts after the others have moved on, emphasizing a relationship of service and obedience. The others agree to this arrangement.
[GEN.18.6] And Abraham quickly went to Sarah and said to her, "Quickly, prepare three measures of flour, fine meal, and bake cakes." [§]
vaymaher avraham ha’ohalah el-sarah vayomer mahari shlosh se’im kemach solet luishi va’asi ugoth.
This verse describes Abraham hurrying to Sarah after being told by the messengers that she would conceive. He instructs her to prepare three measures of fine flour and bake cakes.
[GEN.18.7] And to the cattle ran Abraham, and he took a calf, young and good, and he gave it to the young man, and he hastened to prepare him. [§]
ve-el-ha-bakar rats avraham vayikach ben-bakar rach v'tov vayiten el-hana'ar vaymaher la'asot oto
This verse describes Abraham running to the cattle and selecting a young and good calf to offer as a substitute sacrifice for his son Isaac. 'El' refers to God. 'Ha-bakar' means 'the cattle'. 'Rats' means 'ran'. 'Avraham' is Abraham. 'Vayikach' means 'and he took'. 'Ben-bakar' means 'son of cattle', or calf. 'Rach v'tov' means 'young and good'. 'Vayiten' means 'and he gave'. 'El-hana'ar' means 'to the young man'. 'Vaymaher' means 'and he hastened'. 'La'asot' means 'to do', or 'to make'. 'Oto' means 'him'.
[GEN.18.8] And he took butter and milk and the calf that he had made and placed it before them, and he stood over them under the tree, and they ate. [§]
Va-yikach chemah ve-chalav u-ben-ha-bakar asher asa va-yiten lif-neihem ve-hu omed aleihem tachat ha-etz va-yochlu.
This verse describes someone taking butter, milk, and the calf he had made, placing it before them, standing over them under the tree, and then they ate. The names of God do not appear in this verse.
[GEN.18.9] And they said to him, "Where is your wife Sarah?" And he said, "Behold, she is in the tent." [§]
Va-yom-ru e-lai-v ah-yeh sah-rah ish-tech-ah va-yom-mer hee-neh bah-o-hel.
This verse recounts a conversation where individuals ask Abraham about the whereabouts of his wife, Sarah. He responds by indicating she is in the tent. 'Va-yom-ru' means 'and they said'. 'E-lai-v' means 'to him'. 'Ah-yeh' is a form of 'to be' or 'I am', sometimes used as a name for God, but in this context it is part of the phrase 'where is'. 'Ish-tech-ah' means 'your wife'. 'Hee-neh' means 'behold' or 'here is'. 'Bah-o-hel' means 'in the tent'.
[GEN.18.10] And He said, "Again I will return to you at this time next year, and behold, a son to Sarah your wife." And Sarah was hearing at the opening of the tent, and He was behind her. [§]
vayomer shoov ashuv eleicha k'ate chaya vehineh ben lesarah ishtech vesarah shoma'at petach ha'ohel vehu acharaiw.
This verse recounts God speaking to Abraham and Sarah. 'Vayomer' means 'and He said'. 'Shoov ashuv eleicha' means 'again I will return to you'. 'K'ate chaya' means 'at this time next year'. 'Vehineh' means 'and behold'. 'Ben lesarah ishtech' means 'a son to Sarah your wife'. 'Vesarah shoma'at' means 'and Sarah was hearing'. 'Petach ha'ohel' means 'the opening of the tent'. 'Vehuhu acharaiw' means 'and he was behind her'.
[GEN.18.11] And Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way for Sarah, as with women, had ceased. [§]
ve-avraham ve-sarah zkenim bamim khadal lihiyot le-sarah orakh kanashim
This verse describes Abraham and Sarah being old and past the age where Sarah experiences the regular cycle associated with women. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Avraham' is Abraham. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Sarah' is Sarah. 'Zkenim' means 'old'. 'Bamim' means 'in days', indicating age. 'Khadal' means 'ceased'. 'Lihiyot' means 'to be'. 'Le-sarah' means 'for Sarah'. 'Orakh' means 'way' or 'course', used here to mean the menstrual cycle. 'Kanashim' means 'women'.
[GEN.18.12] And Sarah laughed to herself, saying, "After my being worn out, is there now pleasure to me, and my Lord is old?" [§]
va-titzchak sarah be-kirbah le-emor acharei beloti haytah-li ednah va-adonai zaken
This verse describes Sarah laughing to herself after hearing that she will have a child in her old age. 'Va-titzchak' means 'and she laughed'. 'Sarah' is the proper name Sarah. 'Be-kirbah' means 'in her heart/inwardly'. 'Le-emor' means 'saying'. 'Acharei' means 'after'. 'Beloti' means 'my wasting/my being worn out'. 'Haytah-li' means 'was to me'. 'Ednah' means 'pleasure/delight'. 'Va-adonai' means 'and my Lord'. 'Zaken' means 'old'.
[GEN.18.13] And Yahveh said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh, saying, ‘Shall I really bear a child, when I have grown old?’" [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh el-Avraham, lamah zeh tzachakah Sarah le-emor ha-af umnam eleed va-ani zakanti.
This verse recounts Yahveh speaking to Abraham, questioning Sarah’s laughter. ‘Va-yo-mer’ means ‘and said’. ‘Yahveh’ is the proper name of God. ‘el-Avraham’ means ‘to Abraham’. ‘lamah zeh’ means ‘why this’. ‘tzachakah’ means ‘laughed’. ‘Sarah’ is the name Sarah. ‘le-emor’ means ‘saying’. ‘ha-af umnam’ means ‘indeed, will it be?’. ‘eleed’ means ‘I will bear’. ‘va-ani’ means ‘and I’. ‘zakanti’ means ‘have grown old.’
[GEN.18.14] Is anything too wondrous for Yahveh? At the appointed time I will return to you, as now, and Sarah will have a son. [§]
ha-yee-pah-leh mee-Yahveh dah-var la-mo-ed ah-shuv eh-ley-kah ka-et chai-yah oo-le-sar-ah ben.
This verse questions whether anything is too difficult for Yahveh. It states that at the appointed time, Yahveh will return to Sarah, as is now, with a son.
[GEN.18.15] And Sarah denied, saying, "I did not laugh, for I feared." And He said, "No, for you did laugh." [§]
va-teh-kahsh Sarah le-emor lo tsahakti ki yare'ah va-yomer lo ki tsahakt
This verse describes Sarah denying that she laughed. God affirms that she did laugh. 'Sarah' is a proper noun and remains unchanged. 'teh-kahsh' is a verb meaning 'to deny'. 'le-emor' means 'to say'. 'tsahakti' is a verb meaning 'I laughed'. 'yare'ah' means 'I feared'. 'va-yomer' means 'and He said'. 'lo' means 'not'. 'ki' means 'for' or 'because'.
[GEN.18.16] And the men rose from there and looked towards the face of Sodom, and Abraham walked with them to send them away. [§]
va-ya-koo-moo mee-sham ha-a-na-sheem va-ya-sh-kee-foo al-peh-nei seh-dom ve-av-ra-ham ho-lekh im-am le-shal-lehem
This verse describes men rising from a place and looking towards Sodom, with Abraham walking with them to send them on their way. The words 'men' and 'Sodom' are straightforward. 'Yahveh' does not appear in this verse. The verb forms indicate past tense actions. 'Le-shal-lehem' means 'to send them'.
[GEN.18.17] And Yahveh said, “Am I concealing from Abraham what I am doing?” [§]
Va-yahveh amar ha-mekasseh ani me-Avraham asher ani ose
This verse contains several key names and verbs. 'Va' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Amar' means 'said'. 'Ha-mekasseh' means 'the one who conceals'. 'Ani' means 'I'. 'Me-Avraham' means 'from Abraham'. 'Asher' means 'that/which'. 'Ose' means 'doing/making'. The sentence structure is characteristic of Biblical Hebrew, placing the verb frequently at the beginning or within the phrase. The verse asks a rhetorical question regarding whether God is concealing his plans from Abraham.
[GEN.18.18] And Abraham was, and will be, to a nation great and mighty, and all nations of the earth will be blessed in him. [§]
veh-av-ra-ham ha-yo yih-yeh le-goy ga-dol ve-at-zoom ve-niv-re-chu bo kol go-yei ha-aretz
This verse discusses Abraham and his future. "veh" means 'and'. "avraham" is the name Abraham. "ha-yo" means 'was'. "yih-yeh" means 'will be'. "le-goy" means 'to a nation'. "ga-dol" means 'great'. "ve-at-zoom" means 'and mighty'. "ve-niv-re-chu" means 'and will be blessed'. "bo" means 'in him'. "kol" means 'all'. "go-yei" is the plural of 'nation'. "ha-aretz" means 'the earth'.
[GEN.18.19] For I knew him, so that he would command his children and his household after him to keep the way of Yahveh, to do righteousness and justice, so that Yahveh would bring to Abraham what He spoke concerning him. [§]
kee yeda'tee-v le-ma'an asher yetzaveh et banav ve'et beytoh acharav veshamru derech Yahveh la'asot tzedakah u'mishpat le-ma'an havi Yahveh al-Avraham et asher diber alav.
This verse explains why God (Yahveh) knew Abraham. It is because God wanted to command Abraham’s children and his household after him to keep the way of Yahveh, to do righteousness and justice, so that Yahveh would bring to Abraham what He had spoken about him.
[GEN.18.20] And Yahveh said, "The outcry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and their sin is very heavy." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh za-a-kat Sedom va-amora ki-ra-vah ve-chata-tam ki-cav-dah me-od.
This verse begins with 'and said', followed by the name Yahveh. 'Za-a-kat' means 'the outcry'. 'Sedom va-amora' is 'Sodom and Gomorrah'. 'Ki-ra-vah' means 'because it is great'. 'Ve-chata-tam' means 'and their sin'. 'Ki-cav-dah' means 'because it is heavy'. 'Me-od' means 'very'. Therefore the verse describes Yahveh stating that the outcry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and their sin is very heavy.
[GEN.18.21] I will certainly descend and see whether the outcry that has come to me is indeed as a result of all that they have done, and if not, I will know. [§]
ehr-dah-nah va-ehr-eh hah-keh-tzah-kah-tah hah-bah-ah eh-lai ah-soo kol-lah vee-eem-loh eh-deh-ah
This verse describes God's intention to descend and investigate the outcry that has reached Him regarding the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. "Ehr-dah-nah" means 'I will descend'. "Hah-keh-tzah-kah-tah" refers to 'the outcry'. "Hah-bah-ah" means 'that comes'. "Eh-lai" means 'to me'. "Ah-soo" means 'they have done'. "Kol-lah" means 'all of it'. "Vee-eem-loh" means 'and if not'. "Eh-deh-ah" means 'I know'.
[GEN.18.22] And the men turned from that place and went to Sodom, and Abraham continued to stand before Yahveh. [§]
vayipnu misham ha'anashim vayelchu sdoma ve'avraham odeynu omed lifnei yahveh.
This verse describes the men turning from the place where they had been and going towards Sodom. Abraham remained standing before Yahveh.
[GEN.18.23] And Abraham approached and said, "Surely you will destroy the righteous one with the wicked one?" [§]
va-yig-ash av-ra-ham va-yo-mer ha-af tis-peh tza-deek im-ra-sha
This verse comes from Genesis 18:23. 'Va-yig-ash' means 'and he approached.' 'Av-ra-ham' is 'Abraham.' 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said.' 'Ha-af' means 'indeed?' or 'surely?' 'Tis-peh' means 'you will destroy?' 'Tza-deek' means 'the righteous one,' and 'im-ra-sha' means 'with the wicked one.'
[GEN.18.24] Perhaps there are fifty righteous people within the city. Will the place then be destroyed, and not be spared? For the sake of those fifty righteous people who are in the midst of it. [§]
ulay yesh chamishim tzadikim b'toch ha'ir ha'af tispeh v'lo tisa la'makom l'ma'an chamishim ha'tzadikim asher b'kirbah.
This verse is from Genesis 18:24. It asks if there are fifty righteous people within the city. It then asks if, for the sake of those fifty righteous people, God will spare the place from destruction. 'Ulay' means perhaps or maybe. 'Yesh' means there is/are. 'Chamishim' means fifty. 'Tzadikim' means righteous people. 'B'toch' means within. 'Ha'ir' means the city. 'Ha'af' is a question particle, meaning 'will...'. 'Tispeh' means to destroy. 'V'lo tisa' means and not lift up (or, and not bear). 'La'makom' means to the place. 'L'ma'an' means for the sake of. 'Asher' means who or which. 'B'kirbah' means in the midst of her/it.
[GEN.18.25] May it never be for you to do such a thing, to kill the righteous with the wicked! And it will be as the righteous, as the wicked. May it never be for you! Will the Judge of all the earth not do justice? [§]
Khalilah lekha me'asot kaddavar hazzeh lehamit tzadik im rashah vehayah katzadik karashah khalilah lach hashopet kol ha'aretz lo ya'aseh mishpat.
This verse expresses strong disapproval of a proposed action. 'Khalilah' signifies 'may it not be!' or 'far be it from you!' It's a plea for someone in authority not to act unjustly. The verse specifically condemns the idea of killing the righteous with the wicked, asserting that such an act would equate the just with the unjust. It concludes by emphasizing that the Judge of all the earth will not act in such a way.
[GEN.18.26] And Yahveh said, "If I find fifty righteous ones within the city, then I will carry all the place because of them." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh im-em-tsa be-sedom chamishim tsadikim be-toch ha-ir ve-nasa-ti le-chol-ha-makom ba-avur-am.
This verse comes from Genesis 19:26. It details Yahveh's statement regarding the city of Sodom. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of the God of Israel. 'Im-em-tsa' means 'if I find'. 'Be-sedom' means 'in Sodom'. 'Chamishim' means 'fifty'. 'Tsadikim' means 'righteous ones'. 'Be-toch' means 'within'. 'Ha-ir' means 'the city'. 'Ve-nasa-ti' means 'and I will lift up' or 'and I will carry'. 'Le-chol-ha-makom' means 'for all the place'. 'Ba-avur-am' means 'because of them'.
[GEN.18.27] And Abraham answered and said, Behold, now I have dared to speak to my Lord, and I am dust and ashes. [§]
Va-yaan Avraham va-yomar. Hineh-na ho-al-ti le-daber el-Adonai ve-anokhi afar va-efar.
This verse is from Genesis 18:27. 'Va-yaan Avraham' means 'and Abraham answered'. 'Va-yomar' means 'and he said'. 'Hineh-na' means 'behold, now'. 'Ho-al-ti' means 'I have dared'. 'Le-daber' means 'to speak'. 'El-Adonai' means 'to my Lord'. 'Ve-anokhi' means 'and I'. 'Afar va-efar' means 'dust and ashes'. The verse represents Abraham humbly addressing the Gods.
[GEN.18.28] Perhaps fifty of the righteous will be lacking five. Will the five destroy the whole city? And the Gods said, "I will not destroy if I find there forty-five." [§]
ulay yachserun chamishim hatzadikim chamishah hatashchit bachamishah et kol ha'ir vayomer lo ashchit im emtza sham arba'im vachamisha.
This verse details a negotiation between Abraham and the Gods concerning the destruction of Sodom. Abraham asks if the Gods will spare the city if a certain number of righteous people are found within it. He begins by asking if fifty righteous people would suffice, then reduces the number to forty-five. The verse concludes with the Gods saying they will not destroy the city if they find forty-five righteous people there.
[GEN.18.29] And he added to speak to him, and he said, perhaps forty will be found there. And he said, I will not do it because of the forty. [§]
vayosef od ledaber elav vayomer ulai yimatzu sham arba'im vayomer lo e'ese ba'avur ha'arba'im
This verse comes from Genesis 42:14. It describes a situation where Joseph is testing his brothers. They have been accused of stealing, and Joseph asks them to prove their innocence by going and bringing their youngest brother, Benjamin, back to him. The brothers discuss amongst themselves whether to do this, and they recall Joseph’s previous accusation that they stole. They believe that if they return without Benjamin, Joseph will suspect them again. This verse details a portion of that discussion. 'Vayosef' means 'and he added'. 'Od' means 'still' or 'again'. 'Ledaber' means 'to speak'. 'Elav' means 'to him'. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Ulai' means 'perhaps'. 'Yimatzu' means 'they will be found'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Arba'im' means 'forty'. 'Lo e'ese' means 'I will not do'. 'Ba'avur' means 'because of' or 'for the sake of'.
[GEN.18.30] And he said, "Please let not my Lord be angry, and I will speak. Perhaps thirty might be found there." And my Lord said, "I will not do it if I do not find thirty there." [§]
va-yo-mer al-na yi-char la-ado-nai va-a-da-beh-rah oo-lai yi-ma-tze-oon sham shlo-shim va-yo-mer lo eh-eh-seh im-em-tza sham shlo-shim.
This verse describes a conversation where someone asks to speak to 'my Lord' regarding finding thirty people. They express concern that 'my Lord' might be angry, but suggest it's possible thirty people might be found. 'My Lord' responds that they will not do something if thirty people are not found there.
[GEN.18.31] And he said, "Behold, I have been willing to speak to my Lord. Perhaps they will be found there, twenty." And he said, "I will not destroy because of the twenty." [§]
va-yo-mer hi-neh nah ho-al-tee le-da-ber el-a-do-nai oo-lai yi-ma-tse-oon sham es-rim va-yo-mer lo ash-chit ba-a-voo-r ha-es-rim.
This verse describes a negotiation between Abraham and the Gods concerning the destruction of Sodom. Abraham asks if the Gods will spare the city if even ten righteous people are found within it. ‘Ho-al-tee’ signifies a willingness or request. ‘Yi-ma-tse-oon’ means ‘they will be found’. ‘Ash-chit’ means ‘I will destroy’.
[GEN.18.32] And Lot said, "Please, let my Lord not be angry, and I will speak. Perhaps ten will be found there." And He said, "I will not destroy because of the ten." [§]
va-yo-mer al-na yi-char la-ado-nai va-a-dav-vra ach-ha-pa-am u-lai yi-ma-tze-un sham asara va-yo-mer lo ash-chit ba-a-vur ha-asara.
This verse comes from Genesis 19:30, where Lot pleads with Yahveh not to destroy Sodom because of a small number of righteous people. Let's break down the names. 'Adonai' means 'my Lord'. The verse uses terms for 'God' and 'Lord' interchangeably, representing the divine being. The phrase 'al-na' is a plea, literally 'not, please'. 'U-lai' means 'perhaps'.
[GEN.18.33] And Yahveh went after He finished speaking to Abraham, and Abraham returned to his place. [§]
Va-ye-lech Yahveh ka-asher ki-lah le-da-ber el-Av-ra-ham ve-Av-ra-ham shav li-me-ko-mo.
This verse describes Yahveh departing after finishing speaking with Abraham, and Abraham returning to his place. 'Va-ye-lech' means 'and He went'. 'Ka-asher' means 'as' or 'after'. 'Ki-lah' means 'He finished'. 'Le-da-ber' means 'to speak'. 'El-Av-ra-ham' means 'to Abraham'. 'Shav' means 'returned'. 'Li-me-ko-mo' means 'to his place'.
GEN.19
[GEN.19.1] And two of the messengers came to Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gate of Sodom. And Lot saw and rose to meet them, and he bowed with his face toward the ground. [§]
va-yavo shnei ha-malachim sdomah ba-erev ve-lot yosev be-shaar-sdom vayyar-lot va-yakum likratam vayishtachu apayim artzah
This verse describes two messengers arriving at Sodom in the evening. Lot was sitting in the gate of Sodom. He saw them, rose to meet them, and bowed with his face to the ground.
[GEN.19.2] And he said, "Behold, my Lord, please turn aside to the house of your servant and rest, and wash your feet, and you will rise early and go on your way." And they said, "No, for we will lodge in the street." [§]
Va-yo-mer hi-neh na Adonai su-ru na el-beit avd-chem ve-li-nu ve-ra-cha-tso rag-lei-chem ve-hish-kam-tem va-he-lach-tem le-dar-che-chem va-yo-mru lo ki ba-re-chov na-lin.
This verse describes a conversation where someone offers hospitality. The speaker is urging guests to turn aside to their servant's house to rest and wash their feet before continuing on their journey. The guests decline, choosing to stay in the street.
[GEN.19.3] He earnestly pleaded with them, and they turned to him and came to his house. He made a feast for them, and he baked unleavened breads, and they ate. [§]
vayip̣ṭsar-baṃ me'od vayasu alav vayavo el-beyto vayasa lahem mishte' umazot afa vayokhelu
This verse describes someone urgently persuading others, who then went to his house. He prepared a feast for them, baked unleavened bread, and they ate.
[GEN.19.4] Before they lay down, the men of the city, the men of Sodom, surrounded the house from young to old; all the people from every side. [§]
teh-rem yish-kah-boo ve-an-shee ha-eer an-shee sedom na-sav-boo al-ha-bayit mee-na-ar ve-ad-za-ken kol-ha-am mee-ka-tseh
This verse describes the men of Sodom surrounding Lot's house. "Terem" means before. "Yishkabu" means they lay down, or in this context, before they went to bed. "Anshee ha-eer" means the men of the city. "Anshee Sedom" means the men of Sodom. "Nasavoo" means they surrounded. "Ha-bayit" means the house. "Mi-naar ve-ad-zaken" means from young to old. "Kol ha-am" means all the people. "Mi-katzeh" means from all ends or from every side.
[GEN.19.5] And they called to Lot and said to him, "Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us, and we will know them." [§]
Va'ikre'u el-Lot vayomru lo, ayeh ha'anshim asher-bau eilecha halaila, hotzi'em eileinu v'nede'ah otam.
This verse describes the men of Sodom calling to Lot and asking where the men who came to him tonight are. They demand he bring them out so they can 'know' them, a euphemism for sexual assault in this context.
[GEN.19.6] And Lot went out to them, and he closed the door behind him. [§]
Va-yet-say a-lei-hem Lot ha-pet-chah, ve-ha-delet sagar ach-a-riv.
This verse describes Lot going out to meet those who were at the entrance, and then closing the door behind him. 'Va-yet-say' means 'and he went out'. 'A-lei-hem' means 'to them'. 'Lot' is the name Lot. 'Ha-pet-chah' means 'the opening' or 'the entrance'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Ha-delet' means 'the door'. 'Sagar' means 'he closed'. 'Ach-a-riv' means 'behind him'.
[GEN.19.7] And he said, "Please, my brothers, do not be alarmed." [§]
va-yo-mar al-na achai tareu
This verse consists of several words. 'va-yo-mar' means 'and he said'. 'al-na' is an appeal, meaning 'please, not'. 'achai' means 'my brothers'. 'tareu' is a command, meaning 'do not be alarmed'. Therefore, the verse is a plea to not be alarmed.
[GEN.19.8] Behold now, I have two daughters who have not known a man. Let me bring them out to you, and do to them what is good in your eyes, but do nothing to these women, for that is why they have come under the shadow of my roof. [§]
heen-neh nah lee sh-tay ba-not a-sher lo yah-de-oo eesh o-tzee-ah nah et-hen a-ley-chem va-ah-soo la-hen ka-toov be-ei-ney-chem rak la-a-nash-eem ha-el al-ta-ah-soo da-var kee al-ken ba-oo be-tzel ko-ra-tee.
This verse is from Genesis 19:8, where Lot offers his daughters to the men of Sodom. 'heen-neh nah' means 'behold now'. 'sh-tay ba-not' means 'two daughters'. 'a-sher lo yah-de-oo eesh' means 'who have not known a man'. 'o-tzee-ah nah et-hen a-ley-chem' means 'let me bring them out to you'. 'va-ah-soo la-hen ka-toov be-ei-ney-chem' means 'and do to them what is good in your eyes'. 'rak la-a-nash-eem ha-el al-ta-ah-soo da-var' means 'only do nothing to these women'. 'kee al-ken ba-oo be-tzel ko-ra-tee' means 'for that is why they have come under the shadow of my roof'.
[GEN.19.9] And they said, "Come near, come hither!" And they said, "The one who has come to lodge is the one we will judge." Now it is bad for you because of them. And they greatly urged the man, Lot, and they approached to break the door. [§]
va'yomru gesh-ha'le'ah va'yomru ha'echad ba-lagur va'yishpot shaphot atah narah lecha mehem va'yipzru ba'ish b'lot me'od va'yigshu lishbor haddelet
This verse describes the men of Sodom approaching Lot's house and demanding that he bring out the guests for their purposes. 'Gesh-ha'le'ah' means 'draw near, come hither'. They inquire about the single individuals who have arrived to lodge with him. They state that they will judge the individuals. They insist that it is now bad for Lot because of them. They strongly urge the man (Lot) to bring them out, and they approach to break down the door.
[GEN.19.10] And the men reached out their hand and brought Lot to them into the house, and they shut the door. [§]
vayishlechu ha’anashim et-yadahm vayavu et-lot alehem habayta ve’et-hadelat sagaru.
This verse describes the men reaching out and bringing Lot into the house, then shutting the door. 'Vayishlechu' means 'and they sent out' or 'and they reached out'. 'Ha’anashim' means 'the men'. 'Et-yadahm' means 'their hand' (the 'et' is a grammatical marker). 'Vayavu' means 'and they brought'. 'Alehem' means 'to them'. 'Habayta' means 'the house'. 'Ve’et-hadelat' means 'and the door'. 'Sagaru' means 'they shut'.
[GEN.19.11] And they struck the men who were at the doorway of the house with blindness, from small to great, and they were exhausted trying to find the doorway. [§]
ve'et-ha'anashim asher-petach ha'bayit hikku bassanverim mikaton ve'ad-gadol vayil'u limtzo hapatach.
This verse describes people striking the men who were at the doorway of a house, blinding them, from the youngest to the oldest. They then were unable to find the doorway.
[GEN.19.12] And the men said to Lot, "Do you still have anyone here – a future husband for your daughters, your sons and your daughters, and all that belongs to you in the city? Bring them out of this place." [§]
vayomru ha'anashim el-lot od mi-lech poh chatan ubanecha ubnotecha vechol asher-lech ba'ir hotzea min-hamakom
This verse comes from Genesis 19:12. It describes the men (angels) speaking to Lot. They ask Lot who he has left in the city – his future sons-in-law, his sons and daughters, and everything that belongs to him. They tell him to bring everyone out of the place.
[GEN.19.13] For we are destroyers of this place, for their outcry has grown before Yahveh, and Yahveh has sent us to destroy it. [§]
kee-mash-kheet-eem a-nach-nu et-ha-ma-kom ha-zeh kee-gad-lah tza-a-ka-tam et-penei Yahveh vay-shal-che-nu Yahveh le-shach-atah.
This verse describes a situation where individuals are sent to destroy a place because the outcry against it has reached Yahveh. "Mashchitim" refers to destroyers or those who bring ruin. "Ha-makom ha-zeh" means "this place." "Tza-a-ka-tam" means "their outcry" or "their cry." "Penei Yahveh" literally means "the face of Yahveh," but is used idiomatically to mean "before Yahveh." Finally, "le-shachatah" means "to destroy it."
[GEN.19.14] And Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, those who were to take his daughters, and said, "Rise up, get out from this place, for Yahveh will destroy the city." And he was like one joking in the eyes of his sons-in-law. [§]
vayyetse lot vaydaber el chatanav lokhei benotav vayomer komu tze’u min hamakom hazeh ki mashchit Yahveh et ha’ir vayhi k’mitzachek b’einei chatanav.
This verse describes Lot warning his sons-in-law to leave the city because Yahveh is about to destroy it. He is perceived as joking by his sons-in-law.
[GEN.19.15] And like the dawn rose, and the angels hastened in haste to say, "Rise, take your wife and your two daughters who are found, lest you perish in the iniquity of the city." [§]
ooch-mo-o ha-shah-char ah-lah va-yah-ee-tzoo ha-mal-ah-cheem bee-loat le-amor koo-oom ka-khah et-ish-teh-kah ve-et-shtei ben-otee-kah ha-neem-tzah-oht pehn tee-sah-peh ba-ah-von ha-eer.
This verse describes the angels urging Lot and his family to flee Sodom before its destruction. 'ooch-mo-o' means 'like'. 'ha-shah-char' means 'the dawn'. 'ah-lah' means 'ascended', 'rose'. 'va-yah-ee-tzoo' means 'and hastened'. 'ha-mal-ah-cheem' means 'the angels'. 'bee-loat' means 'in haste'. 'le-amor' means 'to say'. 'koo-oom' means 'rise'. 'ka-khah' means 'take'. 'et-ish-teh-kah' means 'your wife'. 've-et-shtei ben-otee-kah' means 'and your two daughters'. 'ha-neem-tzah-oht' means 'who are found'. 'pehn tee-sah-peh' means 'lest you perish'. 'ba-ah-von ha-eer' means 'in the iniquity of the city'.
[GEN.19.16] And he hesitated, but the men strengthened themselves and took hold of his hand, and the hand of his wife, and the hand of his two daughters, in the compassion of Yahveh upon him, and they brought him out and set him down outside the city. [§]
va-yit-meh-mah-huhu | va-yah-za-ku ha-ah-nash-im be-ya-do uv-yad is-hto uv-yad sh-tei ben-o-tav be-chem-lat Yahveh a-lav va-yo-tziu-hu va-yan-ni-chu-hu mi-chu-tz la-ir.
This verse describes Lot and his family being rescued from Sodom. 'va-yit-meh-mah-huhu' means 'and he hesitated'. 'va-yah-za-ku' means 'and the men strengthened'. 'ha-ah-nash-im' is 'the men'. 'be-ya-do' means 'in his hand'. 'uv-yad is-hto' is 'and in the hand of his wife'. 'uv-yad sh-tei ben-o-tav' is 'and in the hand of his two daughters'. 'be-chem-lat Yahveh a-lav' means 'in the compassion of Yahveh upon him'. 'va-yo-tziu-hu' is 'and they brought him out'. 'va-yan-ni-chu-hu' means 'and they set him down'. 'mi-chu-tz la-ir' means 'outside the city'.
[GEN.19.17] And it was, as he brought them outside, that he said, "Flee for your life, do not look behind you, and do not stand in all the plain of the mountain. Flee, lest you perish." [§]
va-yhi ke-hotzi-am otam ha-chu-tza va-yo-mer hi-ma-let al-naf-she-cha al-ta-bit ach-a-re-cha ve-al-ta-a-mod be-chol ha-ki-kar ha-ha-ra hi-ma-let pen-ti-sa-peh.
This verse describes a situation where someone is being told to flee for their life. 'Vayehi' indicates 'and it was'. 'Ke-hotzi-am otam ha-chu-tza' means 'as he brought them outside'. 'Vayo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Himalet' is an imperative meaning 'flee!'. 'Al-naf-she-cha' means 'for your soul/life'. 'Al-tabit acharecha' means 'do not look behind you'. 'Ve-al-ta-a-mod be-chol ha-kikar ha-hara' means 'and do not stand in all the plain of the mountain'. 'Pen-tisapeh' means 'lest you perish'.
[GEN.19.18] And Lot said to them, "Please, my Lord." [§]
Va-yo-mer Lot a-lei-hem al-na a-do-nai.
This verse is spoken by Lot to the men who visited Sodom. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Lot' is the name of the speaker. 'A-lei-hem' means 'to them'. 'Al-na' is an expression of plea, meaning 'please'. 'A-do-nai' refers to 'my Lord'.
[GEN.19.19] Indeed now, your servant has found favor in your eyes, and you have increased your kindness, which you have done with me to revive my soul. And I cannot escape the disaster, lest the evil cleave to me and I die. [§]
heen-neh nah mah-tsah ahv-deh-kah khen beh-ay-ney-kah vah-tahg-dehl khahs-deh-kah ah-sher ah-see-tah im-mah-dee leh-hah-khay-oht et naf-shee vee-ah-nokhee loh oo-khal leh-hee-mah-let hah-hah-rah pehn tee-deh-bah-keh-nee hah-rah-ah vah-mah-tee.
This verse details a request for God’s continued favor and protection. The speaker acknowledges God’s kindness in sustaining their life and expresses fear of impending misfortune if God withdraws protection. 'heen-neh nah' means 'indeed now'. 'mah-tsah' means 'found'. 'ahv-deh-kah' means 'my servant'. 'khen' means 'favor'. 'beh-ay-ney-kah' means 'in your eyes'. 'vah-tahg-dehl' means 'and you have increased'. 'khahs-deh-kah' means 'your kindness'. 'ah-sher ah-see-tah' means 'which you have done'. 'im-mah-dee' means 'with me'. 'leh-hah-khay-oht' means 'to revive'. 'et naf-shee' means 'my soul'. 'vee-ah-nokhee' means 'and I'. 'loh oo-khal' means 'I cannot'. 'leh-hee-mah-let' means 'to escape'. 'hah-hah-rah' means 'the disaster'. 'pehn tee-deh-bah-keh-nee' means 'lest it cleave to me'. 'hah-rah-ah' means 'the evil'. 'vah-mah-tee' means 'and I die'.
[GEN.19.20] Behold, now this city is close to flee to there, and it is small. Let me flee there! Is it not small, and will it sustain my life? [§]
heen-neh nah ha-eer ha-zo-at k’ro-vah la-noos sha-mah v’hee meetz-ar im-al-tah nah sha-mah ha-lo meetz-ar hee v’tech-ee naf-shee.
This verse describes a plea to escape to a nearby city. The speakers believe the city is small and will provide safety. The verse translates roughly as “Behold, now, this city is near to flee there, and it is small. Let me flee there! Is it not small, and will it preserve my life?”.
[GEN.19.21] And God said to him, "Behold, I have lifted up my favor toward you, even concerning this matter, so as not to overturn the city that you spoke of." [§]
va-yo-mer eh-la-yv hee-neh na-sa-tee pa-nay-cha gam la-da-var ha-zeh le-bil-tee haf-kee et-ha-eer a-sher di-bar-ta
This verse contains several key names and words. "El" is "God". "Panaycha" literally means "your face", but is used idiomatically to mean "your favor". "Ha-zeh" means "this". "Et-ha-eer" means "the city". "Di-bar-ta" means "you spoke". The verse is a statement where God promises not to overturn a previously spoken decision regarding a city.
[GEN.19.22] Hurry, escape to there, for I am unable to do anything until you arrive there. Therefore, the name of the city was called Tso'ar. [§]
maher himalet shamah ki lo ukhal la'asot davar ad bo'akh shamah al ken kara shem ha'ir tso'ar
This verse describes a hurried escape to a place called 'there'. The speaker states they are unable to do anything until the other person arrives at 'there'. Consequently, the city is named Tso'ar.
[GEN.19.23] The sun came out upon the land, and Lot came to Tzoar. [§]
HaShemesh yatsa al-haAretz velot ba tsoarah.
HaShemesh means 'the sun'. Yatsa means 'went out' or 'came out'. Al-haAretz means 'upon the land'. Velot means 'and Lot'. Ba means 'came'. Tsoarah is a place name, 'Tzoar'. This verse describes the sun rising over the land and Lot entering Tzoar.
[GEN.19.24] And Yahveh rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah sulfur and fire from Yahveh from the heavens. [§]
Va-yahveh himtir al-sedom ve-al-amorah gafrit va-esh me-et yahveh min-ha-shamayim.
This verse describes Yahveh raining down sulfur and fire upon Sodom and Gomorrah. "Va" is a conjunction meaning "and". "Himir" means "He rained". "Al" means "upon". "Sedom" and "Amorah" are the names of the cities. "Gafrit" is sulfur. "Va-esh" is "and fire". "Me-et" means "from". "Yahveh" is the name of God. "Min-ha-shamayim" means "from the heavens".
[GEN.19.25] And Yahveh turned the cities of the gods, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and the produce of the land. [§]
va-yah-foch et-ha-ah-rim ha-el ve-et kol-ha-kich-ar ve-et kol-yosh-bei ha-ah-rim ve-tse-mach ha-a-da-mah
This verse describes a turning or overturning of cities, the plain, the inhabitants of the cities, and the produce of the land. "Yahveh" is implied as the actor in the turning. "Ha-el" refers to the gods, and is used here to mean the cities themselves, as in, the cities of the gods.
[GEN.19.26] And she looked behind him, and she became a pillar of salt. [§]
va-tat-beh ish-toh me-ah-har-av va-teh-ee net-zeev melakh
This verse describes Lot's wife looking back toward Sodom and Gomorrah as she was fleeing, and subsequently being turned into a pillar of salt. 'va-tat-beh' means 'and she looked.' 'ish-toh' means 'her husband's,' referring to her. 'me-ah-har-av' means 'behind him,' referring to Lot. 'va-teh-ee' means 'and she became.' 'net-zeev' means 'a pillar.' 'melakh' means 'salt.'
[GEN.19.27] And Abraham rose early in the morning to the place where he had stood before Yahveh. [§]
Va-yashkem Avraham ba-boker el-ha-makom asher amad sham et-pnei Yahveh.
This verse describes Abraham rising early in the morning and going to the place where he had stood before Yahveh. 'Va-yashkem' means 'and he rose early'. 'Avraham' is the name Abraham. 'Ba-boker' means 'in the morning'. 'El-ha-makom' means 'to the place'. 'Asher' means 'where'. 'Amad' means 'he stood'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Et-pnei' means 'before the face of'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God.
[GEN.19.28] And he looked out toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the faces of the land of the plain. And he saw, and behold, smoke was rising from the land like smoke from a furnace. [§]
va-yash-kehf al-peh-nei sedom ve-amorah ve-al kol peh-nei eretz ha-kich-ar va-yar ve-hi-neh a-lah ki-tor ha-ah-retz ke-ki-tor ha-kiv-shan
This verse describes a viewing of Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding plain. It states that the land was rising like smoke from a furnace.
[GEN.19.29] And it happened, in the Gods corrupting the cities of the plain, that the Gods remembered Abraham, and sent Lot from within the overturning, in overturning the cities in which Lot dwelt. [§]
Va-yhi be-shacheth Elohim et-arei ha-kikar va-yizkor Elohim et-Avraham va-yishallach et-Lot mittoch ha-hafecha ba-hafoch et-he-arim asher-yashav bahen Lot.
This verse describes the destruction of the cities of the plain and God’s remembrance of Abraham, resulting in the sending away of Lot. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it happened.' 'Be-shacheth' means 'in corrupting/destroying.' 'Elohim' is 'the Gods.' 'Et-arei' means 'the cities of.' 'Ha-kikar' means 'the plain.' 'Va-yizkor' means 'and remembered.' 'Et-Avraham' means 'Abraham.' 'Va-yishallach' means 'and sent.' 'Et-Lot' means 'Lot.' 'Mittoch' means 'from within.' 'Ha-hafecha' means 'the overturning.' 'Ba-hafoch' means 'in overturning.' 'He-arim' means 'the cities.' 'Asher-yashav' means 'which he dwelt.' 'Bahen' means 'in them.'
[GEN.19.30] And Lot went up from Zoar and settled in the mountain, and his two daughters were with him, because he feared to dwell in Zoar. And he dwelt in a cave, he and his two daughters. [§]
vayya'al lot mitsoar vayyeshev bahar ushtei benotav imo ki yare'a leshevet betsoar vayyeshev bam'ara hu ushtei benotav
This verse describes Lot leaving Zoar and residing in a mountain with his two daughters. He feared remaining in Zoar and therefore lived in a cave with them.
[GEN.19.31] And the elder said to the younger, "Our father is old, and there is no man in the land to come upon us according to the custom of all the land." [§]
va-to-mer ha-be-chi-rah el-ha-tze-i-rah a-vee-nu za-ken ve-ish ein ba-aretz la-vo aleinu ke-derech kol-ha-aretz.
This verse is from Genesis 38:16. It describes the elder daughter speaking to the younger daughter. 'Va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'Ha-be-chi-rah' means 'the elder'. 'El-ha-tze-i-rah' means 'to the younger'. 'Avee-nu' means 'our father'. 'Za-ken' means 'old'. 'Ve-ish' means 'and a man'. 'Ein' means 'there is not'. 'Ba-aretz' means 'in the land'. 'La-vo' means 'to come'. 'Aleinu' means 'upon us'. 'Ke-derech' means 'according to the custom'. 'Kol-ha-aretz' means 'all the land'.
[GEN.19.32] Come, let us drink the wine of our Father and let us lie with him, and let us live from the seed of our Father. [§]
lekha nashke et avinu yayin venishk'vah immo unchaye me'avinu zara.
This verse involves multiple names for God and commands surrounding a ritual or act. 'Lekha' means 'come'. 'Nashke' means 'let us drink'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle marking the direct object. 'Avinu' is 'our father'. 'Yayin' is 'wine'. 'Venishk'vah' means 'and let us lie'. 'Immo' means 'with him'. 'Unchaye' means 'and let us live'. 'Me'avinu' means 'from our father'. 'Zara' means 'seed'. The overall context suggests an offering or ritual involving wine and procreation.
[GEN.19.33] And she gave wine to their father in the night, he, and the firstborn came and lay with her father, and he did not know in her lying and in her rising. [§]
va-tash-kein-a et-a-vi-hen yayin ba-lai-lah hu va-ta-vo ha-be-chi-rah va-tish-kach av-i-ha ve-lo ya-da be-shich-bah u-ve-ku-mah
This verse describes a disturbing event. 'va-tash-kein' means 'and she gave to drink'. 'et-a-vi-hen' means 'to their father'. 'yayin' means 'wine'. 'ba-lai-lah' means 'in the night'. 'hu' means 'he'. 'va-ta-vo' means 'and she came'. 'ha-be-chi-rah' means 'the firstborn'. 'va-tish-kach' means 'and she lay with'. 'av-i-ha' means 'her father'. 've-lo ya-da' means 'and he did not know'. 'be-shich-bah' means 'in her lying'. 'u-ve-ku-mah' means 'and in her rising'.
[GEN.19.34] And it came to pass on the next day, and the elder said to the younger, "Indeed I lay yesterday with my father, we gave him wine to drink. Also tonight, go and lie with him, and let us preserve seed from our father." [§]
Va-yhi mi-maharat, va-tomer ha-bekhirah el-ha-tse'irah, hen-shachavti emesh et-avi, nashkenu yayin, gam-ha-laila u-voi sh'chavi immoo u-nechayeh me-avinu zara.
This verse describes a disturbing scenario where the elder daughter proposes to her younger sister that they both lie with their father to preserve his seed. 'Va-yhi mi-maharat' means 'and it came to pass on the next day'. 'Va-tomer' means 'and she said'. 'Ha-bekhirah el-ha-tse'irah' means 'the elder to the younger'. 'Hen-shachavti emesh et-avi' means 'indeed I lay yesterday with my father'. 'Nashkenu yayin' means 'we gave him wine to drink'. 'Gam-ha-laila' means 'also tonight'. 'U-voi sh'chavi immoo' means 'and go, lie with him'. 'U-nechayeh me-avinu zara' means 'and let us preserve seed from our father'.
[GEN.19.35] And she also gave their father wine that night, and the younger one arose and lay with him, and he did not know in her lying and in her rising. [§]
Va-tash-ken gam ba-lai-lah ha-hu et-a-vi-hen ya-yin, va-ta-kam ha-tse-i-rah va-tish-kab im-o, ve-lo ya-da be-shik-vah ve-ve-ku-mah.
This verse describes a situation where the younger daughter deceives her father. 'Va-tashken' means 'and she gave to drink'. 'Gam' means 'also'. 'Ba-lai-lah ha-hu' means 'that night'. 'Et-avihen' means 'to their father'. 'Ya-yin' means 'wine'. 'Va-takam' means 'and she arose'. 'Ha-tse-irah' means 'the younger one'. 'Va-tishkab' means 'and she lay'. 'Im-o' means 'with him'. 'Ve-lo yada' means 'and he did not know'. 'Be-shikvah' means 'in her lying'. 'U-ve-kumah' means 'and in her rising'.
[GEN.19.36] And two daughters of Lot became pregnant from their father. [§]
va-ta-ha-ren sh-tei benot-lot mei-avihen
This verse states that two daughters of Lot became pregnant by their father. 'va' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'ta-ha-ren' means 'became pregnant'. 'sh-tei' means 'two'. 'benot' means 'daughters'. 'lot' is the proper name Lot. 'mei' means 'from'. 'avihen' means 'their father'.
[GEN.19.37] And the firstborn bore a son, and she called his name Moab. He is the father of Moab until this day. [§]
va-teled ha-bekhira ben va-tikra shmo Moav hu avi-Moav ad-hayom
This verse describes the birth of a son to the firstborn and his naming. 'Va-teled' means 'and she bore'. 'Ha-bekhira' means 'the firstborn'. 'Ben' means 'son'. 'Va-tikra' means 'and she called'. 'Shmo' means 'his name'. 'Moav' is the name itself. 'Hu' means 'he'. 'Avi-Moav' means 'father of Moab'. 'Ad-hayom' means 'until this day'.
[GEN.19.38] And the younger sister also bore a son, and she called his name ‘Son of my people’. He is the father of the people of Ammon, until this day. [§]
vehahatzairah gam hee yaldah ben vatikra shmo ben ammi hu avi benei amon ad hayom
This verse describes the younger sister also having a son and naming him 'Son of my people'. He is the father of the people of Ammon, to this day.
GEN.20
[GEN.20.1] And Abraham departed from that place toward the Negev region, and he settled between Kadesh and Shur, and he resided as a foreigner in Gerar. [§]
vayissa misham avraham artzah hannegev vayeishav bein-kadesh ubein shur vayagar bigrar
This verse describes Abraham traveling from a previous location to the Negev region and settling between Kadesh and Shur, and sojourning in Gerar. The verbs indicate movement, settling, and temporary residence. The place names are transliterated as they appear.
[GEN.20.2] And Abraham said to Sarah, his wife, "She is my sister." And Abimelech, the king of Gerar, sent and took Sarah. [§]
Va-yo-mer Avraham el Sarah ishto ahoti hee va-yishlah Avimelech melech Gerar va-yiqach et Sarah.
This verse describes Abraham telling Sarah that she is his sister, and then Abimelech, the king of Gerar, taking Sarah. The word 'va' means 'and'. 'el' means 'to'. 'ishto' means 'his wife'. 'ahoti' means 'my sister'. 'hee' means 'she'. 'melech' means 'king'. 'et' is a direct object marker, and does not have a direct translation but indicates the following noun is the object of the verb.
[GEN.20.3] And the Gods came to Abimelech in a dream of the night and said to him, "You are about to die because of the woman that you have taken, and she is the wife of Baal." [§]
vayavo Elohim el-Avimelech bachalom hallaylah vayomer lo hinecha met al-haisha asher-lakachta vhi beulat Baal.
This verse describes God appearing to Abimelech in a dream to warn him about taking another man’s wife. 'Vayavo' means 'and came'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'El-Avimelech' means 'to Abimelech'. 'Bachalom hallaylah' means 'in a dream of the night'. 'Vayomer lo' means 'and He said to him'. 'Hinecha met' means 'you are about to die'. 'Al-haisha' means 'because of the woman'. 'Asher-lakachta' means 'that you have taken'. 'Vhi beulat Baal' means 'she is the wife of Baal'.
[GEN.20.4] And Abimelech did not approach her, and he said to my Lord, "Would you also kill the righteous nation?" [§]
Vaavimelech lo karav eleha vayomer adonai hagogam tzadikk taharog.
This verse describes Abimelech not approaching her and then asking 'my Lord,' whether you would also kill the righteous nation?
[GEN.20.5] Has he not said to me, "She is my sister?" And she also said, "He is my brother." With integrity of my heart and purity of my hands I have done this. [§]
ha-lo hu amar-li akhoti hi va-hi gam-hi amra akhi hu betam-levavi u-venikayon kafai asiti zot.
This verse is from 2 Samuel 13:3. It describes David’s brother, Amnon, deceiving his half-sister, Tamar, into a sexual encounter. The verse consists of Tamar explaining to David that Amnon had lied to her, telling her he was her brother. 'Ha-lo hu' is a rhetorical question meaning 'has he not…?' 'Amar-li' means 'said to me'. 'Akhti' is 'my sister', 'hi' is 'she', 'gam-hi' means 'even she', and 'amra' means 'said'. 'Akhi' means 'my brother'. 'Betam-levavi' means 'in the integrity of my heart', and 'benikayon kafai' means 'in the purity of my hands'. 'Asiti zot' means 'I have done this'.
[GEN.20.6] And he said to him, the Gods, in a dream, also I knew that in the completeness of your heart you did this, and also I restrained you from sinning to me. Therefore, I did not give you to touch her. [§]
va-yo-mer el-av ha-Elohim ba-chalom gam anochi yada-ti ki b’tam-levav’cha asita zot va-echsok gam-anochi ot’cha me-chato-li al-ken lo-natati-cha li-ngo-a eleiha.
This verse comes from Genesis 20:6. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'El-av' is 'to him'. 'Ha-Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Ba-chalom' means 'in a dream'. 'Gam anochi' means 'also I'. 'Yada-ti' means 'I knew'. 'Ki' means 'that'. 'B’tam-levav’cha' means 'in the completeness of your heart'. 'Asita' means 'you did'. 'Zot' means 'this'. 'Va-echsok' means 'and I restrained'. 'Gam-anochi' means 'also I'. 'Ot’cha' means 'you'. 'Me-chato-li' means 'from sinning to me'. 'Al-ken' means 'therefore'. 'Lo-natati-cha' means 'I did not give you'. 'Li-ngo-a' means 'to touch'. 'Eleiha' means 'her'.
[GEN.20.7] And now, return the man’s wife, because she is a prophet and will pray for you, and you will live. But if you do not return heed, then death you will die, you and all that is yours. [§]
ve’atah hashev eshet ha’ish ki navi hu ve’yitpalel ba’adecha ve’chaye ve’im eincha meshiv da’a ki mot tamut atta ve’chol asher lach.
This verse comes from 1 Samuel 9:19. It is a message delivered by Samuel to Saul before Saul was anointed King. The verse essentially says that Saul should return the woman’s animals, because she is a prophetess and will pray for him, which will result in his survival. If he does not heed her words, then he and all that belong to him will die. ‘ve’atah’ means ‘and now’. ‘hashev’ means ‘return’. ‘eshet ha’ish’ means ‘the man’s wife’. ‘ki’ means ‘because’. ‘navi’ means ‘prophet’. ‘hu’ means ‘he/it’. ‘ve’yitpalel’ means ‘and she will pray’. ‘ba’adecha’ means ‘for you’. ‘ve’chaye’ means ‘and you will live’. ‘ve’im eincha meshiv da’a’ means ‘and if you do not return heed’. ‘ki mot tamut’ means ‘because death you will die’. ‘atta’ means ‘you’. ‘ve’chol asher lach’ means ‘and all that is yours’.
[GEN.20.8] And Abimelech rose early in the morning, and he called to all his servants, and he spoke all these things in their ears, and the men feared greatly. [§]
Va-yashkem Avimelech ba-boker va-yikra le-chol avadav va-yedaber et kol ha-dvarim ha-eleh be-oznehem va-yir’u ha-anashim me’od.
This verse describes Abimelech rising early in the morning and calling all his servants to speak with them. The verse concludes that the men were very afraid. Each word is rendered phonetically to the closest English equivalent.
[GEN.20.9] And Abimelech called to Abraham and said to him, "What have you done to us, and what sin have I committed to you, that you have brought a great sin upon me and upon my kingdom? Actions that should not be done, you have done with me." [§]
Va-yik-ra A-vi-me-lech le-Av-ra-ham va-yo-mer lo, ma-ah-see-ta la-nu, u-mah-cha-ta-ti la-ch, ki-he-ve-ta a-lai ve-al-mam-lakh-ti cha-ta-ah g’do-lah, ma-a-sim a-sher lo ye-eh-sa-u, a-see-ta im-a-di.
This verse describes Abimelech confronting Abraham. Abimelech is questioning Abraham about what he has done to him and his kingdom, accusing him of bringing a great sin upon them with actions that should not have been done. The verb ‘yikra’ means ‘he called’, ‘yo-mer’ means ‘he said’, ‘ma-ah-see-ta’ means ‘what have you done’, ‘mah-cha-ta-ti’ means ‘what sin have I committed’ and ‘he-ve-ta’ means ‘you brought’. ‘Mam-lakh-ti’ means ‘my kingdom’ and ‘cha-ta-ah’ means ‘sin’.
[GEN.20.10] And Abimelech said to Abraham, "What did you see that you did this thing?" [§]
Va-yo-mer A-vi-me-lech el A-vra-ham mah ra-ita ki asita et ha-da-var ha-zeh.
This verse consists of Abimelech speaking to Abraham. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'A-vi-me-lech' is a proper noun, a name. 'El' means 'to'. 'A-vra-ham' is a proper noun, a name. 'Mah' means 'what'. 'Ra-ita' means 'you saw'. 'Ki' means 'that/because'. 'Asita' means 'you did'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Ha-da-var' means 'the thing'. 'Ha-zeh' means 'this'.
[GEN.20.11] And Abraham said, because I thought, surely there is no reverence for the Gods in this place, and they will kill me on account of my wife. [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ra-ham ki a-mar-ti rak ein yir-at Elo-him ba-ma-kom ha-zeh va-ha-ra-go-ni al-de-var ish-ti.
This verse comes from Genesis 20:11. Abraham is speaking to Abimelech, explaining why he told Abimelech that his wife Sarah was his sister. He explains he feared that the people of the place did not revere the Gods and would kill him to take his wife.
[GEN.20.12] And Amnah, my sister, is the daughter of my father, but not the daughter of my mother, and she became to me as a wife. [§]
ve-gam-am-na akh-ti bat-avi hee, akh lo bat-imi, va-te-hi-li le-ish-ah.
This verse describes a familial relationship. "ve-gam" means 'and also'. "am-na" is a personal name, Amnah. "akh-ti" means 'my sister'. "bat-avi" means 'daughter of my father'. "hee" means 'she is'. "akh lo" means 'but not'. "bat-imi" means 'daughter of my mother'. "va-te-hi-li" means 'and she became to me'. "le-ish-ah" means 'as a wife'. The verse essentially states that Amnah is the speaker's sister through their father, but not through their mother, and therefore she became his wife.
[GEN.20.13] And it came to pass, as the Gods led me astray from the house of my father, and I said to her, “This is your kindness that you will do with me: to every place that we come there, say to me, ‘He is my brother.’” [§]
Va-yhi ka-asher hit-u oti Elohim mi-beit avi va-omer lah zeh chasdek asher ta'asi im-adi el kol-ha-makom asher navo shama imri-li ahi hu.
This verse describes a situation where the speaker has been led astray by the Gods from their father’s house. They acknowledge this as an act of kindness and request that wherever they go, they be identified as the brother of someone. ‘Va-yhi’ means ‘and it came to pass’. ‘Ka-asher’ means ‘as’. ‘Hit-u’ means ‘they led astray’. ‘Oti’ means ‘me’. ‘Elohim’ is ‘the Gods’. ‘Mi-beit avi’ means ‘from the house of my father’. ‘Va-omer lah’ means ‘and he said to her’. ‘Zeh chasdek’ means ‘this is your kindness’. ‘Asher ta'asi im-adi’ means ‘that you will do with me’. ‘El kol-ha-makom’ means ‘to every place’. ‘Asher navo shama’ means ‘that we come there’. ‘Imri-li’ means ‘say to me’. ‘Ahi hu’ means ‘he is my brother’.
[GEN.20.14] And Abimelech took sheep and cattle and male servants and female servants and he gave them to Abraham, and he restored Sarah, his wife, to him. [§]
Va-yikach Avi-melech tsoan u-vakar u-avadim u-shifachot va-yiten le-Avraham va-yashev lo et Sarah ishto.
This verse describes Abimelech giving gifts to Abraham and returning Sarah, Abraham’s wife, to him. ‘Va-yikach’ means ‘and he took’ (or ‘and he acquired’). ‘Avi-melech’ is the name ‘Abimelech’. ‘Tsoan’ means ‘sheep’ or ‘flock’. ‘U-vakar’ means ‘and cattle’. ‘U-avadim’ means ‘and servants’ (male). ‘U-shifachot’ means ‘and handmaids’ (female). ‘Va-yiten’ means ‘and he gave’. ‘Le-Avraham’ means ‘to Abraham’. ‘Va-yashev’ means ‘and he restored’ or ‘and he returned’. ‘Lo’ refers to ‘him’ – Abraham. ‘Et Sarah’ identifies ‘Sarah’ as the object being returned. ‘Ishto’ means ‘his wife’.
[GEN.20.15] And Abimelech said, "Behold, my land is before you. If it is good in your eyes, dwell there." [§]
Va-yo-mer A-vi-me-lech, hi-neh ar-tzi le-fa-ne-cha, ba-tov be-ei-ne-cha sheiv.
This verse is spoken by Abimelech to Isaac. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'A-vi-me-lech' is a proper noun, a name. 'Hi-neh' means 'behold' or 'here'. 'Ar-tzi' means 'my land'. 'Le-fa-ne-cha' means 'before you'. 'Ba-tov' means 'with goodness' or 'in goodness'. 'Be-ei-ne-cha' means 'in your eyes' or 'to your liking'. 'Sheiv' means 'sit' or 'dwell'.
[GEN.20.16] And to Sarah he said, "Behold, I have given a thousand of silver to your brother. Behold, it is yours as a covering for the eyes of all who are with you, and also to all who are present." [§]
u-le-sa-rah a-mar hi-neh na-ta-ti elef kesef le-a-chich hi-neh hu-la-ch ke-sut ei-na-yim le-chol a-sher it-tach ve-et kol ve-no-chat.
This verse is from Genesis 24:59. It describes the giving of gifts to Rebekah and her household by Abraham's servant. 'Sarah' is a proper noun and is not translated. 'Elef' means 'thousand'. 'Kesef' means 'silver'. 'Achi' means 'brother'. 'La' means 'to'. 'Hi-neh' means 'behold' or 'here'. 'Hu-la-ch' means 'it is yours'. 'Ke-sut' means 'covering'. 'Ei-na-yim' means 'eyes'. 'Le-chol' means 'to all'. 'A-sher' means 'who' or 'which'. 'It-tach' means 'with you'. 'Ve-et' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'No-chat' means 'present' or 'face'.
[GEN.20.17] And Abraham prayed to the Gods, and the Gods healed Abimelech and his wife and his female servants, and they bore children. [§]
va-yit-pal-el av-ra-ham el-ha-elo-him va-yir-pa elohim et-a-vi-me-lech ve-et is-to ve-am-ho-tay-v va-ye-le-du
This verse describes Abraham praying to the Gods, and then the Gods healed Abimelech, his wife, and his female servants, resulting in them conceiving and bearing children. 'Va' is a conjunctive 'and'. 'Yitpalel' means 'he prayed'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Yirpa' means 'he healed'. 'Et' is a particle marking the direct object. 'Ishto' is 'his wife'. 'Amhotav' is 'his female servants'. 'Vayeledu' means 'and they bore children'.
[GEN.20.18] For Yahveh restrained all wombs in the house of Abimelech because of the matter of Sarah, Abraham’s wife. [§]
ki-atzor atzar Yahveh be-ad kol-rechem le-beit Avimelech al-devar Sarah eshet Avraham.
This verse describes Yahveh halting all wombs within the house of Abimelech because of the matter concerning Sarah, Abraham’s wife. “Atzor” appears twice, indicating a deliberate and complete stopping or restraint. “Be-ad” means “because of” or “for the sake of.” “Rechem” refers to the womb. “Eshet” means ‘wife of’.
GEN.21
[GEN.21.1] And Yahveh remembered Sarah as He had said, and Yahveh did for Sarah as He had spoken. [§]
Va-yahveh pakad et-sarah ka-asher amar va-ya'as Yahveh le-sarah ka-asher diber.
This verse describes Yahveh remembering Sarah and acting according to His word. "Pakad" means to remember, visit, or attend to. "Ka-asher" means "as" or "according to". "Amar" means "said". "Ya'as" means "did" or "made". "Diber" means "spoke".
[GEN.21.2] And she conceived, and she bore Sarah to Abraham a son to his old age, at the time that the Gods spoke to him. [§]
va-ta-har ve-te-led Sarah le-Avraham ben li-zikunav la-moed asher diber oto Elohim.
This verse describes Sarah conceiving and bearing a son to Abraham in his old age, at the time that the Gods spoke of.
- "vatahar" means 'and she conceived'.
- "vateled" means 'and she bore'.
- "Sarah" is the name Sarah.
- "leAvraham" means 'to Abraham'.
- "ben" means 'son'.
- "li-zikunav" means 'to his old age'.
- "lamoed" means 'at the time'.
- "asher diber oto" means 'that spoke to him'.
- "Elohim" refers to the Gods.
[GEN.21.3] And Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, that Sarah bore to him, Isaac. [§]
Va-yik-ra Av-ra-ham et shem beno ha-no-lad lo asher yal-da lo Sa-rah Yitz-chak.
This verse describes Abraham naming his son. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Av-ra-ham' is Abraham. 'Et shem' means 'the name of'. 'Beno' means 'his son'. 'Ha-no-lad lo' means 'who was born to him'. 'Asher' means 'that' or 'who'. 'Yal-da lo' means 'bore to him'. 'Sa-rah' is Sarah. 'Yitz-chak' is Isaac.
[GEN.21.4] And Abraham circumcised Isaac, his son, on the eighth day, as the Gods commanded him. [§]
Va-ya-mol Av-ra-ham et-Yitz-chak be-no ben-shmo-nat ya-mim ka-asher tzi-vah oto Elohim.
This verse describes Abraham circumcising Isaac on the eighth day after his birth, as God commanded him to do. "Va-ya-mol" means "and he circumcised." "Av-ra-ham" is Abraham. "Et-Yitz-chak" means "Isaac." "Be-no" means "his son." "Ben-shmo-nat ya-mim" means "son of eight days." "Ka-asher" means "as." "Tzi-vah" means "commanded." "Oto" means "him." "Elohim" is the Gods.
[GEN.21.5] And Abraham, of one hundred years, being born to him Isaac, his son. [§]
veh-av-rah-ahm ben-me-at sha-nah beh-hee-va-led lo et yitz-chak be-no
This verse states the age of Abraham when Isaac was born to him. 'Veh' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'Avraham' is Abraham’s name. 'Ben' means 'son' in the sense of being 'of'. 'Me-at' means 'hundred'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Be-hee-va-led' means 'being born'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker. 'Yitzchak' is Isaac’s name. 'Be-no' means 'his son'.
[GEN.21.6] And Sarah said, "The Gods have made laughter for me. All who hear will laugh at me." [§]
va-to-mer Sarah tzechok asa lee Elohim kol-ha-shomea yitzchak-lee.
This verse comes from Genesis 21:6. 'Va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'Sarah' is the name Sarah. 'Tzechok' means 'laughter'. 'Asa' means 'made'. 'Lee' means 'to me'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Kol-ha-shomea' means 'all who hear'. 'Yitzchak-lee' means 'will laugh at me'.
[GEN.21.7] And she said, "Who spoke to Abraham that I would conceive children, Sarah, since I have borne a son to his old age?" [§]
va-to-mer mee mil-lel le-av-ra-ham hey-nee-kah ba-neem sa-rah kee-ya-lad-tee ben liz-ku-nav
This verse describes Sarah speaking after giving birth to Isaac in her old age. She questions how God told Abraham she would have children, considering her age. 'va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'mee mil-lel' means 'who spoke'. 'le-av-ra-ham' means 'to Abraham'. 'hey-nee-kah ba-neem' means 'she conceived children'. 'sa-rah' is Sarah's name. 'kee-ya-lad-tee' means 'because I have borne'. 'ben liz-ku-nav' means 'a son to his old age'.
[GEN.21.8] And the child grew, and he was weaned. And Abraham made a great feast on the day of the weaning of Isaac. [§]
va-yig-dal ha-ye-led va-yig-a-mel va-ya-as av-ra-ham mish-teh ga-dol be-yom hig-a-mel et-yitz-chak
This verse describes the weaning of Isaac and the feast Abraham held to celebrate. 'Va-yig-dal' means 'and the child grew'. 'Ha-ye-led' means 'the child'. 'Va-yig-a-mel' means 'and he was weaned'. 'Va-ya-as' means 'and he made'. 'Av-ra-ham' is Abraham. 'Mish-teh ga-dol' means 'a great feast'. 'Be-yom' means 'on the day'. 'Hig-a-mel' means 'of the weaning'. 'Et-yitz-chak' means 'of Isaac'.
[GEN.21.9] And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, who she bore to Abraham, laughing. [§]
va-teh-reh Sarah et-ben-ha-gar ha-mitz-rit asher-yal-dah le-Avraham metzachek
This verse describes Sarah seeing Hagar's son (Ishmael), who was born to Abraham, laughing. The words break down as follows: 'va-teh-reh' - and she saw; 'Sarah' - Sarah; 'et-ben' - the son of; 'ha-gar' - Hagar; 'ha-mitz-rit' - the Egyptian; 'asher' - who/which; 'yal-dah' - she bore/delivered; 'le-Avraham' - to Abraham; 'metzachek' - laughing/mocking.
[GEN.21.10] And Sarah said to Abraham, "Expel this slave woman and her son, for the son of this slave woman will not inherit with my son, with Isaac." [§]
va-to-mer le-av-ra-ham ga-resh ha-a-mah ha-zot ve-et ben-ah ki lo yirash ben ha-a-mah ha-zot im beni im yitz-chak
This verse describes Sarah speaking to Abraham, telling him to expel the slave woman (Hagar) and her son (Ishmael). Sarah’s reasoning is that the son of the slave woman will not inherit with her son, Isaac.
[GEN.21.11] And the thing was very evil to Abraham concerning his son. [§]
Va-yeh-rah ha-dah-var me-ode be-eh-nee av-ra-ham al oh-dot ben-o
This verse describes Abraham’s distress regarding something concerning his son. 'Va-yeh-rah' means 'and it was evil/bad'. 'Ha-dah-var' means 'the word/thing'. 'Me-ode' means 'very/greatly'. 'Be-eh-nee' means 'in my eyes' (meaning, to me). 'Av-ra-ham' is Abraham. 'Al oh-dot' means 'concerning/about'. 'Ben-o' means 'his son'.
[GEN.21.12] And the Gods said to Abraham, "Do not be grieved in your eyes regarding the boy and regarding your female servant. All that Sarah says to you, listen to her voice, for through Isaac will offspring be called for you." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim el-Avraham al-ye-ra be-ei-necha al-ha-na-ar ve-al-ama-tech kol asher to-mar eleych Sarah shma be-kola-h ki be-Yitzchak yi-ka-rei lecha zara
This verse comes from Genesis 21:12. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'El-Avraham' is 'to Abraham'. 'Al-ye-ra' means 'do not be grieved'. 'Be-ei-necha' means 'in your eyes'. 'Al-ha-na-ar' means 'regarding the boy'. 'Ve-al-ama-tech' means 'and regarding your female servant'. 'Kol asher to-mar eleych Sarah' means 'all that Sarah says to you'. 'Shma be-kola-h' means 'listen to her voice'. 'Ki' means 'for'. 'Be-Yitzchak' means 'through Isaac'. 'Yi-ka-rei lecha' means 'will be called for you'. 'Zara' means 'seed/offspring'.
[GEN.21.13] And also the son of the slave woman I will set as a nation, for your seed he is. [§]
ve-gam et-ben-ha-amah le-goi ashimenu ki zaracha hu.
This verse discusses God’s promise to Abraham regarding his descendants. 've-gam' means 'and also'. 'et' is a grammatical particle marking the direct object. 'ben-ha-amah' means 'son of the slave'. 'le-goi' means 'to a nation'. 'ashimenu' means 'I will set him'. 'ki' means 'for'. 'zaracha' means 'your seed'. 'hu' means 'he/it'. The verse essentially states that God will also make the offspring of the slave woman into a nation, because that offspring is also Abraham’s seed.
[GEN.21.14] And Abraham rose early in the morning and he took bread and a skin of water and he gave it to Hagar, placing it upon her shoulder, and the child, and he sent her away. And she went and wandered in the wilderness of Beer Sheba. [§]
Va-yashkem Avraham ba-boker va-yiqach lechem ve-chemet mayim va-yiten el ha-Ghar sam al shichmah va-et ha-yeled va-yishalcheha va-telech va-teta'a be-midbar beer shava.
This verse describes Abraham giving provisions to Hagar and Ishmael and sending them away. 'Va-yashkem' means 'and he rose early'. 'Avraham' is Abraham. 'Ba-boker' means 'in the morning'. 'Va-yiqach' means 'and he took'. 'Lechem' means 'bread'. 'Ve-chemet mayim' means 'and a skin of water'. 'Va-yiten' means 'and he gave'. 'El ha-Ghar' means 'to Hagar'. 'Sam al shichmah' means 'putting it on her shoulder'. 'Va-et ha-yeled' means 'and the child'. 'Va-yishalcheha' means 'and he sent her away'. 'Va-telech' means 'and she went'. 'Va-teta'a' means 'and she wandered'. 'Be-midbar beer shava' means 'in the wilderness of Beer Sheba'.
[GEN.21.15] And the waters ended from the warmth, and she threw the child under one of the bushes. [§]
va-yikh-loo ha-ma-yim min-ha-che-met va-ta-shlech et-ha-yeled ta-chat achad ha-si-chim.
This verse describes the end of the water supply and the subsequent action of a mother. 'va-yikh-loo' means 'and finished/ended'. 'ha-ma-yim' means 'the waters'. 'min-ha-che-met' means 'from the warmth/heat'. 'va-ta-shlech' means 'and she threw'. 'et-ha-yeled' means 'the child'. 'ta-chat achad ha-si-chim' means 'under one of the bushes'.
[GEN.21.16] And she went and sat for herself opposite, at a distance, like the range of an arrow, because she said, "I will not see in the death of the child." And she sat opposite and lifted up her voice and wept. [§]
Va-te-lech va-te-shev lah mi-ne-ged ha-rechok ki-me-ta-che-vei keshet ki amar-ah al-er-eh be-mot ha-yeled va-te-shev mi-ne-ged va-ti-sa kol-ah va-te-vech
This verse describes a woman who positions herself at a distance to avoid witnessing the death of her child. She sits apart and raises her voice in weeping. Each word is translated as directly as possible, maintaining the original sentence structure as much as is feasible in English.
[GEN.21.17] And the Gods heard the voice of the boy; and an angel of the Gods called to Hagar from the heavens and said to her, "What troubles you, Hagar? Do not fear, for the Gods have heard the voice of the boy in the place where he is." [§]
Va-yishma Elohim et-kol ha-na'ar; va-yikra mal'akh Elohim el-Hagar min-ha-shamayim va-yomer lah ma-lach Hagar al-tir'i ki-shama Elohim et-kol ha-na'ar ba-asher hu-sham.
This verse recounts God hearing the voice of the boy (Ishmael) and an angel of God calling to Hagar from the heavens. The angel asks Hagar what troubles her and reassures her that God has heard the boy’s voice in the place where he is.
[GEN.21.18] Arise, lift up the young man, and hold your hand in him, for to a great nation I will make him. [§]
qumi se'i et-hanNa'ar vehaChaziqi et-yadech bo ki-le-goy gadol aShimenu
This verse contains commands and a promise. "Qumi" means 'arise'. "Se'i" means 'lift up'. "Et-hanNa'ar" refers to 'the young man'. "VehaChaziqi" means 'and hold fast'. "Et-yadech" is 'your hand'. "Bo" means 'in him'. "Ki-le-goy" means 'for to a nation'. "Gadol" means 'great'. "aShimenu" means 'I will make him'. The verse is a divine command to a woman to take care of a young man, paired with a promise that this young man will become the progenitor of a great nation.
[GEN.21.19] And the Gods opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. And she went and filled the water skin with water and gave the boy drink. [§]
Va-yip-kach Elohim et-ei-nei-ha va-te-re be-er ma-yim va-te-lech va-te-mal-eh et-ha-che-met ma-yim va-tash-keh et-ha-na-ar.
This verse describes a situation where 'the Gods' opened the eyes of a woman, allowing her to see a well of water. She then went and filled a water skin with water and gave drink to the boy.
[GEN.21.20] And it came to pass that the Gods were with the young man, and he grew, and he dwelt in the wilderness, and he became a skilled archer. [§]
vayhi Elohim et-hanaar vayigdal vayeishav bamidbar vayhi robeh kashta
This verse describes God being with a young man, his growth, his dwelling in the wilderness, and his becoming a skilled archer. 'Vayhi' indicates 'and it came to pass'. 'Elohim' refers to 'the Gods'. 'Et-hanaar' means 'the young man'. 'Vayigdal' means 'and he grew'. 'Vayeishav' means 'and he sat/dwelt'. 'Bamidbar' means 'in the wilderness'. 'Vayhi robeh kashta' means 'and he became a skilled archer'.
[GEN.21.21] And she settled in the Wilderness of Paran, and his mother took for him a wife from the land of Egypt. [§]
va-yeshev be-midbar Paran va-tikkach-lo imo isha me-eretz Mitzrayim
This verse describes Hagar settling in the Wilderness of Paran and Abraham’s mother (Sarah) taking for him a wife from the land of Egypt. Note that 'imo' literally means 'his mother' but in this context refers to Sarah, Abraham's wife. 'Mitzrayim' is the land of Egypt.
[GEN.21.22] And it came to pass at that time, and Abimelech and Phicol, his army commander, said to Abraham, saying, "The Gods are with you in all that you do." [§]
vayhi ba'et hahu vayomer avimelech ufikol sar-tzeva'o el-avraham le'emor elohim immacha bekhol asher ata ose.
This verse describes a conversation between Abimelech, king of Gerar, and his army commander Phicol, with Abraham. They acknowledge the presence of the Gods with Abraham in everything he does. ‘Vayhi’ is a formulaic introductory phrase meaning ‘and it came to pass.’ ‘Ba’et hahu’ means ‘at that time.’ ‘Vayomer’ means ‘and he said.’ ‘El-avraham’ means ‘to Abraham.’ ‘Le’emor’ means ‘saying.’ ‘Bekhol asher ata ose’ means ‘in all that you do.’
[GEN.21.23] And now, swear to me by the Gods here, if you will not lie to me, or to my children, or to my grandchildren, as the kindness that you did for me, you will do for me, and for the land in which you have lived. [§]
ve'atah hish'ave'a li be'elohim henna im-tishkor li uleni'ni uleni'kdi kachesed asher'asita imcha ta'aseh immadi ve'im-ha'aretz asher-garta bah.
This verse is a request for a solemn oath. The speaker asks for an oath to be sworn by 'the Gods' as assurance that no falsehood will be spoken. The speaker desires this oath not only for themselves but also for their descendants. They link this request to past kindness received, asking for the same kindness to be extended to them and the land where they live.
[GEN.21.24] And Abraham said, "I, I swear." [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ra-ham a-no-chi is-sa-bay-a.
This verse is spoken by Abraham. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Av-ra-ham' is the name Abraham. 'A-no-chi' means 'I'. 'Is-sa-bay-a' means 'I swear'. This is a direct statement of oath taking.
[GEN.21.25] And Abraham reproved Abimelech concerning the well of water, which Abimelech’s servants had stolen. [§]
vehochiach Avraham et-Avimelech al-odoth beer hamayim asher gazlu avdei Avimelech.
This verse describes Abraham confronting Abimelech regarding a well of water that Abimelech's servants had taken. 'Vehochiach' means 'and Abraham reproved'. 'Et-Avimelech' signifies 'Abimelech'. 'Al-odoth' means 'concerning'. 'Beer hamayim' means 'well of water'. 'Asher gazlu' means 'which stole'. 'Avdei Avimelech' means 'servants of Abimelech'.
[GEN.21.26] And Abimelech said, "I did not know who did this thing, and also you did not tell me, and also I had not heard of it until today." [§]
va-yo-mer a-vee-me-lech lo ya-da-tee mee ah-sah et-ha-da-var ha-zeh ve-gam-atah lo hig-da-tah lee ve-gam an-o-chee lo sha-ma-tee bil-tee ha-yom
This verse is spoken by Abimelech, a king, expressing ignorance about an event that has occurred. He states he did not know who did the thing, that no one told him, and that he only learned of it today.
[GEN.21.27] And Abraham took sheep and cattle, and he gave them to Abimelech, and the two of them made a covenant. [§]
va-yik-ach av-ra-ham tso-on u-va-kar va-yit-ten la-a-vi-me-lech va-yich-ru sh-nei-hem bri-t.
This verse describes Abraham giving livestock to Abimelech and making a covenant with him. 'Va-yik-ach' means 'and he took'. 'Av-ra-ham' is Abraham's name. 'Tso-on' means sheep, and 'u-va-kar' means and cattle. 'Va-yit-ten' means and he gave. 'La-a-vi-me-lech' means to Abimelech. 'Va-yich-ru' means and they made. 'Sh-nei-hem' means the two of them. 'Bri-t' means covenant.
[GEN.21.28] And Abraham set apart seven lambs of the flock by themselves. [§]
va-yatzayv avraham et-sheva kivsavt ha-tson le-vad-hen
This verse describes Abraham setting apart seven lambs of the flock. 'Va-yatzayv' means 'and he set'. 'Avraham' is Abraham. 'Et' is a grammatical particle indicating a definite direct object. 'Sheva' is seven. 'Kivsavt' means lambs. 'Ha-tson' means 'of the flock'. 'Le-vad-hen' means 'apart from them' or 'by themselves'.
[GEN.21.29] And Avimelech said to Abraham, "What are these seven lambs that you have set apart for me alone?" [§]
vayomer avimelech el-avraham mah hena sheva kvasot haele asher hitzavta livadana
This verse is from Genesis 21:28. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Avimelech' is a proper noun, a name. 'El' means 'to' or 'belonging to'. 'Avraham' is a proper noun, a name. 'Mah' means 'what'. 'Hena' means 'these'. 'Sheva' means 'seven'. 'Kvasot' means 'lambs'. 'Haele' means 'the'. 'Asher' means 'that' or 'which'. 'Hitzavta' means 'you have set'. 'Livadana' means 'for me alone'.
[GEN.21.30] And he said, "That seven ewe lambs you will take from my hand, for the purpose that they will be to me as a witness, because I dug this well." [§]
Va-yo-mer ki et-she-va ke-va-sot ti-kah mi-ya-di ba-a-vur ti-hye-li le-e-da ki kha-far-ti et-ha-be-er ha-zot.
This verse describes an agreement being made, likely regarding ownership of a well. The speaker is stating they want seven ewe lambs taken from their hand as a witness to the fact that they dug the well. 'Ki' means 'that' or 'because', 'et' is a direct object marker, 'sheva' is seven, 'kebasot' is ewe lambs, 'tikach' means 'you will take', 'mi-yadi' means 'from my hand', 'ba-avur' means 'in order that' or 'for the purpose that', 'tihye' means 'you will be', 'li' means 'to me', 'le'eda' means 'as a witness', 'khafarti' means 'I dug', and 'ha-beer ha-zot' means 'this well'.
[GEN.21.31] Therefore he called that place the well of the oath, because there the two of them swore. [§]
Al-ken kara lamakom hahu be'er shava ki sham nishbe'u shneihem.
This verse describes the naming of a place. 'Al-ken' means 'therefore'. 'Kara' means 'called'. 'Lamakom' means 'the place'. 'Hahu' means 'that'. 'Be'er' means 'well'. 'Shava' means 'oath'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Nishbe'u' means 'they swore'. 'Shneihem' means 'they two'. Therefore, the verse means 'Therefore he called that place the well of the oath, because there they two swore.'
[GEN.21.32] They made a covenant at Beersheba, and Abimelech and Phicol, his army commander, returned to the land of the Philistines. [§]
vayikhr'tu brit bib'er shava vayakum avimelech ufikhol sar-tzeva'o vayashuvu el-eretz pelishtim
This verse describes a covenant made at Beersheba, and the return of Abimelech and his army commander, Phicol, to the land of the Philistines. Let's break down the names: 'Avimelech' means 'my father is king', 'Phicol' means 'he looks', and 'Pelishtim' is the name of the people known as Philistines.
[GEN.21.33] And he planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and he called there in the name of Yahveh, God forever. [§]
va-yit-ta a-eshel bi-be-er sha-va va-yi-kra sham be-shem Yahveh El Olam
This verse describes Abraham planting a tamarisk tree in Beersheba and invoking the name of Yahveh, the eternal God. 'Va-yit-ta' means 'and he planted.' 'A-eshel' is 'tamarisk tree'. 'Bi-be-er sha-va' means 'in Beersheba'. 'Va-yi-kra' means 'and he called'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Be-shem' means 'in the name of'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'El' is God. 'Olam' means forever or eternally.
[GEN.21.34] And Abraham sojourned in the land of the Philistines for many days. [§]
va-yagar Avraham be-eretz Peleshtim yamim rabim.
This verse describes Abraham sojourning, or dwelling temporarily, in the land of the Philistines for many days. 'Vayagar' means 'and he sojourned'. 'Avraham' is the name Abraham. 'Be-eretz' means 'in the land'. 'Peleshtim' is 'Philistines'. 'Yamim' is 'days', and 'rabim' means 'many'.
GEN.22
[GEN.22.1] And it came to pass after these things, and the Gods tested Abraham, and spoke to him, “Abraham,” and he said, “Here I am.” [§]
va-yehi a-char ha-devarim ha-eleh ve-ha-Elohim ni-sah et-Avraham va-yomer elav Avraham va-yomer hineini
This verse describes events following previous occurrences. ‘Ha-Elohim’ refers to ‘the Gods’ and tests Abraham. It then depicts a direct address to Abraham, followed by Abraham’s response, ‘Here I am.’
[GEN.22.2] And He said, "Please take your son, your only one whom you love, Isaac, and go for yourself to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains which I will tell you." [§]
Va-yo-mer kah-nah et-bin-kah et-yekhikh-dah ah-sher-ah-hav-tah et-Yitz-khak ve-lekh-lekha el-eretz ha-mo-ree-yah ve-ha-ah-leh-hu sham le-o-lah al ah-chad ha-har-im ah-sher o-mar ei-le-kha.
This verse is from Genesis 22:2, where God tests Abraham. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and He said'. 'Kah-nah' means 'please take'. 'Et-bin-kah' means 'your son'. 'Et-yekhikh-dah' means 'your only one'. 'Ah-sher-ah-hav-tah' means 'whom you love'. 'Et-Yitz-khak' means 'Isaac'. 'Ve-lekh-lekha' means 'and go for yourself'. 'El-eretz ha-mo-ree-yah' means 'to the land of Moriah'. 'Ve-ha-ah-leh-hu sham' means 'and offer him there'. 'Le-o-lah' means 'as a burnt offering'. 'Al ah-chad ha-har-im' means 'on one of the mountains'. 'Ah-sher o-mar ei-le-kha' means 'which I will tell you'.
[GEN.22.3] And Abraham rose early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and he took with him two young men and Isaac his son, and he split wood for a burnt offering, and he arose and went to the place that the Gods had told him. [§]
Va-yashkem Avraham ba-boker va-yachbos et chamoro va-yiqach et shnei ne’arav ito ve’et Yitzchak beno va-yivka’a etzei olah va-yakum va-yelech el ha-makom asher amar-lo ha-Elohim.
This verse describes Abraham rising early, saddling his donkey, taking two young men and his son Isaac, gathering wood for a burnt offering, and then departing to the place that the Gods had told him to go.
[GEN.22.4] On the third day, Abraham lifted his eyes and saw the place from afar. [§]
bayom hashalishi vayisa avraham et einav vayera et hamakom merahok
This verse describes Abraham lifting his eyes and seeing a place in the distance on the third day. Let's break down the names:
* 'bayom' means 'on the day'
* 'hashalishi' means 'the third'
* 'vayisa' means 'and he lifted'
* 'avraham' is Abraham's name
* 'et einav' means 'his eyes'
* 'vayera' means 'and he saw'
* 'et hamakom' means 'the place'
* 'merahok' means 'from afar'
[GEN.22.5] And Abraham said to his young men, "Sit you here with the donkey, and I and the boy will go to that place and worship, and we will return to you." [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ra-ham el-ne-a-rav shvu-la-chem poh im-ha-cha-mor va-a-nee ve-ha-na-ar nei-le-cha ad-ko-ha ve-nish-ta-chav-eh ve-na-shuv-ah a-lei-chem.
This verse recounts Abraham telling his young men to remain with the donkey while he and Isaac go a distance to worship and then return. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Av-ra-ham' is the name Abraham. 'el-ne-a-rav' means 'to his young men'. 'shvu-la-chem' is 'sit you'. 'poh' means 'here'. 'im-ha-cha-mor' means 'with the donkey'. 'va-a-nee' means 'and I'. 've-ha-na-ar' means 'and the boy'. 'nei-le-cha' means 'we will go'. 'ad-ko-ha' means 'to that place'. 've-nish-ta-chav-eh' means 'and we will worship'. 've-na-shuv-ah' means 'and we will return'. 'a-lei-chem' means 'to you'.
[GEN.22.6] And Abraham took the trees of the burnt offering and put them on Isaac, his son. And he took the fire and the knife in his hand, and the two of them went together. [§]
Va-yikach Avraham et-etzei ha-olah va-yasem al-Yitzchak beno va-yikach be-yado et-ha-esh ve-et-ha-ma’achelet va-yelechu shneihem yachdav.
This verse describes Abraham taking the wood for the burnt offering and placing it on his son Isaac. He also takes the fire and the knife in his hand, and they both go together.
[GEN.22.7] And Isaac said to Abraham, his father, and he said, "My father." And he said, "Here I am, my son." And he said, "Behold, the fire and the wood, but where is the sheep for the burnt offering?" [§]
Va-yo-mer Yitz-chak el-Av-ra-ham a-vee-v va-yo-mer a-vee va-yo-mer hin-ne-nee ben-ee va-yo-mer hin-neh ha-esh ve-ha-et-zeem ve-ai-yeh ha-seh le-o-lah.
This verse recounts Isaac speaking to Abraham, his father, regarding the sacrifice. Isaac asks where the sheep is for the burnt offering. Each 'va-yo-mer' means 'and he said.' 'Hin-ne-nee' means 'here I am.' 'Hin-neh' means 'behold.' 'Le-o-lah' means 'for a burnt offering.'
[GEN.22.8] And Abraham said, "The Gods will see for himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son." And they both went together. [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ra-ham Elo-him yir-eh-lo ha-seh le-o-lah be-ni va-ye-le-chu shnei-hem yach-da-vo.
This verse describes Abraham speaking after being instructed to sacrifice his son. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Avraham' is Abraham's name. 'Elohim' refers to 'the Gods'. 'Yir-eh-lo' means 'will see for him'. 'Ha-seh' means 'the lamb'. 'Le-o-lah' means 'for a burnt offering'. 'Be-ni' means 'my son'. 'Va-ye-le-chu' means 'and they went'. 'Shnei-hem' means 'both of them'. 'Yach-da-vo' means 'together'.
[GEN.22.9] And they came to the place that the Gods had told him. And Abraham built there an altar and arranged the wood, and bound Isaac, his son, and placed him on the altar, above the wood. [§]
vayavo'u el-hamakom asher amar-lo haElohim vayiven sham avraham et-hamizbeach vayarek et-ha'etzim vayaked et-yitzchak beno vayyasem oto al-hamizbeach mima'al la'etzim.
This verse describes Abraham going to the place that the Gods told him to, building an altar, arranging the wood, binding Isaac his son, and placing him on the altar, upon the wood. Note that 'Elohim' is plural and thus translated as 'the Gods'.
[GEN.22.10] And Abraham extended his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son. [§]
Va-yish-lach Av-ra-ham et-ya-do va-yi-kah et-ha-ma-a-che-let li-sh-chot et-be-no.
This verse describes Abraham raising his hand and taking the knife to sacrifice his son. Let's break down the names: 'Avraham' is Abraham, 'beno' is 'his son'. There are no names of God in this verse.
[GEN.22.11] And an angel of Yahveh called to him from the heavens, and said, "Abraham, Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am." [§]
Va-yik-ra ei-lav mal-akh Yahveh min-ha-sha-may-im va-yo-mer Av-ra-ham Av-ra-ham va-yo-mer hi-neni.
This verse describes an angel of Yahveh calling to Abraham from the heavens. The repetition of Abraham’s name is a common feature in ancient texts used for emphasis. 'Hineni' is a response meaning 'Here I am'.
[GEN.22.12] And He said, "Do not extend your hand against the young man, and do not do anything to him, for now I know that you fear the Gods and you have not withheld your son, your unique son, from me." [§]
va-yo-mer al-tish-lach yad-cha el-ha-na-ar ve-al-ta-as lo me-um-ah ki-atah yadati ki-yir-eh elohim atah ve-lo chasachta et-bin-cha et-yehich-dach mim-meni.
This verse comes from Genesis 22:12, where God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac. God stops Abraham from sacrificing Isaac after seeing that Abraham fears God and hasn’t held back his unique son from Him. 'Yad' means hand, 'na'ar' means young man or boy, 'atah' means you, 'bin' means son, 'yehich-dach' means unique/only, and 'mim-meni' means from me.
[GEN.22.13] And Abraham lifted his eyes and saw, and behold, a ram after being caught in the thicket by its horns. And Abraham went and took the ram, and offered it up as a burnt offering in place of his son. [§]
vayisa avraham et eineav vayera vehineh ayil achar ne’echez bassevach bekarnav vayelech avraham vayikach et ha’ayil vaya’alehu le’olah tachat beno.
This verse describes Abraham lifting his eyes and seeing a ram caught in a thicket by its horns. Abraham then takes the ram and offers it as a burnt offering in place of his son Isaac. 'Vayisa' means 'he lifted'. 'Avraham' is Abraham. 'Et eineav' means 'his eyes'. 'Vayera' means 'he saw'. 'Vehineh' means 'and behold'. 'Ayil' means 'ram'. 'Achar' means 'after/behind'. 'Ne’echez' means 'caught/held'. 'Bassevach' means 'in the thicket'. 'Bekarnav' means 'by its horns'. 'Vayelech' means 'he went'. 'Vayikach' means 'he took'. 'Ha’ayil' means 'the ram'. 'Vaya’alehu' means 'he offered it up'. 'Le’olah' means 'as a burnt offering'. 'Tachat beno' means 'in place of his son'.
[GEN.22.14] And Abraham called the name of that place "Yahveh will see". And it will be said today, "On the mountain of Yahveh, Yahveh will see." [§]
Va-yik-rah Av-ra-ham shem-ha-ma-kom ha-hu Yahveh yir-eh asher ye-e-mer ha-yom be-har Yahveh ye-reh.
This verse describes Abraham naming a place. 'Va-yik-rah' means 'and he called'. 'Av-ra-ham' is Abraham. 'Shem-ha-ma-kom' means 'the name of the place'. 'Ha-hu' means 'that'. 'Yahveh yir-eh' means 'Yahveh will see'. 'Asher' means 'that' or 'which'. 'Ye-e-mer' means 'they will say'. 'Ha-yom' means 'today'. 'Be-har' means 'on the mountain'. 'Yahveh ye-reh' means 'Yahveh will see'. The verse essentially states that Abraham named the place 'Yahveh will see' and it will be said that on the mountain of Yahveh, Yahveh will see.
[GEN.22.15] And an angel of Yahveh called to Abraham a second time from the heavens. [§]
Va-yik-ra mal-akh Yahveh el-Avraham shenit min-hashamayim.
This verse describes an angel of Yahveh calling to Abraham a second time from the heavens. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and called'. 'Mal-akh' means 'angel' or 'messenger'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'El-Avraham' means 'to Abraham'. 'Shenit' means 'second'. 'Min-hashamayim' means 'from the heavens'.
[GEN.22.16] And He said, "I have sworn, says Yahveh, because you have done this thing and you did not hold back your son, your only one." [§]
Va-yo-mer bi-nish-bah-ti ne-um Yahveh ki-yan asher ah-sita et-ha-dah-var ha-zeh ve-lo chasachta et-bin-cha et-yeh-chid-cha.
This verse is a direct quote from God to Abraham, concerning the test of sacrificing Isaac. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and He said'. 'Bi-nish-bah-ti' means 'I have sworn'. 'Ne-um Yahveh' means 'says Yahveh'. 'Ki-yan' means 'because'. 'Asher ah-sita' means 'that you did'. 'Et-ha-dah-var ha-zeh' means 'this thing'. 'Ve-lo chasachta' means 'and you did not hold back'. 'Et-bin-cha' means 'your son'. 'Et-yeh-chid-cha' means 'your only one'.
[GEN.22.17] Because I will bless, I will bless you, and I will greatly increase your seed like the stars of the heavens, and like the sand that is upon the shore of the sea. And your seed will inherit the gates of your enemies. [§]
kee-bar-ekh av-ar-ekh-kha, veh-ar-beh ar-beh et-zar-akh-kha k'khok-veh-ee hash-shah-may-eem, v'khak-hool ash-er al-s'fat hay-yam, v'yir-ash zar-akh-kha et sha-ar oy-vai-vayv.
This verse contains several names and descriptive phrases. 'Barakh' means 'to bless'. 'Avarekh' comes from the same root and means 'I will bless'. 'Zar'akha' means 'your seed' or 'your offspring'. 'Kokhavee hashamayim' means 'the stars of the heavens'. 'Chool asher al-s'fat hayam' means 'the sand which is upon the shore of the sea'. 'Yirash' means 'will inherit' or 'will possess'. 'Sha'ar oyvaiv' means 'the gates of your enemies'. The verse is a promise of blessing and numerous offspring, as well as victory over enemies.
[GEN.22.18] And may they be blessed in your seed, all nations of the earth, because you listened in Yahveh’s voice. [§]
veheetbar'chu bezar'cha kol goyei ha'aretz eikev asher shama'ta bekoli
This verse describes a blessing promised to the descendants of a person because they listened to the voice of God. Let's break down the names: 'ha'aretz' means 'the land' or 'the earth', 'bekoli' means 'in my voice', and we will translate the divine name as 'Yahveh' here.
[GEN.22.19] And Abraham returned to his young men, and they rose and went together to the well of the oath, and Abraham settled at the well of the oath. [§]
Va-ya-shav Avraham el-ne-a-ra-yav va-ya-qumu va-ye-le-khu ya-ha-dav el-be-er sha-va va-ye-shev Avraham bi-be-er sha-va.
This verse describes Abraham returning to his young men, and them going together to the well of the oath. It concludes with Abraham settling at the well of the oath. The words 'ne-a-ra-yav' refers to young men or servants. 'Be-er sha-va' means well of the oath.
[GEN.22.20] And it came to pass after these events, that it was told to Abraham, saying, "Behold, Milkah has also borne sons to Nachor, your brother." [§]
va-yhi akharei ha-devarim ha-eleh va-yugad le-avraham le-emor hineh yaldah milkah gam-hu baanim le-nakhor akhi-ka.
This verse recounts an event that happened after previous events. It states that a message was told to Abraham: Milkah has also given birth to sons for Nachor, your brother.
[GEN.22.21] And Uts, his firstborn, and Booz, his brother, and Kemuel, father of Aram. [§]
et-utz bekhoro ve-et-buz achiv ve-et-kemuel avi aram
This verse lists the names of descendants. "Et" is a grammatical marker indicating the direct object. "Uts" is a personal name. "Bekhoro" means "his firstborn". "Booz" is a personal name, and "achiv" means "his brother". "Kemuel" is a personal name, and "avi" means "father of". "Aram" is a place name.
[GEN.22.22] And Kesed and Chazo and Pildash and Yidlaf and Betuel. [§]
ve'et-kesed ve'et-chazo ve'et-pildash ve'et-yidlaf ve'et betuel
This verse lists the sons of Abraham and Keturah. Each name is prefixed with 've'et' which is a particle meaning 'and' followed by a direct object marker. The names themselves are proper nouns denoting individual people.
[GEN.22.23] And Tu'el fathered Rebekah. These eight did Milkah bear to Nahor, the brother of Abraham. [§]
u'v'tu'el yald et-riv'kah sh'monah eleh yaldah mil'kah l'nachor achi avraham.
This verse describes the children born to Milkah, the wife of Nahor, who was Abraham's brother. Specifically, it states that Tu'el fathered Rebekah, and Milkah bore eight children to Nahor.
[GEN.22.24] And her concubine, her name was Reumah, and she also bore Tebakh and Gakham and Takhash and Maakhah. [§]
u-fi-lag-sho veesh-ma-ah re-oo-mah va-teh-led gam-hee et-tev-akh veet-ga-kham veet-tah-khash veet-ma-ah-khah.
This verse details the children born to a concubine named Reumah. 'U' signifies 'and'. 'Filagsho' means 'her concubine'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Ishmah' means 'her name'. 'Va-teh-led' means 'and she bore'. 'Gam-hee' means 'also she'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle indicating a definite direct object. 'Tevakh', 'Gakham', 'Takhash', and 'Maakhah' are the names of the children born.
GEN.23
[GEN.23.1] And the lives of Sarah were one hundred years and twenty years and seven years, years of the life of Sarah. [§]
Va-yih-yu chai-ei Sarah mei-ah sha-nah ve-es-rim sha-nah ve-she-va sha-nim shnei chai-ei Sarah.
This verse states the length of Sarah’s life. ‘Va-yih-yu’ means ‘and were’. ‘Chai-ei’ means ‘lives of’. ‘Sarah’ is the name Sarah. ‘Mei-ah’ means ‘one hundred’. ‘Sha-nah’ means ‘year’. ‘Ve-es-rim’ means ‘and twenty’. ‘Ve-she-va’ means ‘and seven’. ‘Shnei’ means ‘years of’. This verse essentially repeats the statement of Sarah’s age for emphasis.
[GEN.23.2] And Sarah died in the city of four, it is Hebron, in the land of Canaan. And Abraham came to mourn Sarah and to weep for her. [§]
Va-ta-mat Sarah be-kir-yat ar-ba hu ha-chev-ron be-eretz ke-na-an va-ya-vo av-ra-ham li-s-pod le-Sarah ve-liv-ko-ta.
This verse recounts the death of Sarah and Abraham's mourning. 'Va-ta-mat' means 'and she died'. 'Sarah' is the name Sarah. 'Be-kir-yat ar-ba' means 'in the city of four'. 'Hu ha-chev-ron' means 'it is Hebron'. 'Be-eretz ke-na-an' means 'in the land of Canaan'. 'Va-ya-vo av-ra-ham' means 'and Abraham came'. 'Li-s-pod le-Sarah' means 'to mourn Sarah'. 'Ve-liv-ko-ta' means 'and to weep for her'.
[GEN.23.3] And Abraham rose from before the face of his dead, and he spoke to the sons of Heth to say: [§]
Va-ya-kom Av-ra-ham me-al pe-nei me-toh va-ye-da-ber el-be-nei chet le-e-mor
This verse describes Abraham rising from before the face of his dead wife, and speaking to the sons of Heth. 'Va-ya-kom' means 'and he rose'. 'Av-ra-ham' is Abraham. 'Me-al pe-nei' means 'from before the face of'. 'Me-toh' means 'his dead'. 'Va-ye-da-ber' means 'and he spoke'. 'El-be-nei chet' means 'to the sons of Heth'. 'Le-e-mor' means 'to say'.
[GEN.23.4] A resident alien I am with you. Give to me a burial plot with you, and I will bury my dead before me. [§]
ger-vetoshav anokhi imakhem tnu li akhuzat-kever imakhem ve'ekberah meti milfanai.
This verse is spoken by a person requesting a burial plot. "Ger-vetoshav" refers to a resident alien or sojourner. "Anokhi" means "I". "Imakhem" means "with you". "Tnu li" means "give to me". "Akhuzat-kever" means "a possession of a grave" or "a burial plot". "Ve'ekberah" means "and I will bury". "Meti" means "my dead". "Milfanai" means "before me".
[GEN.23.5] And the sons of Heth answered to Abraham, saying to him. [§]
Va-ya-anu benei-chet et-avraham le-emor lo.
This verse comes from Genesis 23:5. 'Va-ya-anu' means 'and they answered.' 'Benei-chet' means 'sons of Heth.' 'Et-avraham' means 'to Abraham.' 'Le-emor lo' means 'saying to him.' The 'et' is a grammatical particle that doesn't translate directly but indicates the object of the verb.
[GEN.23.6] Hear us, my Lord. You are the Gods as a leader amongst us. In the choice of our burial places, bury your dead. Each person from among them will bury their own burial place, and none will be deprived of burial from you, from your dead. [§]
Sh'ma'enu | Adonai n'si' Elohim ata b'toch'enu b'miv'char k'vareinu k'vor et-metecha ish mimenu et-kivro lo-yichleh mimcha mikkor metecha.
This verse is a plea to 'my Lord' who is 'the Gods' as a leader, acknowledging their presence amongst the people and asking them to bury their dead. It specifies that each person will bury their own dead, and that no one will be deprived of a burial.
[GEN.23.7] And Abraham rose and bowed to the people of the land, to the sons of Heth. [§]
Va-ya-kom Av-ra-ham va-yish-ta-hu le-am ha-aretz li-vnei Chet.
This verse describes Abraham rising and bowing down to the people of the land, specifically the Hittites. 'Va-ya-kom' means 'and rose'. 'Av-ra-ham' is Abraham's name. 'Va-yish-ta-hu' means 'and he bowed'. 'Le-am ha-aretz' means 'to the people of the land'. 'Li-vnei Chet' means 'to the sons of Heth' or 'to the Hittites'.
[GEN.23.8] And he spoke to them, saying, "If it is your desire to bury my dead before me, then listen to me and meet with Ephron, son of Zohar, for me." [§]
vay-da-ber ee-tam le-mor im-yesh et-naf-shchem li-kvbor et-meti mil-panai shma-oo-nee oo-fig-oo-lee be-ef-ron ben-tzokhar.
This verse describes a request to bury someone's deceased family member. The speaker is addressing a group of people and asking for their assistance in burying the deceased before them. Specifically, the speaker requests that they meet with Ephron, son of Zohar, to negotiate for a burial plot.
[GEN.23.9] And he will give to me the cave of Machpelah, which is his, which is at the end of his field. With silver full he will give it to me among you, as a possession of a tomb. [§]
ve-yit-ten-lee et-me-ar-at ha-mach-pe-lah a-sher-lo a-sher bi-ketz-eh sa-deh-hu be-che-sev ma-leh yit-ten-nah lee be-toch-chem la-ach-u-zat-ka-ver.
This verse details a request to purchase a burial plot. 'Ve-yit-ten-lee' means 'and he will give to me'. 'Et-me-ar-at' means 'the cave of'. 'Ha-mach-pe-lah' is the name of the cave, 'Machpelah'. 'A-sher-lo' means 'which is his'. 'A-sher bi-ketz-eh' means 'which is at the end of'. 'Sa-deh-hu' means 'his field'. 'Be-che-sev ma-leh' means 'with silver full'. 'Yit-ten-nah lee' means 'he will give it to me'. 'Be-toch-chem' means 'among you'. 'La-ach-u-zat-ka-ver' means 'as a possession of a tomb'.
[GEN.23.10] And Ephron, who resided among the Hittites, answered Abraham within the hearing of the Hittites, to all who came to the gate of his city, saying: [§]
ve-ef-rohn yo-shehv be-toch bene-chet va-ya-an ef-rohn ha-chi-tee et-av-ra-ham be-oz-nei bene-chet le-chol ba-ei sha-ar-ee-ro le-emor.
This verse describes Ephron, a Hittite, responding to Abraham within the hearing of the Hittites at the gate of his city. The verb 'va-ya-an' means 'he answered'. The phrase 'le-chol ba-ei sha-ar-ee-ro' means 'to all who came to the gate of his city'. 'Le-emor' means 'saying'.
[GEN.23.11] No, my Lord, I have given you the field, and the cave that is in it I have given to you. Before the eyes of the people of my nation, I have given it to you as a tomb for your dead. [§]
lo adonai shmaeni hasadeh natati lach vehammearah asher bo lecha natatiyah leienei benei ammi natatiyah lach kvor metecha.
This verse is spoken by a king to a man who has requested a burial place for his dead. The king is granting the man both a field and a cave within it, making it clear the gift is public and for the benefit of the man’s people. 'Lo adonai' is an emphatic negative, meaning 'certainly not my Lord' or 'absolutely not, my Lord', though it is often used as a simple 'no'.
[GEN.23.12] And Abraham bowed before the people of the land. [§]
va-yishtachavu avraham lifnei am ha-aretz
This verse describes Abraham bowing down before the people of the land. 'va-yishtachavu' means 'and he bowed'. 'avraham' is the name Abraham. 'lifnei' means 'before'. 'am' means 'people'. 'ha-aretz' means 'the land'.
[GEN.23.13] And he spoke to Ephron in the hearing of the people of the land, saying, "Indeed, if it is to you, listen to me. I have given the money for the field, take it from me, and I will bury my dead there." [§]
va-ye-da-ber el-ef-ron be-o-zen-ei am-ha-aretz le-emor ach im-atah lu shma-eni natati kesef ha-sadeh kah mimeni ve-ek-berah et-meti shama
This verse describes a conversation between an unnamed speaker and Ephron. The speaker is addressing Ephron in the presence of the people of the land. The speaker offers to pay Ephron for a field so that they may bury their dead there. The phrase 'lu' is difficult but seems to function as a conditional particle.
[GEN.23.14] And Efron answered to Abraham to say to him. [§]
Va-yaan Efron et-Avraham le-emor lo.
This verse begins with the conjunction 'and', followed by the verb 'to answer'. 'Efron' is a proper noun, a person's name. 'Et' is a grammatical particle marking the direct object. 'Avraham' is another proper noun, a person's name. 'Le-emor' means 'to say'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. Thus, the verse describes Efron responding to Abraham by speaking to him.
[GEN.23.15] My Lord, hear me. Land, four hundred shekels of silver are what is between me and you, and you shall bury your dead. [§]
adonai shmaeni eretz arba meot shekel kesef beini uvencha mah hi veet metcha kvor
This verse comes from Ezekiel 25:7. 'Adonai' means 'my Lord'. 'Shmaeni' means 'hear me'. 'Eretz' means 'land'. 'Arba meot' means 'four hundred'. 'Shekel' is a unit of weight. 'Kesef' means 'silver'. 'Beini uvencha' means 'between me and you'. 'Mah hi' means 'what is it'. 'Veet metcha' means 'and your dead one'. 'Kvor' means 'bury'.
[GEN.23.16] And Abraham listened to Ephron, and Abraham weighed out to Ephron the silver that he had spoken of in the hearing of the sons of Heth: four hundred shekels of silver, current money to the merchant. [§]
va-yishma avraham el-efron va-yishkol avraham le-efron et-ha-kesef asher diber be-oznei bnei-chet arba maot shekel kesef over la-socher
This verse describes Abraham listening to Ephron, and then Abraham weighing out to Ephron the silver that he had spoken of in the hearing of the sons of Heth: four hundred shekels of silver, current money to the merchant.
[GEN.23.17] And the field of Ephron, which is in the Valley of Mamre, was established. The field and the cave that is in it, and every tree that is in the field, and within all its boundaries around it. [§]
Va-ya-kom sedeh ef-ron asher ba-mak-peh-lah asher lif-nei mam-re-ah ha-sa-deh ve-ha-me-a-rah asher bo ve-kol-ha-etz asher ba-sa-deh asher be-kol-gevulov saviv.
This verse describes the field of Ephron, which is located in the Valley of Mamre. It specifically details the field, the cave within it, and all the trees within the field and its boundaries.
[GEN.23.18] To Abraham, for possessions, in the sight of the sons of Heth, among all those who came to the gate of their city. [§]
l'avraham l'mikneh l'einei bnei-chet b'chol ba'ei sha'ar-iro
This verse concerns Abraham and his possessions, specifically how they were perceived by the sons of Heth (the Hittites). It details Abraham’s standing among those who came to the gate of their city. ‘L’ means ‘to’ or ‘for’. ‘Avraham’ is Abraham. ‘Mikneh’ refers to livestock or possessions. ‘Einei’ means ‘eyes’ and here represents the perception or sight of. ‘Bnei-chet’ are the sons of Heth, or the Hittites. ‘B’chol’ means ‘in all’ or ‘among all’. ‘Ba’ei’ means ‘those who come’ or ‘comers’. ‘Sha’ar-iro’ is the gate of their city.
[GEN.23.19] And after these things, Abraham buried Sarah, his wife, into the cave of the field of Machpelah before Mamre, that is Hebron, in the land of Canaan. [§]
Ve'acharei-chen kabar Avraham et-Sarah ishto el-me'arat sdeh hamachpelah al-pnei Mamre hi Chevron be'eretz Kena'an.
This verse describes Abraham burying Sarah. 'Ve'acharei-chen' means 'and after these things'. 'Kabar' means 'buried'. 'Avraham' is Abraham. 'Et-Sarah' is Sarah. 'Ishto' means 'his wife'. 'El-me'arat' means 'into the cave'. 'Sdeh hamachpelah' is 'field of Machpelah'. 'Al-pnei' means 'before' or 'in front of'. 'Mamre' is Mamre. 'Hi Chevron' means 'that is Hebron'. 'Be'eretz Kena'an' means 'in the land of Canaan'.
[GEN.23.20] The field and the cave that is within it were established for Abraham as a possession for burial by the sons of Chet. [§]
Va-ya-kam ha-sa-deh ve-ha-me-a-rah a-sher be-vo le-av-ra-ham la-ach-u-zat-ka-ver mei-et bnei-chet.
This verse describes the field and the cave within it being established as a burial possession for Abraham by the sons of Chet. 'Va-ya-kam' implies a formal establishing or setting aside. 'Ha-sa-deh' is 'the field'. 'Ve-ha-me-a-rah' is 'and the cave'. 'A-sher be-vo' means 'that is in it'. 'Le-av-ra-ham' means 'for Abraham'. 'La-ach-u-zat-ka-ver' means 'as a possession of burial'. 'Mei-et bnei-chet' means 'from the sons of Chet'.
GEN.24
[GEN.24.1] Now Abraham was old, having lived many days, and Yahveh blessed Abraham with everything. [§]
veh-av-rah-ahm zah-ken bah-bah-yah-meem vahyaveh bay-rakh et av-rah-ahm bah-kol.
This verse describes Abraham being old and advanced in years, and Yahveh blessing Abraham with everything. The word 'vahyaveh' is a form of YHVH, which we are translating as 'Yahveh'. 'Bayrakh' is a verb meaning 'to bless', and 'et' is a grammatical particle indicating the direct object. 'Bah-kol' translates to 'with all things' or 'in everything'.
[GEN.24.2] And Abraham said to his servant, the elder of his house, the one who rules over all that he has, "Please, place your hand under my thigh." [§]
Va-yo-mer Av-ra-ham el-av-do ze-kan beit-o ha-mo-shel be-chal a-sher-lo sim-na ya-de-cha ta-chat yer-e-chi.
This verse describes Abraham speaking to his oldest servant, who manages everything Abraham owns. Abraham asks the servant to place his hand under Abraham's thigh. This was a common oath-taking practice in ancient times, signifying a solemn vow or commitment.
[GEN.24.3] And I will make you swear by Yahveh, the God of the heavens, and the Gods of the earth, that you shall not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell. [§]
ve'ashbi'akha, bah-yehovah elohei ha-shamayim ve'elohei ha-aretz, asher lo-tikakh isha livni mibnot hakkena'ani asher anokhi yoshev bekirbo.
This verse is a solemn oath. It begins with "and I will make you swear." The oath is sworn by Yahveh, the God of the heavens, and the Gods of the earth. The oath concerns Isaac, and states that a wife should not be taken for him from the daughters of the Canaanites, as the speaker dwells amongst them. It is a command not to intermarry.
[GEN.24.4] Because God of my land and God of my birthplace you will go, and you will take a woman for my son, for Isaac. [§]
kee el-artzi ve-el-moladti teilech ve-lakachta isha livni leyitzchak.
This verse instructs someone to go to the land and the birthplace to find a wife for Isaac, the son. 'El' means God, 'artzi' means my land, 'moladti' means my birthplace, 'teilech' means you will go, 'lakachta' means you will take, 'isha' means woman, 'livni' means for my son, and 'leyitzchak' means for Isaac.
[GEN.24.5] And the servant said to them, "Perhaps the woman will not be willing to go after me to this land. If she does not wish to go, may I return your son to the land from which you came." [§]
va-yo-mer e-la-v ha-ave-d u-lai lo-to-ave ha-i-sha la-le-chet a-char-ai el-ha-a-retz ha-zo-at he-ha-shev a-shiv et-bi-ne-cha el-ha-a-retz a-sher-ya-tza-ta mi-sham.
This verse is spoken by Abraham’s servant to Rebekah’s family. He is asking if Rebekah is willing to leave her family and go with him to the land from which Abraham came. He offers to return Abraham’s son (Isaac) to his original land if she declines. ‘Elav’ refers to Abraham, and the servant is speaking *to* Abraham’s family on Abraham's behalf. ‘Ulai’ means ‘perhaps’ or ‘maybe’. ‘Ha-isha’ means ‘the woman’. ‘Acharai’ means ‘after me’ or ‘with me’. ‘Ha-aretz’ means ‘the land’. ‘Zo-at’ means ‘this’.
[GEN.24.6] And said to him Abraham, "Be careful to yourself, lest you return my son there." [§]
Va-yo-mer e-la-v Av-ra-ham, hi-sha-mer le-cha, pen-ta-shiv et beni sha-ma.
This verse is from Genesis 22:12. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'E-la-v' is 'to him'. 'Av-ra-ham' is the name Abraham. 'Hi-sha-mer' is 'be careful'. 'Le-cha' is 'to you'. 'Pen-ta-shiv' means 'lest you return'. 'Et' is a particle indicating the direct object. 'Beni' means 'my son'. 'Sha-ma' means 'there'. The verse describes Abraham speaking to the messenger of God.
[GEN.24.7] Yahveh, the Gods of the heavens, who took me from my father's house and from the land of my birth, and who spoke to me and who swore to me, saying, “To your offspring I will give this land,” He will send His angel before you, and you will take a wife for my son from there. [§]
Yehveh Elohim hashamayim asher lakhanani mibeit avi umi'eretz moladti va'asher diber-li va'asher nishba-li le'emor lezar'acha etten et-ha'aretz hazot hu yishlach mal'acho lifanecha velakachta ishah livni misham.
This verse describes God speaking to Abraham. It states that Yahveh, the Gods of the heavens, took him from his father's house and his birthplace, and spoke to him and swore to him. The oath concerns giving the land to Abraham’s offspring. God will send an angel before Abraham to find a wife for his son from that place.
[GEN.24.8] And if the woman is not willing to go after you, then you will be released from this vow of yours, but you shall not return your son there. [§]
ve-im-lo to-aveh ha-ishah la-lekhet aharecha ve-nikita mish-shvuati zoat rak et beni lo tashev shama.
This verse deals with a situation where a man has vowed something, and his wife is not willing to follow through with it. It outlines the conditions under which he can be released from his vow, specifically concerning his son. 'To-aveh' means 'to be willing' or 'to consent'. 'Nikita' means 'you will be cleansed' or 'you will be released'. 'Shvuati' means 'my vow'. 'Tashev' means 'you will return' or 'you will dwell'.
[GEN.24.9] And the servant placed his hand under the thigh of Abraham, his Lord, and he swore to him concerning this matter. [§]
va-ya-sem ha-aved et-ya-do ta-chat ye-rech av-ra-ham ad-o-nai-v va-yi-sha-va le-lo al-ha-da-var ha-zeh.
This verse describes Abraham’s servant placing his hand under the thigh of Abraham, his Lord, and swearing an oath to him concerning a certain matter. The phrase 'under the thigh' was a common ancient Near Eastern gesture signifying taking an oath and acknowledging subservience. 'Adonai' refers to Abraham as the Lord of the servant.
[GEN.24.10] And the servant took ten camels from the camels of my Lord, and he went, and all the good of my Lord was in his hand. And he arose and went to Aram Naharaim, to the city of Nahor. [§]
va-yikach ha-aved asarah gemalim mi-gemalei adonai va-yelech ve-chol-tuv adonai be-yado va-yakum va-yelech el-aram naharaim el-ir nachor.
This verse describes a servant taking camels and goods belonging to his lord and traveling to Aram Naharaim and the city of Nahor. 'Va-yikach' means 'and he took'. 'Ha-aved' is 'the servant'. 'Asarah' means 'ten'. 'Gemalim' is 'camels'. 'Mi-gemalei' means 'from the camels of'. 'Adonai' is 'my Lord'. 'Va-yelech' means 'and he went'. 'Ve-chol-tuv' means 'and all the good'. 'Be-yado' means 'in his hand'. 'Va-yakum' means 'and he arose'. 'El-aram naharaim' means 'to Aram Naharaim'. 'El-ir nachor' means 'to the city of Nahor'.
[GEN.24.11] And the Gods blessed the camels outside the city to the well of water at the time of evening, at the time of the departure of the drawers. [§]
va-ya-varech ha-ge-ma-lim mi-chu-tz la-ir el-be-er ha-ma-yim le-et erev le-et tze-et ha-sho-avot.
This verse describes the camels being blessed outside the city, near the well of water, at evening time, at the time the water drawers were departing. 'Vayvarech' is a verb meaning 'and blessed'. 'Hagemalim' means 'the camels'. 'Michutz' means 'outside'. 'La’ir' means 'the city'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Be’er’ means 'well'. ‘Hamayim’ means ‘the water’. 'Le'et' means 'at the time of'. 'Erev' means 'evening'. 'Tze'et' means 'departure'. 'Hasho'avot' means 'the drawers'.
[GEN.24.12] And He said, "Yahveh, the Gods of my Lord Abraham, sacrifice now before me today, and do kindness with my Lord Abraham." [§]
Va-yo-mar | Yahveh Elohim Adonai Avraham ha-kreh-nah le-fanai ha-yom va-aseh-chesed im Adonai Avraham.
This verse comes from Genesis 22:2. It is God speaking to Abraham, requesting a sacrifice. 'Va-yo-mar' means 'and He said'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Elohim' refers to 'the Gods' in the plural. 'Adonai' means 'my Lord'. 'Avraham' is Abraham's name. 'Ha-kreh-nah' is a request, meaning 'sacrifice now'. 'Le-fanai' means 'before me'. 'Ha-yom' means 'today'. 'Va-aseh-chesed' means 'and do kindness'. 'Im' means 'with'.
[GEN.24.13] Behold, I am standing by the spring, and the daughters of the city's people are going out to draw water. [§]
hinneh anokhi nitzav al-ayin hamayim ubnoth anshei ha'ir yotzot lish'ov mayim.
This verse describes a scene where 'I' am standing by the water source and the daughters of the city's people are going out to draw water. 'Hinneh' is an attention-getter, similar to 'behold'. 'Anokhi' is 'I'. 'Nitzav' means 'standing'. 'Ayin hamayim' literally translates to 'eye of the waters', which is a common idiom for a spring or well. 'Ubnoth' is 'and the daughters'. 'Anshei ha'ir' is 'people of the city'. 'Yotzot' means 'are going out'. 'Lish'ov' means 'to draw'. 'Mayim' means 'water'.
[GEN.24.14] And it will be, the young woman to whom I say, ‘Please, let down your jar and let me drink,’ and she says, ‘Drink, and I will also water your camels,’ she is the one you have designated for your servant Isaac. And through her I will know that you have shown kindness to my Lord. [§]
vehaya haneara asher omar eleha hatina na kadech veeshte vehimra sh'teh vegamm gemaleycha ashke'ah otah hochechta leavdecha leyitzchak u'vah eda ki asita chesed im adonai.
This verse details a test that Abraham asks his servant, Eliezer, to perform in order to find a wife for his son Isaac. Eliezer is to ask a young woman for water and if she also offers to water his camels, she is the chosen one, signifying God’s favor. The verse describes the request and the expected response.
[GEN.24.15] And it was he before he finished speaking, and behold, Rebekah was coming out, that she was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, wife of Nachor, brother of Abraham, and her jar was upon her shoulder. [§]
Va-yhi-hu trum kila le-daber, ve-hine Rivkah yotze’at asher yulada li-Btu’el ben-Milkah eshet Nachor achi Avraham, ve-kaddah al-shichmah.
This verse describes Rebekah coming out as the one born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, wife of Nachor, brother of Abraham, and her jar is upon her shoulder. 'Va-yhi-hu' means 'and it was he'. 'Trum' means 'before'. 'Kila' means 'to finish'. 'Le-daber' means 'to speak'. 'Ve-hine' means 'and behold'. 'Yotze’at' means 'coming out'. 'Asher' means 'that'. 'Yulada' means 'was born'. 'Li-Btu’el' means 'to Bethuel'. 'Ben-Milkah' means 'son of Milcah'. 'Eshet Nachor' means 'wife of Nachor'. 'Achi Avraham' means 'brother of Abraham'. 'Ve-kaddah' means 'and her jar'. 'Al-shichmah' means 'upon her shoulder'.
[GEN.24.16] And the young woman was very beautiful in appearance, a virgin, and no man had known her. And she went down to the spring and filled her jar, and she came up. [§]
vehaana'ara tovat mar'eh me'od betulah ve'ish lo yeda'ah vatered ha'ayinah vatemalle' kadah vat'aal.
This verse describes a young woman going to draw water. Let's break down the names and phrases. 'Ha'na'ara' means 'the young woman.' 'Tovat mar'eh' means 'good of appearance,' or 'beautiful.' 'Me'od' means 'very.' 'Betulah' means 'virgin.' 'Ve'ish' means 'and a man.' 'Lo yeda'ah' means 'not known her,' or 'has not known her.' 'Vatered ha'ayinah' means 'and she descended to the spring.' 'Vatemalle' kadah' means 'and she filled her jar.' 'Vata'al' means 'and she ascended.'
[GEN.24.17] And the servant ran to meet her, and he said, "Please give me a little water from your pitcher." [§]
va-yaratz ha-eved li-kre-atah va-yomer ha-gemi-ini na me-at-mayim mi-kadech
This verse describes a servant running to meet a woman and asking her for a little water from her pitcher. Let's break down the names: 'ha' is 'the'. There are no names of God in this passage. 'Na' is an interjection meaning 'please'.
[GEN.24.18] And she said, "Drink, my Lord." And she hastened and lowered her jar upon her hand, and she gave him to drink. [§]
va-to-mer sh-teh a-do-nai va-teh-maher va-to-red ka-dah oo-al-ya-dah va-tash-keh-hoo
This verse describes a servant girl drawing water for Abraham. "Va-to-mer" means "and she said". "Sh-teh" means "drink". "A-do-nai" is "my Lord". "Va-teh-maher" means "and she hastened". "Va-to-red" means "and she lowered". "Ka-dah" refers to her water jar. "Oo-al-ya-dah" means "upon her hand". "Va-tash-keh-hoo" means "and she gave him to drink".
[GEN.24.19] And she finished giving him drink, and she said, “I will also draw for your camels until they have finished drinking.” [§]
va-teh-kal leh-hash-kot-o va-to-mer gam li-geh-mah-leh-kha eh-shahv ad im-kil-loo li-shtot.
This verse describes Rebekah offering water to Abraham’s servant and then offering to water his camels as well. ‘Va-teh-kal’ means ‘and she finished’. ‘Leh-hash-kot-o’ means ‘to give him drink’. ‘Va-to-mer’ means ‘and she said’. ‘Gam’ means ‘also’. ‘Li-geh-mah-leh-kha’ means ‘to your camels’. ‘Eh-shahv’ means ‘I will draw’. ‘Ad im-kil-loo’ means ‘until they have finished’. ‘Li-shtot’ means ‘to drink’.
[GEN.24.20] And she hastened and emptied her jar to the watering trough, and she ran again to the well to draw, and she drew for all his camels. [§]
va-tma-her va-te-ar ka-dah-ah el-ha-sho-ket va-ta-rotz o-od el-ha-be-air li-sh'oh-v va-ti-sha-av le-chol ge-ma-lai-v
This verse describes Rebekah quickly drawing water for the camels. 'Va-tma-her' means 'and she hastened.' 'Va-te-ar' means 'and she emptied.' 'Ka-dah-ah' is 'her jar.' 'El-ha-sho-ket' means 'to the watering trough.' 'Va-ta-rotz' means 'and she ran.' 'O-od' means 'again.' 'El-ha-be-air' means 'to the well.' 'Li-sh'oh-v' means 'to draw.' 'Va-ti-sha-av' means 'and she drew.' 'Le-chol ge-ma-lai-v' means 'for all his camels.'
[GEN.24.21] And the man rejoices for her, being silent to know if Yahveh has prospered his way, or not. [§]
veh-ha-ish mishtaeh lah; maharish lada'at hahatzliach Yahveh darkho im-lo.
This verse describes a man rejoicing for her, being silent to know if Yahveh has prospered his way, or not. 'Veh' means 'and'. 'Ha-ish' means 'the man'. 'Mishtaeh' means 'rejoices'. 'Lah' means 'for her'. 'Maharish' means 'is silent'. 'Lada'at' means 'to know'. 'Hatzliach' means 'has prospered/succeeded'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Darkho' means 'his way'. 'Im-lo' means 'or not'.
[GEN.24.22] And it was, when the camels had finished drinking, that the man took a golden nose ring, a shekel in its weight, and two golden bracelets for her hands, ten in their weight. [§]
vayhi kasher kilu hagmalim lishtot vayikach haish nezem zahav beqea mishqalo ushney tzmidim al-yadeha asarah zahav mishqalam
This verse describes Abraham’s servant receiving gifts for Rebekah. ‘Vayhi’ means ‘and it was’. ‘Kasher’ means ‘when’ or ‘as’. ‘Kilu’ means ‘they finished’. ‘Hagmalim’ means ‘the camels’. ‘Lishtot’ means ‘to drink’. ‘Vayikach’ means ‘and he took’. ‘Haish’ means ‘the man’. ‘Nezem’ means ‘a nose ring’. ‘Zahav’ means ‘gold’. ‘Beqea’ means ‘a shekel’. ‘Mishqalo’ means ‘its weight’. ‘Ushney’ means ‘and two’. ‘Tzmidim’ means ‘bracelets’. ‘Al-yadeha’ means ‘on her hands’. ‘Asarah’ means ‘ten’. ‘Mishqalam’ means ‘their weight’.
[GEN.24.23] And he said, “Daughter of who are you?” Tell me now, is there room at your father’s house for us to lodge? [§]
va-yo-mer bat-mee at ha-gid-ee nah lee ha-yesh bayt-avee-cha makom lanu la-leen
This verse is spoken by Boaz to Ruth. It asks her who she is and if there is room at her father’s house for them to spend the night. ‘Bat-mee’ is a question referencing her identity, literally ‘daughter of who are you?’. ‘Bayt-avee-cha’ means ‘your father’s house’.
[GEN.24.24] And she said to him, "I am the daughter of Betuel, daughter of Milkah, who she bore to Nahor." [§]
va-to-mer e-la-v be-t-be-tu-el a-no-chi ben-mil-kah a-sher yal-dah le-na-chor.
This verse is from Genesis 24:24. It is Rebekah speaking to Abraham's servant, identifying herself. 'va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'e-la-v' is 'to him'. 'bat-betuel' means 'daughter of Betuel'. 'anochi' means 'I am'. 'ben-milkah' means 'daughter of Milkah'. 'asher' means 'who/which'. 'yaldah' means 'she bore'. 'le-nahor' means 'to Nahor'.
[GEN.24.25] And she said to him, "Also straw and very much fodder are with us. Also a place to lodge is available." [§]
Va-to-mer el-av gam-teven gam-mis-po-a rav im-a-nu gam-ma-kom la-loon.
This verse is spoken by Rebekah to Abraham’s servant. She is offering hospitality to him and his camels. 'Va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'El-av' means 'to him'. 'Gam' means 'also'. 'Teven' means 'straw'. 'Mis-po-a' means 'fodder'. 'Rav' means 'much'. 'Im-a-nu' means 'with us'. 'Ma-kom' means 'place'. 'La-loon' means 'to lodge'.
[GEN.24.26] And the man bowed and prostrated himself to Yahveh. [§]
va-yikod ha-ish va-yishtachu la-Yahveh
This verse describes a man bowing down and prostrating himself before Yahveh. 'Va-yikod' means 'and he bowed'. 'Ha-ish' means 'the man'. 'Va-yishtachu' means 'and he prostrated himself'. 'La-Yahveh' means 'to Yahveh'.
[GEN.24.27] And he said, "Blessed is Yahveh, the Gods of my Lord Abraham, who has not forsaken his lovingkindness and his truth with my Lord. I am on the way, and Yahveh has guided me to the house of the brothers of my Lord." [§]
vayomer baruch yevaveh elohei adonai avraham asher lo-azav chasdo v'emito me'im adonai anochi baderech nachani yevaveh beit achei adonai.
This verse comes from Genesis 24:27. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Baruch' means 'blessed'. 'Yevaveh' is the proper name of God. 'Elohei' means 'the Gods of'. 'Adonai' means 'my Lord'. 'Avraham' is Abraham. 'Asher' means 'that' or 'which'. 'Lo-azav' means 'has not forsaken'. 'Chasdo' means 'his lovingkindness'. 'V'emito' means 'and his truth'. 'Me'im' means 'with'. 'Anochi' means 'I'. 'Baderech' means 'on the way'. 'Nachani' means 'has guided me'. 'Beit achei' means 'the house of the brothers of'.
[GEN.24.28] And the young woman ran and she told to the house of her mother these things. [§]
va-ta-rotz ha-na-a-ra va-ta-ged le-beit im-mah ka-de-va-rim ha-ei-leh.
This verse describes a young woman running and telling the things that happened to her mother’s house.
- 'va-ta-rotz' means 'and she ran'.
- 'ha-na-a-ra' means 'the young woman'.
- 'va-ta-ged' means 'and she told'.
- 'le-beit' means 'to the house of'.
- 'im-mah' means 'her mother'.
- 'ka-de-va-rim' means 'the words/things'.
- 'ha-ei-leh' means 'these'.
[GEN.24.29] And Rebekah had a brother, and his name was Laban. Then Laban ran to the man outside at the spring. [§]
u-le-riv-kah akh u-sh-mo la-van va-yaratz la-van el-ha-ish ha-chutzah el-ha-ayin
This verse describes Rebekah's brother, Laban, running to meet the man (Abraham's servant) outside at the spring.
[GEN.24.30] And it happened, when he saw the nose ring and the bracelets on the hand of his sister, and when he heard the words of Rebekah his sister, saying, "Thus spoke the man to me," that he went to the man. And behold, he was standing by the camels at the well. [§]
va-ye-hee kee-re-ot et-ha-ne-zem ve-et-ha-tz-mee-deem al-yedei ah-toh-o u-ke-sha-meh-o et-div-rei riv-kah ah-toh-o le-emor koh-di-ber ee-lai ha-eesh va-ya-vo el-ha-eesh ve-hee-neh o-med al-ha-ge-ma-leem al-ha-ah-yin
This verse describes Rebekah's brother, Laban, seeing the jewelry and hearing the words of his sister, Rebekah, regarding her encounter with Abraham's servant. Specifically, he hears her report what the man (the servant) said to her. Upon hearing this, he goes to meet the man and finds him standing by the camels at the well.
[GEN.24.31] And he said, "Come, blessed is Yahveh. Why do you stand outside, while I have cleared the house and made a place for the camels?" [§]
Va-yo-mer bo brurkh Yahveh lamah ta'mod ba-khutz ve-anokhi pinniti ha-bayit u-makom la-gemallim.
This verse begins with 'Va-yo-mer', meaning 'and he said'. 'Bo' means 'come'. 'Brurkh' is 'blessed'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Lamah' means 'why'. 'Ta'mod' means 'you stand'. 'Ba-khutz' means 'outside'. 'Ve-anokhi' means 'and I'. 'Pinniti' means 'I have cleared'. 'Ha-bayit' means 'the house'. 'U-makom' means 'and a place'. 'La-gemallim' means 'for the camels'.
[GEN.24.32] And the man came into the house and he opened the camels, and he gave hay and feed to the camels, and water to wash his feet and the feet of the men who were with him. [§]
va-yo-vo ha-ish ha-bay-ta va-ye-pa-tach ha-ge-ma-lim va-yit-ten te-ven u-mis-po-a la-ge-ma-lim u-ma-yim li-re-chotz rag-lav u-rag-lei ha-a-nash-im a-sher it-to.
This verse describes a man entering a house and attending to the camels and the men with him. 'Va-yo-vo' means 'and he came'. 'Ha-ish' means 'the man'. 'Ha-bay-ta' means 'the house'. 'Va-ye-pa-tach' means 'and he opened'. 'Ha-ge-ma-lim' means 'the camels'. 'Va-yit-ten' means 'and he gave'. 'Te-ven' means 'hay'. 'U-mis-po-a' means 'and feed'. 'La-ge-ma-lim' means 'to the camels'. 'U-ma-yim' means 'and water'. 'Li-re-chotz' means 'to wash'. 'Rag-lav' means 'his feet'. 'U-rag-lei' means 'and the feet of'. 'Ha-a-nash-im' means 'the men'. 'A-sher it-to' means 'who were with him'.
[GEN.24.33] It was set before him to eat, and he said, "I will not eat until I speak my words." And he said, "Speak!" [§]
vayusam lifanav le'echol vayomer lo ochal ad im dibarti devarai vayomer daber
This verse describes a situation where someone is presented with food, but refuses to eat until they have spoken. "Vayusam" means "it was set". "Lifanav" means "before him". "Le'echol" means "to eat". "Vayomer" means "and he said". "Lo ochal" means "I will not eat". "Ad im" means "until". "Dibarti" means "I speak". "Devarai" means "my words". "Daber" means "speak!"
[GEN.24.34] And he stated, "I am the servant of Abraham." [§]
Va-yo-mar, eved Avraham anokhi.
This verse consists of several parts. 'Va-yo-mar' means 'and he said'. 'Eved' means 'servant'. 'Avraham' is the name 'Abraham'. 'Anokhi' means 'I'. Therefore, the verse literally translates to 'And he said, servant of Abraham I'.
[GEN.24.35] And Yahveh blessed my Lord greatly, and he grew large, and he gave to him sheep and cattle and silver and gold and servants and handmaids and camels and donkeys. [§]
Va-yahveh be-rach et-a-do-nai me-od va-yig-dal va-yit-ten-lo tzon u-va-kar u-ches-ef u-zah-hav va-a-va-dim u-shif-cha-tot u-gemal-lim va-cha-mor-im.
This verse describes a blessing bestowed upon 'my Lord'. 'Yahveh' blesses 'my Lord' greatly, causing him to grow in stature and giving him livestock, silver, gold, servants, camels, and donkeys. The verse emphasizes material wealth and an increase in possessions as a sign of the blessing.
[GEN.24.36] And Sarah, the wife of my Lord, bore a son to my Lord after her old age. And my Lord gave to him all that belonged to him. [§]
va-teh-led Sarah eshet Adonai ben la-Adonai acharei ziknatah va-yiten-lo et-kol-asher-lo.
This verse describes Sarah, the wife of my Lord, giving birth to a son for my Lord after her old age. Then my Lord gave to him all that was his.
[GEN.24.37] My Lord swore to me, saying, "Do not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, for I dwell in their land." [§]
vayashbi'eni adonai le'emor lo-tikach ishah livni mibnot hakena'ani asher anochi yoshev b'artzo.
This verse comes from Genesis 21:3. It details a command given by my Lord to Abraham. The verse states that Abraham should not take a wife for his son from the daughters of the Canaanites, because He dwells in their land. The word 'adonai' refers to 'my Lord', and 'anochi' means 'I'.
[GEN.24.38] If not to God, to the house of my father you will go, and to my family, and you will take a woman for my son. [§]
im-lo el-beit-avi telech ve-el-mishpachti ve-lakachta ishah livni.
This verse is from Genesis 24:40. It is part of Abraham's servant's request to Rebekah. 'Im-lo' means 'if not'. 'El' means 'to God'. 'Beit-avi' means 'the house of my father'. 'Telech' means 'you will go'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Mishpachti' means 'my family'. 'Lakachta' means 'you will take'. 'Ishah' means 'a woman'. 'Livni' means 'for my son'.
[GEN.24.39] And I said to my Lord, perhaps the woman will not go after me. [§]
va'omar el-adonai ulai lo-telech ha'isha acharai
This verse contains several key names. 'Va'omar' means 'and I said'. 'El' means 'to' or 'toward'. 'Adonai' means 'my Lord'. 'Ulai' means 'perhaps'. 'Lo' means 'not'. 'Telech' means 'will go'. 'Ha'isha' means 'the woman'. 'Acharai' means 'after me'. Therefore, the verse is a statement made to 'my Lord' expressing a hope that 'the woman' will not go after 'me'.
[GEN.24.40] And He said to me, "Yahveh, before whom I have walked, will send his messenger with you, and will make your way prosper, and you shall take a wife for my son from my family and from the house of my father." [§]
Va-yo-mer e-lai Yahveh a-sher-hit-ha-lakhti li-fanav yish-lach mal-acho it-tach ve-hitz-li-ach dar-kecha ve-la-kach-ta ish-ah li-vni mi-mish-pa-chati u-mi-beit avi.
This verse details a divine communication. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'E-lai' means 'to me'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of the God of Israel. 'A-sher-hit-ha-lakhti li-fanav' means 'who I have walked before'. 'Yish-lach mal-acho it-tach' means 'will send his messenger with you'. 'Ve-hitz-li-ach dar-kecha' means 'and will make your way prosper'. 'Ve-la-kach-ta ish-ah li-vni' means 'and you shall take a wife for my son'. 'Mi-mish-pa-chati u-mi-beit avi' means 'from my family and from the house of my father'.
[GEN.24.41] Then you will be cleansed from my oath, because you will come to my family. And if they do not give to you, then you will be innocent of my oath. [§]
az tinakeh me'alatī kī tavō el-mishpachtī ve'im-lō yittnu lākh ve'hāyītā nāqī me'ālatī.
This verse outlines a conditional cleansing from an oath. The speaker proposes a way to verify if a claim is true. If the family of the accused provides what is requested, the speaker is absolved of the oath. If they do not, the speaker is still considered blameless.
[GEN.24.42] And I came today to the well, and I said, "Yahveh, God of my Lord Abraham, if you have, please, success for my way which I am walking upon it." [§]
va'avo hayom el-ha'ayin va'omar Yahveh Elohei adoni Avraham im-yeshcha-na matzliach darki asher anochi holech aleha.
This verse describes a servant asking for success in his mission. 'Va'avo' means 'and I came'. 'Hayom' means 'today'. 'El-ha'ayin' refers to 'to the well'. 'Va'omar' means 'and I said'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Elohei' means 'God of'. 'Adoni' means 'my Lord'. 'Avraham' is Abraham's name. 'Im-yeshcha-na' means 'if you have, please'. 'Matzliach' means 'success'. 'Darki' means 'my way'. 'Asher' means 'which'. 'Anochi' means 'I'. 'Holech' means 'walking'. 'Aleha' means 'upon it'.
[GEN.24.43] Behold, I am standing by the spring, and the young woman who comes out to draw water, to her I will say, "Please let me drink a little water from your jar." [§]
hinneh anokhi nitzav al-ayin hamayim vehayah ha'alma hayotze'at lish'ov ve'amarti eleha hasqini-na me'at-mayim mikadech.
This verse describes a situation where someone is positioned near a water source and intends to ask a young woman drawing water for a drink. 'Hinneh' means 'behold' or 'here'. 'Anokhi' means 'I'. 'Nitzav' means 'standing'. 'Ayin hamayim' means 'eye of the waters' or 'spring'. 'Vehayah' means 'and it will be'. 'Ha'alma' means 'the young woman'. 'Hayotze'at' means 'going out'. 'Lish'ov' means 'to draw'. 'Ve'amarti' means 'and I will say'. 'Eleha' means 'to her'. 'Hasqini-na' means 'give me to drink, please'. 'Me'at-mayim' means 'a little water'. 'Mikadech' means 'from your jar'.
[GEN.24.44] And she said to him, “You also drink, and I will also give drink to your animals.” She continued, “She is the woman whom Yahveh has reproved through the son of my Lord.” [§]
ve'amra elai gam atta shteh ve'gam ligmalecha eshab hi ha'isha asher hocheiach Yahveh le'ben Adonai.
This verse comes from 2 Kings 4:27 and describes the Shunammite woman speaking to Elisha’s servant Gehazi. She tells him to call Elisha to her, explaining that her son is dead. The verse literally states that she said to him ‘also you drink and also to your animals I will give drink.’ She then clarifies why she wants him to summon her Lord (Elisha), stating that ‘she is the woman whom Yahveh has reproved through the son of my Lord.’ The 'son of my Lord' is a respectful way of referring to Elisha.
[GEN.24.45] Before I had finished speaking to my heart, behold, Rebekah came out, and her jar was on her shoulder. And she descended to the spring and drew water. And I said to her, "Please let me drink." [§]
ani terem acheleh ledaber el libi vehineh rivkah yotze’at vekadah al shichmah vatered ha’ayinah vatish’av va’omar eleha hasqini na.
This verse describes an unnamed man speaking to Rebekah at a well. 'Ani' means 'I'. 'Terem acheleh ledaber el libi' means 'before I finished speaking to my heart' - essentially, 'before I had time to think'. 'Vehineh' means 'and behold'. 'Rivkah yotze’at vekadah al shichmah' means 'Rebekah is coming out and her jar is on her shoulder'. 'Vatered ha’ayinah' means 'and she descended to the spring'. 'Vatish’av' means 'and she drew water'. 'Va’omar eleha' means 'and I said to her'. 'Hasqini na' means 'please let me drink'.
[GEN.24.46] And she hastened and lowered a jar from upon her, and she said, "Drink, and I will also water your camels." And I drank, and she watered the camels. [§]
va-tmaher va-tored kaddah me-aleha va-tomar shteh ve-gam gemaleha ashkeh va-eshteh ve-gam ha-gemalim hishkata
This verse describes a woman quickly lowering a jar and offering water to a man, and then also offering water to his camels. 'va-tmaher' means 'and she hastened'. 'va-tored' means 'and she lowered'. 'kaddah' means 'jar'. 'me-aleha' means 'from upon her'. 'va-tomar' means 'and she said'. 'shteh' means 'drink'. 've-gam' means 'and also'. 'gemaleha' means 'her camels'. 'ashkeh' means 'I will water them'. 'va-eshteh' means 'and I drank'. 'ha-gemalim' means 'the camels'. 'hishkata' means 'she watered them'.
[GEN.24.47] And I asked her, and I said, "Whose daughter are you?" And she said, "I am the daughter of Betuel, son of Nachor, whom Milkah bore to him." And I put the nose ring upon her nose, and the bracelets upon her hands. [§]
va-esh-al otah va-omar bat-mi at va-tomer bat-betuel ben-nachor asher yaldah-lo milkah va-asim ha-nezem al-apah ve-hatzmidim al-yadeha
This verse recounts a request for information about a woman's parentage, and the subsequent giving of jewelry to her. "Va-esh-al otah" means "and I asked her". "Bat-mi at" translates to "daughter of whom are you?" "Bat-betuel ben-nachor" means "daughter of Betuel, son of Nachor". "Asher yaldah-lo milkah" signifies "whom Milkah bore to him". "Va-asim ha-nezem al-apah ve-hatzmidim al-yadeha" means "and I put the nose ring on her nose and the bracelets on her hands".
[GEN.24.48] I bowed down and prostrated myself before Yahveh, and I blessed Yahveh, the God of my Lord Abraham, who guided me in a true path to take the daughter of my Lord Abraham for his son. [§]
va'ekod va'eshtachaveh leyahveh va'avarech et-yahveh elohey adonai avraham asher hinchanani bederech emet lakachat et-bat-achi adonai livno.
This verse details a man's act of worship and blessing towards Yahveh, the God of his Lord Abraham. He expresses gratitude for being guided in a true path to take the daughter of his Lord Abraham for his son. The verse demonstrates a respectful relationship with both Yahveh and Abraham, acknowledging Yahveh as the ultimate God and Abraham as a respected lord.
[GEN.24.49] And now, if you are doing kindness and truth to my Lord, tell me. And if not, tell me, and I will turn to the right or to the left. [§]
ve'ata im-yeshchem osim chesed ve'emet et-Adonai ha-gidu li; ve'im-lo ha-gidu li ve'efneh al-yamin o al-semol.
This verse comes from Genesis 21:23. 'Ve'ata' means 'and now'. 'Im-yeshchem' means 'if you'. 'Osim' means 'doing'. 'Chesed' means 'kindness'. 'Ve'emet' means 'and truth'. 'Et-Adonai' means 'to my Lord'. 'Ha-gidu' means 'tell'. 'Li' means 'to me'. 'Ve'im-lo' means 'and if not'. 'Ve'efneh' means 'and I will turn'. 'Al-yamin' means 'to the right'. 'O' means 'or'. 'Al-semol' means 'to the left'.
[GEN.24.50] And Laban and Bethuel responded, and said, "From Yahveh has come this matter. We are unable to speak to you, either bad or good." [§]
Va-yaan la-van u-ve-tu-el va-yo-mru, mei-yahveh ya-tza ha-da-var, lo nu-chal da-ber e-le-cha ra or to-v.
This verse recounts the response of Laban and Bethuel to a proposal, likely regarding a marriage alliance. They attribute the origin of the proposal to Yahveh, indicating divine approval or influence. They state they are unable to speak anything bad or good concerning it themselves, deferring to the divine source.
[GEN.24.51] Behold, Rebekah is before you; take her and go, and she will be the wife of the son of your lord, as Yahveh has spoken. [§]
hinneh rivkah lefanekha kakh valeikh utehi ishah leven adoneikha kaasher dibber Yahveh.
This verse instructs Abraham's servant to take Rebekah and go, as she is to become the wife of the son of his lord, as Yahveh has spoken. 'Hinneh' indicates 'behold' or 'here is'. 'Lefanekha' means 'before you'. 'Kakh' means 'take'. 'Valeikh' means 'go'. 'Utehi' means 'and she will be'. 'Ishah' means 'wife'. 'Leven' means 'to the son of'. 'Adoneikha' means 'your lord'. 'Kaasher' means 'as'. 'Dibber' means 'spoken'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God.
[GEN.24.52] And it happened, as Abraham’s servant heard their words, that he bowed himself to the ground to Yahveh. [§]
va-yi-hi ka-asher sha-ma av-ed av-ra-ham et div-rei-hem va-yish-tach-vu ar-tzah la-yah-veh.
This verse describes Abraham’s servant hearing the words of Laban and Bethuel, and then bowing down to the ground to Yahveh. ‘Va-yi-hi’ means ‘and it happened’. ‘Ka-asher’ means ‘as’ or ‘when’. ‘Sha-ma’ means ‘he heard’. ‘Av-ed’ means ‘servant’. ‘Av-ra-ham’ is Abraham’s name. ‘Et’ is a grammatical particle. ‘Div-rei-hem’ means ‘their words’. ‘Va-yish-tach-vu’ means ‘and they bowed’. ‘Ar-tzah’ means ‘to the ground’. ‘La-yah-veh’ means ‘to Yahveh’.
[GEN.24.53] And the servant went out and gave articles of silver and articles of gold and clothing to Rebekah, and bracelets he gave to her brother and to her mother. [§]
Va-yo-tzeh ha-eh-ved ke-lei-ke-sef u-ke-lei-za-hav u-v'ga-dim va-yit-ten l'riv-kah u-mig-da-not na-tan l'a-chih-ah u-l'im-mah.
This verse describes the servant of Abraham giving gifts to Rebekah and her family. 'Va-yo-tzeh' means 'and the servant went out'. 'Ha-eh-ved' means 'the servant'. 'Ke-lei-ke-sef' means 'articles of silver'. 'U-ke-lei-za-hav' means 'and articles of gold'. 'U-v'ga-dim' means 'and clothing'. 'Va-yit-ten' means 'and he gave'. 'L'riv-kah' means 'to Rebekah'. 'U-mig-da-not' means 'and bracelets'. 'Na-tan' means 'he gave'. 'L'a-chih-ah' means 'to her brother'. 'U-l'im-mah' means 'and to her mother'.
[GEN.24.54] And they ate and they drank, he and the men who were with him, and they rested for the night. Then they rose in the morning and he said, "Send me to my Lord." [§]
vayoklu vayishtu hu vehanamashim asher immo vayalinu vayakumu baboker vayomer shalhuni laadoni
This verse describes a meal and a request. "Vayoklu" means "and they ate". "Vayishtu" means "and they drank". "Hu vehanamashim asher immo" means "he and the men who were with him". "Vayalinu" means "and they rested/spent the night". "Vayakumu baboker" means "and they rose in the morning". "Vayomer" means "and he said". "Shalhuni laadoni" means "send me to my Lord".
[GEN.24.55] And her brother and her mother said, "Let the young woman sit with us for days or ten, after that she goes." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-chi-ha ve-im-mah teh-shev ha-na-a-rah it-ta-nu ya-mim o a-sor a-char teh-lech.
This verse comes from 1 Kings 3:26. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'A-chi-ha' means 'her brother'. 'Ve-im-mah' means 'and her mother'. 'Teh-shev' means 'she will sit'. 'Ha-na-a-rah' means 'the young woman'. 'It-ta-nu' means 'with us'. 'Ya-mim' means 'days'. 'O' means 'or'. 'A-sor' means 'ten'. 'A-char' means 'after'. 'Teh-lech' means 'she goes'.
[GEN.24.56] And he said to them, "Do not delay me, and Yahveh has prospered my ways. Send me, and I will go to my Lord." [§]
vayomer alehem al-te'acharu oti vayahveh hitzlich darki shalachuni ve'elech la'adoni
This verse is from 1 Samuel 22:5. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Alehem' means 'to them'. 'Al-te'acharu' means 'do not delay'. 'Oti' means 'me'. 'Vayahveh' means 'and Yahveh'. 'Hitzlich' means 'prospered'. 'Darki' means 'my ways'. 'Shalachuni' means 'send me'. 'Ve'elech' means 'and I will go'. 'La'adoni' means 'to my Lord'.
[GEN.24.57] And they said, "Let the young woman be called, and let inquiry be made of her mouth." [§]
va-yom-ru nik-ra la-na-a-ra ve-nish-a-la et-pee-ha
This verse describes a request to speak with the young woman. 'Va-yom-ru' means 'and they said'. 'Nik-ra' means 'let be called'. 'La-na-a-ra' means 'to the young woman'. 'Ve-nish-a-la' means 'and let be asked'. 'Et-pee-ha' means 'her mouth'. The structure is a request phrased as a letting/allowing.
[GEN.24.58] And they called to Rebekah and they said to her, "Will you go with this man?" And she said, "I will go." [§]
Va-yik-re-u le-Riv-kah va-yo-mer-u ei-leh-ha ha-tel-chi im-ha-ish ha-zeh va-to-mer ei-lech.
This verse describes a conversation with Rebekah. 'Va-yik-re-u' means 'and they called'. 'Le-Riv-kah' means 'to Rebekah'. 'Va-yo-mer-u' means 'and they said'. 'Ei-leh-ha' means 'to her'. 'Ha-tel-chi' means 'will you go?'. 'Im-ha-ish' means 'with the man'. 'Ha-zeh' means 'this'. 'Va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'Ei-lech' means 'I will go'.
[GEN.24.59] And they sent Rebekah, their sister, and her wet nurse, and Abraham’s servant, and his men. [§]
va-yish-la-hu et-riv-kah a-cho-tam ve-et-me-nek-tah ve-et-e-ved av-ra-ham ve-et-a-na-shav
This verse describes the sending of Rebekah, her nurse, Abraham's servant, and his men. The 'et' particles mark direct objects. 'Acho-tam' means 'their sister.' 'Me-nek-tah' refers to her wet nurse. 'Eved' means 'servant' and 'ana-shav' means 'his men'.
[GEN.24.60] And they blessed Rebekah, and they said to her, "Our sister, you are to be the mother of thousands upon thousands, and may your offspring possess the gate of those who hate them." [§]
vayvar khu et rivkah vayomru lah akhotenu at hiye le'alfei revavah veyirash zar'ek et sha'ar sone'av.
This verse records a blessing spoken to Rebekah. 'Vayvar khu' means 'and they blessed'. 'Et rivkah' identifies Rebekah as the recipient of the blessing. 'Vayomru lah' means 'and they said to her'. 'Akhotenu' means 'our sister'. 'At hiye' means 'you are'. 'Le'alfei revavah' means 'to the thousands of thousands'. 'Veyirash zar'ek' means 'and may your seed possess'. 'Et sha'ar sone'av' means 'the gate of those who hate them'. This is a blessing of numerous descendants and victory over enemies.
[GEN.24.61] And Rebekah rose, and her maidens, and they rode upon the camels, and they went after the man. And the servant took Rebekah and went. [§]
va-ta-kam Rivkah ve-na-a-rot-ei-ha va-tir-kab-na al ha-gemal-lim va-te-lekh-na aharei ha-ish va-yi-kah ha-eved et Rivkah va-ye-lekh.
This verse describes Rebekah and her maidens riding on camels, following the man (Abraham's servant), and the servant taking Rebekah and departing. The names of people are generally left as they are. ‘Va’ is a conjunction meaning ‘and’, ‘et’ is a particle marking the direct object, and ‘ha’ is the definite article ‘the’.
[GEN.24.62] And Isaac came from going to the well of the living one who sees, and he resided in the land of the Negev. [§]
ve-yitzchak ba mi-bo’o be’er la-chai roi ve-hu yoshev be-eretz ha-negev
This verse describes Isaac going from the well of the living one who sees. It also states that he resided in the land of the Negev. 'Bo'o' means 'from going to', implying a journey from a starting point to the well. 'La-chai roi' is literally 'to the living one who sees', and 'eretz ha-negev' means 'land of the Negev'.
[GEN.24.63] And Isaac went out to converse in the field before the turn of evening, and he lifted his eyes and saw, and behold, camels were coming. [§]
Va yetze Yitzchak la suach ba sade lifnot arev va yisa eineiv va yare vehine gemalim ba'im.
This verse describes Isaac going out to meditate in the field at evening twilight. He lifted his eyes and saw camels approaching.
[GEN.24.64] And Rebekah lifted her eyes and she saw Isaac and she fell from upon the camel. [§]
va-tee-sah riv-kah et-ay-nay-vah va-teh-reh et-yitz-chak va-tee-pol may-al ha-gah-mal
This verse describes Rebekah seeing Isaac and falling from her camel. 'Vatissa' means 'she lifted', referring to Rebekah lifting her eyes. 'Et-eyenah' means 'her eyes'. 'Vatereh' means 'she saw'. 'Et-Yitzchak' refers to 'Isaac'. 'Vateepol' means 'she fell'. 'Mayal' means 'from upon'. 'Ha-gamal' means 'the camel'. The 'et' particles are direct object markers.
[GEN.24.65] And she said to the servant, “Who is this man walking in the field to meet us?” And the servant said, “It is my Lord.” And she took the veil and covered herself. [§]
Va-to-mer el-ha-aved mi-ha-ish ha-laze ha-holech ba-sadeh li-krateinu va-yomer ha-aved hu adoni va-tikach ha-tsa’if va-titchas.
This verse describes a servant speaking with Rebekah. She asks about the man approaching in the field, and the servant replies that it is 'my Lord'. Rebekah then takes her veil and covers herself.
[GEN.24.66] And the servant related to Isaac all the things that he had done. [§]
va-ye-sap-per ha-eh-ved le-yitz-chak et kol-ha-de-va-rim a-sher a-sah
This verse describes a servant relating all that he has done to Isaac. Let's break down the names of God, if present. There are none in this verse. 'ha-eh-ved' means 'the servant,' 'le-yitz-chak' means 'to Isaac,' 'et kol-ha-de-va-rim' means 'all the things,' and 'a-sher a-sah' means 'that he did'.
[GEN.24.67] And he brought her into the tent of Sarah, his mother, and he took Rebekah, and she became to him as a wife, and Yahveh caused Isaac to love her, and Isaac found comfort after his mother. [§]
vay-vi-eh-ha yitz-chak ha-o-hel-ah sa-rah im-mo va-yi-kah et-riv-kah va-te-hee-lo le-ish-ah va-yeh-ha-veh yitz-chak ah-har-ei im-mo.
This verse describes Isaac bringing Rebekah into Sarah's tent, taking her as his wife, and loving her, finding comfort after his mother's death. 'Vay-vi-eh-ha' means 'and he brought her'. 'Yitz-chak' is Isaac. 'Ha-o-hel-ah' means 'the tent'. 'Sa-rah' is Sarah. 'Im-mo' means 'his mother'. 'Va-yi-kah' means 'and he took'. 'Et-riv-kah' is Rebekah. 'Va-te-hee-lo le-ish-ah' means 'and she became to him as a wife'. 'Va-yeh-ha-veh' means 'and he loved'. 'Ah-har-ei im-mo' means 'after his mother'.
GEN.25
[GEN.25.1] And Abraham increased and took a wife, and her name was Keturah. [§]
va-yosef avraham va-yiqach ishah u-shemah keturah.
This verse describes Abraham taking another wife after the death of Sarah. 'Va-yosef' means 'and he added' or 'and he increased'. 'Avraham' is Abraham. 'Va-yiqach' means 'and he took'. 'Ishah' means 'woman' or 'wife'. 'U-shemah' means 'and her name'. 'Keturah' is Keturah, the name of the wife.
[GEN.25.2] And she bore to him Zimran and Yakshan and Medan and Midyan and Yishbak and Shoach. [§]
Va-teh-led lo et-zim-ran ve-et-yak-shan ve-et-me-dan ve-et-mid-yan ve-et-yish-bak ve-et-shoo-ach.
This verse describes the sons born to Jokshan, who was the son of Abraham and Keturah. The verb 'teled' means 'bore' or 'gave birth to'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Et' is an untranslatable particle marking the direct object. The following names are the sons that were born.
[GEN.25.3] And Jokshan gave birth to Sheba and Dedan. And the sons of Dedan were the Ashurim and the Leutushim and the Leummim. [§]
ve-yak-shan ya-lad et-she-va ve-et-de-dan u-ve-nei de-dan ha-yu a-shu-rim u-le-tu-shim u-le-um-im.
This verse details the descendants of Jokshan. 'Yakshan' is a proper name. 'Yald' means 'begot' or 'gave birth to'. 'Et' is a particle marking the direct object. 'Sheva' and 'Dedan' are proper names, likely of sons. 'Bnei' means 'sons of'. 'Hayu' means 'were'. 'Ashurim', 'Leutushim', and 'Leummim' are names of peoples or tribes.
[GEN.25.4] And the sons of Midian were Ei’fah and Eifer and Ch’noch and Avidah and Eldada. All these were sons of K’tura. [§]
ooov’nei mid’yan ei’fah va’eifer vach’noch va’avidah v’eldada kahl-eleh b’nei k’tura
This verse lists the sons of Midian. "B’nei" means "sons of." "Midyan" is the name of a people. "Ei’fah", "Eifer", "Ch’noch", "Avidah" and "Eldada" are proper names, the names of the sons. "Kahl-eleh" means "all these". "B’nei" again means "sons of", and "K’tura" is another proper name.
[GEN.25.5] And Abraham gave all that belonged to him to Isaac. [§]
Va-yee-ten Av-ra-ham et-kol-asher-lo le-Yitz-chak
This verse describes Abraham giving all that he possessed to Isaac. 'Va-yee-ten' means 'and he gave'. 'Av-ra-ham' is Abraham. 'Et' is a direct object marker. 'Kol asher lo' means 'all that was his'. 'Le-Yitz-chak' means 'to Isaac'.
[GEN.25.6] And to the sons of the concubines that belonged to Abraham, Abraham gave gifts, and he sent them away from the presence of his son Isaac while he was still living, eastward to the eastern land. [§]
ve-liv-nei ha-pil-ge-shim a-sher le-av-ra-ham na-tan av-ra-ham ma-ta-not vai-shal-cheim me-al yitz-chak be-no be-o-de-nu chai keid-mah el-eretz keidem.
This verse describes Abraham giving gifts to the sons of his concubines and sending them away from his son Isaac while he was still living, eastward to the eastern land. 'Livnei' means 'to the sons of'. 'Ha-pilgeshim' means 'the concubines'. 'Asher' means 'which/that'. 'Le-avraham' means 'to Abraham'. 'Natan' means 'gave'. 'Matanot' means 'gifts'. 'Vai-shalcheim' means 'and he sent them'. 'Me-al' means 'from'. 'Yitzchak' is Isaac's name. 'Be-no' means 'his son'. 'Be-ode-nu chai' means 'while he was living'. 'Keidmah' means 'eastward'. 'El-eretz keidem' means 'to the eastern land'.
[GEN.25.7] And these are the days of the years of Abraham's life, who lived one hundred years and seventy years and five years. [§]
ve-eh-leh yuh-may shuh-nay-chai-ee av-rah-ahm ah-sher-chai me-at shah-nah ve-shiv-eem shah-nah ve-cha-mesh shah-neem.
This verse details the length of Abraham's life. 've-eh-leh' means 'and these'. 'yuh-may' means 'days'. 'shuh-nay-chai-ee' means 'years of life'. 'av-rah-ahm' is the name Abraham. 'ah-sher-chai' means 'who lived'. 'me-at' means 'one hundred'. 'shah-nah' means 'year'. 've-shiv-eem' means 'and seventy'. 've-cha-mesh' means 'and five'.
[GEN.25.8] And he grew weak and Abraham died in good old age, old and satisfied. And he was gathered to his people. [§]
vayigva vayamat avraham besaybah tovah zaken vesavea vayeeasef el-amav
This verse describes the death of Abraham. 'Vayigva' means 'he grew weak'. 'Vayamat' means 'he died'. 'Avraham' is the name Abraham. 'Besaybah tovah' means 'in good old age'. 'Zaken' means 'old'. 'Vesavea' means 'and full/satisfied'. 'Vayeeasef' means 'he was gathered'. 'El-amav' means 'to his people'.
[GEN.25.9] And Isaac and Ishmael, his sons, buried him to the cave of Makpelah, to the field of Efron son of Tzohar the Hittite, which is opposite Mamre’a. [§]
vayik'bru oto yitzchak v'yishma'el banav el m'arat hamakpelah el s'deh efron ben tzohar ha'chiti asher al p'nei mamre'a.
This verse describes Isaac and Ishmael burying Abraham. 'Vayik'bru' means 'they buried'. 'Oto' means 'him'. 'Yitzchak' is Isaac's name. 'V'yishma'el' means 'and Ishmael'. 'Banav' means 'his sons'. 'El' means 'to'. 'M'arat' means 'the cave of'. 'Hamakpelah' is the name of the cave. 'S'deh' means 'the field of'. 'Efron' is the name of the man who owned the field. 'Ben tzohar' means 'son of Tzohar'. 'Ha'chiti' means 'the Hittite'. 'Asher' means 'which'. 'Al p'nei' means 'opposite'. 'Mamre'a' is the name of a place.
[GEN.25.10] The field which purchased Abraham from the sons of Heth, there was buried Abraham and Sarah his wife. [§]
ha-sa-deh a-sher ka-nah av-ra-ham me-et benei-chet sha-ma ku-bar av-ra-ham ve-sa-rah ish-toh.
This verse describes the field Abraham purchased from the sons of Heth, and that it is where Abraham and Sarah were buried. Each word is translated literally, maintaining the original sentence structure as much as possible for clarity. ‘ha’ is ‘the’, ‘asher’ is ‘which’, ‘me-et’ is ‘from’, and ‘ish-toh’ is ‘his wife’.
[GEN.25.11] And it came to pass after the death of Abraham, and the Gods blessed Isaac, his son, and Isaac settled near the well of the living one who sees. [§]
Va-yhi akharei mot Avraham va-yvarekh Elohim et-Yitzhak beno va-yeshev Yitzhak im-beer lakhai roi.
This verse describes what happened after the death of Abraham. It states that the Gods blessed Isaac, his son, and that Isaac settled near the well of the living one who sees.
[GEN.25.12] And these are the genealogies of Ishmael, son of Abraham, who she bore, Hagar the Egyptian, servant of Sarah, to Abraham. [§]
ve'elleh toldot yishma'el ben-avraham asher yaldah hagar hamitzrit shifchat sarah le'avraham.
This verse introduces the genealogy of Ishmael, son of Abraham. It states that Hagar, the Egyptian servant of Sarah, bore him to Abraham. 've'elleh' means 'and these', 'toldot' means 'genealogies/origins', 'yishma'el' is the name Ishmael, 'ben' means 'son of', 'avraham' is Abraham, 'asher' means 'who/which', 'yaldah' means 'she bore', 'hagar' is Hagar, 'hamitzrit' means 'the Egyptian', 'shifchat' means 'servant of', 'sarah' is Sarah, and 'le'avraham' means 'to Abraham'.
[GEN.25.13] And these are the names of the sons of Ishmael, by their names according to their lineages. The firstborn of Ishmael is Nevayot, and Kedar, and Adbeel, and Mibsam. [§]
ve'eleh shmot bnei yishma'el bishmotam l'toldotam bekhor yishma'el nevayot v'kedar v'adbe'el umivsam
This verse lists the names of the sons of Ishmael, their names according to their lineages. 've'eleh' means 'and these'. 'shmot' means 'names'. 'bnei' means 'sons of'. 'yishma'el' is the proper name Ishmael. 'bishmotam' means 'by their names'. 'l'toldotam' means 'according to their generations/lineages'. 'bekhor' means 'firstborn'. 'nevayot' is a proper name. 'v'kedar' means 'and Kedar'. 'v'adbe'el' means 'and Adbeel'. 'umivsam' means 'and Mibsam'.
[GEN.25.14] And a report and silence and a burden. [§]
u-mish-ma va-du-mah u-mas-sah
This verse consists of three words connected by the conjunction 'and' (represented by 'u' or 've'). 'Mish-ma' is related to the root meaning 'to hear' or 'report'. 'Du-mah' means 'silence' or 'stillness'. 'Mas-sah' is a burden, lifting, or oracle.
[GEN.25.15] Hadad and Teima, Yetur, Nafish and Kedmah. [§]
Chadad ve-Teima Yetur Nafish va-Kedmah
This verse lists geographical locations. 'Chadad' and 'Teima' are place names. 'Yetur' is a place name. 'Nafish' is a place name. 'Kedmah' is a place name. The 've' is a conjunction meaning 'and'.
[GEN.25.16] These are the sons of Ishmael, and these are their names, in their courts and in their castles: twelve leaders for their nations. [§]
eh-leh hem benee yish-mah-el veh-eh-leh shmoh-tahm beh-khatz-reh-yhem uveh-tee-roh-tahm shnayim-ah-sahd neh-see-eem le-oom-o-tam
This verse lists the sons of Ishmael and their names, along with details about their settlements and leadership. "Eh-leh hem" means "these are". "Benei Yishmael" means "sons of Ishmael". "Veh-eh-leh shmoh-tahm" means "and these are their names". "Beh-khatz-reh-yhem" means "in their courts". "Uveh-tee-roh-tahm" means "and in their castles". "Shnayim-ah-sahd neh-see-eem" means "twelve leaders". "Le-oom-o-tam" means "for their nations".
[GEN.25.17] And these are the years of life of Ishmael, one hundred and thirty-seven years, and he expired and died, and he was gathered to his people. [§]
ve'elleh sh'nei chayei Yishma'el me'at shanah u'shloshim shanah u'sheva shanim vayigva vayamat vay'easef el-amav.
This verse details the age and death of Ishmael. "ve'elleh" means "and these". "sh'nei chayei" means "the two lives" or more accurately, "the years of life". "Yishma'el" is Ishmael. "me'at" means "from" or "of". "shanah" means "year". "u'shloshim" means "and thirty". "u'sheva" means "and seven". "vayigva" means "and he expired". "vayamat" means "and he died". "vay'easef" means "and he was gathered". "el-amav" means "to his people".
[GEN.25.18] They settled from Havilah to Shur, which is before Egypt, in his family. He fell before all his brothers. [§]
vayishkenu mekhavila ad-shur asher al-p'nei mitzrayim bo'akha ashurah al-p'nei kol-echav napal.
This verse describes the settling of Asshur's descendants. "Vayishkenu" means "they settled". "MeKhavilah" refers to the land of Havilah. "Ad-Shur" means "to Shur". "Asher al-p'nei mitzrayim" means "which is before Egypt". "Bo'akha" means "in his family". "Al-p'nei kol-echav" means "before all his brothers". "Napal" means "he fell".
[GEN.25.19] And these are the generations of Isaac, son of Abraham. Abraham bore Isaac. [§]
ve’eleh toldot yitzchak ben-avraham avraham holid et-yitzchak
This verse begins with a particle introducing a list of descendants. 'Toldot' means generations or accounts. 'Ben' means son. 'Holid' means he bore or begat. 'Et' is a grammatical particle indicating a definite direct object.
[GEN.25.20] And it happened that Isaac was forty years old in taking Rebekah, daughter of Bethuel the Aramite, from Paddan Aram, sister of Laban the Aramite, for himself as a wife. [§]
va-yhi yitzchak ben arba'im shanah be-kachto et rivkah bat betuel ha-arammi mi-padan aram achot lavan ha-arammi lo le-ishah
This verse describes Isaac taking Rebekah as his wife. ‘Yitzchak’ is Isaac’s name. ‘Ben arba’im shanah’ means ‘son of forty years,’ or ‘forty years old.’ ‘Be-kachto et’ means ‘in taking.’ ‘Rivkah’ is Rebekah’s name. ‘Bat betuel’ means ‘daughter of Bethuel.’ ‘Ha-arammi’ means ‘the Aramite.’ ‘Mi-padan aram’ means ‘from Paddan Aram.’ ‘Achot lavan’ means ‘sister of Laban.’ ‘Lo le-ishah’ means ‘for himself as a wife.’
[GEN.25.21] And Isaac pleaded to Yahveh on behalf of his wife, because she was barren. And Yahveh heard him, and Rebekah his wife conceived. [§]
Va-ye-tar Yitz-chak la-Yahveh le-no-chach is-to, ki a-kar-ah hee; va-ye-tar lo Yahveh va-ta-har Riv-kah is-to.
This verse describes Isaac praying to Yahveh on behalf of his wife Rebekah, who was barren. Yahveh hears his prayer and Rebekah conceives.
[GEN.25.22] And the sons struggled within her, and she said, "If this is so, why then am I?" And she went to seek Yahveh. [§]
Va-yit-ro-tzo-tsoo ha-ba-nim be-kir-bah va-to-mer im-ken la-mah zeh a-no-chi va-te-lech li-drosh et-Yahveh.
This verse describes the children struggling within Rebekah’s womb, leading her to seek an explanation from Yahveh. 'Va-yit-ro-tzo-tsoo' means 'they struggled'. 'Ha-ba-nim' means 'the sons'. 'Be-kir-bah' means 'within her'. 'Va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'Im-ken' means 'if so'. 'La-mah zeh' means 'why this'. 'A-no-chi' means 'I'. 'Va-te-lech' means 'and she went'. 'Li-drosh' means 'to seek'. 'Et-Yahveh' means 'Yahveh'.
[GEN.25.23] And Yahveh said to her, "Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from your insides will be separated. And people from people will become strong, and the greater will serve the lesser." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh la-ah shnei go-yim be-bit-nech u-shnei le-um-im mi-mei-ach yip-ra-du u-le-om mi-le-om ye-ematz ve-rav ya-avod tza-ir.
This verse comes from Genesis 25:23. It describes God speaking to Rebekah. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'La-ah' means 'to her'. 'Shnei go-yim' means 'two nations'. 'Be-bit-nech' means 'in your womb'. 'U-shnei le-um-im' means 'and two peoples'. 'Mi-mei-ach' means 'from your insides'. 'Yip-ra-du' means 'will be separated'. 'U-le-om mi-le-om' means 'and people from people'. 'Ye-ematz' means 'will be strong'. 'Ve-rav ya-avod tza-ir' means 'and the greater will serve the lesser'.
[GEN.25.24] And her days to give birth were completed, and behold, complete in her womb. [§]
va-yim-le-u ya-mei-ha la-le-det ve-hi-neh to-mim be-bit-nah
This verse describes the completion of a woman's term of pregnancy. 'Vayimle'u' means 'and were completed'. 'Yameha' means 'her days'. 'Laledet' means 'to give birth'. 'Vehineh' means 'and behold'. 'Tomim' means 'complete' or 'perfect'. 'Be-bitnah' means 'in her womb'.
[GEN.25.25] And the first one came out red, all of him like a robe of hair; and they called his name Esau. [§]
Va yetze ha rishon admonee kulo ke aderet seah; va yikru shmo Esav.
This verse describes the birth of Esau. 'Va yetze' means 'and he came out'. 'Ha rishon' means 'the first'. 'Admonee' means 'red'. 'Kulo' means 'all of him'. 'Ke aderet seah' means 'like a robe of hair'. 'Va yikru' means 'and they called'. 'Shmo' means 'his name'. 'Esav' is the name Esau.
[GEN.25.26] And after this, his brother came out, and his hand was grasping the heel of Esau, and they called his name Jacob. And Isaac was sixty years old when he fathered them. [§]
ve-akharei-khen yatza akhiv ve-yado okhezet ba-akev eisav vayikra shmo yaakov ve-yitzhak ben shishim shanah beledet otam.
This verse describes the birth of Jacob. It states that after this, his brother came out, and his hand was holding onto the heel of Esau. Thus his name was called Jacob. Isaac was sixty years old when he fathered them.
[GEN.25.27] And the boys grew, and it was that Esau was a man knowing hunting, a man of the field, and Jacob was a blameless man, staying in tents. [§]
va-yig-de-loo ha-ne-a-rim va-ye-hee eh-sahv eesh yo-deh tzaid eesh sa-deh ve-ya-ah-kohb eesh tahm yo-shev oh-ha-lim.
This verse describes the growth of the boys, Esau and Jacob. It states that Esau became a man who knew hunting and the field, while Jacob was a blameless man who stayed in tents. The words translated here are quite literal. 'va' means 'and', 'yig-de-loo' means 'they grew', 'ha-ne-a-rim' means 'the boys', 'va-ye-hee' means 'and it was', 'eesh' means 'man', 'yo-deh' means 'knowing', 'tzaid' means 'hunting', 'sa-deh' means 'field', 'tahm' means 'blameless', and 'oh-ha-lim' means 'tents'.
[GEN.25.28] And Isaac loved Esau, because game was in his mouth, and Rebekah loved Jacob. [§]
Va-ye-eh-hav Yitzchak et-Esav ki-tzayid be-fee-v, ve-Rivkah ohevet et-Yaakov.
This verse describes the affections of Isaac and Rebekah towards their sons, Esau and Jacob. 'Va-ye-eh-hav' means 'and loved'. 'Yitzchak' is Isaac. 'Et-Esav' is 'Esau'. 'Ki-tzayid be-fee-v' means 'because game is in his mouth,' signifying Esau's skill as a hunter and Isaac's preference for that skill. 'Ve-Rivkah' is 'and Rebekah'. 'Ohevet' means 'loves'. 'Et-Yaakov' is 'Jacob'.
[GEN.25.29] And Jacob made haste to prepare stew, and Esau came from the field, and he was tired. [§]
Va-yazed Ya'akov nazid, va-yavo Esau min-ha-sadeh, ve-hu ayef.
This verse describes Jacob preparing a stew and Esau returning from the field, tired. "Va-yazed" means "and Jacob made haste". "Nazid" means "stew". "Va-yavo" means "and Esau came". "Min-ha-sadeh" means "from the field". "Ve-hu" means "and he". "Ayef" means "tired".
[GEN.25.30] And Esau said to Jacob, "Feed me, please, from that red, that red stew, because I am tired. Therefore his name was called Edom." [§]
Va-yomer Esav el Yaakov, ha-leiteini na min ha-adom ha-adom hazeh, ki ayef anokhi. Al ken kara-shmo Edom.
This verse recounts a conversation between Esau and Jacob. Esau asks Jacob to give him some of the red stew, because he is tired. Because of this event, his name was called Edom (red). 'Va-yomer' means 'and he said'. 'Esav' is Esau's name. 'El' means 'to'. 'Yaakov' is Jacob's name. 'Ha-leiteini' means 'feed me'. 'Na' is a plea. 'Min' means 'from'. 'Ha-adom ha-adom' means 'the red, the red'. 'Hazeh' means 'this'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Ayef' means 'tired'. 'Anokhi' means 'I'. 'Al ken' means 'therefore'. 'Kara-shmo' means 'his name was called'. 'Edom' is the name Edom.
[GEN.25.31] And Jacob said, "Sell today your firstborn to me." [§]
Va-yo-mer Ya-ah-kob meech-rah ka-yom et-be-chor-tah-chah lee.
This verse comes from Genesis 25:33. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Ya-ah-kob' is the name Jacob. 'Meech-rah' means 'sell'. 'Ka-yom' means 'today'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker, often untranslated, but here it indicates the direct object. 'Be-chor-tah-chah' means 'your firstborn'. 'Lee' means 'to me'.
[GEN.25.32] And Esau said, "Behold, I am going to die, and why should this birthright be to me?" [§]
va-yo-mer ay-sav hee-neh a-no-khee ho-lekh le-moot ve-la-mah-zeh lee be-kho-rah
This verse comes from Genesis 25:30. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Ay-sav' is Esau. 'Hee-neh' means 'behold' or 'here'. 'A-no-khee' means 'I'. 'Ho-lekh' means 'going'. 'Le-moot' means 'to die'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'La-mah-zeh' means 'why this'. 'Lee' means 'to me'. 'Be-kho-rah' means 'birthright'. Therefore, the verse means 'And Esau said, Behold, I am going to die, and what use is this birthright to me?'
[GEN.25.33] And Jacob said, "Swear to me today." And he swore to him. And he sold his birthright to Jacob. [§]
va-yo-mer ya-ah-kov hish-a-ve-ah lee ka-yom va-yish-a-ve-ah lo va-yim-kor et bekhor-ato le-ya-ah-kov
This verse describes Jacob requesting an oath from someone and then selling his birthright. The names and words are as follows: 'va-yo-mer' means 'and he said', 'ya-ah-kov' is a proper name (Jacob), 'hish-a-ve-ah' means 'swear', 'lee' means 'to me', 'ka-yom' means 'today', 'va-yish-a-ve-ah' means 'and he swore', 'lo' means 'to him', 'va-yim-kor' means 'and he sold', 'et' is a particle that marks the object, 'bekhor-ato' means 'his birthright', 'le-ya-ah-kov' means 'to Jacob'.
[GEN.25.34] And Jacob gave to Esau bread and stew of lentils, and he ate and he drank. And he stood up and went, and Esau despised the birthright. [§]
ve-ya-akov na-tan le-e-sav le-chem u-nezid adashim va-yo-khal va-yesht va-yakum va-yelekh va-yivez e-sav et-habekhora.
This verse describes Jacob giving Esau bread and lentil stew in exchange for his birthright. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Natan' means 'gave'. 'Le' means 'to'. 'Lechem' means 'bread'. 'U' means 'and'. 'Nezid' means 'stew'. 'Adashim' means 'lentils'. 'Va-yokhal' means 'and he ate'. 'Va-yesht' means 'and he drank'. 'Va-yakum' means 'and he stood up'. 'Va-yelekh' means 'and he went'. 'Va-yivez' means 'and he despised'. 'Et' is a direct object marker. 'Habekhora' means 'the birthright'.
GEN.26
[GEN.26.1] And there was famine in the land, besides the first famine that was in the days of Abraham. And Isaac went to Abimelech, king of the Philistines, to Gerarah. [§]
vayhi ra'av ba'aretz milbad har'av harishon asher haya biyemei avraham vayelech yitzchak el avimelech melech plishtim gerarah.
This verse describes a famine in the land, distinct from a previous famine that occurred during the time of Abraham. It then states that Isaac went to Abimelech, the king of the Philistines, to Gerarah.
[GEN.26.2] And Yahveh appeared to him and said, "Do not descend to Egypt, but dwell in the land that I will indicate to you." [§]
vayera elav Yahveh vayomer al-tiered mitsraymah shkon ba’aretz asher omar elecha
This verse describes an appearance of Yahveh to someone and a command not to go down to Egypt, but to dwell in the land Yahveh will indicate. ‘Vayera’ means ‘and appeared’. ‘Elav’ means ‘to him’. ‘Yahveh’ is the proper name of God. ‘Vayomer’ means ‘and said’. ‘Al-tiered’ means ‘do not descend’. ‘Mitsraymah’ means ‘Egypt’. ‘Shkon’ means ‘dwell’. ‘Ba’aretz’ means ‘in the land’. ‘Asher’ means ‘that/which’. ‘Omar’ means ‘I will say’. ‘Elecha’ means ‘to you’.
[GEN.26.3] Dwell in this land, and I will be with you and I will bless you, because to you and to your seed I give all the lands of the Gods, and I will establish the oath that I swore to Abraham your father. [§]
gur ba'aretz ha'zot ve'ehyeh im'cha va'varech'cha ki-lecha u-le'zar'acha etten et-kol-ha'aratzot ha'el vahaqimoti et-hash'vua asher nishba'ti le'avraham avicha.
This verse contains several names for God, and several key phrases related to promise and inheritance. "gur" means to dwell or sojourn. "ba'aretz ha'zot" means "in this land." "ve'ehyeh im'cha" means "and I will be with you." "va'varech'cha" means "and I will bless you." "ki-lecha u-le'zar'acha" means "because to you and to your seed." "etten et-kol-ha'aratzot ha'el" means "I give all the lands of the Gods." "vahaqimoti et-hash'vua" means "and I will establish the oath." "asher nishba'ti le'avraham avicha" means "that I swore to Abraham your father."
[GEN.26.4] And I have multiplied your seed like the stars of the heavens, and I will give to your seed all the lands of God, and through your seed, all the nations of the earth will be blessed. [§]
vehirbeiti et zaracha kkochavei hashamayim venatati lezaracha et kol haaratzot hael vehitbarachu bezaracha kol goyei haaretz
This verse contains several key terms. 'vehirbeiti' means 'and I have multiplied'. 'zaracha' means 'your seed'. 'kkochavei hashamayim' means 'like the stars of the heavens'. 'venatati' means 'and I will give'. 'kol haaratzot hael' means 'all the lands of God'. 'vehitbarachu' means 'and will be blessed'. 'goyei haaretz' means 'the nations of the earth'. The verse is a promise of numerous descendants and dominion over all lands, with all nations being blessed through those descendants.
[GEN.26.5] Because Abraham listened to my voice and he guarded my charge, my commands, my statutes, and my teachings. [§]
Ekev asher shama Avraham bekoli vayishmor mishmarti mitzvotai chukotai vetorotai.
This verse explains the reason for God’s blessings to Abraham. ‘Ekev’ means ‘because of’ or ‘on account of’. ‘asher’ means ‘that’. ‘shama’ means ‘he heard’. ‘bekoli’ means ‘my voice’. ‘vayishmor’ means ‘and he guarded’. ‘mishmarti’ means ‘my guard’ or ‘my charge’. ‘mitzvotai’ means ‘my commands’. ‘chukotai’ means ‘my statutes’. ‘vetorotai’ means ‘and my teachings’.
[GEN.26.6] And Isaac settled in Gerar. [§]
Va-yeshev Yitzchak bi-Gerar.
This verse states that Isaac settled in Gerar. 'Va-yeshev' means 'and he settled'. 'Yitzchak' is the name Isaac. 'Bi-Gerar' means 'in Gerar', a place name.
[GEN.26.7] And the men of the place asked about his wife, and he said, "She is my sister, because I feared to say, 'She is my wife', lest the men of the place kill me on account of Rebekah, because she is good of appearance." [§]
Va-yish-a-lu an-shei ha-ma-kom le-ish-to va-yo-a-mer a-cho-ti hee ki ya-reih le-e-mor ish-ti pen-ya-har-gu-ni an-shei ha-ma-kom al-riv-kah ki-to-vat mar-eh hee.
This verse describes Abraham telling people about Sarah. He is afraid to reveal that she is his wife, so he tells them she is his sister. He fears that the local men will kill him if they find out she is his wife because she is beautiful. 'Anshei ha-ma-kom' refers to 'the men of the place', 'ish-to' refers to 'his wife', and 'a-cho-ti' means 'my sister'. 'Yareih' means 'he fears'.
[GEN.26.8] And it happened that the days were long for him there, and Abimelech, king of the Philistines, peered through the window and he saw, and behold, Isaac was laughing with Rebekah, his wife. [§]
Va-yhi ki arkhu-lo sham ha-yamim va-yashkef Avimelech melech pelishtim be'ad ha-challon va-yra ve-hineh Yitzchak metzachek et Rivkah ishto.
This verse describes a scene where Abimelech, the king of the Philistines, observes Isaac and Rebekah from a window. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it happened'. 'Arkhu-lo sham ha-yamim' means 'the days were long for him there'. 'Va-yashkef' means 'and he peered'. 'Be'ad ha-challon' means 'through the window'. 'Va-yra' means 'and he saw'. 'Ve-hineh' means 'and behold'. 'Metzachek' means 'laughing'. 'Ishto' means 'his wife'.
[GEN.26.9] And Abimelech called to Isaac and said, "Surely, here is your wife, and how did you say, 'She is my sister?'" And Isaac said to him, "Because I said, lest I die on account of her." [§]
Va-yik-ra A-vi-me-lech le-Yitz-chak va-yo-mer akh hin-neh isht-cha hee ve-eich a-mart-ta a-cho-ti hee va-yo-mer elav Yitz-chak ki a-mart-ti pen a-mut a-lei-ha.
This verse recounts a conversation between Abimelech and Isaac. Abimelech confronts Isaac about presenting his wife, Rebekah, as his sister. Abimelech expresses confusion, while Isaac explains that he feared for his life.
[GEN.26.10] And Abimelech said, "What is this that you have done to us? Almost one of the people lay with your wife, and you have brought guilt upon us." [§]
Va-yo-mer A-vi-me-lech, mah-zoht ah-seet-ta la-nu, ki-me-at sha-chav echad ha-ahm et-ishtecha ve-he-veet-ta a-leinu a-sham.
This verse is spoken by Abimelech to Abraham. Abimelech asks Abraham what he has done to them, since one of the people almost lay with Abraham's wife and Abraham has brought guilt upon them.
[GEN.26.11] And Abimelech commanded all the people, saying, “The one touching this man and his wife let him die; he shall die.” [§]
vayetsav avimelech et kol ha'am le'emor hanoga ba'ish hazeh ube'ishto mot yumat.
This verse comes from Genesis 26:11. ‘Vayetsav’ means ‘and commanded’. ‘Avimelech’ is a proper noun, a name, meaning ‘my father is king’. ‘Et’ is a grammatical marker with no direct translation. ‘Kol’ means ‘all’. ‘Ha’am’ means ‘the people’. ‘Le’emor’ means ‘to say’. ‘Hanoga’ means ‘the one touching’. ‘Ba’ish’ means ‘the man’. ‘Hazeh’ means ‘this’. ‘Ube’ishto’ means ‘and his wife’. ‘Mot’ means ‘let him die’. ‘Yumat’ means ‘he shall die’.
[GEN.26.12] And Isaac sowed in that land, and he found in that year a hundred times over. And Yahveh blessed him. [§]
Va-yizra Yitzchak ba-aretz ha-hu va-yimtza ba-shana ha-hu mea shearim va-yevarechehu Yahveh.
This verse describes Isaac sowing in the land and receiving a hundredfold harvest. It concludes with Yahveh blessing him. Note that 'mea' means 'hundred' and 'shearim' means 'fold' or 'times'.
[GEN.26.13] And the man grew, and he went, going and growing, until he grew greatly. [§]
va-yig-dal ha-ish va-ye-lech ha-loch ve-ga-del ad ki-ga-dal me-od.
This verse describes a man growing in stature. 'Va-yig-dal' means 'and he grew'. 'Ha-ish' means 'the man'. 'Va-ye-lech' means 'and he went'. 'Ha-loch' means 'the going' or 'the walk'. 'Ve-ga-del' means 'and growing'. 'Ad ki' means 'until'. 'Ga-dal' means 'grew'. 'Me-od' means 'very' or 'greatly'.
[GEN.26.14] And it was to him livestock of sheep and goats and livestock of cattle and servants numerous, and the Philistines envied him. [§]
Va-yhi-lo mikneh-tson u-mikneh bakar va-avudah rabah va-yqan’u oto pelishtim.
This verse describes the prosperity of a man and the envy it stirred in the Philistines. ‘Va-yhi-lo’ means ‘and it was to him’. ‘Mikneh-tson’ refers to livestock of sheep and goats. ‘U-mikneh bakar’ means ‘and livestock of cattle’. ‘Va-avudah rabah’ means ‘and servants numerous’. ‘Va-yqan’u oto’ means ‘and they envied him’. ‘Pelishtim’ refers to the Philistines.
[GEN.26.15] And all the wells that the servants of my father dug in the days of my father Abraham, the Philistines stopped them up and filled them with dust. [§]
vekhol-habe’rot asher chafru avdei aviv bimei avraham aviv sitmom pelishtim vayemalu’um afar.
This verse describes the Philistines filling in the wells that the servants of Abraham’s father had dug. 'Vekhol' means 'and all'. 'Habe’rot' is the plural of 'beer', meaning 'wells'. 'Asher' means 'that/which'. 'Chafru' means 'they dug'. 'Avdei' means 'servants of'. 'Aviv' means 'my father'. 'Bimei' means 'in the days of'. 'Sitmom' means 'they stopped up/sealed'. 'Pelishtim' is 'the Philistines'. 'Vayemalu’um' means 'and they filled them'. 'Afar' means 'dust/soil'.
[GEN.26.16] And Abimelech said to Isaac, "Go away from us, for you have grown exceedingly great against us." [§]
Va-yo-mer A-vi-me-lech el Yitz-chak lech mei-im-ma-nu ki-atzam-ta mi-men-nu me-od.
This verse is from Genesis 26:16. Abimelech speaks to Isaac. The verse states that Abimelech tells Isaac to leave their land because Isaac has become too powerful for him.
[GEN.26.17] And he went from there, Isaac, and he camped in the valley of Gerar, and he settled there. [§]
Va-ye-lech mee-sham Yi-tzchak va-yi-chan be-na-chal Ge-rar va-ye-shev sham.
This verse describes Isaac traveling from a previous location and settling in the valley of Gerar. 'Va-ye-lech' means 'and he went.' 'Mee-sham' means 'from there.' 'Yi-tzchak' is the name Isaac. 'Va-yi-chan' means 'and he camped.' 'Be-na-chal' means 'in the valley of.' 'Ge-rar' is the name Gerar. 'Va-ye-shev' means 'and he settled.' 'Sham' means 'there.'
[GEN.26.18] And Isaac returned and dug the wells of water that had been dug in the days of Abraham his father, and the Philistines had stopped them up after the death of Abraham. And he called them names as the names that his father had called them. [§]
va-ya-shav yitz-chak va-ya-chfor et be-erot ha-mayim asher chafru bi-mei av-ra-ham avi-v va-yas-te-mum pelishti-im acharei mot av-ra-ham va-yikra la-hen she-mot ka-she-mot asher kara la-hen avi-v
This verse describes Isaac re-digging wells that his father Abraham had dug. These wells had been stopped up by the Philistines after Abraham’s death. Isaac then gave the wells new names, mirroring the names his father had given them.
[GEN.26.19] And the servants of Isaac dug in the valley, and they found there a well of living water. [§]
vayachperu avdei yitzchak banachal vayimtsau sham beer mayim chayim
This verse describes the servants of Isaac digging a well. 'Vayachperu' means 'and they dug'. 'Avdei yitzchak' means 'servants of Isaac'. 'Banachal' means 'in the valley'. 'Vayimtsau' means 'and they found'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Beer' means 'well'. 'Mayim' means 'water'. 'Chayim' means 'living'.
[GEN.26.20] And the shepherds of Gerar contended with the shepherds of Isaac, saying, "The water is ours!" And he called the name of the well ‘Contention,’ for they had contended with him. [§]
vayarivu ro'ei gerar im-ro'ei yitzchak le'emor lanu hamayim vayikra shem-hab'er esek ki hit'asekku immo.
This verse describes a dispute between the shepherds of Gerar and the shepherds of Isaac over water rights. The shepherds of Gerar accused Isaac’s shepherds of withholding water. The name of the well is then given as ‘Esek,’ because of the contention that took place there.
[GEN.26.21] And they dug another well, and they quarreled also over it. And he called its name Satan. [§]
va-yach-p'ru be-ehr acheret va-yari-vu gam alay-ha va-yik-ra sh'ma-ha sit-na
This verse describes digging another well and a dispute arising over it, followed by the naming of the well 'Satan'. The verb forms indicate past actions. 'Ehr' means well. 'Acheret' means another, feminine. 'Gam' means also. 'Alay-ha' means upon it. 'Sh'ma-ha' means its name. 'Sit-na' is the name given to the well.
[GEN.26.22] And he moved from there and dug another well, and there was no quarrel over it. And he called its name Rehoboth, and he said, “Because now Yahveh has made room for us, and we will flourish in the land.” [§]
vayateq misham vayachfor beer acheret velo rabu aleha vayikra shemah rechovot vayomer kiata hirchiv Yahveh lanu ufarinu baaretz
This verse describes Isaac moving from a place where he had conflict over wells, digging another well, and finding no conflict. He names this well 'Rehoboth', explaining that Yahveh has made room for them and they will flourish in the land. 'Vayateq' means 'and he moved', 'misham' means 'from there', 'vayachfor' means 'and he dug', 'beer acheret' means 'another well', 'velo rabu aleha' means 'and they did not quarrel over it', 'vayikra shemah rechovot' means 'and he called its name Rehoboth', 'vayomer' means 'and he said', 'kiata hirchiv Yahveh lanu' means 'because now Yahveh has made room for us', and 'ufarinu baaretz' means 'and we will flourish in the land'.
[GEN.26.23] And he ascended from there, Beer Shava. [§]
va-ya'al misham beer shava
This verse describes someone ascending from a place called Beer Sheva. 'Va-ya'al' means 'and he ascended'. 'Misham' means 'from there'. 'Beer Shava' is a place name, literally 'well of the oath'.
[GEN.26.24] And Yahveh appeared to him that night, and He said, "I am the God of Abraham, your father. Do not fear, for I am with you. I have blessed you, and I will greatly increase your descendants, because of Abraham, My servant." [§]
vayera elav Yahveh balayla hahu vayomer anochi Elohei Avraham avicha al tira ki itcha anochi uverachticha vehirbeiti et zaracha ba'avor Avraham avdi.
This verse describes an appearance of Yahveh to someone (likely Jacob, based on context). Yahveh identifies Himself as the God of Abraham, the person's father, and reassures the person not to fear because He is with them. He promises blessing and an increase in descendants because of Abraham, His servant.
[GEN.26.25] And he built there an altar, and he called upon the name of Yahveh, and he pitched there his tent. And the servants of Isaac dug there a well. [§]
vayiven sham mizbeach vayikra b'shem Yahveh vayyet sham ohloh vayichru sham avdei yitzchak beer
This verse describes Isaac building an altar, calling upon the name of Yahveh, pitching his tent, and his servants digging a well. 'vayiven' means 'and he built'. 'sham' means 'there'. 'mizbeach' means 'altar'. 'vayikra' means 'and he called'. 'b'shem' means 'in the name of'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'vayyet' means 'and he pitched'. 'ohloh' means 'his tent'. 'vayichru' means 'and they dug'. 'avdei' means 'servants of'. 'yitzchak' is Isaac's name. 'beer' means 'a well'.
[GEN.26.26] And Abimelech went to him from Gerar, and Ahuzath and Pichol, commander of his army, went with him. [§]
Va-avimelech halach elav migrar va-achuzat mere-ehu u-pichol sar-tzeva-o.
This verse describes Abimelech going to 'him' (Abraham) from Gerar, with Ahuzath and Pichol, his army commander. 'Elav' means 'to him,' implying a journey towards someone. 'Migrar' means 'from Gerar', a place name. 'Va' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'Sar-tzeva-o' means 'commander of his army'.
[GEN.26.27] And he said to them, Isaac, "Why did you come to me, and do you hate me, and did you send me away from you?" [§]
vayomer alehem yitzchak madua baatem elai veatem seneatem oti vatshaluuni meitchem
This verse recounts Isaac speaking to some people who have come to him. He is questioning their motives, asking why they have come to him if they hate him and have sent him away from them. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said.' 'Alehem' means 'to them.' 'Yitzchak' is the name Isaac. 'Madua' means 'why.' 'Baatem' means 'you came.' 'Elai' means 'to me.' 'Veatem' means 'and you.' 'Seneatem' means 'you hated.' 'Oti' means 'me.' 'Vatshaluuni' means 'and you sent me away.' 'Meitchem' means 'from you.'
[GEN.26.28] And they said, “See, we have seen that Yahveh was with you, and we said, ‘Let there now be a covenant between us and between you,’ and let a covenant be cut with you.” [§]
vayomru ra’o ra’inu ki-hayah Yahveh imach vannomer tehi na alah beinoteninu beneinu ubeinecha venichrata brit imach.
This verse comes from Genesis 31:50. It records a statement made by Laban and Jacob. ‘Vayomru’ means ‘and they said’. ‘Ra’o ra’inu’ translates to ‘see we have seen’. ‘Ki-hayah Yahveh’ means ‘because Yahveh was’. ‘Imach’ is ‘with you’. ‘Vannomer’ means ‘and we said’. ‘Tehi na alah’ means ‘let there be now a covenant’. ‘Beinoteninu beneinu ubeinecha’ means ‘between us and between you’. ‘Venichrata brit imach’ means ‘and let a covenant be cut with you’.
[GEN.26.29] If you do evil to us, as we have not harmed you, and as we have only done good to you and we send you away in peace, then you are blessed by Yahveh. [§]
Im-ta'aseh immanu ra'ah kasher lo neg'anu-cha v'k'asher asinu imcha rak tov van'shalehchah b'shalom attah atah beruch Yahveh.
This verse presents a conditional statement. It states 'If you do evil to us, as we have not touched you, and as we have only done good to you, and we send you away in peace, then you are blessed by Yahveh.' The verse is essentially a plea for fair treatment, highlighting past kindness and offering peaceful departure in return for non-aggression.
[GEN.26.30] And he made a feast for them, and they ate and they drank. [§]
va-ya-as le-hem mish-teh va-yo-khlu va-yish-tu
This verse describes someone making a feast for them, and they ate and drank. 'Va' indicates 'and'. 'Ya'as' means 'he made'. 'Lehem' means 'for them'. 'Mish-teh' means 'a feast'. 'Yo-khlu' means 'they ate'. 'Yish-tu' means 'they drank'.
[GEN.26.31] And they arose early in the morning, and each man swore to his brother. And Isaac sent them away, and they went from him in peace. [§]
vayashkimu baboker vayishab'u ish le'achiv vayishlacham yitzchak vayelechu me'itto beshalom
This verse describes the departure of Jacob and Esau after the death of their mother, Rebekah. They made an oath to each other, and Isaac sent them away in peace.
* "vayashkimu" – and they arose (early)
* "baboker" – in the morning
* "vayishab'u" – and they swore
* "ish" – each man
* "le'achiv" – to his brother
* "vayishlacham" – and he sent them
* "yitzchak" – Isaac
* "vayelechu" – and they went
* "me'itto" – from him
* "beshalom" – in peace
[GEN.26.32] And it was on that day, and the servants of Isaac came and told him concerning the well which they had dug, and they said to him, “We have found water.” [§]
Va-yhee bee-yom ha-hoo va-yavo avdei Yitzchak va-yagidu lo al-od’ot ha-beer asher chafaru va-yomru lo matzanu mayim.
This verse describes the servants of Isaac reporting to him about a well they had dug. 'Va-yhee' signifies 'and it was', indicating a narrative progression. 'Bee-yom ha-hoo' means 'on that day'. 'Avdei Yitzchak' translates to 'the servants of Isaac'. 'Va-yagidu lo' is 'and they told him'. 'Al-od’ot ha-beer' signifies 'about the well'. 'Asher chafaru' means 'which they dug'. 'Va-yomru lo' means 'and they said to him'. 'Matzanu mayim' is 'we found water'.
[GEN.26.33] And he called it seven, therefore the name of the city became Well of Seven until this day. [§]
Va-yik-ra o-ta shiv-a al-ken shem-ha-ir be-er she-va ad ha-yom ha-zeh.
This verse describes the naming of a city. It states that it was called 'seven' and, as a result, the city's name became 'Beer Sheva' (Well of Seven) until this day. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'O-ta' means 'it'. 'Shiv-a' means 'seven'. 'Al-ken' means 'because of that' or 'therefore'. 'Shem-ha-ir' means 'the name of the city'. 'Be-er' means 'well'. 'Ad ha-yom ha-zeh' means 'until this day'.
[GEN.26.34] And it happened, Esau was forty years old, and he took as wife Yehudit, daughter of Be'eri the Hittite, and Basmat, daughter of Elon the Hittite. [§]
Va-yhi esav ben arba'im shanah va-yiqach isha et yehudit bat be'eri ha-chiti ve-et basmat bat elon ha-chiti.
This verse describes Esau taking wives. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was' or 'and happened'. 'Esav' is the name Esau. 'Ben arba'im shanah' means 'son of forty years', meaning forty years old. 'Va-yiqach' means 'and he took'. 'Isha' means 'wife'. 'Et yehudit' means 'Yehudit'. 'Bat be'eri' means 'daughter of Be'eri'. 'Ha-chiti' means 'the Hittite'. 'Ve-et basmat' means 'and Basmat'. 'Bat elon' means 'daughter of Elon'. 'Ha-chiti' means 'the Hittite'.
[GEN.26.35] And it was a bitterness of spirit to Isaac and to Rebekah. [§]
va-tee-hee-na mo-rat roo-ach le-yitz-chak oo-le-riv-kah.
This verse describes a source of grief or annoyance to Isaac and Rebekah. 'Va-tee-hee-na' means 'and it was'. 'Morat' means 'bitterness' or 'grief'. 'Roo-ach' literally means 'wind' or 'spirit' but in this context, it functions as a source or cause of something. 'Le-yitz-chak' means 'to Isaac' and 'oo-le-riv-kah' means 'and to Rebekah'.
GEN.27
[GEN.27.1] And it happened, when Isaac was old and his eyes were dim so that he could not see, that he called to Esau, his eldest son, and said to him, “My son,” and he said to him, “Here I am.” [§]
Va-yhi ki-zakēn Yitzchak va-tikhheh eynav me-re’ot va-yikra et-Esav benehu ha-gadol va-yomer elav beni va-yomer elav hineh-nee.
This verse describes Isaac becoming old and losing his sight. He then calls for his eldest son, Esau, and calls to him, saying 'my son'. Esau responds, saying 'here I am'.
[GEN.27.2] And he said, "Behold, I have grown old, and I have not known the day of my death." [§]
va-yo-mer hi-neh na za-kan-ti lo ya-da-ti yom mo-ti
This verse consists of several parts. "va-yo-mer" means "and he said". "hi-neh na" is an emphatic "behold". "za-kan-ti" means "I have grown old". "lo ya-da-ti" means "I have not known". "yom mo-ti" means "day of my death".
[GEN.27.3] And now, lift up your tools, your provisions, and your bow, and go out to the field and hunt game for me. [§]
ve'ata sa na keleycha telycha u'kashtechah ve'tse hasadeh ve'tzudah li tzahdah
This verse is a command. 'Ve'ata' means 'and now'. 'Sa' means 'lift up' or 'carry'. 'Keleycha' means 'your tools'. 'Telycha' means 'your provisions' or 'your sack'. 'U'kashtechah' means 'and your bow'. 'Ve'tse' means 'and go out'. 'Hasadeh' means 'to the field'. 'Ve'tzudah' means 'and hunt'. 'Li' means 'for me'. 'Tzahdah' means 'game'. The verse instructs someone to take their tools, provisions, and bow, go to the field, and hunt game for the speaker.
[GEN.27.4] And make for me delicacies as I have loved, and bring to me and I will eat, so that you may bless my soul before I die. [§]
Va'aseh lee mata'amim ka'asher ahavti vehavi'ah lee ve'ocheilah ba'avur tevarechecha nafshi beterem amut.
This verse is a request for food. "Va'aseh" means "and make". "Lee" means "for me". "Mata'amim" refers to delicacies or tasty dishes. "Ka'asher ahavti" translates to "as I have loved" or "as is pleasing to me". "Vehavi'ah lee" means "and bring to me". "Ve'ocheilah" means "and I will eat". "Ba'avur" indicates a purpose or reason, meaning "in order that" or "so that". "Tevarechecha" means "you will bless". "Nafshi" means "my soul". "Beterem amut" means "before I die". The overall context is a dying Isaac asking Jacob to prepare food for him.
[GEN.27.5] And Rebekah heard when Isaac spoke to Esau, his son. So Esau went to the field to hunt game to bring [it]. [§]
ve-riv-kah sho-ma-at be-da-ber yitz-chak el-e-sav be-no va-ye-lech e-sav ha-sa-deh la-tzud tza-yid le-hav-ee.
This verse describes Rebekah overhearing Isaac speaking to Esau, his son. Then Esau goes to the field to hunt game to bring home.
[GEN.27.6] And Rebekah said to Jacob, her son, saying, “Behold, I have heard your father speaking to Esau, your brother, saying…” [§]
ve-riv-kah ah-mer-ah el-yah-ah-kohv be-nah soo-leh-meh-or hee-neh shah-mah-tee et-ah-vee-chah me-dah-ber el-eh-sahv ah-hee-chah leh-mor.
This verse comes from Genesis 27:8. It details Rebekah speaking to Jacob. She has overheard her husband, Jacob’s father, speaking to Esau, Jacob’s brother, about something. It sets the stage for Rebekah helping Jacob deceive his father.
[GEN.27.7] Bring to me game and prepare for me flavorful foods to eat, and I will bless you before Yahveh before my death. [§]
ha-vee-ah lee tzah-id va-ah-seh-lee ma-teh-ah-meem ve-oh-khay-lah va-ah-vah-rech-chah lif-nay Yahveh lif-nay mo-tee.
This verse contains a request from Isaac to Esau. Isaac asks Esau to bring him game, prepare flavorful food for him, and then to bless him before Yahveh before he dies. The words 'tzahid' mean 'game' or 'hunt', 'ma-teh-ah-meem' mean 'delicious foods', 'oh-khay-lah' means 'to eat', 'vah-vah-rech-chah' means 'and I will bless you', 'lif-nay' means 'before', 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God, and 'mo-tee' means 'my death'.
[GEN.27.8] And now, my son, hear to my voice, for that which I command you. [§]
ve'atah beni shma beqoli la'asher ani metzaveh otach.
This verse begins with 've'atah', meaning 'and now'. 'Beni' means 'my son'. 'Shma' means 'hear'. 'Beqoli' means 'in my voice', or 'to my voice'. 'La'asher' means 'for that which', or 'in order that'. 'Ani' means 'I'. 'Metzaveh' means 'command'. 'Otach' means 'you'. This verse is a direct address, a father speaking to his son.
[GEN.27.9] Go now to the flock and take for me from there two good young goats, and I will make them delicacies for your father, as he loves. [§]
lek-na el-hat-tson ve-kah-lee mee-sham shnei geday-ee iz-zeem toe-veem ve-eh-eh-seh otam mat-ah-meem le-aveecha ka-asher a-hev.
This verse is a request. "Lek-na" means "go now". "El-hat-tson" means "to the flock". "Kah-lee" means "take for me". "Mee-sham" means "from there". "Shnei geday-ee iz-zeem" means "two young goats". "Toe-veem" means "good". "Ve-eh-eh-seh otam" means "and I will make them". "Mat-ah-meem" means "delicacies". "Le-aveecha" means "for your father". "Ka-asher a-hev" means "as he loves".
[GEN.27.10] And you shall bring to your father, and you shall eat, for the sake of that he may bless you before his death. [§]
veh-hee-vay-tah le-ah-vee-chah veh-ah-chal bah-ah-vur ah-sher yevah-rech-chah lif-nay mo-toh.
This verse describes bringing something to one's father and eating it so that he will bless you before his death. 'veh' means 'and', 'hee-vay-tah' is a command form meaning 'you shall bring', 'le-ah-vee-chah' means 'to your father', 'veh-ah-chal' means 'and you shall eat', 'bah-ah-vur' means 'for the sake of', 'ah-sher' means 'that', 'yevah-rech-chah' means 'he may bless you', 'lif-nay' means 'before', 'mo-toh' means 'his death'.
[GEN.27.11] And Jacob said to Rebekah, his mother, "Behold, Esau, my brother, is a man who is hairy, and I am a man who is smooth." [§]
Va-yo-mer Ya-a-kov el Riv-kah im-mo hen Eh-sav a-chi ish sa-ar ve-a-no-chi ish cha-lak.
This verse is from Genesis 27:11. Jacob is speaking to his mother, Rebekah. He says 'Behold, Esau my brother is a hairy man, and I am a smooth man'. The verb 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Ya-a-kov' is Jacob. 'Riv-kah' is Rebekah. 'Im-mo' means 'my mother'. 'Hen' means 'Behold'. 'Eh-sav' is Esau. 'A-chi' means 'my brother'. 'Ish' means 'man'. 'Sa-ar' means 'hairy'. 'Ve-a-no-chi' means 'and I'. 'Cha-lak' means 'smooth'.
[GEN.27.12] Perhaps my father will remove me, and I will be in his eyes like a deceiver, and I will bring upon myself a curse, and not a blessing. [§]
ulay yemushsheini avi vehayiti be'enav kimta'te'a veheveiti alai kelalah velo brachah.
This verse expresses a fear of being disinherited or disliked by one's father. The speaker worries that their father might change his mind about them, viewing them as a disappointment. They fear bringing a curse upon themselves rather than a blessing. 'Ulay' means perhaps or maybe. 'Yemushsheini' means 'he might remove me' or 'he might disinherit me'. 'Avi' means 'my father'. 'Vehayiti' means 'and I will be'. 'Be'enav' means 'in his eyes'. 'Kimta'te'a' means 'like a deceiver' or 'like someone who causes disappointment'. 'Veheveiti' means 'and I will bring'. 'Alai' means 'upon me'. 'Kelalah' means 'a curse'. 'Velo' means 'and not'. 'Brachah' means 'a blessing'.
[GEN.27.13] And his mother said to him, "The curse is on me, my son, but listen to my voice and go, take something for me." [§]
va-to-mer lo im-o a-lai kil-lat-cha be-ni ach shma be-ko-li ve-lech ka-ch li
This verse is spoken by a mother to her son. She acknowledges a curse upon him, but urges him to listen to her and go get something for her. The words break down as follows: 'va-to-mer' - and she said; 'lo' - to him; 'im-o' - his mother; 'a-lai' - upon me; 'kil-lat-cha' - your curse; 'be-ni' - my son; 'ach' - but/however; 'shma' - listen; 'be-ko-li' - to my voice; 've-lech' - and go; 'ka-ch' - take; 'li' - for me.
[GEN.27.14] And he went and took and brought it to his mother, and his mother made delicacies as his father loved. [§]
vayelekh vayikakh vayave le'imo vatasa imo mata'amim ka'asher ahev aviv.
This verse describes someone going, taking something, bringing it to their mother, and the mother making delicacies as her husband loved. Let's break down the names used:
- There are no explicit names of God in this verse. It describes a domestic scene.
[GEN.27.15] And Rebekah took the garments of Esau, her great son, the favored ones which were with her in the house, and she dressed Jacob, her small son, in them. [§]
Va-tee-kah Ree-veh-kah et-big-day Ee-sav be-nah ha-gah-dol ha-ha-moo-dot asher itah ba-bah-yeet va-tal-besh et-Ya-ah-kohb be-nah ha-kah-tahn.
This verse describes Rebekah taking the favored garments of Esau, her elder son, which were with her in the house, and dressing Jacob, her younger son, in them. 'Va-tee-kah' means 'and took'. 'Ree-veh-kah' is the name Rebekah. 'Et' is a particle indicating a definite direct object. 'Big-day' means garments. 'Ee-sav' is the name Esau. 'Be-nah' means 'her son'. 'Ha-gah-dol' means 'the great/elder'. 'Ha-ha-moo-dot' means 'the favored/beloved'. 'Asher' means 'which'. 'Itah' means 'with her'. 'Ba-bah-yeet' means 'in the house'. 'Va-tal-besh' means 'and dressed'. 'Ya-ah-kohb' is the name Jacob. 'Ha-kah-tahn' means 'the small/younger'.
[GEN.27.16] And the skins of young goats she clothed upon his hands and upon the portion of his neck. [§]
ve’et orot gedayei ha’izzim hilbishah al yadaviv ve’al chelkhat tzavarav.
This verse describes the act of clothing. ‘Ve’et’ functions as a conjunction introducing the direct object. ‘Orot’ means skins. ‘Gedayei ha’izzim’ means ‘young goats’. ‘Hilbishah’ means ‘she clothed’. ‘Al yadaviv’ means ‘upon his hands’. ‘Ve’al chelkhat tzavarav’ means ‘and upon the portion of his neck’. The verse depicts someone being clothed with the skins of young goats on their hands and neck.
[GEN.27.17] And she gave the delicacies and the bread that you made in the hand of Jacob, her son. [§]
va-ti-ten et-ha-ma-te-a-mim ve-et-ha-le-chem a-sher a-sa-ta be-yad ya-a-kov be-nah
This verse describes Rebekah giving something to Jacob. 'Va-ti-ten' means 'and she gave'. 'Et' is a direct object marker. 'Ha-ma-te-a-mim' refers to the delicacies or tasty foods. 'Ve-et-ha-le-chem' means 'and the bread'. 'A-sher a-sa-ta' means 'that you made'. 'Be-yad' means 'in the hand of'. 'Ya-a-kov' is Jacob. 'Be-nah' means 'her son'.
[GEN.27.18] He came to his father and said, "Father." He said, "Here I am, who are you, my son?" [§]
va-yo-vo el-a-viv-o va-yo-mer a-vi va-yo-mer hi-neni mi a-ta be-ni
This verse describes a son approaching his father and speaking to him. The first 'avi' is the vocative case, directly addressing the father. The second 'avi' is a statement about who is speaking. 'Hi-neni' means 'here I am'. 'Mi a-ta' is 'who are you?' and 'be-ni' means 'my son'.
[GEN.27.19] And Jacob said to his father, "I am Esau, your firstborn. I have done as you spoke to me. Arise now and sit, and eat from my game, in order that your soul may bless me." [§]
Va-yo-mer Ya-akov el-Aviv, anochi Eso v’chor’cha, asiti ka-asher di-bartah elai. Kum-na sh’vah ve-ochlah mi-tzeitdi, ba-avur t’var’cheini nafsh’cha.
This verse details Jacob deceiving his father, Isaac. Jacob says to his father, Isaac, that he is Esau, his firstborn son, and that he has done as Isaac commanded him – to hunt for game. He then asks Isaac to sit and eat of his game so that Isaac will bless him. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Ya-akov' is 'Jacob'. 'El-Aviv' means 'to his father'. 'Anochi' means 'I'. 'Eso' is 'Esau'. 'V’chor’cha' means 'your firstborn'. 'Asiti' means 'I have done'. 'Ka-asher' means 'as'. 'Di-bartah' means 'you spoke'. 'Elai' means 'to me'. 'Kum-na' means 'arise now'. 'Sh’vah' means 'sit'. 'Ve-ochlah' means 'and eat'. 'Mi-tzeitdi' means 'from my game'. 'Ba-avur' means 'in order that'. 'T’var’cheini' means 'you may bless me'. 'Nafsh’cha' means 'your soul'.
[GEN.27.20] And Isaac said to his son, "What is this that you hastened to find, my son?" And he said, "Because Yahveh, your God, caused it to happen before me." [§]
Va-yomer Yitzchak el-bno mah-zeh miharta limtzo bni va-yomer ki hikrah Yahveh Eloheyka lefanai.
This verse recounts Isaac speaking to his son Jacob after Jacob quickly obtained Esau’s blessing. Isaac asks what happened so quickly, and Jacob explains that Yahveh, his God, caused it to happen.
[GEN.27.21] And Isaac said to Jacob, "Please come near and let me feel you, my son. Are you really this, my son Esau, or not?" [§]
Va-yo-mer Yitz-chak el Ya-a-kov, ge-shah-nah na va-e-mush-chah be-nee, ha-atah zeh be-nee Esav im-lo.
This verse records Isaac speaking to Jacob. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Yitzchak' is Isaac. 'el' means 'to'. 'Ya-a-kov' is Jacob. 'ge-shah-nah' is 'come near'. 'na' is a plea, 'please'. 'va-e-mush-chah' is 'and I will feel'. 'be-nee' means 'my son'. 'ha-atah' means 'are you'. 'zeh' means 'this'. 'im-lo' means 'or not', 'if not'. 'Esav' is Esau.
[GEN.27.22] And Jacob approached Isaac, his father, and felt him, and he said, “The voice is the voice of Jacob, and the hands are the hands of Esau.” [§]
vayigash yaakov el-yitzchak aviv vayamushehu vayomer hakol kol yaakov vehayadayim yadei esav.
This verse describes Jacob approaching Isaac, his father, and Isaac being deceived by Jacob's disguise. Isaac is unable to see clearly and relies on his hearing and touch. He believes the voice he hears is Jacob's, and the hands he feels are Esau's. The verse focuses on the deceptive nature of appearances and the fallibility of senses. ‘Vayigash’ means ‘and he approached’. ‘El’ is ‘to’ or ‘toward’. ‘Aviv’ means ‘his father’. ‘Vayamushehu’ means ‘and he groped him’ or ‘and he felt him’. ‘Vayomer’ means ‘and he said’. ‘Hakol’ means ‘the voice’. ‘Vehayadayim’ means ‘and the hands’. ‘Yadei’ means ‘hands of’. ‘Esav’ is ‘Esau’.
[GEN.27.23] And he did not recognize him, because his hands were like the hands of Esau his brother, hairy, and he blessed him. [§]
ve-lo hichiroh-o ki-hayu yadayv ki-yadei esav achiv se'arot vayvarechehu.
This verse describes Isaac being deceived by Jacob, who disguised himself to receive the blessing intended for Esau. 've-lo hichiroh-o' means 'and he did not recognize him'. 'ki-hayu yadayv ki-yadei esav' means 'because his hands were like the hands of Esau'. 'se'arot' refers to hairy hands, a key part of the disguise. 'vayvarechehu' means 'and he blessed him'.
[GEN.27.24] And he said, "Are you this, my son Esau?" And he said, "I am." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-ta zeh be-nee Eh-sav va-yo-mer a-nee.
This verse comes from Genesis 27:22. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'A-ta' means 'you'. 'Zeh' means 'this'. 'Benee' means 'my son'. 'Eh-sav' is the name 'Esau'. 'Va-yo-mer' again means 'and he said'. 'A-nee' means 'I'. Thus, the verse translates to 'And he said, "Are you this, my son Esau?" And he said, "I am.".'
[GEN.27.25] And he said, "Bring to me, and let me eat of the hunt of my son, so that my soul may bless you." And he brought to him, and he ate, and he brought to him wine, and he drank. [§]
va-yo-mer ha-gi-sha lee ve-och-lah mee-tseid benee le-ma-an te-va-rech-chah naf-shee va-ya-gesh-lo va-yo-chal va-ya-ve-lo yayin va-yesht
This verse describes a request for food and the subsequent offering and consumption of that food, followed by wine. Let's break down the names of God/the Gods. There are none in this verse. 'lee' means 'to me,' 'benee' means 'my son,' and 'naf-shee' means 'my soul'. The verbs all indicate action or request.
[GEN.27.26] And he said to him, Isaac his father, "Come near now and drink for me, my son." [§]
Va-yo-mer ei-lav Yitz-chak a-vee-v-oo gesh-ah-nah oo-sh-kah-lee bee-nee.
This verse recounts Isaac speaking to his son. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'ei-lav' means 'to him'. 'Yitz-chak' is the name of Isaac. 'a-vee-v-oo' means 'his father'. 'gesh-ah-nah' means 'come near'. 'oo-sh-kah-lee' means 'and drink for me'. 'bee-nee' means 'my son'.
[GEN.27.27] And he approached and kissed him, and he smelled the scent of his clothes and blessed him. And he said, "Behold, the smell of my son is as the smell of a field that Yahveh has blessed." [§]
vayigash vayishak-lo vayarah et-reich bagadav vayvarechehu vayomer reah reich beni kereich sadeh asher beracho Yahveh
This verse describes Jacob smelling the clothes of his son Joseph, whom he believed to be dead. It details Jacob's emotional reaction to recognizing his son's scent. 'Vayigash' means 'and he approached'. 'Vayishak-lo' means 'and he kissed him'. 'Vayarah' means 'and he smelled'. 'Et-reich bagadav' is 'the smell of his clothes'. 'Vayvarechehu' means 'and he blessed him'. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Reah reich beni' is 'behold, the smell of my son'. 'Kereich sadeh' means 'as the smell of a field'. 'Asher beracho Yahveh' means 'that Yahveh has blessed'.
[GEN.27.28] And the Gods will give to you dew from the heavens and abundance from the earth, and much grain and new wine. [§]
ve-yit-ten-le-kha ha-elo-him mi-tal ha-sha-mai-yim u-mish-ma-nei ha-a-retz ve-rov da-gan ve-tee-rosh
This verse describes a blessing given by ‘the Gods’. ‘Tal’ refers to dew, ‘shamayim’ means heavens, ‘mishmane’i’ means fats or abundance, ‘aretz’ means earth, ‘rov’ means much or abundance, ‘dagan’ means grain, and ‘tirosh’ means wine or new wine.
[GEN.27.29] Nations will serve you, and nations will worship you. Be powerful over your brothers, and the sons of your mother will worship you. Whoever curses you is cursed, and whoever blesses you is blessed. [§]
ya'avduka amim ve'yishtachavu lecha leumim heve gvir le'achecha ve'yishtachavu lecha benei immech orrecha arur u'mvarchecha baruch.
This verse describes nations and peoples worshipping and submitting to God, and includes a blessing and a curse based on how individuals treat those who bless or curse God’s people. 'Ya'avduka' means 'they will serve you'. 'Amim' is 'nations'. 'Ve'yishtachavu lecha' means 'and they will worship you'. 'Leumim' is 'to nations'. 'Heve' means 'be'. 'Gvir' means 'powerful' or 'master'. 'Le'achecha' means 'over your brothers'. 'Ve'yishtachavu lecha' means 'and they will worship you'. 'Benei immech' means 'sons of your mother'. 'Orrecha' means 'those who curse you'. 'Arur' means 'cursed'. 'U'mvarchecha' means 'and those who bless you'. 'Baruch' means 'blessed'.
[GEN.27.30] And it happened, as Isaac finished blessing Jacob, that Jacob went out from the presence of Isaac, his father, and Esau, his brother, came from the field with his hunting. [§]
vayhi kasher kila yitzchak levarikh et yaakov vayhi akh yatsa yatsa yaakov me’et penei yitzchak aviv ve’eso akhiv ba mitzeido
This verse describes the aftermath of Isaac blessing Jacob. It notes that as Isaac finished blessing Jacob, Jacob departed from the presence of his father Isaac, and Esau, his brother, arrived from the field with his hunting.
[GEN.27.31] And he also made savory dishes, and brought them to his father, and he said to his father, “Rise, my father, and eat from the hunt of your son, so that your soul may bless me.” [§]
va-ya-as gam-hu mat-a-mim va-ya-ve le-avi-v va-yomer le-avi-v ya-kum avi ve-yo-chal mi-tsid beni ba-avur te-va-re-che-ni naf-she-cha
This verse describes a son making savory dishes for his father and asking his father to eat from his son’s hunt, hoping to receive a blessing in return. The verse utilizes several names and titles for God, alongside familial terms. 'Hu' means 'he'. 'Avi' means 'my father'. 'Beni' means 'my son'. 'Nafshecha' means 'your soul'. The verse does not directly use a name of God, but implies a blessing sought from a higher power through parental acknowledgement.
[GEN.27.32] And Isaac said to him, "Who are you?" And he said, "I am your son, your firstborn, Esau." [§]
Va-yo-mer lo Yitzchak aviv mi-ata Va-yo-mer ani bin-cha be-chor-cha Esav.
This verse describes a conversation between Isaac and someone who has presented themselves as Esau. Isaac asks 'Who are you?' and the person replies 'I am your son, your firstborn, Esau'. The use of 'the Gods' (Elohim) is not present in this verse, nor are other names of God. Therefore, no name of God needs translation in this verse.
[GEN.27.33] And Isaac was greatly afraid, a great trembling; and he said, "Who then is this who hunted game and brought it to me, and I ate of all before it came, and I blessed him? Also, let him be blessed." [§]
Va-yech-rad Yitz-chak cha-ra-dah ged-o-lah ad-me-od; va-yo-mer mi-e-fo af-hu ha-tzad tza-yid va-ya-ve la-lee va-o-chal mi-kol be-te-rem ta-vo va-a-va-rech-hu; gam ba-ruch yih-yeh.
This verse describes Isaac's reaction to Esau's deception, where Esau had obtained his blessing by pretending to be Jacob. Isaac is deeply disturbed and questions who hunted the game and brought it to him for a meal before he could bless the hunter. He also expresses a hope that the person who did this will be blessed.
[GEN.27.34] When Esau heard the words of his father, he cried out with a great and bitter cry, very much. And he said to his father, "Bless me also, my father." [§]
kishmoa esau et dibrei aviv vayitzeak tzeakah gedolah umarah ad meod vayomer leaviv barecheni gam ani avi.
This verse describes Esau’s reaction upon hearing the words of his father, Isaac, regarding the blessing given to Jacob. 'kishmoa' means 'when he heard', 'esau' is the name Esau, 'et' is a grammatical particle, 'dibrei aviv' means 'the words of his father', 'vayitzeak' means 'and he cried out', 'tzeakah' means 'a cry', 'gedolah' means 'great', 'umarah' means 'bitter', 'ad meod' means 'very much', 'vayomer' means 'and he said', 'leaviv' means 'to his father', 'barecheni' means 'bless me', 'gam ani' means 'also I', and 'avi' means 'my father'.
[GEN.27.35] And he said, "Your brother has come with deceit, and he has taken your blessing." [§]
va-yo-mer ba a-chi-cha be-mir-mah va-yi-kah bir-cha-te-cha
This verse comes from Genesis 27:35. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Ba' means 'come'. 'A-chi-cha' means 'your brother'. 'Be-mir-mah' means 'with deceit'. 'Va-yi-kah' means 'and he took'. 'Bir-cha-te-cha' means 'your blessing'.
[GEN.27.36] And he said, "Is it thus he has called his name, Jacob, and he has tripped me up twice, taking my firstborn's birthright? And now, see, he has taken my blessing!" And he said, "Did you not certainly reserve a blessing for me?" [§]
Va-yo-mer ha-kee kara sh-mo Ya-a-kov va-ya-ak-ve-nee zeh pa-a-ma-yim et-be-chor-ati la-kach ve-hee-neh a-tah na-lach birch-ati va-yo-mer ha-lo at-tzal-ta lee birch-ah
This verse recounts a conversation between Jacob and Laban, where Laban accuses Jacob of deceitfully taking his firstborn's blessing and now his own blessing. The verse uses names of God and references to blessings. It’s a complaint about being twice deceived.
[GEN.27.37] And Isaac answered and said to Esau, behold, I have made him master over you, and all his brothers I have given to him as servants, and with grain and wine I have sustained him. Therefore come, what shall I do, my son? [§]
Va'yan Yitzchak va'yomer le'Esav hen gebir samtihu lach ve'et kol echav natati lo la'avadim vedagan vetirosh simachtihu ulcha eifo mah e'ese beni.
This verse is from Genesis 27:29. It recounts Isaac blessing Esau, unknowingly giving the birthright blessing to Jacob instead. 'Va'yan' means 'and answered'. 'Yitzchak' is 'Isaac'. 'Va'yomer' means 'and said'. 'Le'Esav' means 'to Esau'. 'Hen' means 'behold'. 'Gebir' means 'master' or 'strong one'. 'Samtihu' means 'I have made him/it'. 'Lach' means 'for you'. 'Ve'et' means 'and'. 'Kol' means 'all'. 'Echav' means 'his brothers'. 'Natati' means 'I have given'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'La'avadim' means 'as servants'. 'Vedagan' means 'and grain'. 'Vetirosh' means 'and wine'. 'Simachtihu' means 'I have supported him/it'. 'Ulcha eifo' means 'therefore come'. 'Mah e'ese' means 'what shall I do'. 'Beni' means 'my son'.
[GEN.27.38] And Esau said to his father, "The blessing, one is to you, my father, bless me also, my father." And Esau raised his voice and he wept. [§]
Va-yo-mer Ay-sav el-ah-vee ha-vra-chah a-chat hee-lah-chah le-chah ah-vee var-cheh-nee gam-ah-nee ah-vee va-yee-sah Ay-sav kol-oh va-yeh-vech.
This verse describes Esau speaking to his father, Isaac. He asks his father for a blessing as well. He raises his voice and weeps. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Aviv' means 'my father'. 'Ha-vracha' means 'the blessing'. 'Achat' means 'one'. 'Hee-lah-chah' means 'is'. 'Le-chah' means 'to you'. 'Var-cheh-nee' means 'bless me'. 'Gam' means 'also'. 'Kol-oh' means 'his voice'. 'Va-yeh-vech' means 'and he wept'.
[GEN.27.39] And Isaac answered his father and said to him, Behold, the fats of the land will be your dwelling, and from dew of the heavens above. [§]
va-ya-an yitz-chak a-vee-voh va-yo-mer eh-lav hee-neh mish-mah-neh ha-ah-retz yih-yeh mo-shahv-chah oo-mee-tal ha-shah-may-im may-ahl
This verse recounts Isaac responding to his father Abraham. It describes God’s promise regarding Isaac’s descendants and their inheritance of the land. 'Va-ya-an' means 'and answered'. 'Yitzchak' is Isaac. 'A-vee-voh' means 'his father'. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Eh-lav' means 'to him'. 'Hee-neh' means 'behold'. 'Mish-mah-neh' means 'its fats'. 'Ha-ah-retz' means 'the land'. 'Yih-yeh' means 'will be'. 'Mo-shahv-chah' means 'your dwelling'. 'Oo-mee-tal' means 'and from dew'. 'Ha-shah-may-im' means 'the heavens'. 'May-ahl' means 'above'.
[GEN.27.40] And upon your sword you will live, and your brother you will serve, and it will be as you rule and you will loosen his yoke from upon your neck. [§]
ve'al-charvekha tichyeh ve'et-achicha ta'avod ve'hayah ka'asher tarid u'parakta ulo me'al tzavarecha.
This verse describes a power dynamic where one brother will rule over the other. 'charvekha' refers to your sword, representing power or authority. 'achicha' means your brother. 'tichyeh' means you will live, in this context meaning you will be sustained by this rule. 'ta'avod' means you will serve. 'ulo' means his yoke. 'tzavarecha' means your neck. 'tarid' means to rule. 'parakta' means you will loosen.
[GEN.27.41] Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing that his father had blessed him with, and Esau said in his heart, “May the days of mourning for my father draw near, and then I will kill my brother Jacob.” [§]
vayistehm esav et yaakov al habrachah asher bercho aviv vayomer esav belibo yikrevu yemey evel avi ve'aharagah et yaakov achi
This verse describes Esau's resentment towards Jacob after Jacob received the blessing from their father Isaac. Esau harbors thoughts of revenge, planning to kill Jacob after their father's death. 'Vayistehm' means 'he hated'. 'Esav' is Esau. 'Et' is a particle marking the direct object. 'Yaakov' is Jacob. 'Al' means 'because of'. 'Habrachah' means 'the blessing'. 'Asher' means 'that'. 'Bercho' means 'he blessed'. 'Aviv' means 'his father'. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Belibo' means 'in his heart'. 'Yikrevu' means 'may approach'. 'Yemey' means 'the days'. 'Evel' means 'mourning'. 'Avi' means 'my father'. 'Ve'aharagah' means 'and I will kill'. 'Et' again marks the direct object. 'Achi' means 'my brother'.
[GEN.27.42] And it was told to Rebekah the words of Esau, her son the elder. And she sent and called to Jacob, her son the younger, and she said to him, “Behold, Esau your brother is comforting himself to kill you.” [§]
Va-yugad le-rivkah et-divrei esav beneha ha-gadol va-tishlah va-tikra le-yaakov beneha ha-katan va-toamer elav hineh esav achicha mitnachem lecha le-hargecha.
This verse recounts Rebekah overhearing Esau’s intention to kill Jacob. ‘Va-yugad’ means ‘and it was told.’ ‘Le-rivkah’ means ‘to Rebekah.’ ‘Et-divrei esav’ means ‘the words of Esau.’ ‘Beneha ha-gadol’ means ‘her son the elder.’ ‘Va-tishlah’ means ‘and she sent.’ ‘Va-tikra’ means ‘and she called.’ ‘Le-yaakov beneha ha-katan’ means ‘to Jacob her son the younger.’ ‘Va-toamer elav’ means ‘and she said to him.’ ‘Hineh’ means ‘behold.’ ‘Esav achicha’ means ‘Esau your brother.’ ‘Mitnachem lecha le-hargecha’ means ‘is comforting himself to kill you.’
[GEN.27.43] And now, my son, hear my voice, and rise, flee for yourself to Laban, my brother, to Haran. [§]
ve'atah beni sh'ma b'qoli v'qum b'rach-lecha el-lavan achi charanah.
This verse comes from Genesis 27:43. 've'atah' means 'and now'. 'beni' means 'my son'. 'sh'ma' means 'hear'. 'b'qoli' means 'my voice'. 'v'qum' means 'and rise'. 'b'rach-lecha' means 'flee for yourself'. 'el-lavan' means 'to Laban'. 'achi' means 'my brother'. 'charanah' is a place name, Haran.
[GEN.27.44] And you will dwell with him for some days until the anger of your brother returns to calm. [§]
ve-ya-shav-ta im-o ya-mim a-cha-dim ad a-sher ta-shuv cha-mat a-chi-cha.
This verse instructs someone to stay with another person for a few days until the anger of their brother subsides. 've' means 'and', 'ya-shav-ta' means 'you will sit/dwell', 'im-o' means 'with him', 'ya-mim' means 'days', 'a-cha-dim' means 'few/some', 'ad' means 'until', 'a-sher' means 'that/which', 'ta-shuv' means 'returns/subsides', 'cha-mat' means 'anger', and 'a-chi-cha' means 'your brother'.
[GEN.27.45] Until the anger of your brother returns from you, and he forgets what you did to him, I will send and take you from there. Why will I bear both of you in one day? [§]
ad-shoov af-achicha mimcha ve-shachach et asher-asita lo ve-shalachti ulkachticha misham lamah eshkhal gam-shenaychem yom echad.
This verse discusses the restoration of a brother after wrongdoing. "Ad-shoov" means "until return". "Af-achicha" means "the anger of your brother". "Mimcha" means "from you". "Ve-shachach" means "and forget". "Et asher-asita lo" means "what you did to him". "Ve-shalachti" means "and I will send". "Ulkachticha" means "and I will take you". "Misham" means "from there". "Lamah eshkhal" means "why will I bear". "Gam-shenaychem" means "both of you". "Yom echad" means "one day".
[GEN.27.46] And Rivkah said to Yitzhak, "I am weary of life because of the daughters of Khet. If Ya'akov takes a wife from among the daughters of Khet, like these daughters of the land, why should I live?" [§]
Va-to-mer Rivkah el-Yitzhak katzti be-khayyai mip-nei benot Khet im-lokhech Ya'akov ishah mi-benot Khet ka-elleh mi-benot ha-aretz lamah li khayyim.
This verse is from Genesis 26:34. Rivkah speaks to Yitzhak, expressing her frustration with the Hittite women. She states she is weary of life because of them and questions why Ya'akov should take a wife from among them, given that they are not of their people. 'Katzti' means 'I have wearied' or 'I am tired of'. 'Mip-nei' means 'because of' or 'in the face of'. 'Benot Khet' means 'daughters of Khet', referring to the Hittites. 'Lamah li khayyim' literally means 'why to me life?' and is an expression of despair.
GEN.28
[GEN.28.1] And Isaac called to Jacob and blessed him, and he commanded him and said to him, "You shall not take a wife from the daughters of Canaan." [§]
Va-yik-ra Yitz-chak el-Ya-a-kov va-ye-varech oto va-ye-tzaveh-hu va-yomer lo lo-tikach ish-ah mi-bnot Ke-na-an.
This verse describes Isaac calling to Jacob, blessing him, commanding him, and then telling him not to take a wife from the daughters of Canaan. The words 'El' and 'Oto' are possessive. 'Va' is a conjunctive particle.
[GEN.28.2] Rise and go to Paddan Aram, to the house of Bethuel, the father of your mother, and take for yourself a wife from among the daughters of Laban, the brother of your mother. [§]
koom lekh paddeh-nah a-rahm bay-tah beh-too-el ah-vee im-meh-kah veh-kah-leh-kah mee-shahm ee-shah mee-beh-not lah-van ah-hee im-meh-kah
This verse instructs someone to go to Paddan Aram, to the house of Bethuel, the father of their mother, and to take a wife from among the daughters of Laban, the brother of their mother. It is a directive for Isaac to send Abraham’s son to find a wife from his relatives.
[GEN.28.3] And God all-sufficient will bless you, and will make you fruitful, and will multiply you, and you will be to a gathering of peoples. [§]
ve-El shaddai yevarech otcha ve-yaphracha ve-yarbecha vehayita li-qahal ammim.
This verse consists of several parts. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'El' means 'God'. 'Shaddai' is understood to mean 'all-sufficient' or 'powerful'. 'Yevarech' means 'will bless'. 'Otcha' means 'you'. 'Yaphracha' means 'will make you fruitful'. 'Yarbecha' means 'will multiply you'. 'Vehayita' means 'and you will be'. 'Li-qahal' means 'to a gathering'. 'Ammim' means 'peoples'. Therefore, the verse is about God blessing and multiplying a person, making them a father of many nations.
[GEN.28.4] And may the Gods give to you the blessing of Abraham to you and to your offspring with you, to possess the land where you dwell, which God gave to Abraham. [§]
ve-yit-ten-le-kha et-bir-kat av-ra-ham le-kha u-le-zar-a-kha it-takh le-rish-te-kha et-eretz me-gu-re-kha a-shehr-na-tan Elohim le-av-ra-ham
This verse contains several names and words relating to God and inheritance. 'Ve-yit-ten' means 'and may He give'. 'Bir-kat' means 'the blessing'. 'Av-ra-ham' is Abraham. 'Le-kha' means 'to you'. 'U-le-zar-a-kha' means 'and to your offspring'. 'It-takh' means 'with you'. 'Le-rish-te-kha' means 'to possess'. 'Et-eretz' means 'the land'. 'Me-gu-re-kha' means 'where you dwell'. 'A-shehr-na-tan' means 'which gave'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'.
[GEN.28.5] And Isaac sent Jacob away, and he went to Paddan Aram, to Laban, son of Bethuel the Aramean, brother of Rebekah, mother of Jacob and Esau. [§]
va-yish-lach yitz-chak et ya-a-kov va-ye-lech pad-deh-nah a-ram el-la-van ben-be-tu-el ha-a-ra-mi a-chi riv-kah em ya-a-kov ve-e-sav
This verse describes Isaac sending Jacob away. Specifically, Isaac sends Jacob to Paddan Aram, to Laban, the son of Bethuel the Aramean, the brother of Rebekah, the mother of Jacob and Esau.
[GEN.28.6] And Esau saw that Isaac had blessed Jacob and sent him to Paddan Aram to take a wife for himself from there. In blessing him, Isaac commanded him, saying, “Do not take a wife from the daughters of Canaan.” [§]
Va-yar Esav ki-verach Yitzchak et Yaakov ve-shilach oto Padena Aram lakachat lo misham isha be-varacho oto va-yetzav alav le-emor lo-tikach isha mi-bnot Kenan.
This verse describes Esau’s reaction to Isaac blessing Jacob and sending him away to Paddan Aram to find a wife. It details Isaac’s instructions to Jacob not to marry a Canaanite woman. 'Va-yar' means 'and he saw'. 'Esav' is Esau. 'Ki' means 'that' or 'because'. 'Verach' means 'blessed'. 'Yitzchak' is Isaac. 'Et' is a grammatical marker. 'Yaakov' is Jacob. 'Ve-shilach' means 'and he sent'. 'Oto' means 'him'. 'Padena Aram' is Paddan Aram. 'Lakachat' means 'to take'. 'Lo' means 'for himself'. 'Misham' means 'from there'. 'Isha' means 'wife'. 'Be-varacho oto' means 'in blessing him'. 'Va-yetzav' means 'and he commanded'. 'Alav' means 'upon him'. 'Le-emor' means 'to say'. 'Lo-tikach' means 'do not take'. 'Mi-bnot' means 'from the daughters of'. 'Kenan' is Canaan.
[GEN.28.7] And Jacob obeyed his father and his mother, and he went to Paddan Aram. [§]
Va-yishma Yaakov el-Aviv ve-el-Imo, va-yelech Padena Aram.
This verse describes Jacob obeying his father and mother and then going to Paddan Aram. 'Va-yishma' means 'and he heard/obeyed.' 'Yaakov' is Jacob. 'El-Aviv' means 'to his father.' 'Ve-el-Imo' means 'and to his mother.' 'Va-yelech' means 'and he went.' 'Padena Aram' is the location Paddan Aram.
[GEN.28.8] And Esau saw that the bad things of the daughters of Canaan were displeasing in the eyes of Isaac, his father. [§]
va-yar esav ki ra'ot benot kena'an be'einei yitzchak aviv
This verse describes Esau observing that the daughters of Canaan were displeasing in the eyes of his father, Isaac. 'Va-yar' means 'and he saw.' 'Esav' is 'Esau.' 'Ki' means 'that' or 'because.' 'Ra'ot' means 'bad things' or 'evils.' 'Benot' is 'daughters.' 'Kena'an' is 'Canaan.' 'Be'einei' means 'in the eyes of.' 'Yitzchak' is 'Isaac.' 'Aviv' means 'his father.'
[GEN.28.9] And Esau went to Ishmael and took Mahalath, the daughter of Ishmael, son of Abraham, sister of Nebayoth, to be among his wives. [§]
vayelekh esau el-yishmael vayikach et-machalat bat-yishmael ben-avraham achot nevayot al-nashav lo leishah.
This verse describes Esau taking Mahalath, the daughter of Ishmael, as a wife. 'Vayelekh' means 'and he went'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Vayikach' means 'and he took'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker with no direct translation. 'Bat' means 'daughter'. 'Ben' means 'son'. 'Achoт' means 'sister'. 'Al-nashav' means 'among his wives' or 'in addition to his wives'. 'Leishah' means 'as a wife'.
[GEN.28.10] And Jacob went out from Beersheba and he went to Haran. [§]
Va-yay-tseh Ya-ah-kov mee-beer shah-vah vaye-lekh kha-ra-nah.
This verse describes Jacob leaving Beersheba and going to Haran. 'Va-yay-tseh' means 'and he went out.' 'Ya-ah-kov' is Jacob's name. 'Mee-beer shah-vah' means 'from Beersheba.' 'Vaye-lekh' means 'and he went.' 'Kha-ra-nah' is Haran.
[GEN.28.11] And he encountered the place, and he spent the night there, because the sun had set. And he took from the stones of the place, and he placed them under his head, and he lay down in that place. [§]
vayifga bamako vayalen sham ki-va hashemesh vayikach meavnei hamako vayasem merashtotav vayishkab bamako hahu
This verse describes Jacob encountering a place and resting there for the night. He used stones from that place as a headrest and lay down to sleep. The words are fairly straightforward in their meaning. 'Mako' simply means 'place'. 'Shemesh' means 'sun'. 'Avene' means 'stones'. 'Rashtotav' is his head or headrest.
[GEN.28.12] And he dreamed, and behold, a ladder was stationed on the earth, and its head reached to the heavens. And behold, angels of the Gods were ascending and descending on it. [§]
Va-yach-lom ve-hee-neh sul-lam moo-tsav ar-tzah ve-rosh-o mag-ee-ah ha-sha-ma-yim-ah ve-hee-neh mal-a-khei el-o-heem o-leem ve-yor-deem boo.
This verse describes a dream where a ladder is set on the earth, and its top reaches to the heavens. Angels of the Gods are ascending and descending on it.
[GEN.28.13] And behold, Yahveh stood over him and said, "I am Yahveh, the Gods of Abraham, your father, and the Gods of Isaac. The land upon which you are lying, to you I will give it, and to your seed." [§]
veheineh Yahveh nitzav alav vayomer ani Yahveh Elohei Avraham avicha vealoei Yitzchak haaretz asher ata shochev aleha lecha ettenennah ulzaracha.
This verse describes an appearance of Yahveh to Jacob. "Veheineh" means "and behold". "Nitzav" means "stood". "Alav" means "over him". "Vayomer" means "and He said". "Elohei" is the plural possessive form of "Gods". "Avicha" means "your father". "Vealoei" means "and the Gods of". "Haaretz" means "the land". "Asher" means "which". "Shochev" means "lying". "Aleha" means "upon it". "Lacha" means "to you". "Ettenennah" means "I will give it". "Ulzaracha" means "and to your seed".
[GEN.28.14] And your offspring will be like the dust of the earth, and you will break forth to the sea and the east and the north and the south, and all the families of the earth and in your offspring will be blessed. [§]
vehayah zarecha kafar haaretz ufaratzta yamah vakedmah vtzaponah vanegevah univrchu becha kol mishpechot haadamah ubzarecha.
This verse contains several key names and concepts. "Zarecha" means "your seed" or "your offspring." "Haaretz" means "the land" or "the earth." "Yamah" means "the sea" or "the west." "Kedmah" means "the east." "Tzaponah" means "the north." "Negevah" means "the south." "Mishpechot haadamah" means "the families of the earth." The verb forms indicate future action or state. There is no explicit divine name present, but the context implies God’s promise.
[GEN.28.15] And behold, I am with you, and I will guard you in all where you go, and I will return you to this land, for not will I forsake you, until that I have done that which I spoke to you. [§]
vehinneh anochi immach ushmarticha bechol asher telech vahashivoticha el haadamah hazot ki lo eezavecha ad asher im asiti et asher dibarti lach.
This verse contains several names for God and promises of protection and return. "Anochi" is the first-person pronoun, meaning "I". "Immach" means "with you". "Ushmarticha" means "and I will guard you". "Bechol asher telech" means "in all where you go". "Vahashivoticha" means "and I will return you". "El haadamah hazot" means "to the land this". "Lo eezavecha" means "not I will forsake you". "Ad asher im asiti" means "until that I have done". "Et asher dibarti lach" means "that which I spoke to you".
[GEN.28.16] And Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, "Indeed, there is Yahveh in this place, and I did not know it." [§]
vayiqatz ya'akov mishnato vayomer akhen yesh Yahveh bamakhom hazeh ve'anokhi lo yadati
This verse recounts Jacob awakening from a dream and declaring the presence of God. 'Vayiqatz' means 'and he awoke.' 'Ya'akov' is Jacob. 'Mishnato' means 'from his sleep.' 'Vayomer' means 'and he said.' 'Akhen' means 'indeed' or 'surely.' 'Yesh' means 'there is.' 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Bamakhom' means 'in the place.' 'Hazeh' means 'this.' 'Ve'anokhi' means 'and I.' 'Lo yadati' means 'did not know.'
[GEN.28.17] And he feared and said, "How awesome is this place! It is no other than the house of the Gods, and this is the gate of the heavens." [§]
vayira vayomar mah norah hamakom hazeh ein zeh ki im beit elohim vezeh sha'ar hashamayim
This verse describes Jacob's reaction to a vision of a ladder reaching to heaven. 'Vayira' means 'and he feared'. 'Vayomar' means 'and he said'. 'Mah norah' means 'how awesome'. 'Hamakom hazeh' means 'this place'. 'Ein zeh ki im' means 'it is no other than'. 'Beit elohim' means 'house of the Gods'. 'Sha'ar hashamayim' means 'gate of the heavens'.
[GEN.28.18] And Jacob rose early in the morning and took the stone which he had placed at his head, and he set it as a pillar, and he poured oil upon its head. [§]
Va-yashkem Yaakov ba-boker va-yikach et-ha-even asher-sam mirashotav va-yasam otah matzevah va-yitzok shemen al-roshah.
This verse describes Jacob setting up a pillar and anointing it with oil. 'Va-yashkem' means 'and he rose early'. 'Yaakov' is Jacob. 'Ba-boker' means 'in the morning'. 'Va-yikach' means 'and he took'. 'Et-ha-even' means 'the stone'. 'Asher-sam' means 'which he had placed'. 'Mirashotav' means 'at his head'. 'Va-yasam' means 'and he set'. 'Otah' means 'it'. 'Matzevah' means 'pillar'. 'Va-yitzok' means 'and he poured'. 'Shemen' means 'oil'. 'Al-roshah' means 'upon its head'.
[GEN.28.19] And he called the name of that place House of God, but Luz was the name of the city originally. [§]
Va-yik-rah et-shem-ha-ma-kom ha-hu Beit-el ve-u-lam Luz shem-ha-ir la-rish-o-nah.
This verse describes someone naming a place. 'Va-yik-rah' means 'and he called'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker. 'Shem' means 'name'. 'Ha-ma-kom' means 'the place'. 'Ha-hu' means 'that'. 'Beit-el' is a compound name meaning 'house of God'. 'Ve-u-lam' means 'but' or 'however'. 'Luz' is the original name of the city. 'Shem-ha-ir' means 'name of the city'. 'La-rish-o-nah' means 'at first' or 'originally'.
[GEN.28.20] And Jacob vowed, saying, "If the Gods will be with me and will guard me on this road that I walk, and will give me bread to eat and clothing to wear," [§]
Va-yid-dar Ya-ak-ov ne-der le-mor im-yi-h-yeh Elohim im-ma-di u-sh-ma-ra-ni ba-de-rech ha-zeh a-sher a-no-chi ho-lech ve-na-tan-li le-chem le-e-chol u-veg-ed li-lvosh.
This verse describes Jacob making a vow. 'Va-yid-dar' means 'and he vowed'. 'Ya-ak-ov' is 'Jacob'. 'Ne-der' means 'a vow'. 'Le-mor' means 'to say' or 'saying'. 'Im-yi-h-yeh' means 'if it will be'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Im-ma-di' means 'with me'. 'U-sh-ma-ra-ni' means 'and He will guard me'. 'Ba-de-rech ha-zeh' means 'on this road'. 'A-sher a-no-chi ho-lech' means 'that I walk'. 'Ve-na-tan-li' means 'and He will give me'. 'Le-chem le-e-chol' means 'bread to eat'. 'U-veg-ed li-lvosh' means 'and clothing to wear'.
[GEN.28.21] And I will return to the house of my father in peace, and Yahveh will be to me as the Gods. [§]
v'shavti b'shalom el-beit avi v'haya Yahveh li leElohim.
This verse contains several key names and phrases. "v'shavti" means "and I will return". "b'shalom" means "in peace". "el-beit avi" means "to the house of my father". "v'haya" means "and it will be". "Yahveh" is the proper name of God. "li" means "to me". "leElohim" means "as the Gods". The verse expresses a desire to return home safely and an affirmation that Yahveh will be the Gods to the speaker.
[GEN.28.22] And this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be a house of the Gods, and all that you give to me, a tenth I will tithe to you. [§]
veha'even hazot asher samti matzevah yihyeh beit elohim vechol asher titen li aser ae'asrenu lach.
This verse describes Jacob's vow at Bethel. He sets up a stone pillar and declares it will be a house of the Gods. He also promises to give a tenth of all that is given to him as a tithe to the Gods.
GEN.29
[GEN.29.1] And Jacob lifted his feet and walked into the land of the easterners. [§]
Va-yee-sah Ya-ah-kov rag-lahv, va-yeh-lech ar-tzah ben-eh-keh-dem.
This verse describes Jacob lifting up his feet and walking into the land of the easterners. ‘Va-yee-sah’ means ‘and he lifted’. ‘Ya-ah-kov’ is the name ‘Jacob’. ‘Rag-lahv’ means ‘his feet’ (plural). ‘Va-yeh-lech’ means ‘and he walked’. ‘Ar-tzah’ means ‘the land’. ‘Ben-eh’ means ‘sons of’. ‘Keh-dem’ means ‘the east’ or ‘easterners’. Therefore ‘ben-eh keh-dem’ means ‘sons of the east’ and can be translated as ‘easterners’.
[GEN.29.2] And he saw, and behold, a well was in the field, and behold, there were three flocks of sheep resting upon it, for from that well the flocks drink, and the stone was large upon the mouth of the well. [§]
vay-ra ve-hee-neh beh-air ba-sah-deh ve-hee-neh-sham shlo-shah ed-rei-tson ro-vetz-eem a-lay-vah kee min-ha-beer ha-hee yash-koo ha-ad-a-reem ve-ha-even ged-o-lah al-pee ha-beer.
This verse describes a scene where someone sees a well in a field. There are three flocks of sheep resting near it, as they are drinking from the well. A large stone is covering the mouth of the well.
[GEN.29.3] And they will gather there all the flocks, and they will roll away the stone from over the mouth of the well, and they will water the sheep, and they will return the stone to over the mouth of the well to its place. [§]
ve-ne-es-foo sha-mah kol ha-a-da-rim ve-ga-le-loo et ha-e-ven me-al pi ha-beer ve-his-koo et ha-tson ve-he-shee-voo et ha-e-ven al pi ha-beer li-me-ko-mah
This verse describes shepherds gathering their flocks at a well, removing the stone covering the well's mouth to water their sheep, and then replacing the stone.
[GEN.29.4] And Jacob said to them, "My brothers, from where do you come?" And they said, "We are from Haran." [§]
Va-yo-mer la-hem Ya-ak-ov a-chai me-ayin at-tem va-yo-meru me-cha-ran a-nach-nu.
This verse comes from Genesis 33:5. It describes a conversation between Jacob and some men who approach him. Jacob asks them where they are from, and they respond that they are from Haran.
[GEN.29.5] And he said to them, "Do you know Laban, son of Nachor?" And they said, "We know him." [§]
vayomer lahem hayeda'tem et-lavan ben-nachor vayomru yada'nu
This verse comes from Genesis 24:27. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Lahem' means 'to them'. 'Hayeda'tem' means 'do you know?'. 'Et-lavan' is 'Laban'. 'Ben-nachor' means 'son of Nachor'. 'Vayomru' means 'and they said'. 'Yada'nu' means 'we know'. The verse is a question and answer regarding the knowledge of Laban, son of Nachor.
[GEN.29.6] And he said to them, "Is peace to him?" And they said, "Peace." And behold, Rachel, his daughter, is coming with the sheep. [§]
Va-yo-mer la-hem ha-sha-lom lo; va-yo-mru sha-lom ve-hi-neh ra-hel bit-to ba-ah im-ha-tson.
This verse describes a greeting and an introduction. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'La-hem' means 'to them'. 'Ha-sha-lom' means 'the peace'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Va-yo-mru' means 'and they said'. 'Ve-hi-neh' means 'and behold'. 'Ra-hel' is the name Rachel. 'Bit-to' means 'his daughter'. 'Ba-ah' means 'is coming'. 'Im-ha-tson' means 'with the sheep'.
[GEN.29.7] And he said, "Indeed, today is still a great time, not the time of gathering the livestock. Give the sheep drink, and then go pasture." [§]
vayomer hen od hayom gadol lo-et he'asef hamikneh hasqu hatzon ulechu re'u
This verse consists of several components. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Hen' is often translated as 'behold' or 'indeed'. 'Od' means 'still' or 'yet'. 'Hayom' means 'today'. 'Gadol' means 'great' or 'large'. 'Lo-et' signifies 'not the time'. 'He'asef' means 'of gathering'. 'Hamikneh' refers to 'the livestock'. 'Hasqu' means 'give drink to'. 'Hatzon' means 'the flock' or 'the sheep'. 'Ulechu' means 'and go'. 'Re'u' means 'pasture' or 'graze'. Combining these, the verse describes someone stating it's not yet time to gather the livestock, and instructing to water the sheep and then go graze.
[GEN.29.8] And they said, "We are not able until all the flocks are gathered and they roll the stone from over the mouth of the well, and they water the flocks." [§]
Va-yom-ru lo nu-chal ad a-sher ye-es-fu kol-ha-ad-ar-im ve-gal-lu et-ha-even me-al pi ha-be-er ve-his-ki-nu ha-tson.
This verse describes a situation where shepherds are asked to roll a stone away from a well so that they may water their flocks. 'Va-yom-ru' means 'and they said'. 'Lo nu-chal' means 'we are not able'. 'Ad a-sher' means 'until'. 'Ye-es-fu' means 'they are gathered'. 'Kol-ha-ad-ar-im' means 'all the flocks'. 'Ve-gal-lu' means 'and they roll'. 'Et-ha-even' means 'the stone'. 'Me-al pi ha-be-er' means 'from over the mouth of the well'. 'Ve-his-ki-nu' means 'and they water'. 'Ha-tson' means 'the flocks'.
[GEN.29.9] He was still speaking with them, and Rachel came with the sheep that belonged to her father, for she was a shepherd. [§]
o-den-nu me-da-bayr im-mam ve-ra-chel vo-ah im-ha-tson a-sher le-avi-ha ki ro-ah hee
This verse describes a scene where someone is still speaking with them, and Rachel arrives with the sheep belonging to her father, because she is a shepherd.
[GEN.29.10] And it came to pass, when Jacob saw Rachel, daughter of Laban, brother of my mother, and the flocks of Laban, brother of my mother, that Jacob approached and removed the stone from over the mouth of the well and watered the flocks of Laban, brother of my mother. [§]
Va-yhi ka-asher ra’ah Ya’akov et Rachel bat Lavan achi imo, ve-et tzon Lavan achi imo. Va-yigas Ya’akov va-yagel et ha-even me’al pi ha-beer va-yashkeh et tzon Lavan achi imo.
This verse describes Jacob’s first encounter with Rachel and her father’s flocks. It details how Jacob approached the well, removed the stone covering its mouth, and watered the sheep. ‘Achi imo’ is repeatedly used, meaning ‘brother of my mother’ and establishing a familial connection through the maternal line. The names are taken directly from the text, retaining their original forms.
[GEN.29.11] And Jacob kissed Rachel and he lifted his voice and he wept. [§]
va-yish-shak ya-ak-ov le-ra-chel va-yee-sah et-qol-o va-yevek
This verse describes Jacob kissing Rachel and then lifting his voice and weeping. Each word is translated literally as it appears. 'Va' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'Yishak' means 'he kissed'. 'Yaakov' is the name 'Jacob'. 'Le' means 'to'. 'Rachel' is the name 'Rachel'. 'Va' again means 'and'. 'Yisa' means 'he lifted'. 'Et' is a direct object marker and has no direct translation. 'Qol' means 'voice'. 'O' is 'his'. 'Va' means 'and'. 'Yevak' means 'he wept'.
[GEN.29.12] And Jacob told Rachel, "I am the son of your father's brother, and I am the son of Rebekah." And she ran and told her father. [§]
va-yaged ya-akov le-ra-chel ki a-chi a-vi-ha hu ve-chi ben-riv-kah hu va-ta-ratz va-ta-ged le-a-vi-ha.
This verse describes Jacob telling Rachel that he is her father's brother's son. Rachel then runs and tells her father.
[GEN.29.13] And it happened, when Laban heard the news of Jacob, son of his sister, that he ran to meet him, and he embraced him, and he kissed him, and he brought him into his house, and Jacob recounted to Laban all these things. [§]
va-yhi ki-shmo-a la-van et-she-ma ya-a-kov ben-a-chot-o va-yaratz li-krat-o va-ye-cha-vek-lo va-ye-nash-ek-lo va-ye-vie-hu el-beit-o va-ye-sa-per le-lavan et kol-ha-de-va-rim ha-e-leh
This verse describes Laban’s reaction upon hearing news about his nephew Jacob. Laban hears about Jacob, runs to meet him, embraces and kisses him, and brings him into his house. Finally, Jacob recounts all that has transpired to Laban.
[GEN.29.14] And Laban said to him, "Indeed, you are my bone and my flesh." And he stayed with him for a month of days. [§]
vayomer lo laban ach atzmi uvesari ata vayeshev immo hodesh yamim
This verse comes from Genesis 29:24. "Vayomer" means 'and he said'. "Lo" means 'to him'. "Laban" is a proper noun, the name of a person. "Ach" means 'only' or 'indeed'. "Atzmi" means 'my bone' or 'my self'. "Uvesari" means 'and my flesh'. "Ata" means 'you'. "Vayeshev" means 'and he sat' or 'and he stayed'. "Immo" means 'with him'. "Hodesh" means 'a month'. "Yamim" means 'days'.
[GEN.29.15] And Laban said to Jacob, "Are you truly my brother, and have you served me for free? Tell me what your wages are." [§]
Va-yo-mer La-van le-Ya-ak-ov ha-kee-akhi ata ve-avadtani khinam ha-gidah lee mah mas-kore-techa.
This verse comes from Genesis 30:33. Laban is speaking to Jacob, questioning their relationship and Jacob's work for him. Laban asks if Jacob is his brother and if Jacob has been serving him for nothing, then requests Jacob tell him what his wages are.
[GEN.29.16] And to Laban were two daughters, the name of the greater one was Leah, and the name of the smaller one was Rachel. [§]
u-le-la-van sh-tei ba-not shem ha-gdola Leah v-shem ha-ktana Rachel.
This verse describes Laban and his two daughters. 'u-le-la-van' means 'and to Laban'. 'sh-tei ba-not' means 'two daughters'. 'shem ha-gdola' means 'the name of the greater [one]'. 'Leah' is the name. 'v-shem ha-ktana' means 'and the name of the smaller [one]'. 'Rachel' is the name.
[GEN.29.17] And the eyes of Leah were soft, and Rachel was beautiful in form and beautiful in appearance. [§]
vei-nei le-ah rak-kot, ve-ra-hel ha-yeh-tah yefat-to-ar ve-yefat mar-eh.
This verse describes Leah and Rachel. "vei-nei" means "and the eyes of". "le-ah" is the name Leah. "rak-kot" means "soft" or "weak". "ve" means "and". "ra-hel" is the name Rachel. "ha-yeh-tah" means "was". "yefat-to-ar" means "beautiful in form". "ve" again means "and". "yefat mar-eh" means "beautiful in appearance".
[GEN.29.18] And Jacob loved Rachel, and he said, "I will serve you for seven years for your younger daughter, Rachel." [§]
va-ye-eh-hav ya-ak-ov et-ra-hel va-yo-am-er a-ev-dekha she-vah sha-nim be-ra-hel bit-kha ha-kte-na.
This verse describes Jacob’s love for Rachel and his offer to work for her father, Laban, in exchange for her hand in marriage. ‘Va-ye-eh-hav’ means ‘and he loved’. ‘Ya-ak-ov’ is Jacob’s name. ‘Et-ra-hel’ means ‘Rachel’. ‘Va-yo-am-er’ means ‘and he said’. ‘A-ev-dekha’ means ‘I will serve you’. ‘She-vah sha-nim’ means ‘seven years’. ‘Be-ra-hel’ means ‘for Rachel’. ‘Bit-kha’ means ‘your daughter’. ‘Ha-kte-na’ means ‘the younger’.
[GEN.29.19] And Laban said, "It is good that I give her to you, rather than I give her to another man. Stay with me." [§]
Va-yo-mer La-van tov ti-ti o-tah lach mi-ti-ti o-tah le-ish acher shvah im-ma-di.
This verse is spoken by Laban to Jacob. Laban is offering his daughter Leah to Jacob in marriage. He states that it is better for him to give her to Jacob than to another man, and suggests that Jacob should stay with him.
[GEN.29.20] And Jacob served for Rachel seven years, and they were in his eyes as days few, in his love for her. [§]
Va-ya-avod Ya-ak-ov be-ra-hel she-va sha-nim va-yi-hyu be-ei-nav ke-ya-mim a-cha-dim be-a-ha-va-to o-tah.
This verse describes Jacob's service to Rachel. 'Va-ya-avod' means 'and he served'. 'Ya-ak-ov' is the name Jacob. 'be-ra-hel' means 'to Rachel'. 'she-va sha-nim' means 'seven years'. 'va-yi-hyu' means 'and they were'. 'be-ei-nav' means 'in his eyes'. 'ke-ya-mim a-cha-dim' means 'as days few'. 'be-a-ha-va-to o-tah' means 'in his love of her'.
[GEN.29.21] And Jacob said to Laban, "Give me my wife, because my days are fulfilled, and I will go in to her." [§]
Va-yo-mer Ya-ak-ov el-La-van ha-vah et-ish-ti ki-ma-le-u ya-mai ve-a-vo-ah ei-lei-ha.
This verse contains several names and words. "Va-yo-mer" means "and he said". "Ya-ak-ov" is Jacob. "el-La-van" is to Laban. "ha-vah" means "give". "et-ish-ti" means "my wife". "ki-ma-le-u ya-mai" means "because my days are fulfilled". "ve-a-vo-ah ei-lei-ha" means "and I will go in to her".
[GEN.29.22] And Laban gathered all the people of the place and he made a feast. [§]
va'esof lavan et kol anshei hamakom vayas mishTeh
This verse describes Laban gathering all the people of the place and making a feast. 'Vaesof' means 'and he gathered'. 'Lavan' is the proper name Laban. 'Et' is a particle indicating a definite object. 'Kol' means 'all'. 'Anshei' means 'men of', or more generally 'people of'. 'Hamakom' means 'the place'. 'Vayas' means 'and he made'. 'MishTeh' means 'a feast'.
[GEN.29.23] And it was in the evening, and he took Leah, his wife, and he brought her to him, and he came to her. [§]
Va-yhi ba-erev va-yikach et-leah bito va-yave otah elav va-yavo eleha.
This verse describes a marital act. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Ba-erev' means 'in the evening'. 'Va-yikach' means 'and he took'. 'Et-leah' means 'Leah'. 'Bito' means 'his daughter' (in this context, his wife, as the term can be used broadly for a woman given in marriage). 'Va-yave' means 'and he brought'. 'Otah' means 'her'. 'Elav' means 'to him'. 'Va-yavo' means 'and he came'. 'Eleha' means 'to her'.
[GEN.29.24] And Laban gave to her Zilpah, his female servant, to Leah, his daughter, as a female servant. [§]
Va-yit-ten La-van la-ah et-zil-pah shif-chat-o le-Le-ah bit-to shif-chah.
This verse describes Laban giving Zilpah, his female servant, to Leah, his daughter, as a female servant. 'Va-yit-ten' means 'and he gave.' 'Laban' is a proper noun, the name of a person. 'La-ah' means 'to her.' 'Et' is a grammatical particle marking the direct object. 'Zilpah' is a proper noun, a name. 'Shif-chat-o' means 'his female servant.' 'Le-Le-ah' means 'to Leah.' 'Bit-to' means 'his daughter.' 'Shif-chah' means 'female servant.'
[GEN.29.25] And it was in the morning, and behold, she was Leah. And he said to Laban, "What is this that you have done to me? Did I not serve with Rachel, with you, and why have you deceived me?" [§]
Va-yhi ba-boker ve-hine-hee le-ah va-yomer el-lavan mah-zot asita li ha-lo be-rachel avadti im-cha ve-lamah rimita-ni.
This verse describes Jacob's reaction to being tricked into marrying Leah instead of Rachel. 'Va-yhi ba-boker' means 'and it was in the morning'. 'Ve-hine-hee le-ah' means 'and behold, she is Leah'. The rest of the verse is Jacob questioning Laban about why he was deceived.
[GEN.29.26] And Laban said, "It is not done thus in our place, to give the younger one before the older one." [§]
Va-yo-mer La-van lo-ye-eh-seh khen bi-me-ko-menu la-tet ha-tse-i-rah lif-nei ha-be-kee-rah.
This verse comes from Genesis 29:21. Laban is speaking to Jacob. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Laban' is a proper noun, the name of the person speaking. 'Lo-ye-eh-seh' means 'not to do', 'khen' means 'thus', 'bi-me-ko-menu' means 'in our place'. 'La-tet' means 'to give'. 'Ha-tse-i-rah' means 'the younger one'. 'Lif-nei' means 'before'. 'Ha-be-kee-rah' means 'the older one'.
[GEN.29.27] Fulfill this vow, and it will be given to you, also this, in the service that you perform with me for another seven years beyond these. [§]
mal-leh shav-oo-ah zot v'nee-teh-nah le-cha gam et zot ba-av-o-dah a-sher ta-av-od im-ma-dee od she-vah-sha-nee-eem a-cheh-rot.
This verse describes a proposition being made. Someone is being asked to fulfill a vow or period of service, and in return, they will receive something additional after completing another seven years of work alongside another. The verse uses repetition to emphasize the length of service and the resulting reward.
[GEN.29.28] And Jacob did so, and he fulfilled this vow, and he gave to him Rachel, his daughter, to him as a wife. [§]
va-ya-as ya-akov ken, va-ye-ma-leh shavu-ah zot, va-yit-ten lo et ra-chel bit-to lo le-ish-ah.
This verse describes Jacob fulfilling a seven-year vow to Laban in exchange for Rachel's hand in marriage. 'Va-ya-as' means 'and he did'. 'Ken' means 'thus' or 'so'. 'Va-ye-ma-leh' means 'and he filled'. 'Shavu-ah' means 'vow' or 'oath'. 'Zot' means 'this'. 'Va-yit-ten' means 'and he gave'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Ra-chel' is the name Rachel. 'Bit-to' means 'his daughter'. 'Le-ish-ah' means 'as a wife'.
[GEN.29.29] And Laban gave to Rachel his daughter Bilhah, his female servant, to her to be a female servant. [§]
va-yit-ten la-van le-ra-hel bit-to et-bil-ha-ha shif-chat-o la-ha le-shif-cha
This verse describes Laban giving Bilhah, his female servant, to Rachel, his daughter, to be her female servant. 'Vayitten' means 'and he gave'. 'Lavan' is the proper name 'Laban'. 'LeRachel' means 'to Rachel'. 'Bitto' means 'his daughter'. 'Et Bilhaha' indicates Bilhah is the direct object of the giving. 'Shifchato' means 'his female servant'. 'Laha' means 'to her'. 'LeShifcha' means 'to be a female servant'.
[GEN.29.30] And he went also to Rachel, and he loved also Rachel more than Leah, and he served with him yet another seven years. [§]
va-yo-vo gam el-ra-hel va-ye-eh-hav gam-et-ra-hel mi-leh-ah va-ya-avod im-o od she-vah-sha-nim a-her-ot
This verse describes Jacob working for Laban in order to marry Rachel. It states he went to Rachel and loved her more than Leah, and therefore served with Laban for another seven years. The names 'Rachel' and 'Leah' are proper nouns and are retained. 'El' appears as part of a construct phrase but isn't a direct address to God, therefore it's treated as part of the name.
[GEN.29.31] And Yahveh saw that Leah was hated, and He opened her womb, while Rachel was barren. [§]
va-yar Yahveh ki-sene'ah Leah va-yiftach et-rachamah ve-Rachel akarah.
This verse describes Yahveh seeing that Leah was hated, and opening her womb, while Rachel was barren. 'Sene'ah' implies being disliked or unloved, likely by Jacob. 'Akarah' means barren or unable to conceive. The verb 'yiftach' means 'to open' in this context, referring to enabling conception. The 'et' is a direct object marker.
[GEN.29.32] And Leah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Reuben, for she said, "Because Yahveh has seen my affliction, now my husband will love me." [§]
Va-tahar Leah va-teled ben va-tikra shmo Reuven ki amrah ki ra'ah Yahveh be'aniyi ki atah ye'ehavani ishi.
This verse describes Leah becoming pregnant and giving birth to a son, naming him Reuben. She explains the name means that Yahveh has seen her affliction, and now her husband will love her.
[GEN.29.33] And she conceived again and bore a son. And she said, “Because Yahveh has heard that I am disliked, he has given me this one also.” And she called his name Simeon. [§]
va-ta-har od va-te-led ben va-to-mer ki-shama Yahveh ki-sne-a anokhi va-yiten-li gam-et-zeh va-tikra shmo Shim-on.
This verse describes Leah conceiving and giving birth to another son. She names him Simeon, explaining that Yahveh has heard she is hated (by Jacob, meaning he favors Rachel) and has therefore given her another son. ‘Shama’ means ‘to hear’, and ‘sne-a’ means ‘hated’ or ‘disliked’. ‘Anokhi’ is ‘I’.
[GEN.29.34] And she conceived again and bore a son. And she said, "Now at this time my husband will be attached to me, because I have borne him three sons." Therefore, they called his name Levi. [§]
va-ta-har od ve-te-led ben va-to-mer ata ha-pa-am yi-la-veh ish-i e-lai ki-ya-lad-ti lo shlo-sha ba-nim al-ken ka-ra-she-mo le-vi
This verse describes Leah conceiving and giving birth to another son. She names him Levi, expressing her hope that her husband, Jacob, will now be more closely attached to her because she has borne him three sons. 'Har' means to conceive, 'teled' means to give birth, 'ben' means son, 'to-mer' means to say, 'ata ha-pa-am' means now at this time, 'yi-la-veh' means will be attached, 'ish-i' means my husband, 'e-lai' means to me, 'ki-ya-lad-ti' means because I bore, 'lo' means to him, 'shlo-sha' means three, 'ba-nim' means sons, 'al-ken' means therefore, and 'ka-ra-she-mo' means they called his name.
[GEN.29.35] And she conceived again and bore a son, and she said, "This time I will thank Yahveh." Therefore, she called his name Judah, and she stood after giving birth. [§]
va-ta-har od va-teled ben va-tomer ha-pa'am odeh et-Yahveh al-ken kara'ah sh'mo Yehudah va-ta'amod mi-ledet
This verse describes the birth of Judah. 'Har' means to conceive, 'teled' means to bear, 'odeh' means to thank, 'al-ken' means therefore, 'kara'ah' means to call, and 'ta'amod' means to stand. The name Judah is given, and the mother stands after giving birth.
GEN.30
[GEN.30.1] And Rachel saw that she had not borne children to Jacob, and Rachel was jealous of her sister, and she said to Jacob, "Give me children, or I will die." [§]
Va-teh-reh Rachel ki lo yaldah l’Yaakov va-tekana Rachel ba-achotah va-tomar el-Yaakov havah-li banim ve-im-ayin metah anochi.
This verse describes Rachel’s distress because she is unable to bear children for Jacob and her jealousy of her sister Leah. She pleads with Jacob to give her children, or she will die.
[GEN.30.2] And Jacob’s anger was kindled against Rachel, and he said, “Am I in the place of the Gods, who has withheld from you the fruit of your womb? [§]
vayichar-af Yaakov berachel vayomer hatachat Elohim anochi asher mana mimmech peri-baten
This verse describes Jacob’s anger towards Rachel because she is unable to bear children. He questions whether he is in the place of ‘the Gods’ who has withheld fruit of her womb. ‘Vayichar’ means ‘and was kindled’ (referring to anger). ‘Af’ means ‘anger’. ‘Yaakov’ is Jacob. ‘Berachel’ is ‘with Rachel’. ‘Vayomer’ is ‘and he said’. ‘Hatahat’ means ‘instead of’ or ‘in place of’. ‘Elohim’ is ‘the Gods’ (plural). ‘Anochi’ is ‘I’. ‘Asher’ is ‘which’ or ‘that’. ‘Mana’ is ‘restrained’ or ‘withheld’. ‘Mimmech’ is ‘from you’. ‘Peri-baten’ is ‘fruit of the womb’.
[GEN.30.3] And she said, "Behold, my handmaid Bilhah, go to her, and let her bear upon my knees, that I also may be built up through her." [§]
va-to-amer hi-neh a-ma-ti bil-hah bo el-ei-hah ve-te-led al-bir-kai ve-i-ba-neh gam-ano-chi mi-me-nah
This verse comes from Genesis 30:3. It details Bilhah, a handmaid of Rachel, being offered to Jacob for the purpose of bearing children on Rachel's behalf. The speaker is Rachel. "Va-to-amer" means "and she said". "Hi-neh" means "behold". "A-ma-ti" means "my handmaid". "Bil-hah" is the name of the handmaid. "Bo el-ei-hah" means "go to her". "Ve-te-led" means "and she will bear". "Al-bir-kai" means "upon my knees". "Ve-i-ba-neh" means "and I will be built up". "Gam-ano-chi" means "even I". "Mi-me-nah" means "through her".
[GEN.30.4] And she gave Bilhah, her maidservant, to him as a wife, and Jacob came to her. [§]
va-ti-ten-lu et-bil-ha-ha shif-ha-tah le-i-sha va-ya-vo e-lei-ha ya-a-kov.
This verse describes the giving of Bilhah, a maidservant, to Jacob as a wife. 'Va-ti-ten-lu' means 'and she gave to him'. 'Et-bil-ha-ha' is 'Bilhah'. 'Shif-ha-tah' means 'her maidservant'. 'Le-i-sha' means 'as a wife'. 'Va-ya-vo e-lei-ha' means 'and he came to her'. 'Ya-a-kov' is 'Jacob'.
[GEN.30.5] And Bilhah conceived and bore a son to Jacob. [§]
Va-ta-har Bil-hah va-te-led le-Ya-ak-ov ben.
This verse describes Bilhah conceiving and bearing a son to Jacob. 'Va-ta-har' means 'and she conceived.' 'Bilhah' is a proper noun, the name of a woman. 'Va-te-led' means 'and she bore.' 'Le-Ya-ak-ov' means 'to Jacob.' 'Ben' means 'son.'
[GEN.30.6] And Rachel said, "The Gods have judged me, and also heard my voice, and have given me a son. Therefore, she called his name Dan." [§]
va-to-mer Rachel da-na-nee Elohim ve-gam shama be-koli va-yiten-li ben al-ken kara shmo Dan.
This verse is from Genesis 30:6. Rachel is speaking after giving birth to her first son, Dan. She is expressing gratitude to the Gods for hearing her and giving her a son. 'Da-na-nee' is a verb meaning 'to judge' or 'to vindicate' in the sense of acknowledging her plea. 'Elohim' refers to the Gods. 'Ve-gam' means 'and also'. 'Shama' means 'to hear'. 'Be-koli' means 'my voice'. 'Va-yiten-li' means 'and gave to me'. 'Ben' means 'son'. 'Al-ken' means 'therefore'. 'Kara' means 'to call'. 'Shmo' means 'his name'. 'Dan' is the name of the son.
[GEN.30.7] And she conceived again, and she bore Bilhah, Rachel's servant, a second son to Jacob. [§]
Va-ta-har od va-te-led Bil-hah shif-hat Ra-hel ben she-nee le-Ya-akov.
This verse describes Bilhah, the servant of Rachel, conceiving and bearing a second son to Jacob. 'Va-ta-har' means 'and she conceived'. 'Od' means 'again' or 'yet'. 'Va-te-led' means 'and she bore'. 'Bilhah' is a proper noun, the name of a woman. 'Shif-hat Ra-hel' means 'servant of Rachel'. 'Ben she-nee le-Ya-akov' means 'a second son to Jacob'.
[GEN.30.8] And Rachel said, "The struggles of the Gods I have struggled with my sister, and I have prevailed." And she called his name Naphtali. [§]
Va-to-mer Rachel naf-tu-lei Elohim nif-ta-l-ti im-achoti gam-yacholti va-tikra shmo Naf-ta-li.
This verse recounts Rachel's explanation for naming her son Naphtali. She states that she has struggled with her sister Leah, and considers her struggles a victory. 'Naf-tu-lei Elohim' literally means 'struggles of the Gods', which in this context refers to her competition with Leah, as both were wives of Jacob and competed for his favor (and thus, the favor of 'the Gods', or God).
[GEN.30.9] And Leah saw that she had ceased bearing children, and she took Zilpah, her female servant, and gave her to Jacob for a wife. [§]
Va-teh-reh Leh-ah kee-ah-mahd-ah mee-leh-deht va-tee-kah-eh-t eet-zil-pah shif-hah-tah va-tee-tehn oh-tah-ah leh-yah-kohv leh-ee-shah.
This verse describes Leah realizing she was not bearing children for Jacob. Therefore, she gives her female servant, Zilpah, to Jacob to be a woman who will bear children for him. Each word is explained below:
*Va-teh-reh: And she saw
*Leh-ah: Leah
*kee: that/because
*ah-mahd-ah: she stood/she ceased (bearing)
*mee-leh-deht: from bearing
*va-tee-kah-eh-t: And she took
*eet-zil-pah: Zilpah
*shif-hah-tah: her female servant
*va-tee-tehn: And she gave
*oh-tah-ah: her
*leh-yah-kohv: to Jacob
*leh-ee-shah: for a woman/wife.
[GEN.30.10] And Zilpah, Leah’s maidservant, bore a son to Jacob. [§]
Va-teled Zilpah shifchat Leah l’Ya’akov ben.
This verse describes Zilpah, Leah’s maidservant, bearing a son to Jacob. ‘Va-teled’ means ‘and she bore’. ‘Zilpah’ is a proper noun, a name. ‘Shifchat’ means ‘maidservant of’. ‘Leah’ is a proper noun, a name. ‘L’Ya’akov’ means ‘to Jacob’. ‘Ben’ means ‘son’.
[GEN.30.11] And Leah said, "Fortune!" And she called his name Gad. [§]
Va-to-mer Leah ba-gad, va-tik-ra et-shmo Gad.
This verse comes from Genesis 30:18. Leah names her son Gad. 'Va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'Leah' is the name Leah. 'Ba-gad' means 'fortune' or 'luck,' but is understood here as a statement about good fortune. 'Va-tik-ra' means 'and she called'. 'Et-shmo' means 'his name'. 'Gad' is the name Gad.
[GEN.30.12] And Zilpah, the servant of Leah, bore a second son to Jacob. [§]
va-teh-led zil-pah shif-chat le-ah ben sheh-nee le-ya-ah-kov
This verse describes Zilpah, the servant of Leah, bearing a son to Jacob. 'Va-teh-led' means 'and she bore'. 'Zilpah' is a proper name. 'Shifchat' means 'servant'. 'Leah' is a proper name. 'Ben' means 'son'. 'Sheh-nee' means 'second'. 'Le-ya-ah-kov' means 'to Jacob'.
[GEN.30.13] And Leah said, "Blessed am I, for daughters have blessed me." And she called his name Asher. [§]
Va-to-mer Le-ah be-ash-ree kee-ee is-shroo-nee ba-not va-tee-kra-ah et-shmo-o Ah-sher
This verse is from Genesis 30:18. Leah expresses her happiness at bearing another son. She states that she is blessed because daughters also blessed her. She then names her son Asher, meaning 'happy' or 'blessed'. The word 'asher' here is not a reference to the Divine name, but rather is an adjective.
[GEN.30.14] And Reuben went during the days of the wheat harvest, and he found mandrakes in the field, and he brought them to Leah, his mother. And Rachel said to Leah, "Give me, please, some of your son’s mandrakes." [§]
Va-ye-lech Re-u-ven bi-mei katzir chi-tim va-yim-tza doo-da-im ba-sa-deh va-ya-ve a-tam el-Le-ah im-mo va-to-amer Ra-chel el-Le-ah te-nee-na lee mid-doo-da-ei be-nech.
This verse describes Reuben finding mandrakes in a field during harvest time and bringing them to his mother, Leah. Rachel then asks Leah to give her some of her son’s mandrakes.
[GEN.30.15] And she said to her, "Has it been a small thing that you have taken my husband, and would you also take the mandrakes of my son?" And Rachel said, "Therefore, may you lie with my Lord tonight in place of the mandrakes of my son." [§]
Va-to-mer lah ha-ma-at ka-ch-tekh et-ee-shee ve-la-ka-chat gam et doo-da-ay ben-ee va-to-mer Ra-chel la-khen yish-kach av-ek ha-lai-lah ta-chat doo-da-ay benech.
This verse comes from Genesis 30:15. It describes a situation where Rachel is barren and Leah is bearing children for Jacob. Leah offers her handmaid, Zilpah, to Jacob to have children on her behalf. Later, Rachel wants children of her own and offers her handmaid, Bilhah, to Jacob. This verse is Rachel speaking to Leah after Jacob has spent seven years working for her father to earn her hand in marriage, yet she remains barren. 'Dudai' refers to mandrakes, a plant believed to aid fertility.
[GEN.30.16] And Jacob came from the field in the evening, and Leah went out to meet him. And she said, "Come to me, for I have hired you with the mandrakes of my sons." And he lay with her that night; he was with her. [§]
vayavo yaakov min-hashadeh baerev, vateitzea leah likrato, vatomer elai tabo ki sachor sechar'ti'cha bedudai beni, vayishkach avimah ballilah hu.
This verse describes Jacob's arrival from the field in the evening, Leah's going out to meet him, and her offer of service in exchange for conjugal rights. Leah essentially offers to become a surrogate mother for Jacob, as she feels that her handmaidens are not providing him with children. She offers her own maidens and herself in exchange for children from Jacob. Finally, it states that he lay with her that night.
[GEN.30.17] And the Gods heard to Leah, and she became pregnant and she bore to Jacob a fifth son. [§]
Va-yishma Elohim el-Leah va-tahar va-teled le-Yaakov ben chamishi.
This verse describes God hearing Leah and her becoming pregnant and bearing Jacob a fifth son. 'Va-yishma' means 'and heard'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'El' means 'to' and 'Leah' is a proper noun, Leah. 'Va-tahar' means 'and became pregnant'. 'Va-teled' means 'and she bore'. 'Le-Yaakov' means 'to Jacob'. 'Ben' means 'son'. 'Chamishi' means 'fifth'.
[GEN.30.18] And Leah said, "the Gods have given me my reward, because I gave my handmaid to my husband." And she called his name Yissachar. [§]
Va-to-mer Leah, natan Elohim se-chari, asher natati shifchati le-ishi, va-tikra shmo Yissachar.
This verse recounts Leah’s naming of her son. She states that ‘the Gods’ have given her a reward for giving her handmaid to her husband. She then names the son Yissachar.
[GEN.30.19] And Leah conceived again, and she bore Jacob a sixth son. [§]
Va-ta-har od Leah va-teled ben-shishi le-Yaakov.
This verse describes Leah conceiving and giving birth to her sixth son with Jacob. 'Va-ta-har' means 'and she conceived.' 'Od' means 'still' or 'again.' 'Leah' is the name Leah. 'Va-teled' means 'and she bore.' 'Ben-shishi' means 'sixth son.' 'Le-Yaakov' means 'to Jacob.'
[GEN.30.20] And Leah said, "The Gods have endowed me with good endowment. This time my husband will honor me, because I have borne him six sons." And she named him Zebulun. [§]
Va-to-mer Le-ah Zevadani Elohim oti zeved tov, ha-pa-am yiz-bele-ni ishi ki ya-lad-ti lo shisha banim va-tik-ra et-shmo Zevulun.
This verse is from Genesis 30:20. Leah expresses gratitude to the Gods for her sixth son. She acknowledges the Gods have blessed her with six sons by her husband. She names the son Zebulun.
[GEN.30.21] And after, she bore a daughter, and she called her name Dinah. [§]
Ve'achar yal'dah bat ve'tikra et-shemah Dinah.
This verse describes Leah giving birth to a daughter and naming her Dinah. 'Ve'achar' means 'and after'. 'Yal'dah' means 'she bore' or 'she gave birth'. 'Bat' means 'daughter'. 'Ve'tikra' means 'and she called'. 'Et-shemah' means 'her name'. 'Dinah' is the name given to the daughter.
[GEN.30.22] And the Gods remembered Rachel, and God heard her, and the Gods opened her womb. [§]
va-yiz-kor e-lo-heem et-ra-chel va-yish-mah e-lay-ha e-lo-heem va-yif-tach et-rach-mah
This verse describes God remembering Rachel and listening to her, then opening her womb. 'Va-yiz-kor' means 'and remembered'. 'E-lo-heem' is 'the Gods'. 'Et-ra-chel' is 'Rachel'. 'Va-yish-mah' means 'and He heard'. 'E-lay-ha' means 'to her'. 'Va-yif-tach' means 'and He opened'. 'Et-rach-mah' means 'her womb'.
[GEN.30.23] And she conceived and bore a son, and she said, "The Gods have removed my disgrace." [§]
va-ta-har va-te-led ben va-to-amer asaf elohim et-cherpati
This verse describes a woman conceiving and giving birth to a son, and then making a declaration about God having removed her disgrace. 'Va-ta-har' means 'and she conceived'. 'Va-te-led' means 'and she bore'. 'Ben' means 'son'. 'Va-to-amer' means 'and she said'. 'Asaf' means 'gathered' or 'removed'. 'Elohim' refers to 'the Gods'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Cherpati' means 'my disgrace'.
[GEN.30.24] And she called his name Joseph, saying, "May Yahveh add to me another son." [§]
va-tee-krah et-shmoh yo-sef le-amor yo-sef Yahveh lee ben acher.
This verse describes the naming of a son. 'Va-tee-krah' means 'and she called'. 'Et-shmoh' means 'his name'. 'Yo-sef' is the name Joseph. 'Le-amor' means 'saying'. 'Yahveh lee' means 'Yahveh to me'. 'Ben acher' means 'another son'.
[GEN.30.25] And it was, as Rachel bore Joseph, that Jacob said to Laban, "Send me, and I will go to my place and to my land." [§]
Va-yhi ka-asher yal-dah Ra-hel et Yo-sef, va-yomer Ya-akov el La-van, shal-che-ni ve-el-kha el mko-mi u-le-artzi.
This verse describes Rachel giving birth to Joseph, and then Jacob asking Laban to let him and his family return to his homeland. "Va-yhi" means "and it was". "Ka-asher" means "as" or "when". "Yal-dah" means "she bore" or "she gave birth". "Et" is an untranslatable particle that marks a definite direct object. "Va-yomer" means "and he said". "Shal-che-ni" means "send me". "Ve-el-kha" means "and I will go". "El mko-mi" means "to my place". "U-le-artzi" means "and to my land".
[GEN.30.26] Allow my wives and my children, with whom I served you, and I will go, for you know the service that I served you. [§]
tenah et-nashay ve-et-yeladay asher avadti otcha bahem ve-elecha ki ata yadaata et-avodati asher avadticha.
This verse contains a request to allow someone's wives and children to accompany them. It is framed as a justification based on prior service. Let's break it down: 'tenah' means 'give' or 'allow'. 'et' is a direct object marker. 'nashay' means 'wives'. 've-et-yeladay' means 'and the children'. 'asher' means 'that' or 'which'. 'avadti otcha bahem' means 'I served you with them'. 've-elecha' means 'and I will go'. 'ki ata' means 'for you'. 'yadaata' means 'you knew'. 'et-avodati' means 'my service'. 'asher avadticha' means 'that I served you'.
[GEN.30.27] And Lavan said to him, "If, indeed, I have found favor in your eyes, please divine for me, and Yahveh has blessed me because of you." [§]
va-yo-mer la-van el-av la-van im-na mat-ti-ti khen be-ei-ne-cha ni-chashti va-ye-var-kheni Yahveh big-lal-kha
This verse comes from Genesis 30:27. 'Lavan' is a proper name, the name of a man. 'Elav' is a pronoun meaning 'to him'. 'Im-na' is an introductory phrase meaning 'if, indeed'. 'Mat-ti-ti' means 'I have found'. 'Khen' means 'favor'. 'Be-ei-ne-cha' means 'in your eyes'. 'Ni-chashti' means 'I have divined'. 'Va-ye-var-kheni' means 'and He has blessed me'. 'Yahveh' is the name of God. 'Big-lal-kha' means 'because of you'.
[GEN.30.28] And Bilhah said, "Your wages are upon me, and I will give it to you." [§]
va-yo-mar nak-vah seh-khar-kah a-lai ve-eh-teh-nah
This verse comes from Genesis 31:15. 'Va-yo-mar' means 'and he said'. 'Nak-vah' is a proper name, Bilhah. 'Seh-khar-kah' means 'your wages'. 'A-lai' means 'upon me'. 'Ve-eh-teh-nah' means 'and I will give it'. The verse is Bilhah speaking to Jacob.
[GEN.30.29] And God said to him, "You know the service I have given to you, and the fact that your possessions were with me." [§]
Va-yo-mer El-av, at-tah ya-da-ta et asher avad-ti-cha, ve-et asher ha-yah mik-neh-cha it-ti.
This verse contains several key names and words. "El" means God. "Avad-ti-cha" means "I served you". "Mik-neh-cha" means "your possessions". "It-ti" means "with me". The sentence structure is typical of ancient narrative, using a verb-subject-object order frequently.
[GEN.30.30] For the little that you had before me burst forth into abundance, and Yahveh blessed you for your benefit. And now, when will I do something also for my house? [§]
ki me'at asher hayah lecha lifnay vayifrotz larov vayvarech Yahveh otcha leragli ve'ata matai e'ese gam anochi leveiti
This verse speaks of a small beginning that God greatly multiplied. The speaker acknowledges God’s blessing and asks when they can do something similar for their own house. ‘Ki’ means ‘for’ or ‘because’. ‘Me’at’ means ‘little’ or ‘few’. ‘Asher’ is a relative pronoun meaning ‘that’ or ‘which’. ‘Hayah’ means ‘was’. ‘Lifnay’ means ‘before’ or ‘in front of’. ‘Vayifrotz’ means ‘and it burst forth’ or ‘and it broke out’. ‘Larov’ means ‘to abundance’ or ‘to multitude’. ‘Vayvarech’ means ‘and blessed’. ‘Yahveh’ is the proper name of God. ‘Otcha’ means ‘you’. ‘Leragli’ means ‘for your feet’ (often understood as ‘for your benefit’). ‘Ve’ata’ means ‘and now’. ‘Matai’ means ‘when’. ‘E’ese’ means ‘I will do’. ‘Gam’ means ‘also’. ‘Anochi’ means ‘I’. ‘Leveiti’ means ‘for my house’.
[GEN.30.31] And he said, "What shall I give to you?" And Jacob said to him, "Do not give me anything if you will do this thing for me: I will return and tend your flocks and watch over them." [§]
va-yo-mer mah eh-ten-lahch va-yo-mer ya-ah-kob lo-tee-ten-lee me-oomah im-tah-ah-seh-lee ha-dah-var ha-zeh ah-shoo-vah er-eh tso-an-chah esh-mor
This verse comes from Genesis 30:33. It recounts Jacob's negotiation with Laban regarding wages. Jacob asks what Laban will give him as payment for his work. Jacob then states he doesn’t want anything as a gift if Laban will agree to a specific condition: that Laban will allow Jacob to return and tend to his flocks. Jacob offers his continued service as payment, rather than a monetary reward.
[GEN.30.32] I will pass through all of your flock today, removing from there every spotted and speckled sheep and every brown sheep among the lambs, and speckled and spotted among the goats, and that will be my payment. [§]
Eh-eh-vor be-chal-tso-an-cha ha-yom ha-ser mi-sham kol-seh nakod ve-talua ve-kol-seh-chum ba-ke-sa-vim ve-talua ve-nakod ba-ee-zim ve-ha-yah se-cha-ree.
This verse details a payment arrangement. Someone is going through all of the flock and removing specific types of sheep and goats as wages. 'Nakod' and 'talua' are descriptions of markings or coloring on the animals. 'Chum' means brown. The speaker is stating that their payment will consist of these marked and colored animals.
[GEN.30.33] And my righteousness will answer for me tomorrow, when I come before you regarding my wages. For everything that is not marked and the dew-colored amongst the goats and the reddish amongst the sheep – it was stolen with me. [§]
ve'anatah-bi tzidqati beyom mahar, ki-taboa al-sekhari lifanekha, kol asher-einenenu naqod vetalu ba'izzim vekhum bakhesavim ganuv hu itti.
This verse details a claim of righteousness and an accusation of theft. The speaker asserts that their righteousness will answer for them tomorrow, when they come before God regarding their wages. They claim that everything missing – unspecified items branded/marked, and dew-colored in the goats, and reddish in the sheep – was stolen with them. It appears to be a defense against a charge of dishonesty regarding livestock or property.
[GEN.30.34] And Laban said, "See, may it be according to your word." [§]
Va-yo-mer La-van hen loo yi-hi kid-va-re-cha.
This verse is spoken by Laban. ‘Va-yo-mer’ means ‘and he said’. ‘Lavan’ is a proper noun, the name Laban. ‘Hen’ is an interjection meaning ‘behold’ or ‘see’. ‘Loo’ means ‘to me’ or ‘for me’. ‘Yi-hi’ means ‘it will be’. ‘Kid-va-re-cha’ means ‘according to your word’ or ‘as you have spoken’. The verse is a conditional statement acknowledging that something will be as the speaker has said.
[GEN.30.35] And he separated on that day the goats that were streaked and the speckled goats, and all the goats that were marked with spots and speckled, all that Laban had, and all the brown ones among the sheep, and he gave them into the hand of his sons. [§]
vayasar bayom hahu et hatyashim ha'akudim vehatlu'im ve'et kol ha'izzim hanekudot vehatlu'ot kol asher lavan bo vekol chum babkesarim vayiten beyad banav
This verse describes the separation of livestock. "Vayasar" means "and he separated". "Bayom hahu" means "on that day". The remaining words describe various types of livestock – goats, sheep – and their markings (streaked, speckled, brown, etc.). The livestock belonged to Laban, and were given into the hands of his sons.
[GEN.30.36] And he placed a journey of three days between himself and Jacob, and Jacob shepherds the remaining flocks of Laban. [§]
va-ya-sem derekh shloshet yamim beinav u-bein Ya'akov ve-Ya'akov ro'eh et-tson Lavan ha-notarot.
This verse describes a three-day journey placed between someone (implied to be Laban) and Jacob, and states that Jacob shepherds the remaining flocks of Laban. 'Va-ya-sem' means 'and he placed'. 'Derekh' means 'way' or 'journey'. 'Shloshet yamim' is 'three days'. 'Beinav u-bein Ya'akov' is 'between him and Jacob'. 'Ve-Ya'akov' means 'and Jacob'. 'Ro'eh' means 'shepherds'. 'Et-tson Lavan' is 'the flocks of Laban'. 'Ha-notarot' means 'the remaining'.
[GEN.30.37] And Jacob took for himself rods of poplar, almond, and plane tree, fresh and supple. And he peeled in them peelings of white, exposing the white layer which was upon the rods. [§]
va-yik-akh-loo ya-ah-kohv ma-kahl li-ve-neh lakh va-looz ve-er-mon va-yeh-pah-tsel ba-hen pit-sah-loht le-vah-noht mah-khah-sof ha-lah-vahn ah-sher ahl-ha-mak-loht
This verse describes Jacob taking branches of poplar, almond, and plane tree and peeling off their outer bark to expose the white wood underneath. The purpose seems to be for some kind of marking or signaling, creating white stripes on the rods.
[GEN.30.38] And he set up the sticks, which he had peeled, in the watering troughs where the flocks came to drink, opposite the flocks, and they conceived when they came to drink. [§]
va-yatzeg et-ha-maklot asher pitzel barohatim beshiqatot ha-mayim asher tabo'ana ha-tson listot lenochach ha-tson va-yechamnah be-vo'an listot.
This verse describes Jacob setting up sticks, striped or speckled, in the watering troughs where the flocks came to drink. He appears to be doing this as a method to influence the breeding of the livestock. The word 'yechamnah' is interpreted as 'heat' or 'breeding cycle' and the phrase 'be-vo'an listot' means 'when they come to drink'.
[GEN.30.39] And the flocks became hot toward the staffs, and the flocks gave birth to offspring tightly closed, spotted, and smooth. [§]
vayechmu haccan el-hamaklot vateladnan haccan akudim nekudim utlu'im.
This verse describes the flocks giving birth. "Vayechmu" means "they warmed/became hot" but in this context it means the flocks began giving birth. "Haccan" is "the flocks". "El-hamaklot" is "to the staffs/rods", referring to a birthing place. "Vateladnan" is "they gave birth". "Akudim" means "bound/tightly closed", referring to the fetal position. "Nekudim" means "spotted/marked". "Utlu'im" means "smooth/glossy".
[GEN.30.40] And the flocks, Jacob separated, and he turned the faces of the flocks toward the striped, and all the brown in the flocks of Laban, and he made for himself herds separately, and he did not watch over the flocks of Laban. [§]
veha-khasavim hiprid yaakov vaiten pnei hatsoan el-akod vechol chum betsoan lavan vayashat-lo adarim levado velo shatam al-tsoan lavan
This verse describes Jacob separating the livestock. 'Khasavim' refers to flocks, specifically sheep and goats. 'Hiprid' means to separate. 'Yaakov' is Jacob. 'Pnei hatsoan' literally means 'the faces of the sheep/flocks', but in this context, it refers to the livestock themselves. 'El-akod' is 'to the flocks', but can also be interpreted as referring to specific marked flocks. 'Chum' means brown or spotted, referring to the color of the livestock. 'Betsoan lavan' means 'in the flocks of Laban'. 'Vayashat-lo adarim' means 'and he made for himself herds'. 'Levado' means 'separately'. 'Velo shatam' means 'and did not watch over'. 'Al-tsoan lavan' means 'over the flocks of Laban'.
[GEN.30.41] And it will be, in all your heat of the flocks that are bound, and Jacob will set the branches before the eyes of the flocks that are spotted, to make them conceive while looking at the branches. [§]
ve-ha-ya be-chol-ya-chem ha-tson ha-me-ku-sha-rot ve-sam Ya-ak-ov et-ha-mak-lot le-ei-nei ha-tson ba-ro-ha-tim le-yach-me-na ba-mak-lot.
This verse describes Jacob preparing his flocks for breeding. He places specific branches (maklot) before the sheep (tson) so that they may conceive (yachmenah) while looking at them. ‘Ya-chem’ refers to the heat or breeding season of the flocks. ‘Me-ku-sha-rot’ denotes ‘bound’ or ‘tied’ referring to the flocks. ‘Ba-ro-ha-tim’ denotes ‘spotted’ or ‘streaked’ as a description of the branches.
[GEN.30.42] And when the flock was covered, he did not set [branches to encourage] speckled patterns, and the covered ones were white, and the bound ones were for Jacob. [§]
uv’veha’atif h’tson lo yasim v’haya ha’atufim l’lavan v’ha’ksurim l’ya’akov.
This verse describes Jacob’s attempt to manipulate the breeding of Laban’s livestock. ‘atif means ‘wrapping’ or ‘covering’, here referring to the process of arranging branches before the animals to encourage certain breeding patterns. ‘tson means ‘flock’ or ‘sheep’. yasim means ‘he will set’ or ‘he will place’. ‘atufim means ‘those wrapped’ or ‘those covered’ and refers to the speckled or spotted offspring. lavan means ‘white’. k’shurim means ‘those bound’ or ‘those streaked’ and refers to the striped offspring. ya’akov means ‘Jacob’.
[GEN.30.43] And the man prospered greatly, and he had numerous flocks, and maidservants and servants, and camels and donkeys. [§]
va-yip-rotz ha-eesh me-od me-od va-ye-hee-lo tzo-an rab-bot oo-shif-chot va-av-a-deem oo-gemal-leem va-cha-mor-eem
This verse describes the increasing prosperity of a man. "Vayiprotz" means "he broke out" or "he prospered greatly." "Ha-ish" is "the man." "Me'od me'od" means "very greatly" or "exceedingly." "Vayehi-lo" means "and it came to pass to him" or "and he had." "Tzoan" means "sheep" or "flocks." "Rabbot" means "many" or "numerous." "Shifchot" means "maidservants" or "female slaves." "Avadeem" means "servants" or "male slaves." "Gemalim" means "camels." "Chamormeem" means "donkeys".
GEN.31
[GEN.31.1] And he heard the words of the sons of Laban, saying, "Jacob has taken all that belonged to our father, and from what belonged to our father he has made all this honor." [§]
va-yish-ma ah-tet dee-vrei b-nei-la-van le-emor la-kach ya-akov et-kol asher le-aveenu u-me-asher le-aveenu asa et-kol ha-kavod ha-zeh
This verse describes the sons of Laban speaking about Jacob. They are saying that Jacob has taken everything that belonged to their father, and has made all this honor (wealth) from what belonged to their father.
[GEN.31.2] And Jacob saw the face of Laban, and behold, he was not with him as yesterday the day before yesterday. [§]
Va-yar Ya-akov et-peh-nei La-van ve-hi-neh ei-nen-nu im-moh kit-mohl shil-shoam.
This verse describes Jacob seeing Laban’s face, and noticing that he is not with him as he was the day before yesterday. ‘Va-yar’ means ‘and saw’. ‘Ya-akov’ is ‘Jacob’. ‘Et’ is a particle indicating the definite object. ‘Peh-nei’ means ‘face of’. ‘La-van’ is ‘Laban’. ‘Ve-hi-neh’ means ‘and behold’. ‘Ei-nen-nu’ means ‘he is not’. ‘Im-moh’ means ‘with him’. ‘Kit-mohl’ means ‘yesterday’. ‘Shil-shoam’ means ‘the day before yesterday.’
[GEN.31.3] And Yahveh said to Jacob, "Return to the land of your fathers and to your birthplace, and I will be with you." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yahveh el Ya-a-kov, shuv el eretz avotekha u-le-mo-lad-tekha, ve-eh-yeh im-cha.
This verse recounts Yahveh speaking to Jacob. "Va-yo-mer" means 'and said'. "Yahveh" is the proper name of God. "el" means 'to'. "Ya-a-kov" is Jacob's name. "shuv" is a command meaning 'return'. "el" means 'to'. "eretz" means 'land'. "avotekha" means 'your fathers'. "u-le-mo-lad-tekha" means 'and to your birthplace'. "ve-eh-yeh" means 'and I will be'. "im-cha" means 'with you'.
[GEN.31.4] And Jacob sent and called to Rachel and to Leah, "The field, to your Gods’ flock!" [§]
Va-yish-lakh Ya-akov va-yik-ra le-ra-khel u-le-le-ah ha-sa-deh el-tson-o.
This verse describes Jacob sending a message to Rachel and Leah regarding his flocks in the field. The verb forms indicate past tense action. "Va-yish-lakh" means 'and he sent'. "Va-yik-ra" means 'and he called'. "Le-ra-khel u-le-le-ah" means 'to Rachel and to Leah'. "Ha-sa-deh" means 'the field'. "El-tson-o" means 'to his flock'.
[GEN.31.5] And he said to them, "I am seeing the faces of your fathers, for it is not to me as yesterday and the day before. And the Gods of my father were with me." [§]
Va-yo-mer la-hen ro-eh a-no-chi et-pnei a-vi-chen ki-ei-nen-nu el-ai ki-tmol shil-shom ve-elo-hei a-vi ha-ya im-ma-di.
This verse is from Genesis 26:24. It describes a vision or appearance of God to Isaac. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'La-hen' means 'to them'. 'Ro-eh' means 'seeing'. 'A-no-chi' means 'I'. 'Et-pnei' means 'the faces of'. 'A-vi-chen' means 'your fathers'. 'Ki-ei-nen-nu' means 'it is not'. 'El-ai' means 'to me'. 'Ki-tmol shil-shom' means 'as yesterday and the day before'. 'Ve-elo-hei a-vi' means 'and the Gods of my father'. 'Ha-ya' means 'was'. 'Im-ma-di' means 'with me'.
[GEN.31.6] And you know that with all my strength I have served your father. [§]
ve-at-teh-nah yedah-tem kee be-chol-ko-hee ah-vahd-tee et-ah-vee-khen.
This verse contains a series of words that describe knowledge and service to a father. "ve-at-teh-nah" means 'and you know'. "yedah-tem" is a second person plural form of the verb 'to know'. "kee" means 'that' or 'because'. "be-chol-ko-hee" means 'with all my strength'. "ah-vahd-tee" is 'I have served'. "et-ah-vee-khen" means 'your father'.
[GEN.31.7] And my father dwelt with me, and he changed my wages tenfold, and the Gods did not give it to do evil with me. [§]
Va'avichen heitel bi vehechlif et maschurti aseret monim velo netano Elohim lehara imadi.
This verse details a dream experienced by Jacob. "Va'avichen" means "and my father". "Heitel" means "to dwell" or "to visit". "Bi" means "with me". "Vehechlif" means "and he changed". "Et maschurti" means "my wages". "Aseret monim" means "ten times". "Velo netano" means "and not gave". "Elohim" refers to the Gods. "Lehara" means "to do evil". "Imadi" means "with me". The verse describes a divine visitation to Jacob where the Gods multiplied his wages tenfold and did not intend harm to him.
[GEN.31.8] If he says, "Speckled will be your wages," and all the flock produce speckled offspring, then if he says, "Solid-colored will be your wages," and all the flock produce solid-colored offspring. [§]
Im-koh yomar nekudim yihyeh sikhar'cha v'yald'u kol-hatzo'n nekudim v'im-koh yomar akudim yihyeh sikhar'cha v'yald'u kol-hatzo'n akudim.
This verse describes a test proposed by Jacob to his laborers. He suggests that if their livestock produce offspring with speckled or spotted markings (nekudim), then it will be considered their wages. Alternatively, if the livestock produces offspring with solid-colored markings (akudim), then those will be their wages. It is a deal based on the outcome of animal breeding, essentially a way to test their honesty and perhaps indicate divine influence.
[GEN.31.9] And the Gods rescued the livestock of your father and gave it to me. [§]
va-yatzel Elohim et-mikneh Avichem va-yiten-li.
This verse describes a situation where the Gods rescued the livestock of your father and gave it to me. 'Va-yatzel' means 'and rescued'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Et-mikneh' is 'the livestock'. 'Avichem' is 'your father'. 'Va-yiten-li' means 'and gave to me'.
[GEN.31.10] And it happened in the time of the sheep's heat, I lifted my eyes and saw in a dream, and behold, the he-goats were ascending upon the sheep, spotted, streaked, and speckled. [§]
Va-yhee be-et yakham ha-tson, va-essa einei va-ereh ba-chalom, ve-hinneh ha-attudim ha-olim al-ha-tson, akudim nekudim u-vrudim.
This verse describes a dream. 'Va-yhee' means 'and it happened'. 'Be-et yakham ha-tson' means 'in the time of the heat of the sheep,' referring to the breeding season. 'Va-essa einei' means 'I lifted my eyes.' 'Va-ereh ba-chalom' means 'and I saw in a dream.' 'Ve-hinneh' means 'and behold.' 'Ha-attudim ha-olim al-ha-tson' means 'the he-goats ascending upon the sheep.' 'Akudim nekudim u-vrudim' means 'spotted, streaked, and speckled.'
[GEN.31.11] And an angel of the Gods said to me in Jacob’s dream, and I said, "Here I am." [§]
Va-yo-mer elai malakh ha-elohim ba-chalom Yaakov va-omer hinenei.
This verse describes an angel of the Gods speaking to Jacob in a dream. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Elai' means 'to me'. 'Malakh' means 'angel'. 'Ha-elohim' means 'the Gods'. 'Ba-chalom' means 'in a dream'. 'Yaakov' is the name 'Jacob'. 'Va-omer' means 'and I said'. 'Hinenei' means 'here I am'.
[GEN.31.12] And he said, “Please lift your eyes and see all the he-goats ascending upon the flocks, spotted, speckled, and marbled, for I have seen all that Laban does for you.” [§]
vayomer sa-na einecha ure’eh kol-ha’attudim ha’olim al-hatzon akudim nekudim uvrudim ki ra’iti et kol-asher lavan ose lecha.
This verse comes from Genesis 30:32. It is Jacob speaking to Laban regarding livestock. The verse details the breeding patterns of the flocks. 'Sa-na einecha' is a request to lift one’s eyes and see. 'Ha’attudim' refers to the he-goats, or male goats. 'Ha’olim' means those ascending or coming up. 'Akudim' means spotted, mottled, or streaked. 'Nekudim' means speckled or dotted. 'Uvrudim' means marbled or variegated. 'Asher' means what or that which. 'Ose' means he does.
[GEN.31.13] I am the God, the God of the house of God, which you anointed there, a pillar which you vowed to me there. Now, rise, go out from this land and return to the land of your birth. [§]
Anokhi haEl beit-El asher mashachtam sham matsevah asher nadarta li sham neder ataah qum tseh min haAretz haZot veshuv el Eretz moladtekha.
This verse is God speaking to Jacob. "Anokhi" means "I". "haEl" is "the God". "beit-El" means "house of God". "asher" means "which" or "that". "mashachtam" means "you anointed". "sham" means "there". "matsevah" means "pillar" or "monument". "nadarta" means "you vowed". "li" means "to me". "neder" means "vow". "ataah" means "now". "qum" means "rise". "tseh" means "go out". "min" means "from". "haAretz haZot" means "this land". "veshuv" means "and return". "el" means "to". "Eretz moladtekha" means "the land of your birth".
[GEN.31.14] And Rachel and Leah responded to him, saying, "Do we still have a portion and inheritance in our father’s house?" [§]
va-ta-an Rachel ve-Leah va-to-am-rna lo ha-od lanu chelek ve-nachalah be-beit avi-nu.
This verse is spoken by Rachel and Leah to their father, Jacob. They are asking if they still have a portion and inheritance within their father’s house. 'Va-ta-an' indicates that Rachel and Leah responded. 'Rachel ve-Leah' are the proper names. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Ha-od' means 'still'. 'Lanu' means 'to us'. 'Chelek' means 'portion'. 'Ve-nachalah' means 'and inheritance'. 'Be-beit' means 'in the house of'. 'Avi-nu' means 'our father'.
[GEN.31.15] Have we not been counted among the strange ones for they sold us, and also consumed our money? [§]
ha-lo nak-ree-yot nekh-shav-nu lo ki me-kar-anu vay-o-khal gam-okhol et-kas-pe-nu
This verse expresses a lament, questioning whether they have been counted among the strange ones because they were sold, and their money was consumed. "Nakriyot" refers to foreign women or strange wives, implying a sense of being alienated or considered outsiders. The verse suggests a feeling of betrayal and loss, both of freedom (being sold) and of wealth (money being consumed).
[GEN.31.16] For all the wealth that the Gods saved from our father is for us and for our children. And now, do everything that the Gods have said to you. [§]
ki kol-ha'osher asher hitzil elohim me'avinu lanu hu ul'vaneinu ve'ata kol asher amar elohim elecha ase
This verse discusses wealth preserved by 'the Gods' from our father, for us and our children. It ends with a directive to do all that 'the Gods' have spoken to you.
[GEN.31.17] And Jacob rose and lifted his sons and his wives upon the camels. [§]
va-ya-kom ya-a-kov va-yi-sa ei-et ba-nav u-ei-et na-shav al ha-ge-ma-lim
This verse describes Jacob rising and loading his sons and wives onto camels. 'Va-ya-kom' means 'and rose'. 'Ya-a-kov' is the name Jacob. 'Va-yi-sa' means 'and he lifted'. 'Ei-et' is a particle marking the direct objects. 'Ba-nav' means 'his sons'. 'U-ei-et' means 'and' followed by the same particle marking the next direct object. 'Na-shav' means 'his wives'. 'Al' means 'upon'. 'Ha-ge-ma-lim' means 'the camels'.
[GEN.31.18] And he led all of his livestock and all of his possessions that he had acquired, livestock of his ownership, that he had acquired in Paddan Aram, to come to Isaac his father in the land of Canaan. [§]
vayinhag et kol miknehuhu ve'et kol rechusho asher rachash mikneh kinyano asher rachash bepadan aram lavo el yitzchak aviv artzah kena'an
This verse describes how Jacob led all of his livestock and all his possessions that he had acquired, livestock of his ownership, that he had acquired in Paddan Aram, to come to Isaac his father in the land of Canaan.
[GEN.31.19] And Laban went to shear his sheep, and Rachel stole the household gods which belonged to her father. [§]
ve-la-van ha-lach li-gzoz et-tson-o vatignov Rachel et-haterafim asher le-aviha
This verse describes Laban going to shear his sheep and Rachel stealing the household gods belonging to her father. 'Lavan' is a proper noun, a man's name. 'Halach' means 'went'. 'Lgzoz' means 'to shear'. 'Et-tson-o' is 'his sheep'. 'Vatignov' means 'and stole'. 'Rachel' is a proper noun, a woman's name. 'Et-haterafim' is 'the household gods'. 'Asher' means 'which belong to'. 'Le-aviha' means 'to her father'.
[GEN.31.20] And Jacob stole the affections of Laban the Aramean, without telling him that he was fleeing. [§]
Va-yignov Ya'akov et-lev Lavan ha-Arami al-beli higgid lo ki boreach hu.
This verse describes Jacob deceiving Laban. 'Va-yignov' means 'and he stole'. 'Ya'akov' is Jacob's name. 'Et-lev' means 'the heart' or, idiomatically, 'the affections'. 'Lavan ha-Arami' is Laban the Aramean. 'Al-beli' means 'without'. 'Higgid' means 'to tell'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Ki' means 'that'. 'Boreach' means 'one who flees'. 'Hu' means 'he'. The verse describes Jacob stealing Laban's good will by not telling him he was fleeing.
[GEN.31.21] And he fled, and all that belonged to him, and he arose and crossed the river, and he set his faces toward the Mountain of Gilead. [§]
va'yivrach hu ve'chol asher lo va'ya'kam va'ya'avor et hanahar va'yasem et panav har hagilead
This verse describes a person fleeing with all that belonged to them, crossing a river, and then setting their face towards Mount Gilead. The verbs are in the past tense, indicating completed actions. 'Asher lo' refers to everything that belonged to 'hu' (he). 'Panav' is a plural construct, meaning 'faces' which in this context is used to mean 'toward'.
[GEN.31.22] It was told to Laban on the third day that Jacob had fled. [§]
va-yugad le-lavan ba-yom ha-shlishi ki barach yaakov.
This verse states that it was told to Laban on the third day that Jacob had fled. "Vayugad" means "it was told". "Lavan" is Laban’s name. "Ba-yom ha-shlishi" means "on the third day". "Ki" means "that". "Barach" means "fled". "Yaakov" is Jacob’s name.
[GEN.31.23] And he took his brothers with him, and he pursued after him along the way of seven days, and he overtook him on the mountain of Gilead. [§]
vayikach et-echav immo vayirduf acharov derech shiv'at yamim vayadbek oto behar hagil'ad
This verse describes a pursuit. 'Vayikach' means 'and he took'. 'Et-echav' means 'his brothers'. 'Immo' means 'with him'. 'Vayirduf' means 'and he pursued'. 'Acharov' means 'after him'. 'Derech' means 'along the way of'. 'Shiv'at yamim' means 'seven days'. 'Vayadbek' means 'and he overtook'. 'Oto' means 'him'. 'Behar hagil'ad' means 'on the mountain of Gilead'.
[GEN.31.24] And the Gods came to Lavan the Aramean in a dream of the night, and He said to him, "Be careful, lest you speak with Jacob from good to bad." [§]
Va-yo-vo Elohim el-Lavan ha-Arami ba-chalom ha-laila va-yomer lo hishamer lecha pen-tedaber im-Yaakov mi-tov ad-ra.
This verse describes a dream that God had to Lavan the Aramean. In the dream, God warns Lavan not to speak to Jacob, whether good or bad. 'Va-yo-vo' means 'and He came'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'El' means 'God'. 'Lavan' is a proper noun - the name 'Lavan'. 'ha-Arami' means 'the Aramean'. 'ba-chalom' means 'in the dream'. 'ha-laila' means 'the night'. 'va-yomer' means 'and He said'. 'lo' means 'to you'. 'hishamer' means 'be careful'. 'lecha' means 'to you'. 'pen-tedaber' means 'lest you speak'. 'im-Yaakov' means 'with Jacob'. 'mi-tov ad-ra' means 'from good to bad'.
[GEN.31.25] Laban pursued Jacob, and Jacob pitched his camp in the mountain, and Laban pitched his brothers in the mountain of Gilead. [§]
va-yas-seg la-van et-ya-akov ve-ya-akov ta-ka et-o-holo ba-har ve-la-van ta-ka et-e-haviv be-har ha-gil-ead.
This verse describes Laban pursuing Jacob, and both of them setting up camps on the mountains. "Vayasseg" means 'he lifted up' or 'he pursued'. "Et" is a grammatical marker with no direct translation. "Taka" means 'he pitched' or 'he set up'. "Oholo" means 'his tent' or 'his camp'. "Ehaviv" means 'his brothers' or 'his relatives'. "Har" means 'mountain'. "Ha-gilead" means 'the Gilead'.
[GEN.31.26] And Laban said to Jacob, "What have you done, and have you stolen my heart? And you have led my daughters as captives of the sword." [§]
Va-yo-mer La-van le-Ya-a-kov, meh a-see-ta va-tee-g-nov et-lev-a-vee va-teh-na-geg et-be-no-tai keesh-vee-yot kharev.
This verse comes from Genesis 31:20. Laban speaks to Jacob, accusing him of deceit and mistreatment. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'La-van' is Laban's name. 'Le-Ya-a-kov' means 'to Jacob'. 'Meh a-see-ta' means 'what have you done?'. 'Va-tee-g-nov' means 'and you have stolen'. 'Et-lev-a-vee' means 'my heart'. 'Va-teh-na-geg' means 'and you have led'. 'Et-be-no-tai' means 'my daughters'. 'Keesh-vee-yot kharev' means 'as captives of the sword'.
[GEN.31.27] Why did you hide to flee and steal me, and did not tell me? And I will send you away with joy and with songs, with tambourine and with lyre. [§]
lamah nachbe'ta livroch vatignov oti v'lo higadta li va'ashalechacha b'simcha u'v'shirim b'tof u'v'chinor.
This verse is a rhetorical question and accusation. "Lamah" means "why". "Nachbe'ta" means "you hid". "Livroch" means "to flee". "Vatignov" means "and you stole". "Oti" means "me". "V'lo higadta" means "and you did not tell". "Va'ashalechacha" means "and I will send you". The remaining words describe how the person will be sent away - with joy, songs, tambourine, and lyre.
[GEN.31.28] And how could you have abandoned me to show favor to my sons and to my daughters, now have you acted foolishly to make it so? [§]
v'lo netashtani l'nashek livanai v'livnotai, atah hiskhaltah aso.
This verse is from 2 Samuel 7:23. It expresses David's bewilderment that Yahveh would establish a covenant with him, a simple person, and his descendants. 'netashtani' means 'you have abandoned me', but in this context, it's used rhetorically to mean 'how could you?' 'nashek' means 'to kiss' which in this context means to show favor. 'livanai v'livnotai' means 'to my sons and to my daughters'. 'atah' means 'now'. 'hiskhaltah' means 'you have acted foolishly/you have been amazed'. 'aso' means 'to do/to make'. The verse is a rhetorical question, implying that the idea of Yahveh establishing a covenant with David's family seems unbelievable.
[GEN.31.29] To God belongs the power to do harm to you, and the Gods of your fathers recently told me to be careful not to speak with Jacob in any way. [§]
Yesh-le-el yadi la-asot im-achem ra, ve-elohei avichem emesh amar elai le-emor hishamer lecha mi-daber im-Yaakov mitov ad ra.
This verse describes a potential for harm from God and a warning regarding interaction with Jacob. 'Yesh-le-el' means 'to God' or 'for God', indicating something belongs to or is possible with God. 'Yadi' means 'my hand' – figuratively, 'power' or 'ability'. 'Elohei avichem' means 'the Gods of your fathers'. 'Emesh' means 'yesterday', but in this context likely means 'recently' or 'formerly'. 'Hisamer lecha' means 'guard yourself' or 'be careful'. 'Mi-daber im-Yaakov' means 'from speaking with Jacob'. 'Mitov ad ra' means 'from good to bad' or 'in any way'.
[GEN.31.30] And now, you have gone, because you have yearned for the house of your father. Why have you stolen my Gods? [§]
ve’atah haloch halachta ki-nichsof nichsapta le-beit avicha lamah ganavta et-eloai.
This verse details a questioning of someone who has taken an object belonging to another. 'Ve’atah' means 'and now'. 'Haloch halachta' means 'you have gone'. 'Ki-nichsof nichsapta' means 'because you have yearned'. 'Le-beit avicha' means 'to the house of your father'. 'Lamah' means 'why'. 'Ganavta' means 'you have stolen'. 'Et-eloai' means 'my Gods'.
[GEN.31.31] And Jacob answered and said to Laban, "That I feared, because I said, lest you steal my daughters from me." [§]
Va-yan Ya'akov va-yomer le-Lavan ki yare'ti ki amarti pen tigzol et benotecha me'imi.
This verse is from Genesis 31:42. 'Va-yan' means 'and answered'. 'Ya'akov' is Jacob. 'Va-yomer' means 'and he said'. 'Le-Lavan' means 'to Laban'. 'Ki' means 'that' or 'because'. 'Yare'ti' means 'I feared'. 'Ki amarti' means 'because I said'. 'Pen' means 'lest' or 'that'. 'Tigzol' means 'you steal'. 'Et benotecha' means 'your daughters'. 'Me'imi' means 'from me'.
[GEN.31.32] If you find the Gods, you shall not live against our brother; make known to you what stands with me, and take for yourself; and Jacob does not know that Rachel stole them. [§]
Im asher timtza et Eloheykha lo yikhyeh neged acheynu hacher lecha mah immadi vekah lakha velo yada Yaakov ki Rachel genavatam.
This verse describes a situation where finding 'the Gods' will result in death. It involves deception and theft, specifically Rachel stealing something. 'The Gods' refers to the household idols. The speaker is challenging someone to assess their own standing and take what they desire, while Jacob remains unaware of Rachel's actions.
[GEN.31.33] And Laban went into the tent of Jacob and into the tent of Leah and into the tent of the two female servants, and he did not find. And he went out of the tent of Leah and he went into the tent of Rachel. [§]
va-yo-vo la-van be-o-hel ya-ak-ov u-ve-o-hel le-ah u-ve-o-hel sh-tei ha-a-ma-hot ve-lo ma-tsa va-ye-tsei me-o-hel le-ah va-yo-vo be-o-hel ra-chel
This verse describes Laban searching through the tents. ‘Lavan’ is a proper noun, a man’s name. ‘ohel’ means ‘tent’. ‘Ya’akov’ is ‘Jacob’. ‘Leah’ is ‘Leah’. ‘sh-tei ha-a-ma-hot’ means ‘the two female servants’. ‘lo mata’ means ‘did not find’. ‘va-ye-tsei’ means ‘and he went out’. ‘va-yo-vo’ means ‘and he went in’. ‘Rachel’ is ‘Rachel’.
[GEN.31.34] And Rachel took the terafim and placed them in the saddle of the camel and sat upon them. And Laban searched all the tent and did not find them. [§]
ve-rahel lakha et-ha-terafim va-teshimem be-khar ha-gamal va-teshev aleihem va-yammesh laban et-kol-ha-ohel ve-lo matsa.
This verse describes Rachel stealing her father Laban's household idols, called 'terafim.' She hides them in the camel's saddle and sits upon them. Laban searches the entire tent but does not find them. 'Ve' means 'and', 'lakha' means 'took', 'et' is a grammatical marker, 'ha' means 'the', 'terafim' refers to the household idols, 'va-teshimem' means 'and she placed them', 'be-khar' means 'in the saddle', 'ha-gamal' means 'the camel', 'va-teshev' means 'and she sat', 'aleihem' means 'upon them', 'va-yammesh' means 'and Laban searched', 'et-kol' means 'all', 'ha-ohel' means 'the tent', 've-lo' means 'and not', 'matza' means 'found'.
[GEN.31.35] And she said to her father, “Let not be angry in the eyes of my Lord, for I cannot rise before you, for the way of women is with me.” And he searched, and did not find the idols. [§]
Va-to-mer el-aviha al-yichar b’einei adonai ki lo uchal lakum mipanecha ki-derech nashim li va-yichapes v’lo matza et-ha-t’rafim.
This verse is from the story of Rachel stealing her father Laban’s household idols. The verse begins with Rachel speaking to her father. 'Va-to-mer' means 'and she said.' 'El-aviha' means 'to her father.' 'Al-yichar' is a request, meaning 'let not be angry' or 'let not be displeased.' 'B’einei' means 'in the eyes of.' 'Adonai' is 'my Lord.' 'Ki' means 'because' or 'for.' 'Lo uchal' means 'I cannot.' 'Lakum mipanecha' means 'to rise before you.' 'Ki-derech nashim li' means 'for the way of women is with me' – this is a euphemism for menstruation. 'Va-yichapes' means 'and he searched.' 'V’lo matza' means ‘and he did not find.’ ‘Et-ha-t’rafim’ means ‘the idols’.
[GEN.31.36] It displeased Jacob, and he quarreled with Laban. Then Jacob answered and said to Laban, "What is my transgression, what is my sin, that you have pursued after me?" [§]
Va-yichar le-Yaakov va-yarev be-Lavan va-yaan Yaakov va-yomer le-Lavan mah pish'i mah chatati ki dalakhta acharai.
This verse describes Jacob's distress and his confrontation with Laban. 'Va-yichar' means 'it displeased'. 'Va-yarev' means 'he quarreled'. 'Va-yaan' means 'he answered'. 'Mah pish'i' means 'what is my transgression?' and 'mah chatati' means 'what is my sin?'. 'Ki dalakhta acharai' means 'why have you pursued after me?'
[GEN.31.37] Because you have searched all of my possessions, what have you found among all the possessions of my house? Present this now before my brothers and your brothers, and let them judge between us. [§]
ki-mishtata et-kol-kelay mah-matzata mikol keley-beytecha sim koh neged achay ve'achecha veyochihu bein shneyinu
This verse comes from the story of Laban and Jacob. Laban is asking Jacob to show him all of his possessions. He wants Jacob to present them before their relatives and let them decide if Jacob has stolen anything from Laban. The verse literally translates as 'Because you have searched all my possessions, what have you found among all the possessions of my house? Present this now before my brothers and your brothers, and let them judge between the two of us.'
[GEN.31.38] This is twenty years that I am with you; your sheep and your goats have not wasted, and I have not eaten the lambs of your flock. [§]
zeh essrim shanah anochi immach rechelecha veizzecha lo shicheilu veilei tzoancha lo achalti
This verse details a claim of service and faithfulness. 'Zeh' means 'this'. 'Essrim' means 'twenty'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Anochi' means 'I'. 'Immach' means 'with you'. 'Rechelecha' means 'your sheep'. 'Veizzecha' means 'and your goats'. 'Lo shicheilu' means 'have not diminished/wasted'. 'Veilei tzoancha' means 'and the lambs of your flock'. 'Lo achalti' means 'I have not eaten'. The verse essentially states that for twenty years the speaker has been with the listener, and during that time, neither the sheep nor the goats have diminished, and the lambs have not been eaten.
[GEN.31.39] A torn thing I did not bring to you; I will restore it from my hand, you shall seek it. I stole by day and I stole by night. [§]
tre-fah lo-heh-vee-tee el-ay-kah ah-no-khee ah-haht-teh-nah mee-yah-dee teh-vahk-sheh-nah geh-noov-tee yohm oo-geh-noov-tee lah-yah-lah
This verse is a declaration of responsibility and a promise of restoration. "Trefah" refers to something torn or damaged, often used to describe an animal unfit for sacrifice. The speaker states they did not bring this damaged thing to another, but will rectify it themselves. They acknowledge having taken something by day and by night, implying a gradual process of wrongdoing and now a commitment to making things right.
[GEN.31.40] I was in the day consumed by burning and cold in the night, and my sleep was driven from my eyes. [§]
ha-yiti ba-yom achalani chorev ve-kerach ba-laila va-tidadd shnati me-einai.
This verse describes a state of being consumed by hardship and sleeplessness. "Ha-yiti" means "I was". "Ba-yom" means "in the day". "Achalani" means "consumed me". "Chorev" means "burning" or "devouring". "Ve-kerach" means "and cold". "Ba-laila" means "in the night". "Va-tidadd" means "and drove away". "Shnati" means "my sleep". "Me-einai" means "from my eyes". The verse conveys a sense of being utterly worn down by suffering, both physically and emotionally, resulting in an inability to rest.
[GEN.31.41] Here are twenty years I have served in your house. I have served you fourteen years with your two daughters, and six years with your flock. And you changed my wages to ten measures. [§]
zeh lee esrim shanah bebaytecha avadtecha arba esreh shanah bishtey benotecha veshesh shanim btsoncha vatachalef et mischukarti aseret monim
This verse details a man recounting his years of service to another. 'Zeh' means 'this' or 'here is'. 'Lee' means 'to me'. 'Esrim' means 'twenty'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Beytecha' means 'in your house'. 'Avadtecha' means 'I have served you'. 'Arba esreh' means 'fourteen'. 'Bishtey benotecha' means 'with your two daughters'. 'Veshesh shanim' means 'and six years'. 'Btsoncha' means 'with your flock'. 'Vatachalef' means 'and you changed'. 'Et mischukarti' means 'my wages'. 'Aseret monim' means 'ten measures'.
[GEN.31.42] Were it not for the Gods of my father, the Gods of Abraham, and the fear of Isaac, I would have been sent away empty now. The Gods have seen my affliction and the labor of my hands, and have reproved Laban. [§]
lu-lei e-lo-hei a-vee e-lo-hei av-ra-ham u-pachad yitz-chak ha-yah lee ki a-tah ree-kam shi-lach-ta-nee et-a-nee-yee ve-et-ye-gee-ah ka-pah ra-ah e-lo-heem va-yo-khach a-mesh
This verse is Jacob’s lament to God after leaving Laban’s house. He is expressing his fear and acknowledging God’s involvement in his life. ‘Lulei’ means ‘were it not for’. ‘Elohei’ means ‘the Gods’. ‘Pachad’ means ‘fear’. ‘Atah’ means ‘now’. ‘Reikam’ means ‘empty’. ‘Aniyi’ means ‘my affliction’. ‘Yegia’ means ‘my labor’. ‘Kapa’ means ‘my hands’. ‘Elohim’ is ‘the Gods’. ‘Vayokhach’ means ‘and has reproved’. ‘Amash’ refers to Laban.
[GEN.31.43] And Laban answered and said to Jacob, "The daughters are my daughters, and the sons are my sons, and the flock is my flock, and everything that you see is mine. And concerning my daughters, what shall I do for them today, or for their children whom they have borne?" [§]
Va-yaan la-van va-yomer el-ya-akov ha-banot be-notai ve-ha-banim banai ve-ha-tzon tzonai ve-kol asher-atah ro-eh li-hu ve-liv-notai ma-e-eseh la-eleh ha-yom o liv-nei-hen asher ya-ladu.
This verse recounts Laban's response to Jacob. He acknowledges that the daughters are his daughters, the sons are his sons, and the flock is his flock. He then asks what he should do regarding these daughters and their children.
[GEN.31.44] And now, let a covenant be cut for you, I and you, and it will be as a witness between me and between you. [§]
ve'atah lekha nikhrata brit ani va'atah vehaya le'ed beini ubeinekha.
This verse begins with a conjunction 'and now'. 'lekha' means 'to you' or 'for you'. 'nikhrata' is a verb meaning 'cut' or 'make'. 'brit' is 'covenant'. 'ani' means 'I'. 'va'atah' is 'and you'. 'vehaya' means 'and it will be'. 'le'ed' means 'as a witness'. 'beini' is 'between me'. 'ubeinekha' is 'and between you'. The verse describes a proposal to make a covenant.
[GEN.31.45] And Jacob took a stone and he lifted it up as a pillar. [§]
va-yik-akh ya-ak-ov av-en va-ye-ri-meh-ha mat-tse-vah
This verse describes Jacob taking a stone and setting it up as a pillar. 'Va-yik-akh' means 'and he took'. 'Ya-ak-ov' is the name Jacob. 'Av-en' means 'stone'. 'Va-ye-ri-meh-ha' means 'and he lifted it up'. 'Mat-tse-vah' means 'pillar' or 'standing stone'.
[GEN.31.46] And Jacob said to his brothers, "Gather stones." And they took stones and made a heap, and they ate there upon the heap. [§]
vayomer yaakov le'echav liktu avanim vayikchu avanim vayasu gal vayochlu sham al hagal.
This verse describes Jacob instructing his brothers to gather stones and build a heap. They then eat upon this heap. The words 'avanim' and 'gal' both relate to stones or heaps of stones. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Le'echav' means 'to his brothers'. 'Liktu' means 'gather'. 'Vayikchu' means 'and they took'. 'Vayasu' means 'and they made'. 'Vayochlu' means 'and they ate'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Al' means 'upon'.
[GEN.31.47] And Laban called it "heap of witness", and Jacob called it "heap of testimony". [§]
Va-yik-ra lo La-van Yeg-ar Sah-duh-tah, ve-Ya-a-kov kar-a lo Gal-ed.
This verse describes the naming of a heap of stones. Laban, refers to it as 'heap of witness', while Jacob calls it 'heap of testimony'. The verb 'kar-a' means 'to call'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Ve' means 'and'.
[GEN.31.48] And Laban said, "This heap of stones will be a witness between my Lord and you today." Therefore, he called its name 'Heap of Witness'. [§]
Va-yo-mer La-van ha-gal ha-zeh ed bei-nee u-bei-ncha ha-yom al-ken ka-ra-sh-mo Gal-ed.
This verse describes Laban making a covenant with Jacob. Laban designates a heap of stones as a witness between them. The name ‘Gal-ed’ is then given to the heap, meaning ‘heap of witness’.
[GEN.31.49] And the lookout point which said, 'God will hide between me and you,' because a person will be hidden from his fellow. [§]
vehammitsfah asher amar yitsef Yahveh beiní uveinecha ki nistater ish mere'ehu
This verse describes a covenant marker and a declaration of secrecy. 'Mitsfah' refers to a lookout point or a designated place for meeting. 'Yitsef' means 'will hide'. 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'Beiní uveinecha' means 'between me and you'. 'Nistater' means 'will be hidden'. 'Ish' means 'man' or 'person'. 'Mere'ehu' means 'from his fellow'. The verse indicates God will hide something between two parties, and a person will conceal themselves from their neighbor.
[GEN.31.50] If you afflict my daughters, and if you take wives for my daughters, there is no man with us. Behold, the Gods are witness between me and you. [§]
im-te'aneh et-benotay ve-im-tikach nashim al-benotay ein ish imanu re'eh elohim ed beinay u-beincha.
This verse contains conditional statements and a plea for a witness. "Im" introduces conditional clauses, meaning "if". "Te'aneh" means "you afflict". "Et" is a grammatical marker. "Benotay" means "my daughters". "Tikach" means "you take". "Nashim" means "wives". "Al" means "over/upon". "Ein" means "there is not". "Ish" means "man". "Imanu" means "with us". "Re'eh" is an imperative, meaning "behold/see". "Elohim" refers to the Gods. "Ed" means "witness". "Beinay u-beincha" means "between me and you".
[GEN.31.51] And Laban said to Jacob, "Behold, this heap of stones, and behold, this pillar, which I have set up between myself and between you." [§]
Va-yo-mer la-van le-ya-akov, hi-neh ha-gal ha-zeh, ve-hi-neh ha-mat-ze-vah a-sher ya-ree-tee be-nee-nee u-ve-nee-ncha.
This verse is a statement made by Laban to Jacob. Laban is pointing to a heap of stones ('gal') and a pillar ('matzevah') as markers. He states that these objects were established as a boundary between himself and Jacob.
[GEN.31.52] Behold this heap, and behold this pillar, if I do not pass to you by this heap, and if you do not pass to me by this heap and this pillar, may harm come. [§]
ayid haggal hazzeh ve'eidah hammatzevah im-ani lo-e'vor eleikha et-haggal hazzeh ve'im-atta lo-ta'avor elai et-haggal hazzeh ve'et-hammatzevah hazzo'at ler'ah.
This verse describes a covenant established by a shared witness of a pile of stones. It details a conditional agreement where if one party does not fulfill their obligation, may harm come to them. 'Ayid' signifies witness, 'haggal' means the heap, 'hazzeh' means this, 've'eidah' means and witness, 'hammatzevah' means the monument or pillar, 'im-ani' means if I, 'lo-e'vor' means I will not pass, 'eleikha' means to you, 've'im-atta' means and if you, 'lo-ta'avor' means you will not pass, 'elai' means to me, 'ler'ah' means to evil or harm.
[GEN.31.53] The Gods of Abraham and the Gods of Nahor will judge between us, the God of their father. And Jacob swore by the fear of his father Isaac. [§]
Elohei Avraham veElohei Nachor yishpotu beinenu Elohei Avihem vayyishaba yaakov befachad aviv Yitzchak.
This verse involves multiple instances of ‘Elohim’ (the Gods) and ‘El’ (God) used in possessive constructions. ‘Avraham’ is Abraham, ‘Nachor’ is Nahor, ‘Avihem’ means ‘their father’, and ‘aviv’ means ‘his father’. ‘Yishpotu’ means ‘will judge’, ‘beinenu’ means ‘between us’, ‘vayyishaba’ means ‘and Jacob swore’, and ‘be’ means ‘with’ or ‘by’. ‘Fachad’ means ‘fear’ and ‘Yitzchak’ is Isaac.
[GEN.31.54] And Jacob sacrificed a sacrifice on the mountain, and he called to his brothers to eat bread, and they ate bread, and they spent the night on the mountain. [§]
va-yiz-bach ya-a-kov ze-vach ba-har va-yik-ra le-e-chav le-e-chol-la-chem va-yo-ch-lu le-chem va-ya-lee-nu ba-har.
This verse describes Jacob offering a sacrifice on the mountain and then inviting his brothers to eat bread with him, and they spent the night on the mountain. 'Va'yizbach' means 'and he sacrificed'. 'Ya'akov' is the name Jacob. 'Zevach' means 'sacrifice'. 'Ba-har' means 'on the mountain'. 'Va-yikra' means 'and he called'. 'Le-echav' means 'to his brothers'. 'Le-echol-lachem' means 'to eat bread'. 'Va-yochlu' means 'and they ate'. 'Va-yalinu' means 'and they spent the night'.
GEN.32
[GEN.32.1] And Laban rose early in the morning, and he kissed his sons and his daughters, and he blessed them. And he went, and Laban returned to his place. [§]
va-yashkem lavan ba-boker va-yinasek le-vanav u-livnotav va-yvarech ethem va-yelech va-yashav lavan le-mekomo.
This verse describes Laban's morning actions. 'Vayashkem' means 'and he rose early.' 'Lavan' is the name Laban. 'Ba-boker' means 'in the morning.' 'Va-yinasek' means 'and he kissed.' 'Le-vanav' means 'his sons.' 'U-livnotav' means 'and his daughters.' 'Va-yvarech ethem' means 'and he blessed them.' 'Va-yelech' means 'and he went.' 'Va-yashav lavan le-mekomo' means 'and Laban returned to his place.'
[GEN.32.2] And Jacob went on his way, and the angels of the Gods encountered him. [§]
ve-ya-akov ha-lach le-dar-kho ve-yip-ge-u vo mal-a-chei Elohim
This verse describes Jacob going on his way and encountering the angels of God. 've' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'ya-akov' is the name Jacob. 'ha-lach' means 'went'. 'le-dar-kho' means 'on his way'. 've' again means 'and'. 'yip-ge-u' means 'they encountered'. 'vo' means 'him'. 'mal-a-chei' is the plural form of 'angel', meaning 'angels'. 'Elohim' is the plural form of 'God', meaning 'the Gods'.
[GEN.32.3] And Jacob said, "As he saw it, this is the camp of the Gods." And he called the name of that place, the Camps. [§]
Va-yo-mer Ya-ak-ov ka-asher ra-am mah-aneh Elo-him zeh va-yik-ra shem-ha-ma-kom ha-hu mah-an-ay-im.
This verse describes Jacob's reaction to seeing a camp of divine beings. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Ya-ak-ov' is Jacob. 'Ka-asher ra-am' means 'as he saw'. 'Mah-aneh Elo-him' means 'camp of the Gods'. 'Zeh' means 'this'. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Shem-ha-ma-kom' means 'the name of the place'. 'Ha-hu' means 'that'. 'Mah-an-ay-im' is the name he gives the place.
[GEN.32.4] And Jacob sent messengers before him to Esau, his brother, to the land of Seir, the field of Edom. [§]
va-yish-lach ya-ah-kov ma-la-achim le-fa-nav el-e-sav ach-iv art-zah sei-ir se-deh a-dom
This verse describes Jacob sending messengers ahead of him to his brother Esau, to the land of Seir, the field of Edom. Each word is fairly straightforward in terms of direct translation. 'Malachim' is the plural of 'malach', which means messenger or angel. 'Le-fanav' means before him, or ahead of him. 'Artzah' means to his land, and 'Seir' and 'Edom' are place names.
[GEN.32.5] And he commanded them, saying, "Thus you shall say to my Lord, to Esau: Thus says your servant Jacob, 'I have lived with Laban and I have delayed until now.' [§]
vayetzav otam leemor koh tomerun laAdonai leEsav koh amar avdecha Yaakov im-Lavan garti vaechar ad-atah.
This verse describes Jacob sending a message to Esau through messengers. 'Vayetzav' means 'and he commanded'. 'Otam' means 'them'. 'Leemor' means 'to say'. 'Koh tomerun' means 'thus you shall say'. 'LaAdonai leEsav' means 'to my Lord, to Esau'. 'Koh amar' means 'thus says'. 'Avdecha Yaakov' means 'your servant Jacob'. 'Im-Lavan garti' means 'with Laban I have lived'. 'Vaechar ad-atah' means 'and I have delayed until now'.
[GEN.32.6] And there was to me an ox and a donkey, flock and male servant and female servant, and I sent to tell my Lord, to find favor in your eyes. [§]
Va-yhi-li shor va-chamor, tzo’an ve-eved ve-shifcha, va-eshlecha le-hagid la-Adonai limtzo chein be-einecha.
This verse details a messenger sent to 'my Lord' to seek favor. 'Va-yhi-li' means 'and there was to me', indicating possessions. 'Shor' is 'ox' or 'bull', 'chamor' is 'donkey', 'tzo’an' is 'sheep' or 'flock', 'eved' is 'servant' or 'slave' (male), and 'shifcha' is 'servant' or 'slave' (female). 'Va-eshlecha' means 'and I sent'. 'Le-hagid' is 'to tell'. 'La-Adonai' is 'to my Lord'. 'Limtzo chein' is 'to find favor'. 'Be-einecha' means 'in your eyes'.
[GEN.32.7] And the angels returned to Jacob, saying, "We came to your brother, to Esau, and also he is going to meet you, and with him are four hundred men." [§]
vayashuvu hamalachim el yaakov leemor ba'anu el achicha el esav vegam holech likratecha vearbe me'ot ish imo
This verse describes the angels returning to Jacob with news about his brother Esau. They report that they visited Esau and that he is now traveling to meet Jacob with 400 men.
[GEN.32.8] And Jacob feared greatly and was distressed because of him. And he divided the people who were with him, and the sheep, and the cattle, and the camels into two camps. [§]
vayira yaakov meod vayetzer lo vayachatz et-haam asher-itto ve'et-hatzon ve'et-habakar vehagemalim lishnei machanot
This verse describes Jacob being greatly afraid and distressed because of the approaching presence of Esau. He divides his people, livestock, and camels into two camps as a strategy to potentially mitigate harm or loss. "Vayira" means "and he feared". "Yaakov" is Jacob. "Meod" means "greatly". "Vayetzer" means "and he was distressed". "Lo" means "to him". "Vayachatz" means "and he divided". "Et-haam" means "the people". "Asher-itto" means "who were with him". "Ve'et-hatzon" means "and the sheep". "Ve'et-habakar" means "and the cattle". "Vehagemalim" means "and the camels". "Lishnei machanot" means "into two camps".
[GEN.32.9] And he said, "If Esau comes to the one camp and strikes him, then the remaining camp will be for an escape." [§]
Va-yo-mer im-ya-vo eh-sav el-ha-ma-cha-neh ha-a-chat ve-hi-kah-hu ve-ha-yeh ha-ma-cha-neh ha-nish-ar li-ple-tah.
This verse describes a hypothetical situation where Esau comes to one of the camps and attacks. It then states that the remaining camp will be for escape. The words break down as follows: 'Va-yo-mer' - and he said; 'im-ya-vo' - if he comes; 'eh-sav' - Esau; 'el-ha-ma-cha-neh' - to the camp; 'ha-a-chat' - the one; 've-hi-kah-hu' - and he strikes him; 've-ha-yeh' - and it will be; 'ha-ma-cha-neh' - the camp; 'ha-nish-ar' - the remaining; 'li-ple-tah' - for escape.
[GEN.32.10] And Jacob said, "The Gods of my father Abraham and the Gods of my father Isaac, Yahveh, the one saying to me, ‘Return to your land and to your birthplace, and I will do good with you.’" [§]
vayomer yaakov elohei avi avraham veelohei avi yitzchak Yahveh haomer elai shuv leartzech ulmoladtech veiteevah immach.
This verse comes from Genesis 31:13. It is Jacob speaking. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Yaakov' is Jacob. 'Elohei avi avraham' is 'the Gods of my father Abraham'. 'Veelohei avi yitzchak' is 'and the Gods of my father Isaac'. 'Yahveh' is Yahveh. 'Haomer elai' is 'the one saying to me'. 'Shuv leartzech' is 'return to your land'. 'Ulmoladtech' is 'and to your birthplace'. 'Veiteevah immach' is 'and I will do good with you'.
[GEN.32.11] I am less than all the kindnesses and all the truth which you have done for your servant, for with my staff I crossed this Jordan, and now I have become the head of two armies. [§]
qa-ton-tee mee-kol ha-cha-sa-deem oo-mee-kol ha-e-met a-sher a-see-ta et av-dek-ha kee be-mak-lee a-var-tee et ha-yar-den ha-zeh ve-a-tah ha-yee-tee lee-shnei ma-cha-not
This verse describes a moment of humility and recognition of God's kindness and truth. The speaker acknowledges being smaller than all the kindness and truth that God has done for them. They remember crossing the Jordan River with only their staff, and now find themselves leading two armies (or camps). The verse highlights a transformation brought about by God’s favor.
[GEN.32.12] Deliver me, please, from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau, for I fear him, lest he come and strike me, and my family. [§]
hatsileini na miyad achi miyad esav ki yare ani oto pen yavo vehikani em al banim.
This verse is a plea for deliverance from a brother, specifically Esau. The speaker fears Esau will come and strike him and his family (mother and children). 'hatsileini' is an imperative, meaning 'deliver me'. 'na' is a plea, meaning 'please'. 'miyad' means 'from the hand of'. 'achi' means 'my brother'. 'esav' is the name Esau. 'ki' means 'for'. 'yare' means 'I fear'. 'oto' means 'him'. 'pen' means 'lest/for fear that'. 'yavo' means 'he comes'. 'vehikani' means 'and he strikes me'. 'em al banim' means 'mother upon children' - a figurative way of saying 'and my family'.
[GEN.32.13] And you said, "Good, I will do good with you, and I will set your seed like the sand of the sea, that it will not be numbered from abundance." [§]
ve-atah amar-ta hetev eitiv im-mach ve-sam-ti et-zar-acha ke-chol ha-yam asher lo-yisaper merov
This verse contains several key names and concepts. "atah" means "you". "amar-ta" means "you said". "hetev" means "good" or "well". "eitiv" is related to the root meaning "to do", and is used here to mean "I will do good". "im-mach" means "with you". "sam-ti" means "I will set". "zar-acha" means "your seed". "chol ha-yam" means "the sand of the sea". "asher" means "that". "lo-yisaper" means "will not be numbered". "merov" means "from abundance".
[GEN.32.14] And he spent the night there that night, and he took from what was with him a gift for Esau, his brother. [§]
va-yan len sham ba-lai-la ha-hu va-yi-kah min ha-ba be-ya-do min-hah le-e-sav ah-hee
This verse describes Jacob spending the night in a place and then taking a gift from what was with him as a present for his brother Esau. "vayalen" means "he spent the night". "sham" means "there". "ba-lai-la ha-hu" means "that night". "vayikah" means "he took". "min ha-ba be-yado" means "from what was with his hand" or "from what was at his disposal". "minhah" means "gift". "le-esav ahi" means "to Esau, his brother".
[GEN.32.15] Two hundred male goats and twenty female goats, two hundred female cattle and twenty male cattle. [§]
izzim ma'atayim u'teyashim esrim r'helim ma'atayim ve'eilim esrim.
This verse lists livestock. 'Izzim' refers to male goats. 'Ma'atayim' means two hundred. 'U'teyashim' refers to female goats, and is connected to the previous word by 'u' meaning 'and'. 'Esrim' means twenty. 'R'helim' refers to female cattle. 'Ve'eilim' refers to male cattle, and is connected to the previous word by 've' meaning 'and'.
[GEN.32.16] Young camels that are nursing, and their young, thirty. Female cattle, forty, and male cattle, ten. Female donkeys, twenty, and male donkeys, ten. [§]
g’malim meyniqot ub’neyhem sh’loshim parot arba’im uf’arim asarah atonot esrim va’yarim asarah.
This verse lists livestock. 'G’malim' refers to young camels, 'meyniqot' to nursing camels. 'B’neyhem' is 'their young'. 'Parot' are female cattle, 'arba'im' means forty, 'uf’arim' are male cattle, 'asarah' means ten. 'Atonot' are female donkeys, 'esrim' means twenty, and 'va’yarim' are male donkeys.
[GEN.32.17] And he gave into the hand of his servants flock after flock, separately. And he said to his servants, "Pass before me, and you shall put space between flock and between flock." [§]
vayiten beyad avadav eder eder levado vayomer el avadav ivru lifanai verevach tasimu bein eder uvein eder
This verse describes a command given by someone to their servants regarding flocks. 'Vayiten' means 'and he gave'. 'Beyad avadav' means 'into the hand of his servants'. 'Eder eder' means 'flock flock' – likely referring to different groups of livestock. 'Levado' means 'separately'. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'El avadav' means 'to his servants'. 'Ivru lifanai' means 'pass before me'. 'Verevach tasimu' means 'and space you shall put'. 'Bein eder uvein eder' means 'between flock and between flock'.
[GEN.32.18] And he commanded the first one, saying, "Because you will encounter Esau, my brother, and he will ask you, saying, ‘Who are you, and where are you going, and to whom do these ones belong before you?’" [§]
Va-yet-sah et-ha-ree-shon le-e-mor kee yif-gahsh-kah eh-sah ah-hee vee-shahl-kah le-e-mor le-mee at-tah vee-ah-nah teh-lehch vee-le-mee eh-leh le-fah-neh-kah
This verse describes a command given to the first one. It anticipates an encounter with Esau, the speaker’s brother, and prepares for Esau’s questions regarding the speaker’s identity, destination, and the people accompanying him.
[GEN.32.19] And you will say to my servant Jacob, ‘This is a gift that is sent to my Lord, to Esau,’ and behold, I also am coming after him. [§]
ve'amarta le'avdecha leYa'akov minchah hi shluchah la'Adonai le'Esav ve'hinneh gam hu achareinu.
This verse describes Jacob telling his servant what to say to Esau. Jacob instructs his servant to tell Esau that the gift being sent is a present from 'my Lord' to Esau, and to note that he, Jacob, is following behind.
[GEN.32.20] And he commanded also the second and also the third, and all those walking after the herds, to say this word to Esau when you find him. [§]
va-ye-tzav gam et-ha-she-nee gam et-ha-shlish-ee gam et-kol-ha-hol-chim ach-rei ha-ad-ar-im le-emor ka-da-var ha-zeh te-dab-run el-e-sav be-mot-za-chem oto
This verse details instructions given to the servants regarding what to say to Esau when they encounter him. 'Va-ye-tzav' means 'and he commanded'. 'Gam' means 'also'. 'Et' is a particle marking the direct object. 'Ha-she-nee' means 'the second'. 'Ha-shlish-ee' means 'the third'. 'Kol-ha-hol-chim' means 'all those walking'. 'Ach-rei ha-ad-ar-im' means 'after the herds'. 'Le-emor' means 'to say'. 'Ka-da-var ha-zeh' means 'this word'. 'Te-dab-run' means 'you will speak'. 'El-e-sav' means 'to Esau'. 'Be-mot-za-chem oto' means 'when you find him'.
[GEN.32.21] And you will say also, behold, your servant Jacob is after us, for he said, ‘I will appease his face with the gift that goes before me, and after that, I will see his face, perhaps he will favor me.’ [§]
Va’amartem gam hinneh avdecha Ya’akov achareinu ki-amar ekaperah panav baminchah haholechet lifanai ve’acharei-chen er’eh panav ulay yisa panai.
This verse comes from Genesis 32:25 and describes Jacob’s attempt to appease the being he is wrestling with. ‘Va’amartem’ means ‘and you will say’. ‘Gam’ means ‘also’. ‘Hinneh’ means ‘behold’. ‘Avdecha’ means ‘your servant’. ‘Ya’akov’ is the name Jacob. ‘Achareinu’ means ‘after us’. ‘Ki-amar’ means ‘for he said’. ‘Ekaperah’ means ‘I will appease’. ‘Panav’ means ‘his face’. ‘Baminchah’ means ‘with a gift’. ‘Haholechet’ means ‘that goes’. ‘Lifanai’ means ‘before me’. ‘Ve’acharei-chen’ means ‘and after that’. ‘Er’eh’ means ‘I will see’. ‘Ulay’ means ‘perhaps’. ‘Yisa panai’ means ‘he will lift up his face’ (i.e. favor me).
[GEN.32.22] And the offering passed before his face, and he spent the night in that camp. [§]
va-ta-avor ha-min-chah al-pan-av, ve-hu lan ba-lai-lah ha-hu ba-ma-chan-eh.
This verse describes the offering passing before his face, and him spending the night in the camp. 'Va-ta-avor' means 'and it passed'. 'Ha-min-chah' is 'the offering'. 'Al-pan-av' means 'before his face'. 'Ve-hu' means 'and he'. 'Lan' means 'spent the night'. 'Ba-lai-lah ha-hu' means 'in that night'. 'Ba-ma-chan-eh' means 'in the camp'.
[GEN.32.23] And he rose in the night, and he took his two wives and his two female servants and his eleven sons, and he crossed the ford of the Jabbok. [§]
va-ya-kam | ba-lai-la hu va-yi-kah et-sh-tei na-shav u-et-sh-tei shif-cha-tav u-et-a-chad asar yeladav va-ya-avor et ma-avar ya-bok.
This verse describes a man rising in the night and taking his two wives, two female servants, and eleven sons, and crossing the ford of the Jabbok. The verbs are all in the past tense, describing completed actions. The preposition 'et' is a grammatical marker indicating a definite direct object. The word 'shif-cha-tav' means 'his female servants'. 'Yeladav' means 'his sons'. 'Ma-avar' means 'ford' or 'crossing'. 'Ya-bok' is the name of the river.
[GEN.32.24] And he took them, and he caused them to cross the river, and he caused that which is his to cross. [§]
vayikachem vayavirem et-hanachal vayavair et-asher-lo
This verse describes someone taking possessions and crossing a river or stream with them. 'Vayikachem' means 'and he took them'. 'Vayavirem' means 'and he caused them to cross'. 'Et-hanachal' signifies 'the river/stream'. 'Vayavair' means 'and he caused to cross'. 'Et-asher-lo' means 'that which is his'.
[GEN.32.25] And Jacob remained alone, and a man wrestled with him until the dawn arose. [§]
va-yee-tah-yer ya-ah-kov le-vad-do va-yay-ah-vek ish im-o ad ah-lot ha-shachar
This verse describes Jacob being left alone and wrestling with a man until dawn. The words are: 'and remained Jacob alone', 'and wrestled a man with him', 'until ascending the dawn'. The word 'ish' means 'man' but can also imply a divine being or angel in context.
[GEN.32.26] And he saw that he was not able to overcome him, and he touched at the hip socket, and struck the hip socket of Jacob in his wrestling with him. [§]
Va-yar ki lo yachol lo va-yiga be-kaf-yerechoh va-teka kaf-yerech Ya'akov be-he'aveko immo.
This verse describes Jacob wrestling with a divine being. 'Va-yar' means 'and he saw'. 'Ki' means 'that'. 'Lo yachol lo' means 'not able to him' or 'unable to overcome him'. 'Va-yiga' means 'and he touched'. 'Be-kaf-yerechoh' means 'at the hip socket'. 'Va-teka' means 'and struck'. 'Kaf-yerech Ya'akov' means 'the hip socket of Jacob'. 'Be-he'aveko immo' means 'in his wrestling with him'.
[GEN.32.27] And he said, "Send me, for the dawn has risen." And he said, "I will not send you unless you bless me." [§]
Va-yo-mer shal-che-nee kee a-lah ha-sha-char va-yo-mer lo a-shal-le-cha kee im-be-rach-ta-nee.
This verse consists of a dialogue. The first part, "Va-yo-mer shal-che-nee kee a-lah ha-sha-char", translates to "And he said, send me, for the dawn has risen". The second part, "va-yo-mer lo a-shal-le-cha kee im-be-rach-ta-nee", translates to "And he said, I will not send you, unless you bless me".
[GEN.32.28] And God to him said, "What is your name?" And he said, "Jacob." [§]
Va-yo-mer El-av mah-shem-kha va-yo-mer Ya-akov.
This verse comes from Genesis 32:27. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'El-av' is a combination of 'El' (God) and a possessive suffix meaning 'to him', so it translates to 'God to him'. 'Mah-shem-kha' means 'what is your name?'. 'Va-yo-mer' again means 'and he said', and 'Ya-akov' is the name Jacob.
[GEN.32.29] And He said, "Your name shall no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have striven with the Gods and with people and you have prevailed." [§]
Va-yo-mer lo ya-ak-ov ye-e-mer od shim-cha ki im-yis-rae-el ki-sa-rit-ta im-eloh-im ve-im-a-na-shim va-tu-chal.
This verse comes from Genesis 32:29. It records God speaking to Jacob after Jacob wrestled with an angel. The speaker states that Jacob’s name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel. The reason given is that Jacob has striven with God and with people and has prevailed.
[GEN.32.30] And Jacob asked and said, "Please tell me your name." And the being said, "Why do you ask for my name?" And he blessed him there. [§]
Va'yishal Yaakov va'yomer ha'gidah-na shemechah va'yomer lamah zeh tishal lishmi va'yvarech oto sham.
This verse describes Jacob asking for the name of the being he is wrestling with, and the being’s response. 'Va'yishal' means 'and he asked'. 'Yaakov' is the name Jacob. 'Va'yomer' means 'and he said'. 'Ha'gidah-na' is a request, meaning 'tell me, please'. 'Shemechah' means 'your name'. 'Lamah zeh' means 'why this'. 'Tishal' means 'you ask'. 'Lishmi' means 'for my name'. 'Va'yvarech' means 'and he blessed'. 'Oto' means 'him'. 'Sham' means 'there'.
[GEN.32.31] And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel, because I saw the Gods face to face, and my life was preserved. [§]
Va-yik-ra Ya-ak-ov shem ha-ma-kom Pe-nee-el ki ra-ee-tee Elohim pa-neem el pa-neem va-tee-nat-zel naf-shee.
This verse describes Jacob naming a place Peniel. He does so because he saw the Gods face to face and his life was preserved. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Shem' means 'name'. 'Ha-ma-kom' means 'the place'. 'Pe-nee-el' is a proper noun, meaning 'face of God'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Ra-ee-tee' means 'I saw'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Pa-neem el pa-neem' means 'face to face'. 'Va-tee-nat-zel' means 'and my life was preserved'. 'Naf-shee' means 'my life'.
[GEN.32.32] And the sun rose for him as he passed the face of God, and he was limping on his thigh. [§]
va-yiz-rach-loo ha-she-mesh ka-a-sher a-var et-peh-nu-el ve-hoo tso-le-ah al-yere-khoh
This verse describes the sun rising as Jacob passed Penuel, and he was limping on his thigh. Let's break down the names. 'Shemesh' means 'sun.' 'Penuel' is likely a compound name, possibly meaning 'face of God.' We will treat it literally. 'Yerekhoh' means 'thigh.' There is no explicit name of God in this verse, however, 'Penuel' contains 'El' (God).
[GEN.32.33] Therefore, the Israelites shall not eat the sinew of the thigh which is on the hollow of the thigh, until this day, because it touched the hollow of Jacob’s thigh with the sinew of the thigh. [§]
al-ken lo-yoklu bene-yisrael et-gid hanashe asher al-kaf hayarekh ad hayom haze ki naga bekhaf-yerekh yaakov begid hanashe
This verse explains why the Israelites are not to eat the sinew of the thigh. 'al-ken' means 'therefore'. 'lo-yoklu' means 'they will not eat'. 'bene-yisrael' means 'sons of Israel' or 'Israelites'. 'et-gid hanashe' means 'the sinew of the thigh'. 'asher al-kaf hayarekh' means 'which is on the hollow of the thigh'. 'ad hayom haze' means 'until this day'. 'ki naga' means 'because it touched'. 'bekhaf-yerekh yaakov' means 'the hollow of Jacob’s thigh'. 'begid hanashe' means 'the sinew of the thigh'. The verse relates this prohibition to an event where God touched Jacob’s thigh at Peniel.
GEN.33
[GEN.33.1] And Jacob lifted his eyes and saw, and behold, Esau was coming, and with him were four hundred men. And he divided the children among Leah and Rachel and the two female servants. [§]
VaYisa Ya'akov eynav, VaYara Vehineh Esav ba, Ve'imo arb'a me'ot ish. VaYachatz et-hayeladim al-Leah ve'al-Rachel ve'al shte'ei hashefachat.
This verse describes Jacob lifting his eyes and seeing Esau approaching with four hundred men. He then divides the children among Leah, Rachel, and their two female servants.
[GEN.33.2] And he placed the handmaids and their children first, and Leah and her children last, and Rachel and Joseph last. [§]
va-ya-sem et-ha-shif-chot ve-et-yal-dei-hen ri-sho-na ve-et-le-ah vi-la-dei-ha a-cha-ron-im ve-et-ra-chel ve-et-yo-sef a-cha-ron-im
This verse describes the order in which Jacob arranged his wives and their children. 'Va-ya-sem' means 'and he placed'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker indicating the direct object. 'Ha-shif-chot' refers to the handmaids. 'Yal-dei-hen' means 'their children'. 'Ri-sho-na' means 'first'. 'Le-ah' is Leah's name. 'Vi-la-dei-ha' means 'and her children'. 'A-cha-ron-im' means 'last'. 'Ra-chel' is Rachel's name. 'Yo-sef' is Joseph's name.
[GEN.33.3] And he passed before them, and they bowed to the ground seven times until he approached his brothers. [§]
veh-hoo-ah ah-var lif-neh-hem va-yish-tach-vu art-zah sheh-vah peh-ah-meem ad-gish-toh ad-ah-cheev
This verse describes someone passing before others, and those others bowing to the ground seven times as this person approached and reached their brothers.
[GEN.33.4] And Esau ran to meet him, and he embraced him, and he fell on his neck, and he kissed him, and they wept. [§]
vayarat esa likrato vaychabkehu vayipol al-tzavaro vayishakehu vayivku.
This verse describes Esau running to meet Jacob, embracing him, falling on his neck, kissing him, and then weeping. Each component is a verb-subject-object structure common in the original language. The 'vay' prefix consistently indicates 'and'.
[GEN.33.5] And he lifted his eyes and saw the women and the children, and he said, “To whom do these belong to you?” And the children said, “The Gods have graciously given them to your servant.” [§]
vayisa et eineav vayara et hanashim ve’et hayeladim vayomer mi eleh lach vayomer hayeladim asher chanun elohim et avdecha.
This verse describes a man lifting his eyes and seeing women and children. He asks to whom they belong, and the children respond that the Gods have graciously given them to his servant.
[GEN.33.6] And the handmaids, they approached, and their children, and they prostrated themselves. [§]
va-tig-ash-na ha-shif-chatot he-na ve-yal-dei-hen va-tishtach-vu-na.
This verse describes the handmaids and their children approaching and prostrating themselves. 'Va-tig-ash-na' means 'and they approached'. 'Ha-shif-chatot' means 'the handmaids'. 'He-na' means 'they'. 'Ve-yal-dei-hen' means 'and their children'. 'Va-tishtach-vu-na' means 'and they prostrated themselves'.
[GEN.33.7] And Leah also approached with her children, and they bowed down. And after this, Joseph and Rachel approached and they bowed down. [§]
va-tee-gahsh gam-le-ah vee-ya-lay-hah va-yish-ta-ha-vu ve-ah-char nee-gahsh yo-sef ve-ra-hel va-yish-ta-ha-vu
This verse describes Leah and her children approaching and bowing down, and then Joseph and Rachel approaching and bowing down. The verb 'nigash' means to approach, and 'yishtahavu' means to bow down. 'Gam' means also, 've' means and, 'ahachar' means after.
[GEN.33.8] And he said, "Who told you about this entire camp that I encountered?" And he said, "To find favor in the eyes of my Lord." [§]
Va-yo-mer mee lekha kol-ha-ma-chan-eh ha-zeh asher pa-ga-sh-tee va-yo-mer li-mot-za khen be-ei-nei ad-o-nai.
This verse recounts a conversation. Someone asks "Who told you about this entire camp that I encountered?" and the response is "To find favor in the eyes of my Lord."
[GEN.33.9] And Esau said, “I have much; my brother, let there be for you what is yours.” [§]
Va-yo-mer Esav Yesh-li Rav, Achiy Y’hi Lach Asher-Lach.
This verse is from Genesis 36:6-7. It records Esau speaking after becoming a wealthy and powerful man. ‘Va-yo-mer’ means ‘and he said.’ ‘Esav’ is the name Esau. ‘Yesh-li’ means ‘I have.’ ‘Rav’ means ‘much’ or ‘wealth.’ ‘Achiy’ means ‘my brother.’ ‘Y’hi’ means ‘let it be.’ ‘Lach’ means ‘to you.’ ‘Asher-Lach’ means ‘what is yours.’ Essentially, Esau is acknowledging his own abundance and offering a portion to Jacob.
[GEN.33.10] And Jacob said, "Please, if I have found favor in your eyes, please accept my gift from my hand, for to see your face is like to see the face of the Gods, and you will be pleased with me." [§]
Va-yomer Ya-akov al-na im-na matzati chen be-einecha ve-lakachta minchati mi-yadi ki al-ken ra’iti panecha kir’ot p’nei Elohim va-tir’zeni.
This verse is from Genesis 33:10. Jacob is speaking to Esau. He is attempting to appease Esau by offering gifts. Jacob states that seeing Esau’s face is like seeing the face of the Gods, and asks Esau to accept his gift. ‘Al-na’ and ‘im-na’ are both pleas, roughly meaning ‘please’. ‘Chen’ means favor or grace. ‘Minchati’ means my gift. ‘Panecha’ means your face. ‘Elohim’ means the Gods. ‘Tir’zeni’ means you will find me favor or you will be pleased with me.
[GEN.33.11] Please, take my blessing which has been brought to you, for the Gods have graced me, and I have everything. And he urged him, and he took it. [§]
kah-nah et-bir-kah-tee ah-sher hoo-vah-t lah-ch ki-khan-ah-nee elohim ve-kee yesh-lee-kol va-yip-tzar-boh va-yee-kah
This verse describes someone offering a blessing to another. 'Kah-nah' is an entreaty, like 'please'. 'Bir-kah-tee' means 'my blessing'. 'Hoo-vah-t lah-ch' means 'brought to you'. 'Khan-ah-nee elohim' means 'graced me, the Gods'. 'Yesh-lee-kol' means 'I have everything'. 'Va-yip-tzar-boh' means 'and he urged him'. 'Va-yee-kah' means 'and he took'.
[GEN.33.12] And he said, "Let us go, and we will go, and I will go before you." [§]
va-yo-mer nis-ah ve-ne-le-cha ve-el-cha le-neg-de-cha
This verse consists of several words. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Nis-ah' means 'let us go'. 'Ve-ne-le-cha' means 'and we will go'. 'Ve-el-cha' means 'and I will go'. 'Le-neg-de-cha' means 'before you'. The subject of the verse is not explicitly stated, but given context, it is understood to be Moses speaking to God.
[GEN.33.13] And he said to my Lord, "My Lord knows that the young are tender, and the sheep and the cattle are coming up upon me. If they are struck for one day, then all the sheep will die." [§]
Va-yo-mer el-av a-do-nai yo-day-ah ki-ha-ye-la-dim ra-khim ve-ha-tson ve-ha-ba-kar a-lot al-ai u-defa-kum yom echad va-metu kol-ha-tson.
This verse describes a conversation where someone is explaining the fragility of their livestock to 'my Lord'. 'Elav' means 'to him', and 'a-do-nai' is 'my Lord'. 'Yo-day-ah' means 'knows', and 'ki' means 'that' or 'because'. 'Ha-ye-la-dim' means 'the children' or 'the young', and 'ra-khim' means 'tender' or 'weak'. 'Ha-tson' is 'the sheep', 've-ha-ba-kar' is 'and the cattle', 'a-lot' means 'are coming up' or 'are ascending', and 'al-ai' means 'upon me'. 'U-defa-kum' means 'and if they are struck', 'yom echad' is 'one day', 'va-metu' means 'and they will die', and 'kol-ha-tson' means 'all the sheep'.
[GEN.33.14] Please, my Lord, let your servant pass before you, and I will go at my own pace, according to the needs of the livestock that are before me, and according to the needs of the children, until I come to my Lord in Seir. [§]
ya-av-or-na ad-o-nai lif-nei av-do va-a-nee et-na-ha-leh le-i-tee le-regel ha-mel-a-khah asher-lif-nai u-le-regel ha-ye-la-deem ad asher-a-vo el ad-o-nai sei-rah.
This verse is spoken by Jacob to Esau, requesting permission to travel at a slower pace to accommodate his family and livestock. 'Ya'avor-na' is a plea for permission. 'Adonai' refers to Esau, as Jacob is speaking to him. 'Avdo' is 'my servant,' referencing Jacob himself speaking humbly to Esau. 'Melakhah' means 'business' or 'work' and refers to the livestock. 'Yeladim' means 'children'. 'Seirah' refers to Seir, the region associated with Esau.
[GEN.33.15] And Esau said, "Let me go with you, with the people who are with me." And he said, "Why have I found favor in the eyes of my Lord?" [§]
vayomer esav atziga-na imcha min-haam asher iti vayomer lamah zeh emtza-chen beeinei adonai
This verse contains a conversation between Esau and Jacob. Esau offers to lead a group of people with Jacob. Jacob asks why Esau is showing him this favor.
[GEN.33.16] And Esau returned on that day to his way, to the land of Seir. [§]
Va-ya-shav bai-yom ha-hu es-av le-dark-kho sei-i-rah.
This verse describes Esau returning to his way, specifically to the land of Seir. 'Va-ya-shav' means 'and he returned'. 'Bai-yom ha-hu' means 'on that day'. 'Es-av' is Esau. 'Le-dark-kho' means 'to his way' or 'to his path'. 'Sei-i-rah' is the land of Seir.
[GEN.33.17] And Jacob traveled to Succoth, and he built a house for himself and made shelters for his livestock. Therefore, he called the name of the place Succoth. [§]
vayakev nasah sukota vayiven lo bayit ulemikneh hu asah sukota al ken kara shem hamakom sukota.
This verse describes Jacob traveling to Succoth and building a house for himself and shelters for his livestock. The name of the place, Succoth, is explained by this action. 'Vayakev' means 'and Jacob'. 'Nasah' means 'traveled'. 'Sukota' means 'Succoth', which refers to shelters or booths. 'Vayiven' means 'and he built'. 'Lo' means 'for himself'. 'Bayit' means 'house'. 'Ulemikneh hu' means 'and for his livestock'. 'Asah' means 'he made'. 'Al ken' means 'therefore' or 'on account of this'. 'Kara' means 'he called'. 'Shem hamakom' means 'the name of the place'.
[GEN.33.18] And Jacob came safely to the city of Shechem, which is in the land of Canaan, after coming from Paddan Aram, and he camped facing the city. [§]
vayavo yaakov shalem ir shechem asher beeretz kenaan bebavo mipaddan aram vayichan et pnei ha'ir
This verse describes Jacob arriving safely at the city of Shechem, which is in the land of Canaan, after coming from Paddan Aram, and then camping in front of the city. Let's break down the names: 'Yaakov' is Jacob. 'Shechem' is Shechem. 'Kenaan' is Canaan. 'Paddan Aram' is Paddan Aram. 'Ha'ir' is 'the city'.
[GEN.33.19] And he purchased the plot of the field where he pitched his tent from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem, for one hundred k’sita. [§]
Va-yik-hen et-khel-kat ha-sa-deh asher na-tah-sham o-ho-lo mi-yad b’nei Khamor avi Shekhem b’meah k’sita.
This verse describes Jacob purchasing a plot of land where he pitched his tent. ‘Va-yik-hen’ means ‘and he purchased.’ ‘Et’ is a direct object marker. ‘Khel-kat’ means ‘portion’ or ‘plot.’ ‘Ha-sa-deh’ means ‘the field.’ ‘Asher’ means ‘where’ or ‘which.’ ‘Na-tah-sham’ means ‘he pitched there.’ ‘O-ho-lo’ means ‘his tent.’ ‘Mi-yad’ means ‘from the hand of’ (meaning ‘from’). ‘B’nei Khamor’ means ‘sons of Hamor’. ‘Avi Shekhem’ means ‘father of Shechem’. ‘B’meah k’sita’ means ‘for one hundred k’sita’ (k’sita being a unit of currency).
[GEN.33.20] And he set up an altar there, and he called upon God, the Gods of Israel. [§]
va-yatzev-sham miz-bay-ach va-yik-ra-lo el elo-hay yis-ra-el.
This verse describes someone setting up an altar and then calling upon God, the Gods of Israel. ‘Vayatzev’ means ‘and he set up’. ‘Sham’ means ‘there’. ‘Mizbeach’ means ‘altar’. ‘Vayikra’ means ‘and he called’. ‘Lo’ means ‘to him’. ‘El’ refers to God. ‘Elohay’ is the plural form meaning ‘the Gods’. ‘Yisrael’ refers to Israel.
GEN.34
[GEN.34.1] And Dinah, daughter of Leah, whom Jacob fathered, went out to see the daughters of the land. [§]
Va-te-tseh Dee-nah bat-Le-ah asher ya-led-ah le-Ya-a-kov li-re-ot biv-not ha-ah-retz.
This verse describes Dinah, Leah's daughter, who Jacob fathered, going out to see the daughters of the land. Each word is translated as directly as possible. 'Va-te-tseh' means 'and she went out'. 'Dee-nah' is a proper noun, a woman's name. 'Bat-Le-ah' means 'daughter of Leah'. 'Asher' means 'who' or 'which'. 'Ya-led-ah' means 'she bore' or 'she fathered' depending on context. 'Le-Ya-a-kov' means 'to Jacob'. 'Li-re-ot' means 'to see'. 'Biv-not' means 'the daughters of'. 'Ha-ah-retz' means 'the land'.
[GEN.34.2] And he saw her. Shechem, son of Hamor the Hivite, leader of the land, took her, and he lay with her, and he humiliated her. [§]
va-yar' otah shkhem ben-chamor ha-chivi nesi ha-aretz va-yikach otah va-yishkach otah va-ye'aneh-ha.
This verse describes Shechem, son of Hamor the Hivite, a leader of the land, seeing Dinah, and then taking her, lying with her, and humiliating her. The words 'otah' and 'ha' are direct object markers and possessive markers, respectively. 'Nesi' means 'prince' or 'leader'. 'Va' is a conjunction meaning 'and'.
[GEN.34.3] And the soul of him cleaved to Dinah the daughter of Jacob, and he loved the young woman, and he spoke to the heart of the young woman. [§]
va-tid-bak naf-sho be-dee-nah bat-ya-a-kob va-yeh-eh-hav et-ha-na-a-ra va-ye-da-ber al-lev ha-na-a-ra
This verse describes Jacob’s son, Simeon, and Levi’s attachment to Dinah, the daughter of Jacob, and then their loving of a young woman, and speaking to the heart of the young woman. The actions of Simeon and Levi will lead to the tragic event described in the following verses.
[GEN.34.4] And Shechem said to Hamor his father, saying, "Obtain for me this young woman to be my wife." [§]
Va-yo-mer Shekhem el-khamor aviv le-emor kah-li et-ha-yalda hazot le-ishah.
This verse describes Shechem speaking to Hamor, his father. Shechem asks Hamor to obtain a young woman for him to take as a wife.
[GEN.34.5] And Jacob heard that Shechem had defiled Dinah, his daughter, and his sons were with his livestock in the field. And Jacob was silent until they came. [§]
ve-ya-akov sha-ma ki-ti-me-a et-di-nah bit-to u-vanav hayu et-mik-neh-hu ba-sa-deh ve-he-khreesh ya-akov ad-bo-am.
This verse describes Jacob hearing that Shechem defiled Dinah, his daughter, and his sons were with their livestock in the field. Jacob remained silent until his sons returned.
[GEN.34.6] And the donkey of the father of Shechem went to Jacob to speak with him. [§]
va-yay-tseh kha-mor a-vee-shekhem el ya-a-kov le-da-ber it-toh
This verse describes the donkey of Avi-Shechem going to Jacob to speak with him. The verb 'vayyetze' means 'went out' or 'came out'. 'Chamor' means donkey. 'Avi-Shechem' is a proper noun, a person’s name. 'El' means 'to'. 'Yaakov' is Jacob. 'Le-daber' means 'to speak'. 'Itoh' means 'with him'.
[GEN.34.7] And the sons of Jacob came from the field when they heard, and the men were distressed, and it burned to them greatly that a vile thing he had done in Israel to lie with the daughter of Jacob, and such should not be done. [§]
uvenei yaakov bau min hasadeh kesham'am vayita'atzvu ha'anashim vayichar lahem me'od ki nivalah asa beyisrael lishkab et bat yaakov vechen lo ye'aseh.
This verse describes the reaction of Jacob's sons to the defilement of their sister Dinah. 'uvenei yaakov' means 'and the sons of Jacob'. 'bau' means 'came'. 'min hasadeh' means 'from the field'. 'kesham’am' means ‘when they heard’. 'vayita’atzvu ha’anashim' means ‘and the men were distressed’. 'vayichar lahem me’od' means ‘and it burned to them greatly’ (they were very angry). 'ki nivalah asa beyisrael' means ‘for a vile thing he did in Israel’. 'lishkab et bat yaakov' means ‘to lie with the daughter of Jacob’. 'vechen lo ye'aseh' means ‘and such should not be done.’
[GEN.34.8] And the donkey spoke to them, saying, "Shechem, my son, has a desire for your daughter. Please give her to him as a wife." [§]
va-ye-da-ber chamor itam le-emor shchem beni chash-kah naf-sho be-bit-chem ten-nu na otah lo le-ish-ah.
This verse describes an interaction where a donkey speaks to some people. The donkey's owner, Shechem, desires one of their daughters as a wife. The donkey is essentially acting as a negotiator on behalf of Shechem, asking for the daughter to be given to him.
[GEN.34.9] And you will marry us, your daughters you will give to us, and our daughters you will take for yourselves. [§]
veheetkhanu otanu benoteekhem titnu lanu veet benoteinu tikhu lakhem.
This verse details a proposed intermarriage arrangement. 'veheetkhanu' means 'and you will marry'. 'otanu' means 'us'. 'benoteekhem' means 'your daughters'. 'titnu lanu' means 'you will give to us'. 'veet benoteinu' means 'and our daughters'. 'tikhu lakhem' means 'you will take for yourselves'.
[GEN.34.10] And you will dwell with us, and the land will be before you. Dwell and trade it, and take hold of it! [§]
ve-it-tanu te-she-vu ve-ha-aretz ti-hyeh lif-ne-chem she-vu u-se-cha-ru-ha ve-he-ach-azu ba
This verse contains imperatives (commands) directed to a people. 've' means 'and'. 'ittanu' is 'with us'. 'teshevu' means 'you will dwell'. 've' means 'and'. 'ha-aretz' means 'the land'. 'tihyeh' means 'will be'. 'lifnechem' means 'before you'. 'shevu' is 'dwell!'. 'u' means 'and'. 'scharuha' means 'trade it!'. 've' means 'and'. 'he'achazu ba' means 'take hold of it!'
[GEN.34.11] And Shechem said to his father and to his brothers, “I will find favor in your eyes, and whatever you say to me, I will give.” [§]
vayomer shchem el aviv v'el acheha emtsa chen b'eineichem vaasher to'amru elai etten
This verse recounts Shechem speaking to Jacob and his sons. He is offering to give whatever is asked of him in exchange for Leah’s daughter, Dinah. “Vayomer” means “and he said.” “Shchem” is the name of the person speaking. “El aviv v’el acheha” means “to his father and to his brothers.” “Emtsa chen” means “I will find favor.” “B’eineichem” means “in your eyes.” “Vaasher to’amru elai” means “whatever you say to me.” “Etten” means “I will give.”
[GEN.34.12] Increase very much the gift and the present upon me, and I will give it as you say to me, and give to me the young woman as a wife. [§]
harbu alai meod mohar umattan ve’etnah ka’asher to’amru elai utesnu-li et-hana’arah le’ishah.
This verse comes from Genesis 34:12. It represents a negotiation for a bride price. 'Harbu' means 'increase'. 'Alai' means 'upon me'. 'Meod' means 'very much'. 'Mohar' is the bride-price, translated as 'gift'. 'Umattan' is 'and a present'. 'Ve’etnah' means ‘and I will give’. ‘Ka’asher’ means ‘as’. ‘To’amru’ means ‘you say’. 'Elai' means 'to me'. 'Utenu-li' means 'and give to me'. 'Et-hana’arah' means 'the young woman'. 'Le’ishah' means 'as a wife'.
[GEN.34.13] And the sons of Jacob responded to Shechem and to Hamor, his father, with deceit, and they spoke concerning the one who defiled their sister, Dinah. [§]
va-ya-anu benei-yaakov et-shekhem ve-et-chamor avi-v be-mirmah va-yedaberu asher timeh et Dinah akhotam.
This verse describes the deceptive response of Jacob’s sons to Shechem and Hamor, his father. They spoke deceptively concerning the defilement of their sister, Dinah. Each word is translated as directly as possible. 'Bnei' means 'sons of'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker and is not translated. 'Avi' means 'his father'. 'Ashotam' means 'their sister'.
[GEN.34.14] And they said to them, "We are not able to do this thing, to give our sister to a man who is uncircumcised, because it is a disgrace to us." [§]
vayomru alehem lo nuchal la'asot hadavar hazeh latet et achotenunu le'ish asher lo urlah ki cherpah hi lanu
This verse recounts a conversation where individuals state their inability to fulfill a request. Specifically, they declare they cannot give their sister to a man who is uncircumcised, as it would be a disgrace to them. 'Vayomru' means 'and they said'. 'Alehem' means 'to them'. 'Lo nuchal' means 'we are not able'. 'La'asot' means 'to do'. 'Hadavar hazeh' means 'this thing/matter'. 'Latet' means 'to give'. 'Et achotenunu' means 'our sister'. 'Le'ish' means 'to a man'. 'Asher lo urlah' means 'who has not been circumcised'. 'Ki cherpah hi lanu' means 'because it is a disgrace to us'.
[GEN.34.15] But in this is a sign to you, if you will be like us, to circumcise every male to you. [§]
akh-be-zo't ne'ot lakhem im tih-yu ka-monu le-hi-mol lakhem kol zakhar.
This verse discusses the sign of the covenant. 'Akh' means 'but' or 'only'. 'Be-zo't' means 'in this'. 'Ne'ot' means 'is a sign'. 'Lakhem' means 'to you'. 'Im' means 'if'. 'Tih-yu' means 'you will be'. 'Ka-monu' means 'like us'. 'Le-hi-mol' means 'to circumcise'. 'Lakhem' again means 'to you'. 'Kol' means 'every'. 'Zakhar' means 'male'. This verse describes a covenant sign that will identify those who are like 'us'.
[GEN.34.16] And we will give our daughters to you, and your daughters we will take for ourselves, and we will dwell with you, and we will become one people. [§]
v’natannu et-b’noteinu lachem v’et-b’noteichem niqach-lanu v’yashavnu it’chem v’hayinu l’am echad.
This verse comes from Genesis 6:4. It describes the Nephilim, the offspring of the ‘Gods’ and human women, and proposes a merging of their lines. ‘v’natannu’ means ‘and we will give’; ‘et-b’noteinu’ means ‘our daughters’; ‘lachem’ means ‘to you’; ‘v’et-b’noteichem’ means ‘and your daughters’; ‘niqach-lanu’ means ‘we will take for ourselves’; ‘v’yashavnu’ means ‘and we will dwell’; ‘it’chem’ means ‘with you’; ‘v’hayinu’ means ‘and we will become’; ‘l’am echad’ means ‘one people’.
[GEN.34.17] And if you do not listen to us to be circumcised, we will take our daughter and go. [§]
veh-eem-loh tish-meh-oo eh-lay-noo le-hee-mole ve-lah-khah-noo et bee-tay-noo ve-hah-lah-khoonoo.
This verse comes from Genesis 34:17. It describes the sons of Jacob threatening the men of Shechem. The sons of Jacob are saying, "If you do not listen to us and become circumcised, we will take our daughter and go." The verse uses 'El' which means 'God'. 'Elohim' is used to refer to multiple Gods. 'Anoo' means us, and 'et' is a direct object marker. The verb 'lakach' means to take, and 'halak' means to walk or go.
[GEN.34.18] And their words were good in the eyes of Hamor, and in the eyes of Shechem son of Hamor. [§]
va-yit-vu div-re-hem be-ei-nei cha-mor u-ve-ei-nei she-chem ben-cha-mor
This verse describes the reaction of Hamor and his son Shechem to some words spoken to them. 'Divreihem' refers to 'their words,' and the phrase 'be-ei-nei' means 'in the eyes of,' which idiomatically means 'in the favor of' or 'to.' Hamor and Shechem are proper names, and 'ben' means 'son of.'
[GEN.34.19] And the young man did not delay to do the thing, because he desired Jacob’s daughter, and he was honored above all his father’s house. [§]
ve-lo-ekhar ha-na'ar la'asot ha-davar ki chafetz be-vat-yaakov ve-hu nikbad mikol beit aviv.
This verse describes a young man's eagerness to do something for Jacob's daughter. 've-lo-ekhar' means 'and did not delay.' 'ha-na'ar' means 'the young man.' 'la'asot ha-davar' means 'to do the thing.' 'ki chafetz' means 'because he desired.' 'be-vat-yaakov' means 'in/for Jacob's daughter.' 've-hu nikbad' means 'and he was honored.' 'mikol beit aviv' means 'from all his father's house.'
[GEN.34.20] And Hamor and Shechem, his son, came to the gate of their city, and they spoke to the people of their city to say. [§]
va-yo-vo chamor u-shechem be-no el-sha'ar iram va-ye-dab-ru el-an-shei iram le-emor
This verse describes Hamor and Shechem, son of Hamor, coming to the gate of their city and speaking to the people of their city. The verb 'va-yavo' means 'and he came'. 'Chamor' is a proper noun, a name. 'U' means 'and'. 'Shechem' is another proper noun, a name. 'Be-no' means 'his son'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Sha'ar' means 'gate'. 'Iram' means 'their city'. 'Va-ye-dab-ru' means 'and they spoke'. 'El-an-shei iram' means 'to the people of their city'. 'Le-emor' means 'to say'.
[GEN.34.21] These men are peaceful with us, and they shall dwell in the land and cultivate it. And the land, behold, it is spacious in extent before them. We will take their daughters for ourselves as wives, and we will give our daughters to them. [§]
ha-a-nash-im ha-eh-leh shle-mim hem it-ta-nu ve-yesh-vu ba-a-retz ve-yis-cha-ru o-tah ve-ha-a-retz hi-neh rach-a-vat-ya-da-yim lif-nei-hem et-bno-tam ni-kah-la-nu le-nash-im ve-et-bno-teinu ni-tehn la-hem.
This verse discusses a proposal regarding interactions with a certain group of people. It suggests they are peaceful and proposes intermarriage and cohabitation within the land. The land is described as spacious and able to accommodate both groups.
[GEN.34.22] But by this they will allow the people to dwell with us, to be one people, by circumcising for us every male as they are circumcised. [§]
aki-bə-zo't ye'otu lanu ha-anashim la-shevet itanu li-hyot lə'am echad bə-himol lanu kol-zachar ka-asher hem nimolim.
This verse details a proposal to allow people to dwell among the Israelites, but only if all the male members undergo the practice of circumcision. The verse uses 'aki' to indicate 'but' or 'only'. 'zo't' means 'this'. 'ye'otu' signifies 'they will allow' or 'they will let'. 'ha-anashim' means 'the people' or 'the men'. 'la-shevet itanu' means 'to dwell with us'. 'li-hyot lə'am echad' means 'to be one people'. 'bə-himol lanu kol-zachar' means 'by circumcising for us every male'. 'ka-asher hem nimolim' means 'as they are circumcised'.
[GEN.34.23] Their livestock, their acquisitions, and all their animals, do they not belong to us? But they are given to them, and they will dwell with us. [§]
mikneh-hem ve-kin-yanam ve-kol-be-hem-tahm ha-lo lanu heim ach neo-tah la-hem ve-yesh-vu it-tanu
This verse discusses possessions and living arrangements. "Mikneh-hem" refers to their livestock or possessions. "Kin-yanam" means their acquisitions or property. "Be-hem-tahm" means their animals. "Ha-lo lanu heim" asks if these things don't belong to us. "Ach neo-tah la-hem" states that they are given to them. "Ve-yesh-vu it-tanu" states they will dwell with us.
[GEN.34.24] And they listened to Donkey and to Shechem his son, all those who went out of the gate of their city. And they circumcised every male, all those who went out of the gate of their city. [§]
vayishma'u el-chamor ve'el-shechem beno kol-yotzei sha'ar 'iro va'yemollu kol-zachar kol-yotzei sha'ar 'iro
This verse describes the men of Shechem listening to Hamor and Shechem his son, and then all the males of the city being circumcised. 'Hamor' means 'donkey', but is used as a proper name here. 'Sha'ar' means gate, and is being used to mean 'city'. 'Yotzei' means 'those who go out of', and is being used to indicate the populace.
[GEN.34.25] And it came to pass on the third day, while they were still in pain, that the two sons of Jacob, Simeon and Levi, the brothers of Dinah, each took his sword and came upon the city Shechem. And they killed every male. [§]
Va-yhi ba-yom ha-shlishi bi-heyotam ko-avim va-yikchu shnei benei Yaakov Shimon ve-Levi achei Dina ish charbo va-yavo al ha-ir Betach va-yahargu kol zachar.
This verse describes the aftermath of the rape of Dinah, daughter of Jacob. On the third day, while they were still in pain, two of Jacob's sons, Simeon and Levi, Dinah's brothers, each took their sword and came upon the city Shechem. They killed every male.
[GEN.34.26] And they killed Hamor and Shechem, his son, with the sword. And they took Dinah from the house of Shechem and they went out. [§]
ve'et-chamor ve'et-shchem beno har'gu lefi-charev vayikchu et-dinah mibeit shchem vayetze'u.
This verse describes the killing of Hamor and Shechem, son of Hamor, with the sword. It also details the taking of Dinah from the house of Shechem and their departure. 've'et' indicates 'and' plus a direct object marker. 'lefi-charev' means 'according to the sword' or 'with the sword'. 'mibeit' means 'from the house of'. 'vayetze'u' means 'and they went out'.
[GEN.34.27] The sons of Jacob came upon the defiled ones, and they plundered the city that they had defiled, their sister. [§]
bnei yaakov bau al-hachalalim vayabozu ha'ir asher tim'u achotam
This verse describes the sons of Jacob coming upon the defiled ones and plundering the city that they had defiled, referring to the aftermath of the rape of Dinah. "Bnei" means sons, "Yaakov" is Jacob, "bau" means they came, "al" means upon, "hachalalim" means the defiled ones, "vayabozu" means and they plundered, "ha'ir" means the city, "asher" means that, "tim'u" means they defiled, and "achotam" means their sister.
[GEN.34.28] And they took their sheep and their cattle and their donkeys, and that which was in the city and that which was in the field, they took. [§]
et-tso-nahm ve-et-be-kar-ahm ve-et-cha-mo-rei-hem ve-et a-sher ba-eer ve-et a-sher ba-sa-deh la-chu
This verse describes the taking of livestock and possessions. "et" is a particle marking a direct object. "tso-nahm" means 'their sheep.' "be-kar-ahm" means 'their cattle.' "cha-mo-rei-hem" means 'their donkeys.' "a-sher ba-eer" means 'that which is in the city' and "a-sher ba-sa-deh" means 'that which is in the field.' "la-chu" means 'they took'.
[GEN.34.29] And they captured all of their force and all of their children and all of their women, and they plundered all that was in the house. [§]
ve’et kol heylam ve’et kol tapam ve’et nsheyhem shavu vayavozu ve’et kol asher babayit
This verse describes the capture and plundering of a city or people. 've’et' means 'and' followed by a direct object marker. 'kol' means 'all.' 'heylam' is 'their force' or 'their army.' 'tapam' is 'their children' or 'their infants.' 'nsheyhem' is 'their women.' 'shavu' means 'they captured.' 'vayavozu' means 'and they plundered.' 'kol asher babayit' means 'all that was in the house'.
[GEN.34.30] And Jacob said to Simeon and to Levi, "You have troubled me, to bring disgrace upon me among the inhabitants of the land, among the Canaanites and the Perizzites. And I am few in number, and they will gather against me and strike me, and I and my house will be destroyed." [§]
Va-yo-mer Ya-a-kov el Shim-on ve-el Le-vi a-char-tem oti le-hav-ish-e-ni be-yo-shev ha-aretz ba-ke-na-ni u-va-pe-ri-zi va-a-ni me-tei mis-par ve-ne-es-fu a-lai ve-hi-ku-ni ve-nish-mad-ti a-ni u-bei-ti.
This verse comes from Genesis 34:30. Jacob is speaking to Simeon and Levi after they violently retaliated against the Shechemites who had defiled their sister Dinah. He expresses his anger at their actions, which he fears will bring trouble upon his family and cause them to be destroyed by the surrounding Canaanite and Perizzite peoples. He laments that they have brought shame upon him and made him small in the eyes of the inhabitants of the land. 'Achar' means to trouble, grieve, or destroy. 'Hav-ish-e-ni' means to bring shame or disgrace. 'Yo-shev ha-aretz' means the inhabitants of the land.
[GEN.34.31] And they said, "Is this what the Gods will do to our sister?" [§]
Va-yom-roo ha-khzo-nah ya-ah-seh et-ah-cho-teh-noo.
This verse contains a question posed by the men of Sodom. 'Va-yom-roo' means 'and they said.' 'Ha-khzo-nah' is a question marker, meaning 'is this?' 'Ya-ah-seh' is a verb meaning 'will do' or 'make.' 'Et' is a particle often untranslated but marks the direct object. 'Ah-cho-teh-noo' means 'our sister'. The verse is a request, phrased as a question, to have access to Lot's daughters.
GEN.35
[GEN.35.1] And the Gods said to Jacob, "Rise, ascend to the house of God and sit there, and make there an altar to God who appeared to you when you fled from the face of Esau, your brother." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim el Ya-a-kov, kum a-leh beit-el ve-shev sham, va-aseh sham miz-be-ach la-el ha-nir-eh e-ley-cha be-var-chach mi-pnei e-sav ach-cha.
This verse recounts God speaking to Jacob. 'Elohim' is a plural form, referring to the Gods, but often used as a majestic plural for a single God. 'Ya-a-kov' is Jacob. 'Kum' is 'rise'. 'A-leh' is 'ascend'. 'Beit-el' is 'house of God'. 'Shev' means 'sit'. 'Miz-be-ach' is 'altar'. 'La-el' is 'to God'. 'Ha-nir-eh' is 'the seen'. 'E-ley-cha' is 'to you'. 'Be-var-chach' means 'in your fleeing'. 'Mi-pnei' is 'from the face of'. 'E-sav' is Esau. 'Ach-cha' is 'your brother'.
[GEN.35.2] And Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, "Remove the gods of the foreigner that are among you, and purify yourselves, and change your garments." [§]
Va-yo-mer Ya-a-kov el-beit-o ve-el kol asher im-mo ha-si-ru et elohei ha-nechar asher be-toch-chem ve-hit-ta-heru ve-ha-chali-fu sim-lo-tei-chem.
This verse recounts Jacob instructing his household and all those with him to remove foreign gods from among them, purify themselves, and change their garments. "Va-yo-mer" means 'and he said'. "Ya-a-kov" is Jacob. "el-beit-o" means 'to his house'. "ve-el kol asher im-mo" means 'and to all that were with him'. "ha-si-ru" means 'remove'. "et elohei ha-nechar" means 'the gods of the foreigner'. "asher be-toch-chem" means 'that are among you'. "ve-hit-ta-heru" means 'and purify yourselves'. "ve-ha-chali-fu" means 'and change'. "sim-lo-tei-chem" means 'your garments'.
[GEN.35.3] We will rise and go to the house of God, and I will make there an altar to the God who answered me in a day of my distress, and who was with me on the path that I walked. [§]
v'nakuma v'na'aleh bet-el v'e'eseh sham mizbeach la'el ha'oneh oti b'yom tzarati vayhi imadi baderech asher halachti
This verse describes a decision to go to the house of God (Bet-El) to build an altar to the God who answered the speaker in a time of distress and was with them on the path they walked.
[GEN.35.4] And they gave to Jacob all the Gods of the foreigners that were in their hand, and the earrings that were in their ears. And Jacob buried them under the oak that was with Shechem. [§]
vayitnu el-yaakov et kol-elohei hannechar asher beyadam ve'et hannazim asher be'ozneihem vayitmon otam yaakov tachat ha'elah asher im-shechem
This verse describes Jacob collecting the foreign gods and ornaments from his family and burying them. 'Vayitnu' means 'and they gave'. 'El-Yaakov' is 'to Jacob'. 'Et kol-elohei hannechar' is 'all the gods of the foreigners'. 'Asher beyadam' is 'that were in their hand'. 'Ve'et hannazim asher be'ozneihem' is 'and the earrings that were in their ears'. 'Vayitmon otam Yaakov' is 'and Jacob buried them'. 'Tachat ha'elah' is 'under the oak'. 'Asher im-Shechem' is 'that was with Shechem'.
[GEN.35.5] They journeyed, and there was fear of the Gods upon the cities which were around them, and they did not pursue the sons of Jacob. [§]
vayissa'u vayhi chittat elohim al-ha'arim asher sevivotehem velo radfu acharei bnei ya'akov
This verse describes the departure of the Israelites and the fear that God instilled in the cities around them, preventing pursuit. 'Vayissa'u' means 'they journeyed'. 'Vayhi' means 'and it was'. 'Chittat' means 'fear'. 'Elohim' refers to 'the Gods'. 'Al-ha'arim' means 'upon the cities'. 'Ashir sevivotehem' means 'which were around them'. 'Velo radfu' means 'and they did not pursue'. 'Acharei bnei ya'akov' means 'after the sons of Jacob'.
[GEN.35.6] And Jacob came to Luz, which is in the land of Canaan. It is Beit-el. He and all the people who were with him were there. [§]
Va-yavo Ya'akov Luzah asher b'eretz Kena'an hi Beit-el hu v'chol ha'am asher immo.
This verse describes Jacob arriving at a place called Luz, which is in the land of Canaan. It identifies Luz as being the same place as Beit-el, and states that Jacob was accompanied by all the people with him.
[GEN.35.7] And he built there an altar and called the place 'House of God', because there the Gods appeared to him while he was fleeing from the face of his brother. [§]
va-yiven sham miz-bay-akh va-yiq-ra la-ma-kom el bayt-el ki sham nig-lu el-av ha-elohim be-var-kho mi-pnei akh-iv
This verse describes Jacob building an altar and naming the place. 'Mizbayakh' means altar. 'Bayt-el' means 'house of God'. 'El' refers to a god. 'Ha-elohim' refers to the gods. 'Niglu el-av' means 'appeared to him'. 'Akh-iv' refers to his brother.
[GEN.35.8] And Deborah, the nurse of Rebekah, died. And she was buried under Bethel, under the oak. And he called its name ‘Weeping Oak’. [§]
Va-ta-mat De-vo-rah Mei-ne-ket Riv-kah Va-ti-ka-ver Mit-tach-at Le-beit-el Tach-at Ha-al-lon Va-yi-kra Sh-mo Al-lon Ba-chu-t.
This verse describes the death and burial of Deborah, the nurse of Rebekah. It states she was buried under an oak tree near Bethel, and the place was named ‘Weeping Oak’.
[GEN.35.9] And the Gods appeared to Jacob still, in his coming from Paddan Aram, and blessed him. [§]
vayera elohim el-yaakov od b’vo’o mipaddan aram vayvarech oto
vayera means ‘and appeared’.
elohim is ‘the Gods’ (plural form of God).
el means ‘to’.
yaakov is ‘Jacob’.
od means ‘still’ or ‘again’.
b’vo’o means ‘in his coming’.
mipaddan aram means ‘from Paddan Aram’ (a region).
vayvarech means ‘and blessed’.
oto means ‘him’.
[GEN.35.10] And the Gods said to him, "Your name is Jacob. Your name will not still be Jacob, but Israel will be your name." And the Gods called his name Israel. [§]
Va-yo-mer loo Elohim shim-cha Ya-a-kov lo yee-ka-ray shim-cha od Ya-a-kov ki im Yis-ra-el yee-heh sh-mecha va-yee-kra et sh-mo Yis-ra-el.
This verse describes God renaming Jacob to Israel. 'Va-yo-mer loo' means 'and He said to him'. 'Elohim' refers to 'the Gods'. 'Shim-cha' means 'your name'. 'Ya-a-kov' is Jacob’s name. 'Lo yee-ka-ray' means 'will not be called'. 'Od' means 'still' or 'again'. 'Ki im' means 'but'. 'Yis-ra-el' is Israel’s name. 'Yee-heh' means 'will be'. 'Va-yee-kra' means 'and He called'. 'Et sh-mo' means 'his name'.
[GEN.35.11] And God said to him, "I am the Gods of the Mountain. Be fruitful and multiply. A nation and an assembly of nations will be from you, and kings will come forth from your offspring." [§]
Va-yo-mer loo Elohim, ani El Shaddai, preh oo-rev-eh, goy oo-kehal goyim yih-yeh mim-me-cha, oo-me-la-chim me-cha-la-tse-cha ye-tze-oo.
This verse is God speaking to Jacob. "Elohim" is a plural form, meaning 'the Gods'. "El Shaddai" is often translated as 'God Almighty', but literally means 'God of the Mountain'. "Preh oo-rev-eh" means 'be fruitful and multiply'. "Goy" translates to 'nation' or 'people'. "Kehal goyim" means 'assembly of nations'. "Mim-me-cha" means 'from you'. "Me-la-chim" means 'kings'. "Me-cha-la-tse-cha" means 'from your loins' or 'from your offspring'. "Ye-tze-oo" means 'will come forth'.
[GEN.35.12] And the land that I gave to Abraham and to Isaac, to you I will give it, and to your offspring after you, I will give the land. [§]
ve'et-ha'aretz asher natati le'avraham ule'yitzchak lecha etnenna ule'zara'cha acharecha etten et-ha'aretz.
This verse concerns a promise of land. 've'et' means 'and'. 'ha'aretz' means 'the land'. 'asher' means 'that/which'. 'natati' means 'I gave'. 'le'avraham' means 'to Abraham'. 'ule'yitzchak' means 'and to Isaac'. 'lecha' means 'to you'. 'etnenna' means 'I will give it'. 'ule'zara'cha' means 'and to your offspring'. 'acharecha' means 'after you'. 'etten' means 'I will give'. 'et-ha'aretz' means 'the land'. This is a divine promise made to someone.
[GEN.35.13] And He went up over him, the Gods, in the place where He spoke with him. [§]
va-ya'al me-alav elohim ba-makom asher diber itto.
This verse describes a divine appearance. 'Va-ya'al' means 'and He ascended' or 'and He went up'. 'Me-alav' means 'from above him' or 'over him'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods' in the plural form, indicating divine beings. 'Ba-makom' means 'in the place'. 'Asher' means 'where' or 'that'. 'Diber' means 'He spoke'. 'Itto' means 'with him'.
[GEN.35.14] And Jacob set up a pillar, a memorial stone, in the place where God spoke to him, and he poured a drink offering over it and poured oil over it. [§]
Va-ya-tsev Ya-a-kov mat-tse-vah ba-ma-kom a-sher di-ber it-to mat-tse-vet a-ven va-yas-sech a-lei-ha ne-sech va-yitzok a-lei-ha sha-men.
This verse describes Jacob setting up a stone pillar as a memorial at the place where God spoke to him. He then poured a drink offering and oil onto the pillar. Let's break down the names of God used here. There are none explicitly used, but 'El' is implied in 'the place where God spoke'.
[GEN.35.15] And Jacob called the name of the place where he spoke with him there, the Gods’ house of God. [§]
Va-yik-ra Ya-a-kov et-shem ha-ma-kom asher di-ber it-to sham Elohim Beit-el.
This verse describes Jacob naming a place. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Ya-a-kov' is Jacob. 'Et-shem' means 'the name of'. 'Ha-ma-kom' means 'the place'. 'Asher' means 'that/where'. 'Di-ber' means 'he spoke'. 'It-to' means 'with him'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Beit-el' means 'house of God'.
[GEN.35.16] And they journeyed from the house of God, and it came to pass, still a distance of the land to come to Ephrathah. And Rachel gave birth, and she struggled in her giving birth. [§]
vayis'u mibbeit eil vayehi od kibrat ha'aretz lavo efraatah vatteled rachael vat'kash belidatah
This verse describes the journey of Jacob and his company from Bethel. They traveled a certain distance further until they approached Ephrathah (Bethlehem). Rachel then gave birth, but it was a difficult labor.
[GEN.35.17] And it was, in her difficulty in birthing, and the midwife said to her, "Do not fear, because also this is to you a son." [§]
Va-yhi be-hakshotah be-lidatah vatomer lah hamayaledet al tir'i ki gam zeh lach ben.
This verse describes a difficult childbirth. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Be-hakshotah' means 'in her difficulty'. 'Be-lidatah' means 'in her birthing'. 'Vatomer lah hamayaledet' means 'and the midwife said to her'. 'Al tir'i' means 'do not fear'. 'Ki gam zeh lach ben' means 'because also this is to you a son'.
[GEN.35.18] And it happened as her soul departed, because she died, that she called his name ‘son of my sorrow’, and his father called him Benjamin. [§]
va-yhi be-tse’at naf-sha-ah ki me-ta vah-ti-kra shmo ben-o-nee ve-ah-vee-v ka-ra lo vin-yah-meen.
This verse describes the naming of Benjamin. It states that as his mother died in giving birth, she named him ‘son of my sorrow’. His father then called him Benjamin.
[GEN.35.19] And Rachel died, and she was buried on the way to Ephratah, it is Beit La-chem. [§]
Va-ta-mat Rachel va-ti-ka-ver be-derech Ef-ra-tah hee Beit La-chem.
This verse describes the death and burial of Rachel. 'Va-ta-mat' means 'and she died'. 'Rachel' is a proper noun, the name of a person. 'Va-ti-ka-ver' means 'and she was buried'. 'Be-derech' means 'on the way'. 'Ef-ra-tah' is a place name. 'Hee' is a demonstrative pronoun meaning 'she is' or 'it is'. 'Beit La-chem' is a place name, meaning 'house of bread'.
[GEN.35.20] And Jacob set up a pillar over her burial; it is the pillar of Rachel’s burial until this day. [§]
Va-yatzav Ya'akov matzevah al-kevuratah, hee matzevet kevurat Rachel ad-hayom.
This verse describes Jacob setting up a pillar over Rachel’s burial place. ‘Va-yatzav’ means ‘and he set up.’ ‘Ya’akov’ is Jacob. ‘Matzevah’ is pillar or monument. ‘Al-kevuratah’ means ‘over her burial.’ ‘Hee’ means ‘it’ or ‘she.’ ‘Matzevet kevurat Rachel’ means ‘the pillar of Rachel’s burial.’ ‘Ad-hayom’ means ‘until this day.’
[GEN.35.21] And Israel journeyed, and he turned his tents from Galeed to Migdal-eder. [§]
Va-yis-sah Yis-ra-el va-yeh-te oh-loh meh-ha-leh-ah le-mig-dal-eh-der
This verse describes Israel journeying and pitching his tents beyond Galeed to Migdal-eder. 'Va-yis-sah' means 'and he journeyed.' 'Yis-ra-el' is 'Israel.' 'Va-yeh-te' means 'and he turned/pitched.' 'Oh-loh' means 'his tents.' 'Meh-ha-leh-ah' means 'from Galeed.' 'Le-mig-dal-eh-der' means 'to Migdal-eder.'
[GEN.35.22] And it happened while Israel was residing in that land, that Reuben went and lay with Bilhah, the concubine of his father. And Israel heard of it. And the sons of Jacob were twelve. [§]
Va-ye-hee bish-khon Yis-ra-el ba-ah-retz ha-hee-ah, va-ye-lekh Re-u-ven va-yish-kach-ah et-Bil-hah pee-leh-ghesh ah-veev, va-yish-mah Yis-ra-el, va-ye-hyu bnei Ya-ah-kov shnei-im ah-sar.
This verse describes Reuben sleeping with Bilhah, the concubine of his father Jacob, and Israel (Jacob) learning of this. It sets the stage for the recounting of the births of Jacob’s twelve sons. ‘Va-ye-hee’ is a common introductory phrase meaning ‘and it came to pass’ or ‘and it happened’. ‘Bish-khon’ means ‘in dwelling’ or ‘while residing’. ‘Pee-leh-ghesh’ means ‘concubine’. ‘Ah-veev’ is ‘his father’. ‘Va-ye-lekh’ means ‘and he went’. ‘Va-yish-kach-ah’ means ‘and he lay with’.
[GEN.35.23] The sons of Leah, the firstborn of Jacob, are Reuben, and Simeon, and Levi, and Judah, and Issachar, and Zebulun. [§]
bnei le'ah bekhor ya'akov re'uven veshim'on v'levi vihudah v'yissakhar uzvulun.
This verse lists the sons of Leah, the firstborn of Jacob. "Bnei" means sons. "Le'ah" is Leah. "Bekhor" means firstborn. "Ya'akov" is Jacob. The remaining names are the individual sons: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun. The 'v' connectors are simply 'and'.
[GEN.35.24] The sons of Rachel are Joseph and Benjamin. [§]
b'nei rachel yosef ubinyamin
This verse lists the sons of Rachel. 'B'nei' means 'sons of'. 'Rachel' is a proper noun, the name Rachel. 'Yosef' is a proper noun, the name Joseph. 'U' means 'and'. 'Binyamin' is a proper noun, the name Benjamin.
[GEN.35.25] And the sons of Bilhah, the handmaid of Rachel, are Dan and Naphtali. [§]
oo-v'nei bil-hah shif-chat ra-chel dan v'naf-tah-lee
This verse lists the sons of Bilhah, the handmaid of Rachel. 'B'nei' means 'sons of'. 'Shifchat' means 'handmaid of'. The names Dan and Naphtali are proper nouns, the names of the sons.
[GEN.35.26] And the sons of Zilpah, the maidservant of Leah, are Gad and Asher. These are the sons of Jacob who were born to him in Paddan Aram. [§]
ooov’nei zil’pah shif’chat le’ah gad v’asher eleh b’nei ya’akov asher yoolad-lo befadan aram
This verse lists the sons of Zilpah, Leah's maidservant, namely Gad and Asher. It then states that these are the sons of Jacob who were born to him in Paddan Aram.
[GEN.35.27] And Jacob went to Isaac, his father, to Mamre, which is the city of Arba, it is Hebron, where Abraham and Isaac resided. [§]
Va-vo Ya-ak-ov el Yitz-chak aviv Mam-re-ah Kir-yat ha-Ar-ba-ah hee Chev-ron asher-gar-sham Av-ra-ham ve-Yitz-chak.
This verse describes Jacob going to Isaac, his father, to Mamre, which is the city of Arba, also known as Hebron, where Abraham and Isaac lived.
[GEN.35.28] And the days of Isaac were one hundred years and eighty years. [§]
va-yih-yu yə-mei yitz-chak mə-at shanah u-shə-mo-nim shanah
This verse states the length of Isaac's life. 'Vayihyu' means 'and were'. 'Yemei' means 'days of'. 'Yitzchak' is Isaac's name. 'Me'at' means 'one hundred'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'U' means 'and'. 'Shmonim' means 'eighty'.
[GEN.35.29] Isaac grew weak and died, and he was gathered to his people, old and full of days. Esau and Jacob, his sons, buried him. [§]
vayigva yitzchak vayamat vaye'asef el-amav zaken ushevay yamim vayikberu oto esav v'yaakov banav.
This verse describes the death of Isaac. "Vayigva" means he grew weak or expired. "Vayamat" means he died. "Vaye'asef el-amav" means he was gathered to his people, referring to death and joining ancestors. "Zaken ushevay yamim" means old and full of days. "Vayikberu oto esav v'yaakov banav" means Esau and Jacob, his sons, buried him.
GEN.36
[GEN.36.1] And these are the accounts of Esau. He is Edom. [§]
veh-eh-leh toh-loh-doht eh-sahv hoo-ah ed-ohm
This verse begins a new section detailing the descendants of Esau. 'Veh-eh-leh' means 'and these'. 'Toh-loh-doht' means 'generations' or 'accounts of'. 'Eh-sahv' is the name Esau. 'Hoo-ah' means 'he is'. 'Ed-ohm' is the name Edom, the nation descended from Esau.
[GEN.36.2] Esau took his wives from the daughters of Canaan, Adah daughter of Eilon the Hittite, and Aholibamah daughter of Anah daughter of Tziv'on the Hivite. [§]
Esav lakach et-nashav mibnot Kena'an, et-Adah bat-Eilon haChiti, ve'et-Aholivamah bat-Anah bat-Tziv'on haChivi.
This verse describes Esau taking wives from the daughters of Canaan. Specifically, it names Adah, daughter of Eilon the Hittite, and Aholibamah, daughter of Anah, daughter of Tziv'on the Hivite.
[GEN.36.3] And Basmat, daughter of Yishmael, sister of Nevayot. [§]
veh-et-bas-mat bat-yish-ma-el ah-chot nev-ay-ot
This verse lists the wife of Esau. 'Veh-et' means 'and'. 'Basmat' is a proper name. 'Bat' means 'daughter'. 'Yishmael' is a proper name. 'Ah-chot' means 'sister'. 'Nevayot' is a proper name.
[GEN.36.4] And Adah bore to Esau Elipaz, and Basemath bore Reuel. [§]
va-teh-led adah le-eh-sahv et-eh-lee-faz oo-vas-mat yaldah et-re-oo-el
This verse describes the children born to Esau's wives. "Adah" is a proper noun, a wife’s name. "Esau" is a proper noun, a man’s name. "Elipaz" is a proper noun, a son’s name. "Basemath" is a proper noun, a wife's name. "Reuel" is a proper noun, a son's name. The verb indicates that these women bore children to the named individuals.
[GEN.36.5] And Aholivamah bore Ye’ish and Ya’lam and Korach. These are the sons of Esau who were born to him in the land of Kena’an. [§]
ve-aholivamah yal’dah et-ye’ish ve-et-ya’lam ve-et-korach elleh benei eisav asher yul’du-lo be’eretz kena’an.
This verse describes the sons born to Esau. "Ve" means "and". "Aholivamah" is a proper noun, a woman's name. "Yalda" means "she bore". "Et" is a grammatical particle that marks the direct object. "Ye’ish" and "Ya’lam" and "Korach" are the names of the sons. "Eleh" means "these". "Benei" means "sons of". "Eisav" is a proper noun, the name Esau. "Asher" means "who" or "that". "Yul’du-lo" means "were born to him". "Be’eretz" means "in the land of". "Kena’an" is the name of a land.
[GEN.36.6] And Esau took his wives and his sons and his daughters and all the people of his house and his livestock and all his animals and all his possessions that he had acquired in the land of Canaan, and he went to another land because of his brother Jacob. [§]
Va-yikach Esav et-nashav ve-et-banav ve-et-benotav ve-et-kol-nafshot beito ve-et-miknehuhu ve-et-kol-behemto ve-et kol-kinyano asher rachash be-eretz Kenaan va-yelech el-eretz mipnei Yaakov achiv.
This verse describes Esau taking his wives, sons, daughters, all the people of his house, his livestock, all his animals, and all his possessions that he had acquired in the land of Canaan, and then going to another land because of his brother Jacob.
[GEN.36.7] For their possessions were numerous beyond the ability of the land to support them, and the land of their dwellings could not bear them because of their livestock. [§]
ki-hayah rekhusham rav mishevet yachdav ve-lo yachlah eretz megureihem laset otam mipnei mikne'hem.
This verse describes a situation where the possessions of a people became too numerous for the land to support them. 'Rekusham' refers to their possessions or wealth. 'Rav' means numerous or great. 'Mishevet yachdav' means 'together as a dwelling' implying a large population. 'Ertez megureihem' means 'the land of their dwellings'. 'Laset otam' means 'to bear them' or 'to support them'. 'Mipnei mikne'hem' means 'because of their livestock'.
[GEN.36.8] And Esau settled in the mountain of Seir. Esau, he is Edom. [§]
Va-yeshev Esav be-har Seir, Esav hu Edom.
This verse states that Esau settled in the mountain of Seir, and that Esau is Edom. 'Va-yeshev' means 'and he settled'. 'Esav' is the name Esau. 'Be-har' means 'in the mountain'. 'Seir' is the name of a mountain. 'Hu' means 'he is'. 'Edom' is the name of a people and a region.
[GEN.36.9] And these are the generations of Esau, father of Edom, in the mountain of Seir. [§]
veh-ay-leh toh-loh-doht ay-sahv ah-vee ed-ohm beh-har seh-eer
This verse introduces the genealogy of Esau, the father of Edom. 'Veh-ay-leh' means 'and these'. 'Toh-loh-doht' means 'generations' or 'descendants'. 'Ay-sahv' is Esau’s name. 'Ah-vee' means 'father of'. 'Ed-ohm' is Edom. 'Beh-har' means 'in the mountain'. 'Seh-eer' is the name of the mountain, Seir.
[GEN.36.10] These are the names of the sons of Esau. Eliphaz, son of Adah, wife of Esau, and Reu'el, son of Bashmat, wife of Esau. [§]
el-leh shmot bene-esav eliphaz ben-adah eshet esav reu'el ben-bashmat eshet esav
This verse lists the names of Esau's sons. 'Elleh' means 'these'. 'Shmot' means 'names'. 'Bene' means 'sons of'. 'Esav' is the name Esau. 'Eliphaz' and 'Reu'el' are names. 'Ben' means 'son of'. 'Adah' and 'Bashmat' are names. 'Eshet' means 'wife of'.
[GEN.36.11] And the sons of Eliphaz were Tayman, Omar, Tzfoh, and Kenaz. [§]
Va-yee-hoo ben-ay El-ee-fawz Tay-mahn Oh-mar Tzfoh veh-gah-tahm oo-keh-nahz.
This verse lists the names of the sons of Eliphaz. 'Benay' means 'sons of'. Each name is simply transliterated as it sounds. There are no divine names present here, merely proper nouns.
[GEN.36.12] And Timnah was a concubine to Elipaz, son of Esau, and she bore to Elipaz Amalek. These are the sons of Adah, wife of Esau. [§]
vətimnaʕ | hāyəṯāh pīlegesh le’ĕlīpaz ben-ʿēśāw, vaṯēled le’ĕlīpaz ʾet-ʿămāleq. ʾēlleh bənē ʿādāh ʾēsheṯ ʿēśāw.
This verse describes Timnah becoming a concubine of Elipaz, the son of Esau, and bearing him Amalek. It then states that these are the sons of Adah, the wife of Esau. Note that ‘pīlegesh’ denotes a concubine, a secondary wife. The use of ‘et’ is a grammatical marker indicating a direct object.
[GEN.36.13] And these are the sons of Reuel: Nachath and Zerah, Shamah and Mizah. These were the sons of Bashmath, the wife of Esau. [§]
ve'eleh benei Re'uel Nachath vaZerah Shamah uMizah, eleh hayu benei Bashmath eshet Esav.
This verse lists the sons of Reuel. "ve'eleh" means "and these". "benei" means "sons of". "Re'uel" is a proper name. "Nachath" and "Zerah", "Shamah", and "Mizah" are names of sons. "eleh hayu" means "these were". "benei Bashmath" means "sons of Bashmath". "eshet Esav" means "the wife of Esau".
[GEN.36.14] And these were the sons of Aholivamah, daughter of Anah, daughter of Tsiv’on, the wife of Eisav. And she bore to Eisav Ye’ish, and Ya’lam, and Korach. [§]
ve'elleh hayu benei aholivamah bat-anah bat-tsiv'on eshet eisav vateled le'eisav et-ye'ish ve'et-ya'lam ve'et-korach
This verse details the offspring of Eisav (Esau) through his wife Aholivamah. It lists three sons: Ye'ish, Ya'lam, and Korach. The verse specifies Aholivamah's lineage, stating she is the daughter of Anah, who is the daughter of Tsiv'on. The structure is typical of genealogical lists in the text, establishing family lines.
[GEN.36.15] These are the chiefs of the descendants of Esau, the descendants of Eliphaz, the firstborn of Esau. The chief Teman, the chief Omar, the chief Zpho, the chief Kenaz. [§]
Elleh allufei benei-Esav, benei Eliphaz, bechor Esav. Alluf Teman, alluf Omar, alluf Zpho, alluf Kenaz.
The verse lists the chiefs of the descendants of Esau, specifically the descendants of Eliphaz, who was the firstborn of Esau. 'Elleh' means 'these'. 'Allufei' is the plural of 'alluf', meaning 'chiefs' or 'leaders'. 'Benei' means 'sons' or 'descendants of'. 'Esav' is Esau. 'Eliphaz' is a name. 'Bechor' means 'firstborn'. 'Teman', 'Omar', 'Zpho', and 'Kenaz' are names of chiefs.
[GEN.36.16] Korach's leader, Ga'tam's leader, Amalek's leader. These are the leaders of Eliphaz in the land of Edom. These are the sons of Ada. [§]
Alluf-Korach, Alluf Ga'tam, Alluf Amalek. These are the leaders of Eliphaz in the land of Edom. These are the sons of Ada.
The word "Alluf" means leader or chief. "Korach", "Ga'tam", and "Amalek" are proper names. "Edom" is a place name. "Ada" is a proper name. "Eleh" means "these". "Bnei" means "sons". "Eretz" means "land". "Eliaphaz" is a proper name. "Elohim" is used as a possessive, as in "of Elohim", which in this translation is represented as "of the Gods".
[GEN.36.17] And these are the sons of Reuel, son of Esau: Chief Nachat, Chief Zerach, Chief Shamah, Chief Mizah. These are the chiefs of Reuel in the land of Edom. These are the sons of Basemat, the wife of Esau. [§]
Ve'elleh benei Reuel ben-Esau Aluf Nachat Aluf Zerach Aluf Shamah Aluf Mizah, elleh alufei Reuel be'eretz Edom, elleh benei Basemat eshet Esau.
This verse lists the sons of Reuel, who is a son of Esau. Each son is designated as an 'Aluf', which signifies a tribal chieftain or leader. It details the leaders who descended from Reuel in the land of Edom, and then states they are the sons of Basemat, the wife of Esau.
[GEN.36.18] And these are the sons of Aholibamah, the wife of Esau: Chief Ye'ush, Chief Ya'lam, Chief Qorach. These are the chiefs of Aholibamah, daughter of Anah, the wife of Esau. [§]
ve'eleh benei aholivamah eshet esav aluf ye'ush aluf ya'lam aluf qorach eleh alufei aholivamah bat-anah eshet esav.
This verse lists the descendants of Aholibamah, the wife of Esau. "Benei" means "sons of". "Aluf" is typically translated as "chief" or "leader", but literally means "chief". The verse repeats that these chiefs are the sons of Aholibamah, the daughter of Anah, wife of Esau.
[GEN.36.19] These are the sons of Esau, and these are their chiefs. He is Edom. [§]
eh-leh beh-nay-eh-sahv veh-eh-leh al-loo-fay-hem hoo eh-dome
This verse lists the descendants and chiefs of Esau, identifying him as Edom. "Eh-leh" means "these". "Be-nay" means "sons of". "Eh-sahv" is the name Esau. "Veh-eh-leh" means "and these". "Al-loo-fay-hem" means "their chiefs". "Hoo" means "he" or "is". "Eh-dome" is the name Edom.
[GEN.36.20] These are the descendants of Seir the Horite, inhabitants of the land: Lotan, Shoval, Tzivon, and Ana. [§]
Elle benei-Seir ha-Chori yoshevei ha-aretz Lotan ve-Shoval ve-Tzivon va-Ana.
This verse lists the descendants of Seir the Horite, who inhabited the land. "Elle" means "these". "Benei" means "sons of" or "descendants of". "Seir" is a proper noun, a name of a person. "Ha-Chori" means "the Horite", denoting their origin. "Yoshevei" means "inhabitants of". "Ha-aretz" means "the land". "Lotan", "Shoval", "Tzivon", and "Ana" are proper nouns, names of people or clans.
[GEN.36.21] And Dishon and Etzer and Dishan, these are the chiefs of the Horites, descendants of Seir, in the land of Edom. [§]
ve-dee-shone ve-eh-tzer ve-dee-shawn eh-leh al-loo-fay ha-ho-ree ben-ay seh-eer be-eh-retz eh-dome
This verse lists the chiefs of the Horites, descendants of Seir, in the land of Edom. The names 'Dishon', 'Etzer', and 'Dishan' are listed as chiefs. 'Horite' refers to inhabitants of the mountains. 'Seir' is an ancestor. 'Edom' is the land.
[GEN.36.22] And the sons of Lotan were Chor-ee and hay-mam, and the sister of Lotan was Tim-nah. [§]
Va-yee-hoo ben-ay Lo-tan Chor-ee ve-hay-mam va-ach-oat Lo-tan Tim-nah.
This verse lists the descendants of Lotan. ‘Benay’ means ‘sons of’. ‘Ach-oat’ means ‘sister of’. The names Chor-ee, hay-mam, and Tim-nah are personal names.
[GEN.36.23] And these are the descendants of Shoval: Alvan, and Manahat, and Eival, and Shfo, and Onam. [§]
ve-elleh bene shovahl alvan umanachat ve-eival shfo ve-onam
This verse lists the descendants of Shobal. 've-elleh' means 'and these'. 'bene' means 'sons' or 'descendants'. 'Shoval' is a proper name. 'alvan', 'umanachat', 'eival', 'shfo' and 'onam' are all proper names, listing further descendants.
[GEN.36.24] And these are the sons of Zibeon, and Ayah, and Anah. He is Anah, who found the watering places in the wilderness while he pastured the donkeys of Zibeon his father. [§]
ve'eleh benei-tsiv'on ve'ayah va'anah hu anah asher matsa et-hayemim bamidbar bire'oto et-hachamorim letziv'on aviv.
This verse lists the sons of Zibeon. It specifies Ayah and Anah among them, identifying Anah as the one who discovered the watering places while tending his father Zibeon's donkeys in the wilderness.
[GEN.36.25] And these are the descendants of Anah, Dishon, and Ahoolivamah, daughter of Anah. [§]
ve-elleh benei-anah dishon ve-aholivamah bat-anah
This verse lists the descendants of Anah. 've-elleh' means 'and these'. 'benei' means 'sons of', used here to indicate descendants. 'anah' is a proper noun, a name. 'dishon' is another proper noun, a name. 've' means 'and'. 'aholivamah' is a proper noun, a name. 'bat' means 'daughter of'. 'anah' is repeated as a proper noun.
[GEN.36.26] And these are the sons of Dishan: Hemdan and Eshban and Yitran and Khran. [§]
ve-elleh benee Dishan, Hemdan ve-Eshban ve-Yitran u-Khran.
This verse lists the sons of Dishan. 've-elleh' means 'and these'. 'benee' means 'sons of'. 'Dishen' is a proper noun, a name. 'Hemdan' and 'Eshban' and 'Yitran' and 'Khran' are all proper nouns, names of people. 'u' simply means 'and'.
[GEN.36.27] These are the sons of Etser: Bilhan, and Zavavan, and Akan. [§]
Eh-leh ben-ay Et-ser Bil-han veh-zah-vah-van va-ah-kan.
This verse lists the descendants of Etser. "Eh-leh" means "these". "Ben-ay" means "sons of". "Et-ser" is a proper name. "Bil-han" and "Zah-vah-van" and "Ah-kan" are all proper names.
[GEN.36.28] These are the sons of Dishan: Oots and Ahran. [§]
Eh-leh ben-ay Dee-shahn Oots va-ah-rahn.
“Eh-leh” means “these”. “Ben-ay” means “sons of”. “Dee-shahn” is a proper noun, a name. “Oots” and “ah-rahn” are proper nouns, names. This verse lists the sons of Dishan.
[GEN.36.29] These are the chiefs of the Horites: the chief Lotan, the chief Shoval, the chief Tsibeon, the chief Ana. [§]
Eleh allufei hachori. Alluf lotan. Alluf shoval. Alluf tsibeon. Alluf ana.
Eleh means 'these'. Allufei is the plural of alluf, meaning 'chiefs' or 'leaders'. Hachori means 'the Horites'. Alluf is repeated multiple times, followed by the names Lotan, Shoval, Tsibeon, and Ana. These are likely titles or designations followed by personal names. Therefore, the verse lists the chiefs of the Horites, naming four of them specifically.
[GEN.36.30] Dishon's chief, Etzer's chief, Dishan's chief. These are the chiefs of the Horites, to their own chiefs in the land of Seir. [§]
Alluf Dishon, Alluf Etzer, Alluf Dishan. These are the chiefs of the Horites to their chiefs in the land of Seir.
The word 'Alluf' appears repeatedly, and consistently means 'chief'. 'Dishon', 'Etzer', and 'Dishen' appear as proper names. 'Horites' is a people group. 'Seir' is a geographical location. 'Elohim' is present in the original text as a grammatical construct and is omitted because it isn't needed for semantic clarity.
[GEN.36.31] And these are the kings who reigned in the land of Edom before the supreme king of the people of Israel. [§]
veh-eh-leh ha-meh-la-khim ah-sher mal-khu beh-eretz edom lif-nei meh-lekh-meh-lekh liv-nei yis-ra-el
This verse lists the kings who reigned in the land of Edom before any king of the Israelites reigned. ‘veh-eh-leh’ means ‘and these’. ‘ha-meh-la-khim’ means ‘the kings’. ‘ah-sher’ means ‘who’ or ‘that’. ‘mal-khu’ means ‘reigned’. ‘beh-eretz’ means ‘in the land’. ‘edom’ is the name of the land ‘Edom’. ‘lif-nei’ means ‘before’. ‘meh-lekh-meh-lekh’ is a compound word meaning ‘king of a king’ or ‘the supreme king’. ‘liv-nei’ means ‘to the sons of’ or ‘to the people of’. ‘yis-ra-el’ is the name ‘Israel’.
[GEN.36.32] And he reigned in Edom. Belaah, son of Beor, and the name of his city was Din-havah. [§]
Va-yim-loch Be-e-dom Be-la-ah ben Be-or ve-shem iro Din-ha-vah.
This verse describes the reign of a king in Edom. "Va-yim-loch" means "and he reigned". "Be-e-dom" means "in Edom". "Be-la-ah" is a name. "ben Be-or" means "son of Beor". "ve-shem iro" means "and the name of his city". "Din-ha-vah" is the name of the city.
[GEN.36.33] And Balak died, and Jobab, son of Zerach from Bazrah, reigned in his place. [§]
Va-ya-mat Ba-la-ah Va-yim-loch Tach-ta-v Yo-vav Ben-ze-rach Mi-baz-ra-ah.
This verse describes the death of Balak and the subsequent reign of his son, Jobab. 'Va-ya-mat' means 'and he died'. 'Ba-la-ah' is the name of the king who died. 'Va-yim-loch' means 'and he reigned'. 'Tach-ta-v' means 'under him' or 'in his place'. 'Yo-vav' is the name of the new king. 'Ben-ze-rach' means 'son of Zerach'. 'Mi-baz-ra-ah' means 'from Bazrah'.
[GEN.36.34] And Yovav died, and Husham reigned in his place, from the land of the Teimani. [§]
Va-ya-mat Yo-vav va-yim-loch tach-ta-v Hu-sham me-eretz ha-tei-ma-ni.
This verse describes the death of a king named Yovav and the subsequent reign of Husham. 'Va-ya-mat' means 'and died'. 'Yo-vav' is a proper name, the name of the king. 'Va-yim-loch' means 'and reigned'. 'Tach-ta-v' means 'under him' or 'in his place'. 'Hu-sham' is a proper name, the name of the next king. 'Me-eretz ha-tei-ma-ni' means 'from the land of the Teimani'.
[GEN.36.35] And Khusham died, and Hadad, son of Bedad, reigned in his place, the one who struck Midian in the field of Moab, and the name of his city was Avit. [§]
Va-ya-mat Khusham va-yim-lokh takh-ta-v Adad ben-Bedad ha-makkeh et-Midyan bi-sdeh Moav ve-shem iro Avit.
This verse describes the death of Khusham and the subsequent reign of Hadad, son of Bedad. It specifies that Hadad defeated Midian in the plains of Moab, and mentions the name of his city, Avit. Each name is translated literally, based on its root meaning. 'Va' indicates 'and', 'ben' means 'son', 'et' is a direct object marker, 'bi' means 'in', 'sdeh' means 'field', 'shem' means 'name', 'iro' means 'his city'.
[GEN.36.36] And Hadad died, and Shamlah reigned in his place, coming from the east. [§]
Va-ya-mat Ha-dad va-yim-loch tach-ta-v Sham-la-h mi-mas-re-kah.
This verse describes the death of Hadad and the subsequent reign of Shamlah. 'Va-ya-mat' means 'and died'. 'Ha-dad' is a proper name. 'Va-yim-loch' means 'and reigned'. 'Tach-ta-v' means 'under him' or 'in his place'. 'Sham-la-h' is a proper name. 'Mi-mas-re-kah' means 'from the east'.
[GEN.36.37] And Shamlah died, and Saul reigned in his place, from the regions of the river. [§]
va-ya-mat sham-lah va-yim-loch tach-ta-v sha-ul me-rech-vo-t ha-na-har
This verse describes the death of Saul’s father, Kish, and the subsequent ascension of Saul to kingship. ‘Va-ya-mat’ means ‘and died’. ‘Sham-lah’ is the proper name of the father. ‘Va-yim-loch’ means ‘and reigned’ or ‘and became king’. ‘Tach-ta-v’ means ‘under him’ or ‘in his place’. ‘Sha-ul’ is the proper name of Saul. ‘Me-rech-vo-t ha-na-har’ means ‘from the regions of the river’ - this refers to the location Saul came from.
[GEN.36.38] And Saul died, and under him reigned Lord of Grace, son of Achbor. [§]
Va-ya-mat Sha-ul Va-yim-loch tach-ta-v Ba-al Cha-nan ben-Ach-bor
This verse describes the death of Saul and the subsequent reign of his successor. 'Va-ya-mat' means 'and died'. 'Sha-ul' is the name Saul. 'Va-yim-loch' means 'and reigned'. 'Tach-ta-v' means 'under him' or 'in his place'. 'Ba-al Cha-nan' is a proper name meaning 'Lord of Grace'. 'Ben-Ach-bor' means 'son of Achbor'.
[GEN.36.39] And Baal Hanan, son of Achbor, died, and Hadar reigned in his place. And the name of his city was Pa'u, and the name of his wife was Meheita'bel, daughter of Matred, daughter of Mei Zahav. [§]
Va-ya-mat Baal Hanan ben-Achbor, va-yimloch tachataiv Hadar, ve-shem iro Pa'u, ve-shem ishto Meheita'bel bat-Matred, bat Mei Zahav.
This verse recounts the death of Baal Hanan, son of Achbor, and the subsequent reign of Hadar. It then provides the names of Hadar's city and wife. 'Va-ya-mat' means 'and he died'. 'Baal Hanan' is a personal name meaning 'lord of grace'. 'Ben' means 'son of'. 'Va-yimloch' means 'and he reigned'. 'Tachataiv' means 'in his place'. 'Ve-shem' means 'and the name of'. 'Iro' means 'his city'. 'Ishto' means 'his wife'. 'Bat' means 'daughter of'.
[GEN.36.40] And these are the names of the chiefs of Esau, to their families, to their locations, by their names: the chief Timna, the chief Alvah, the chief Yetet. [§]
ve-elleh shmot allufei esav le-mishpachotam li-mekomotam bishmotam alluf timna alluf alvah alluf yetet.
This verse lists the names of the chiefs of Esau, according to their families and locations. “Elleh” means “these”. “Shmot” means “names”. “Allufei” is the plural of “alluf” which means “chief”. “Esav” is the name “Esau”. “Le-mishpachotam” means “to their families”. “Li-mekomotam” means “to their places/locations”. “Bishmotam” means “by their names”. The verse then lists three chiefs: Timna, Alvah, and Yetet. Note that “alluf” appears before each chief’s name.
[GEN.36.41] Chief Aholibamah, chief Elah, chief Pinon. [§]
Aluf Aholibamah Aluf Elah Aluf Pinon.
The verse consists of a series of titles or designations. 'Aluf' means 'chief' or 'leader'. 'Aholibamah', 'Elah', and 'Pinon' are proper names, likely referring to individuals. The verse essentially lists three chiefs or leaders, each identified by their name.
[GEN.36.42] Chief Kenaz, Chief Teiman, Chief Mivtzar. [§]
Alluf Kenaz, Alluf Teiman, Alluf Mivtzar.
The word 'Alluf' appears three times. It is generally translated as 'chief', 'leader', or 'prince'. It appears to be a title or designation, so 'chief' seems most appropriate. 'Kenaz', 'Teiman', and 'Mivtzar' are all proper nouns, likely names of people or places. They are translated directly as they are. The verse appears to be a list of chiefs or leaders.
[GEN.36.43] Chief Magdiel, Chief Iram. These are the chiefs of Edom, according to their settlements in the land of their possession. He is Esau, the father of Edom. [§]
Alluf Magdiel, Alluf Iram. These are the chiefs of Edom, according to their settlements in the land of their possession. He is Esau, the father of Edom.
The word 'Alluf' appears to be a title, possibly meaning 'chief' or 'leader'. 'Magdiel' and 'Iram' are proper names. 'Edom' is a proper noun referring to a people/nation. 'Eshau' is the name Esau. The verse lists chiefs of Edom and identifies Esau as the ancestor of the Edomites.
GEN.37
[GEN.37.1] And Jacob settled in the land of his father’s sojournings, in the land of Canaan. [§]
Va-yeshev Ya'akov be-eretz megurei aviv be-eretz Kena'an.
This verse describes Jacob settling in the land of his father's sojournings, which is the land of Canaan. 'Va-yeshev' means 'and he settled'. 'Ya'akov' is the name Jacob. 'Be-eretz' means 'in the land of'. 'Megurei' means 'sojournings', or places where someone dwells temporarily. 'Aviv' means 'my father'. 'Be-eretz' again means 'in the land of'. 'Kena'an' is the name Canaan.
[GEN.37.2] These are the generations of Jacob. Joseph was seventeen years old, and he pastured his brothers with the flock. He was a boy with the sons of Bilhah and the sons of Zilpah, the wives of his father. And Joseph brought their bad reports to his father. [§]
eh-leh toh-doh-toht yah-ah-kohv yoh-sehf ben-sheh-vah-eh-seh-reh shah-nah hah-yah ro-eh et-ah-chav-eev bah-tzo-an vehu nah-ar et-bnay bil-hah veh-et bnay zil-pah neh-shee ah-vee-hoo vayah-veh yoh-sehf et-dee-baht-ahm rah-ah el-ah-vee-hem.
This verse details the beginnings of the story of Jacob’s son, Joseph. It states his age as seventeen, and his role as a shepherd of his brothers. It also mentions he tended the sons of Bilhah and Zilpah, the wives of his father. Finally, it says Joseph brought bad reports about them to his father.
[GEN.37.3] And Israel loved Joseph more than all his sons, because he was his youngest son. And he made for him a coat of many colors. [§]
ve-yisra-el a-hav et-yo-sef mi-kal-ba-nav ki-ben-ze-ku-nim hu lo ve-a-sa lo ket-o-net pas-im.
This verse describes the love of Israel (Jacob) for Joseph. 'Israel' is the name of Jacob. 'Ahav' means 'to love'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Yosef' is the name Joseph. 'Mi-kal-banav' means 'from all his sons'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Ben-zekunim' means 'son of old age', or youngest son. 'Hu lo' means 'he to him', or 'he is to him'. 'Ve-asa lo' means 'and he made to him'. 'Ketonet pasim' is a coat of many colors.
[GEN.37.4] And his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, and they hated him, and they could not speak to him peacefully. [§]
vayiru achav ki oto ahav aviem mikol achav vayisne’u oto velo yachlu dabro lishalom
This verse describes the reaction of brothers to their father’s favoritism towards one of them. 'Vayiru' means 'and they saw'. 'Achav' means 'his brothers'. 'Ki' means 'that'. 'Oto' means 'him'. 'Ahav' means 'loved'. 'Aviem' means 'their father'. 'Mikol achav' means 'than all his brothers'. 'Vayisne’u' means 'and they hated'. 'Velo yachlu' means 'and they could not'. 'Dabro' means 'speak'. 'Lishalom' means 'peacefully'.
[GEN.37.5] And Joseph dreamed a dream and told it to his brothers, and they added more hatred for him. [§]
va-yach-lom yo-sef cha-lom va-ya-ged le-e-cha-vav va-yo-si-fu od se-no o-to
This verse describes Joseph having a dream and telling it to his brothers, which increases their hatred for him. The words break down as follows: 'va' means 'and', 'yachlom' means 'he dreamed', 'Yosef' is the name Joseph, 'chalom' means 'a dream', 'va' is 'and', 'yaged' means 'he told', 'le' means 'to', 'echavav' means 'his brothers', 'va' is 'and', 'yosifu' means 'they added', 'od' means 'more', 'se-no' means 'hatred', 'oto' means 'him'.
[GEN.37.6] And he said to them, "Please listen to the dream that I dreamed." [§]
va-yo-mer a-lei-hem shih-meu-na ha-cha-lom ha-zeh a-sher cha-lam-ti.
This verse begins with 'va-yo-mer', which means 'and he said'. 'A-lei-hem' means 'to them'. 'Shih-meu-na' is a command meaning 'hear now' or 'listen'. 'Ha-cha-lom' is 'the dream', and 'ha-zeh' is 'this'. 'A-sher' means 'that' or 'which'. 'Cha-lam-ti' means 'I dreamed'. Therefore, the verse translates to 'And he said to them, hear now this dream that I dreamed'.
[GEN.37.7] And behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and behold, my sheaf arose and also stood upright, and behold, your sheaves turned around and prostrated themselves to my sheaf. [§]
vehinneh anachnu me’al’mim alumim be’toch hasadeh vehinneh kamah alumati vegam nitzavah vehinneh tesubeinah alumoteichem vatish’tachavina la’alumati
This verse describes a dream that one of the characters had. They were gathering sheaves of wheat in the field. In the dream, their sheaf stood upright, and the sheaves of others bowed down to it.
[GEN.37.8] And his brothers said to him, “Will you really reign over us? Or will you truly rule over us?” And they added even more hatred towards him because of his dreams and because of his words. [§]
vayomru lo echav hamloch timloch aleinu im mashol timshol banu vayosifu od s’no oto al chalomotav v’al d’varav
This verse describes the brothers’ resentment towards Joseph. They question his authority and express their hostility because of his dreams and words. The words 'hamloch' and 'mashol' relate to rulership and dominion. 'S’no' means hatred.
[GEN.37.9] And he dreamed yet another dream, and he recounted it to his brothers, and he said, "Behold, I dreamed another dream, and behold, the sun and the moon and eleven stars were bowing down to me." [§]
Va-yach-lom ode chalom acher va-ye-sap-per oto le-echav va-yom-mer hineh chalam-ti chalom ode ve-hineh ha-shemesh ve-ha-yareach ve-achad asar kochavim mishtachavim li.
This verse describes a dream that Joseph had and shares with his brothers. It details the sun, the moon, and eleven stars bowing down to him. The words are straightforward in terms of literal meaning, focusing on the action of dreaming and recounting it, and the objects involved in the dream.
[GEN.37.10] And he told it to his father and to his brothers, and his father rebuked him and said to him, "What is this dream that you have dreamed? Shall we truly come, I and your mother and your brothers, to bow down to you to the ground?" [§]
vayesaper el-aviv ve-echav vayig'ar-bo aviv vayomer lo ma hachalom hazeh asher chalamta haboa navoa ani ve'imcha ve'achecha lehishtachavot lecha artza.
This verse describes Joseph telling his dreams to his father and brothers, and his father rebuking him. The father asks what the dream means, and sarcastically suggests that he, Joseph's mother, and brothers should all bow down to him. The names of God do not appear in this verse.
[GEN.37.11] His brothers were jealous of him, and his father kept the word. [§]
vayeqaneu bo echaviv ve'aviv shamar et-hadavar
This verse describes the reaction of a man’s brothers and father to him. 'vayeqaneu' means 'they were jealous'. 'bo' means 'of him'. 'echaviv' is 'his brothers'. 've'aviv' means 'and his father'. 'shamar' means 'kept' or 'guarded'. 'et-hadavar' means 'the word'. The entire verse is describing a situation where the brothers felt jealousy towards this man, and the father remembered or held onto a particular statement.
[GEN.37.12] And his brothers went to pasture the flock of their father in Shechem. [§]
va-yele-khu a-chave-yv li-re-ot et-tson a-vi-hem bi-shchem.
This verse describes the brothers of Joseph going to pasture their father's flock in Shechem. 'Va-yele-khu' means 'and they went'. 'A-chave-yv' means 'his brothers'. 'Li-re-ot' means 'to pasture' or 'to look after'. 'Et-tson' means 'the flock'. 'A-vi-hem' means 'their father'. 'Bi-shchem' means 'in Shechem'.
[GEN.37.13] And Israel said to Joseph, "Are not your brothers tending flocks in Shechem? Go, and I will send you to them." And he said to him, "Here I am." [§]
va-yo-mer yis-ra-el el yo-sef ha-lo-a a-chei-cha ro-im bi-she-chem le-cha ve-esh-la-cha a-lei-hem va-yo-mer lo hi-nei-ni
This verse comes from Genesis 38:13. It describes Israel (Jacob) asking Joseph to go and check on his brothers who are tending flocks in Shechem. 'Israel' refers to Jacob. 'Yo-sef' is Joseph. 'A-chei-cha' means 'your brothers'. 'Ro-im' means 'shepherds' or 'tending'. 'Bi-she-chem' means 'in Shechem'. 'Le-cha' means 'go'. 'Ve-esh-la-cha' means 'and I will send'. 'A-lei-hem' means 'to them'. 'Hi-nei-ni' means 'Here I am'.
[GEN.37.14] And he said to him, "Go now and see about the well-being of your brothers and the well-being of the flock, and return word to me." And he sent him from the Valley of Hebron, and he came to Shechem. [§]
vayomer lo lekh-na re'eh et-shalom acheykha ve'et-shalom hatzo'an vahashiveyni davar vayishlahehu me'emek chevron vayavo shkemah.
This verse recounts a request made to a man to check on his brothers and the flock. It details his being sent from the Valley of Hebron and his arrival in Shechem. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Lo' is 'to him'. 'Lekh-na' is 'go now'. 'Re'eh' means 'see'. 'Et' is a particle indicating the direct object. 'Shalom' means 'well-being' or 'peace'. 'Acheykha' means 'your brothers'. 'Ve'et' again indicates a direct object. 'Hatzo'an' means 'the flock'. 'Vahashiveyni' means 'and return to me'. 'Davar' means 'word' or 'news'. 'Vayishlahehu' means 'and he sent him'. 'Me'emek' means 'from the valley'. 'Chevron' is a place name. 'Vayavo' means 'and he came'. 'Shkemah' is a place name.
[GEN.37.15] And he found a man, and behold, he was wandering in the field. And the man asked him, saying, "What are you seeking?" [§]
va-yim-tza-e-hu ee-sh ve-hee-neh to-eh ba-sa-deh va-yish-a-leh-hu ha-eesh le-emor mah-te-va-kesh
This verse describes a man finding another man lost in a field, and the first man asking the lost man what he is seeking. The words 'va' indicates 'and', 'yim-tza-e-hu' means 'he found him', 'eesh' means 'man', 've-hee-neh' means 'and behold', 'to-eh' means 'wandering/lost', 'ba-sa-deh' means 'in the field', 'va-yish-a-leh-hu' means 'and he asked him', 'ha-eesh' means 'the man', 'le-emor' means 'to say', and 'mah-te-va-kesh' means 'what do you seek?'
[GEN.37.16] And he said, "I seek my brothers. Please tell me where they are shepherding." [§]
va-yo-mer et-a-chai a-no-chi me-va-kesh ha-gi-da-na li ei-po-hem ro-im
This verse is from Genesis 29:6. It details Jacob speaking to shepherds and asking about his relatives. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Et-a-chai' refers to 'my brothers'. 'A-no-chi' means 'I'. 'Me-va-kesh' means 'I seek'. 'Ha-gi-da-na' is a request, 'tell me, please'. 'Li' means 'to me'. 'Ei-po-hem' means 'where they are'. 'Ro-im' means 'shepherding', or 'pasturing'.
[GEN.37.17] And the man said, "They have departed from here, for I have heard them saying, 'Let us go to Dothan.'" And Joseph went after his brothers and found them in Dothan. [§]
vayomer haish nas'u mizeh ki shama'ti omrim nelecha dotaynah vayelech yosef achar echav vayimtsa'em bedotan
This verse describes a man speaking about his departure from a place because he heard it said they were going to Dothan. Then Joseph went after his brothers and found them in Dothan.
[GEN.37.18] And they saw him from afar, and before he drew near to them, they plotted against him to kill him. [§]
vayiru oto merahok uvetrem yikrav aleihem vayitnaklu oto lehamito
This verse describes a scene where individuals saw someone from a distance, before they approached, and conspired to kill him. Let's break down the names of God present. There are none in this verse.
[GEN.37.19] And they said, man to his brother, "Behold, the lord of dreams comes!" [§]
va-yo-mer-oo ee-sh el-ah-khee hee-neh ba-al ha-khah-lo-mot ha-lah-zeh bah.
This verse comes from Genesis 37:19. 'Va-yo-mer-oo' means 'and they said'. 'Ee-sh el-ah-khee' means 'man to his brother'. 'Hee-neh' means 'behold'. 'Ba-al ha-khah-lo-mot' literally means 'the lord of dreams', referring to Joseph. 'Ha-lah-zeh' means 'this'. 'Bah' means 'comes'.
[GEN.37.20] And now, go and let us kill him, and let us throw him into one of the pits, and let us say that a wild animal devoured him, and we will see what his dreams will be. [§]
ve'atah lechu venahar'gehu venashlichehu be'achad habborot ve'amarnu chaya ra'a achalatahu venire'eh ma-yihyu chalomotav.
This verse details a plan to murder Joseph and conceal the deed. 've'atah' means 'and now.' 'lechu' means 'go.' 'venahar'gehu' means 'and let us kill him.' 'venashlichehu' means 'and let us throw him.' 'be'achad habborot' means 'into one of the pits.' 've'amarnu' means 'and let us say.' 'chaya ra'a' means 'a wild animal.' 'achalatahu' means 'devoured him.' 'venire'eh' means 'and we will see.' 'ma-yihyu' means 'what will be.' 'chalomotav' means 'his dreams.' The verse shows the brothers plotting to dispose of Joseph’s body after killing him, and then fabricating a story about a wild animal attack.
[GEN.37.21] And Reuben heard, and he rescued him from their hand, and he said, "Let us not take a life." [§]
va-yishma re-u-ven va-ya-tzile-hu mi-ya-dam va-yo-amer lo na-khen-nu na-fesh
This verse describes Reuben overhearing his brothers plotting against Joseph and intervening to save him from their hands. He then pleads with them not to take a life. 'Va-yishma' means 'and Reuben heard'. 'Va-ya-tzile-hu' means 'and he rescued him'. 'Mi-ya-dam' means 'from their hand'. 'Va-yo-amer' means 'and he said'. 'Lo na-khen-nu na-fesh' is a complex phrase meaning 'let us not strike a life' or 'let us not take a life'.
[GEN.37.22] And Reuben said to them, "Do not shed blood. Throw him into this pit which is in the wilderness, and do not lay a hand upon him, in order that I may save him from their hand to return him to his father." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-lei-hem Re-u-ven al-tish-pe-chu-dam ha-shil-i-chu o-to el-ha-bor ha-zeh asher ba-mid-bar ve-yad al-tish-le-chu-vo le-ma-an ha-tzi-l o-to mi-ya-dam la-ha-shivo el-a-viv.
This verse comes from Genesis 37:30. Reuben is speaking to his brothers after they have captured Joseph. He is attempting to dissuade them from killing Joseph, suggesting instead they throw him into a pit in the wilderness. He hopes to rescue Joseph from their hands and return him to their father, Jacob. The names used here are: 'Reuben' (a proper name, left unchanged), and various forms of 'God' or related terms which will be translated literally.
[GEN.37.23] And it was, as Joseph came to his brothers, and they stripped Joseph of his coat, the tunic of stripes which was upon him. [§]
va-yhi ka-asher ba Yosef el echav va-yaphshtu et Yosef et kutanto et ktonet ha-pasim asher alav
This verse describes the moment Joseph arrives among his brothers and they strip him of his ornamented coat. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Ka-asher' means 'as'. 'Ba' means 'came'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Echav' means 'his brothers'. 'Va-yaphshtu' means 'and they stripped'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Kutanto' means 'his coat'. 'Ktonet' means 'tunic'. 'Ha-pasim' means 'of stripes'. 'Asher' means 'which'. 'Alav' means 'upon him'.
[GEN.37.24] And they took him and threw him into the pit, and the pit was empty; there was no water in it. [§]
vayikachu hu vayashliku oto haborah vehabor rek ein bo mayim
This verse describes the act of taking someone and casting them into a pit. 'Vayikachu hu' means 'and they took him'. 'Vayashliku oto' means 'and they threw him'. 'Haborah' means 'the pit'. 'Vehabor rek' means 'and the pit was empty'. 'Ein bo mayim' means 'there was no water in it'.
[GEN.37.25] And they sat to eat bread, and they lifted their eyes and saw, and behold, a route of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead, and their camels were carrying spices and balm and myrrh, going to bring them down to Egypt. [§]
va-yeesh-boo le-eh-chol-le-chem va-yis-u ei-nei-hem va-yir-u ve-hi-neh or-chat yish-mei-a-lim bah-ah mi-gil-ad u-gmal-lei-hem nos-im ne-chot u-tzri va-lot hole-chim le-ho-rid mitz-ra-yim-ah.
This verse describes a group of people sitting to eat bread who look up and see a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. The camels are loaded with spices, balm, and myrrh, and they are going down to Egypt.
[GEN.37.26] And Judah said to his brothers, "What profit is there if we kill our brother and cover his blood?" [§]
vayomer Yehudah el-echav mah-betzeh ki naharog et-achinu vekisinu et-damo
This verse is from Genesis 37:26. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Yehudah' is Judah. 'el-echav' means 'to his brothers'. 'mah-betzeh' means 'what profit', or 'what good'. 'ki naharog' means 'that we kill'. 'et-achinu' means 'our brother'. 'vekisinu' means 'and we cover'. 'et-damo' means 'his blood'.
[GEN.37.27] Go, and let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, and let our hand not be upon him, for our brother, our flesh is he. And his brothers heard. [§]
lekhoo v’nimk’rennu layishma’elim v’yadeinu al-tehi-bo ki-achiynu b’sareinu hu va’yishma’u echav
This verse describes the brothers of Joseph plotting to sell him into slavery to the Ishmaelites. 'Lekhoo' means 'go'. 'V’nimk’rennu' means 'and let us sell him'. 'Layishma’elim' means 'to the Ishmaelites'. 'V’yadeinu' means 'and our hand'. 'Al-tehi-bo' means 'let not be in it'. 'Ki-achiynu b’sareinu hu' means 'because our brother, our flesh is he'. 'Va’yishma’u echav' means 'and his brothers heard'.
[GEN.37.28] Midianite men, who were merchants, passed by and drew Joseph up from the pit. They then sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver, and they brought Joseph to Egypt. [§]
vayavru anashim midyanim socharim vayimshchu vaye'alu et-yosef min-habbor vayimkeru et-yosef layishma'elim be'esrim kasef vayaviu et-yosef mitzraymah
This verse describes the selling of Joseph into slavery. 'Anashim Midyanim' refers to Midianite men. 'Socharim' means merchants or traders. They drew Joseph up from the pit and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver, then brought Joseph to Egypt.
[GEN.37.29] And Reuben returned to the pit, and behold, Joseph was not in the pit. And he tore his garments. [§]
Va-ya-shav Reu-ven el-ha-bor ve-hi-neh ein Yo-sef ba-bor va-yik-ra et-bgadav.
This verse describes Reuben returning to the pit where Joseph was placed. When he looks, Joseph is no longer there, causing Reuben great distress, so he tears his clothes.
[GEN.37.30] And he returned to his brothers and said, "The boy is not with us, and where, oh where do I go?" [§]
va-ya-shav el-e-chav-av va-yo-mar ha-ye-led ei-nen-nu va-a-ni a-na a-ni-va
This verse comes from Genesis 37:30. It describes Jacob's lament after Joseph's brothers reported his disappearance. 'Va-ya-shav' means 'and he returned'. 'El-e-chav-av' means 'to his brothers'. 'Va-yo-mar' means 'and he said'. 'Ha-ye-led' means 'the boy'. 'Ei-nen-nu' means 'is not with us'. 'Va-a-ni' means 'and I'. 'A-na' repeated means 'where, oh where'. 'A-ni-va' means 'I come'.
[GEN.37.31] And they took Joseph’s tunic and they slaughtered a goat, and they stained the tunic in blood. [§]
vayikhu et ktonet yosef vayishtchu se'ir izzim vayitblu et haktonet badam
This verse describes the brothers of Joseph taking his tunic and staining it with the blood of a goat. 'Vayikhu' means 'they took'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Ktonet' means 'tunic'. 'Yosef' is the name 'Joseph'. 'Vayishtchu' means 'they slaughtered'. 'Se'ir izzim' means 'a goat'. 'Vayitblu' means 'they dipped/stained'. 'Haktonet' means 'the tunic'. 'Badam' means 'in blood'.
[GEN.37.32] And they sent the coat of many colors, and they brought it to their father, and they said, "This is what we found. Please recognize whether the coat is your son’s or not." [§]
vayeshallchu et ktonet hapaasim vayaviu el aviehem vayomru zoat matzanu haker na haktonet bincha hi im loa
This verse describes the sons of Jacob presenting their father, Jacob, with Joseph’s coat of many colors, stained with blood, and asking him to identify it as belonging to Joseph. 'Vayeshallchu' means 'and they sent'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Ktonet' means 'coat'. 'Hapaasim' means 'many colors'. 'Vayaviu' means 'and they brought'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Aviehem' means 'their father'. 'Vayomru' means 'and they said'. 'Zoat' means 'this'. 'Matzanu' means 'we found'. 'Haker na' is an expression meaning 'recognize, please'. 'Haktonet' means 'the coat'. 'Bincha' means 'your son'. 'Hi' means 'it is'. 'Im loa' means 'if not'.
[GEN.37.33] And he recognized it and said, “The coat of my son. A wild animal has devoured him. Truly ravaged, Joseph.” [§]
vayachir-ah vayomer ketonet beni chayah ra'ah achalathhu tarof toraf Yosef.
This verse describes Jacob recognizing Joseph’s torn coat and concluding that a wild animal had devoured him. ‘Vayachir-ah’ means ‘and he recognized it.’ ‘Vayomer’ means ‘and he said.’ ‘Ketonet beni’ means ‘the coat of my son.’ ‘Chayah ra’ah’ means ‘a wild animal.’ ‘Achalathhu’ means ‘it devoured him.’ ‘Tarof toraf’ is a doubled word indicating certainty - ‘torn, truly torn,’ or ‘ravaged, truly ravaged.’ ‘Yosef’ is the name ‘Joseph.’
[GEN.37.34] And Jacob tore his garments, and he placed sackcloth around his waist, and he mourned over his son for many days. [§]
va-yik-ra ya-a-kov sim-lo-tav va-ya-sem sak be-ma-te-nav va-yit-a-vel al-be-no ya-mim ra-bim.
This verse describes Jacob's reaction to the supposed death of his son Joseph. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he tore'. 'Ya-a-kov' is Jacob's name. 'Sim-lo-tav' means 'his garments'. 'Va-ya-sem' means 'and he placed'. 'Sak' means 'sackcloth'. 'Be-ma-te-nav' means 'around his waist'. 'Va-yit-a-vel' means 'and he mourned'. 'Al-be-no' means 'over his son'. 'Ya-mim ra-bim' means 'many days'.
[GEN.37.35] And all his sons and all his daughters rose up to comfort him, but he refused to be comforted. And he said, “Surely I will go down to my son, mourning to the grave.” And his father wept for him. [§]
vayakumu kol-banav vekol-benotav lenachamo veyema’en lehitnachem vayomer ki-ered el-bni aveil she’olah vayevk’ oto aviv.
This verse describes the reactions of a man’s children to his grief, and his refusal to be comforted. It states his intention to go down to the grave to mourn for his son. The final clause states his father wept for him.
[GEN.37.36] And the Midianites sold him to Egypt to Potiphar, officer of Pharaoh, chief of the executioners. [§]
vehammedanim machru oto el mitzrayim lefotifar seris paroh sar hatabbachim.
This verse describes the selling of Joseph into slavery in Egypt. 'Hammedanim' refers to the Midianites, who sold Joseph. 'Machru' means 'they sold'. 'Oto' means 'him' or 'it'. 'El mitzrayim' means 'to Egypt'. 'LeFotifar' means 'to Potiphar'. 'Seris Paroh' means 'officer of Pharaoh'. 'Sar hatabbachim' means 'chief of the executioners'.
GEN.38
[GEN.38.1] And it was at that time that Judah went from his brothers and turned towards a man from Adullam, and his name was Hirah. [§]
vayhi ba'et hahu vayered yehudah me'et echav vayyet ad-ish adullami ushmo chirah
This verse describes Judah leaving his brothers and going towards an Adullamite man named Hirah. 'Vayhi' means 'and it was'. 'Ba'et hahu' means 'at that time'. 'Vayered' means 'and he descended/went down'. 'Me'et' means 'from'. 'Ad-ish' means 'to a man'. 'Adullami' is an adjective specifying the man's origin. 'Ushmo' means 'and his name'.
[GEN.38.2] And Judah saw there a woman, the daughter of a man, a Canaanite, and her name was Shoa. And he took her and went to her. [§]
Va-yar sham Yehudah bat-ish Kenanei u-shmo Shoa va-yikacheha va-yavo eleha.
This verse describes Judah seeing and taking a Canaanite woman as a wife. 'Va-yar' means 'and he saw'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Yehudah' is the name Judah. 'Bat-ish' means 'daughter of a man'. 'Kenanei' means 'Canaanite'. 'U-shmo' means 'and her name'. 'Shoa' is the name Shoa. 'Va-yikacheha' means 'and he took her'. 'Va-yavo' means 'and he went'. 'Eleha' means 'to her'.
[GEN.38.3] And she conceived and bore a son, and he called his name Er. [§]
va-ta-har va-te-led ben va-yi-kra et-shmo er
This verse describes a conception and birth, followed by the naming of a son. ‘Va-ta-har’ means ‘and she conceived’. ‘Va-te-led’ means ‘and she bore’. ‘Ben’ means ‘son’. ‘Va-yi-kra’ means ‘and he called’. ‘Et-shmo’ means ‘his name’. ‘Er’ is the name given to the son.
[GEN.38.4] And she conceived again, and she bore a son, and she called his name Onan. [§]
va-ta-har od va-te-led ben va-ti-kra et-shmo O-nan
This verse describes a woman conceiving again and giving birth to a son, and then naming him Onan. 'Va-ta-har' means 'and she conceived'. 'Od' means 'again'. 'Va-te-led' means 'and she bore'. 'Ben' means 'son'. 'Va-ti-kra' means 'and she called'. 'Et-shmo' means 'his name'. 'O-nan' is the name 'Onan'.
[GEN.38.5] And she added, still, and gave birth to a son, and she called his name Shelah. And it was in deceit during her giving birth to him. [§]
va-tosef od va-teled ben va-tikra et-shmo shela ve-haya bichziv belidta oto
This verse describes a woman giving birth to another son and naming him Shelah. The phrase "ve-haya bichziv belidta oto" is interpreted as meaning 'and he was conceived in deceit during her giving birth to him'.
[GEN.38.6] And Judah took a wife for Er, his firstborn, and her name was Tamar. [§]
va-yik-akh yehudah ish-ah le-ehr be-khor-o u-she-mah-ah tamar
This verse describes Judah taking a wife for his firstborn son. 'Va-yik-akh' means 'and he took'. 'Yehudah' is Judah’s name. 'Ish-ah' means ‘woman’ or ‘wife’. 'Le-ehr' means ‘for Er’. 'Be-khor-o' means ‘his firstborn’. 'U-she-mah-ah' means ‘and her name’. 'Tamar' is the name of the woman.
[GEN.38.7] And it came to pass that Er, the firstborn of Judah, was bad in the eyes of Yahveh, and Yahveh caused him to die. [§]
vayhi er bekhor yehudah ra b'einei yahveh vaymitayhu yahveh
This verse describes Er, the firstborn of Judah, being evil in the eyes of Yahveh, and consequently Yahveh caused him to die. Each name is translated literally. "Vayhi" is a grammatical particle indicating past tense. "Bekhor" means firstborn. "Ra" means evil or bad. "B'einei" means in the eyes of. "Vaymitayhu" means Yahveh caused him to die.
[GEN.38.8] And Judah said to Onan, "Go to the wife of your brother and raise up for her. And establish seed for your brother." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yehudah le-Onan, bo el-eshet achicha ve-yavem otah ve-hakem zera le-achicha.
This verse comes from Genesis 38:8. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Yehudah' is Judah. 'le-Onan' means 'to Onan'. 'bo el-eshet achicha' means 'go to the wife of your brother'. 've-yavem otah' means 'and raise up for her'. 've-hakem zera le-achicha' means 'and establish seed for your brother'.
[GEN.38.9] And Onan knew that the offspring would not be his. And it would be, if he came to the wife of his brother and spilled his seed on the ground, so that he would not give seed to his brother. [§]
vayeda onan ki lo lo yihyeh hazara vehayah im ba el eshet achiv vesichat artzah lebilti netan zera le’achiv.
This verse describes Onan’s knowledge that offspring would not be his. It details his practice of ‘spilling his seed’ to avoid giving progeny to his brother. ‘Onan’ is a proper noun, a name. ‘Ki’ means ‘that’ or ‘for’. ‘Lo lo’ is a double negative, meaning ‘not’. ‘Yihyeh’ means ‘will be’. ‘Hazara’ means ‘the seed’ or ‘the offspring’. ‘Ve’ means ‘and’. ‘Hayah’ means ‘it will be’. ‘Im’ means ‘if’. ‘Ba’ means ‘he came’. ‘El’ means ‘to’. ‘Eshet’ means ‘the wife of’. ‘Achiv’ means ‘his brother’. ‘Vesichat’ means ‘and he spilled’ or ‘and he wasted’. ‘Artzah’ means ‘his land’ or ‘his seed’. ‘Lebilti’ means ‘so that not’. ‘Netan’ means ‘he gave’. ‘Zera’ means ‘seed’ or ‘offspring’. ‘Le’achiv’ means ‘to his brother’.
[GEN.38.10] And it displeased Yahveh that which he had done, and he put also him to death. [§]
Va-ye-ra b’ei-nei Yahveh asher asa va-ya-met gam-oto
This verse describes something displeasing Yahveh, resulting in death. ‘Va-ye-ra’ means ‘and it was evil’ or ‘and it displeased’. ‘B’ei-nei’ means ‘in the eyes of’. ‘Asher’ means ‘that’ or ‘which’. ‘Asa’ means ‘he did’. ‘Va-ya-met’ means ‘and he killed’ or ‘and he put to death’. ‘Gam-oto’ means ‘also him’.
[GEN.38.11] And Judah said to Tamar, his daughter-in-law, "Remain a widow in your father’s house until my son Shelah grows up, for he said, lest he also die like his brothers." And Tamar went and lived in her father’s house. [§]
va-yo-mer yehudah le-tamar kalato shvi almanah beit-avich ad-yigdal shelah beni ki amar pen-yamut gam-hu ke-echav vatelech tamar vatyeshev beit aviah
This verse describes Judah speaking to Tamar, his daughter-in-law. He instructs her to remain a widow in her father's house until his son Shelah grows up. Judah explains his reasoning: he fears Shelah will die like his brothers. Tamar then goes and lives in her father's house.
[GEN.38.12] And the days increased, and Bathsheba, the wife of Judah, died. And Judah consoled himself, and he went up with Hiram, his companion the Adullamite, to Timnah. [§]
Va-yir-boo ha-ya-meem va-ta-mat bat-shoo-a e-shet-ye-hoo-dah va-yi-na-chem ye-hoo-dah va-ya-al al-goz-zei tso-a-no hoo ve-chi-rah re-eh-hu ha-ad-u-la-mee tim-na-tah.
This verse describes the death of Judah’s wife, Bathsheba, and his subsequent mourning and journey with his companion, Hiram the Adullamite, to Timnah. ‘Va-yir-boo’ means ‘and increased’ (referring to the days). ‘Ha-ya-meem’ means ‘the days’. ‘Va-ta-mat’ means ‘and died’. ‘Bat-shoo-a’ is a proper noun, the name Bathsheba. ‘E-shet-ye-hoo-dah’ means ‘wife of Judah’. ‘Va-yi-na-chem’ means ‘and he consoled himself’. ‘Va-ya-al’ means ‘and he went up’. ‘Al-goz-zei tso-a-no’ means ‘on the shearers of his sheep’ (referring to a location or activity related to sheep shearing). ‘Hoo ve-chi-rah’ means ‘he and Hiram’. ‘Re-eh-hu’ means ‘his companion’. ‘Ha-ad-u-la-mee’ means ‘the Adullamite’. ‘Tim-na-tah’ means ‘Timnah’.
[GEN.38.13] And it was told to Tamar, saying, "Behold, your father-in-law is going to Timnah to shear his flock." [§]
va-yug-gad le-ta-mar le-e-mor hi-neh kha-meekh oh-leh tim-na-tah la-goz tso-noh.
This verse states that information was told to Tamar. Specifically, it was reported to her that her father-in-law was going to Timnah to shear his sheep.
[GEN.38.14] And she removed the clothes of widowhood from upon her, and she covered herself with a veil and adorned herself, and she sat at the opening of eyes which is upon the way to Timnah, because she saw that his wealth has grown and she was not given to him as a wife. [§]
Va-tassar bigdei alm'nutah me'aleha va-t'chass ba-tsa'iif va-tit'alef va-teshev b'petach einayim asher al-derech timnatah ki ra'atah ki-gadal shela vehua lo-nitnah lo le-ishah.
This verse describes the widow Ruth removing her mourning clothes, covering herself with a veil, and sitting at the entrance to a field. She does this because she has seen that her relative Boaz’s wealth has grown, but she has not yet been given to him as a wife. Each word is translated directly. 'Va' is translated as 'and'. 'Tassar' means 'she removed'. 'Bigdei' means 'clothes of'. 'Alm'nutah' means 'widowhood'. 'Me'aleha' means 'from upon her'. 'T'chass' means 'she covered'. 'Ba-tsa'iif' means 'with a veil'. 'Tit'alef' means 'she adorned herself'. 'Teshev' means 'she sat'. 'B'petach' means 'at the opening of'. 'Einayim' means 'eyes'. 'Asher' means 'which'. 'Al-derech' means 'upon the way'. 'Timnatah' is a place name, Timnah. 'Ki' means 'that'. 'Ra'atah' means 'she saw'. 'Ki-gadal' means 'that has grown'. 'Shela' means 'his wealth'. 'Vehua' means 'and she'. 'Lo-nitnah' means 'was not given'. 'Lo' means 'not'. 'Le-ishah' means 'as a wife'.
[GEN.38.15] And Judah saw her and considered her a prostitute because she had covered her face. [§]
Va-yireha Yehudah va-yachsheveha lezonah ki kisa paneyha.
This verse describes Judah seeing a woman and mistaking her for a prostitute because she had covered her face. 'Va-yireha' means 'and he saw her'. 'Yehudah' is the name Judah. 'Va-yachsheveha' means 'and he considered her'. 'Lezonah' means 'as a prostitute'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Kisa' means 'she covered'. 'Paneyha' means 'her face'.
[GEN.38.16] Then he turned toward the road and said, "Please let me come to you, for he did not know that she was his daughter-in-law." And she said, "What will you give me if you come to me?" [§]
vayyet eleha el-haderech vayomer hava na avo elayich ki lo yada ki kalato hi vatomer ma titen li ki tabo elai
This verse describes a man turning toward the road and offering to visit a woman. He does not know that she is his daughter-in-law. She then asks him what he will give her for the visit.
[GEN.38.17] And he said, "I, myself, will send a kid of goats from the flock." And she said, "If you give a pledge until you send it." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-no-chi a-shal-lach ge-dee-oo-zim min-ha-tzo-on va-to-mer im-ti-tehn eh-rah-vohn ad shahl-cheh-cha.
This verse describes a negotiation. One party says, "I will send a kid of goats from the flock." The other party responds, "If you give a pledge until you send it."
[GEN.38.18] And he said, "What pledge should I receive from you?" And she said, "Your signet ring, your necklace, and your staff that is in your hand." And he gave it to her, and he went to her, and she conceived for him. [§]
Va-yo-mer mah ha-e-ra-von a-sher e-ten-lach va-to-mer cho-tam-cha u-fe-ti-lechah u-mat-techah a-sher be-ya-de-cha va-yit-ten-lah va-ya-vo e-lei-ha va-ta-har lo.
This verse describes a negotiation for a pledge or guarantee. A man asks what assurance he should receive, and a woman offers his signet ring, necklace, and staff. He accepts the pledge, goes to her, and she conceives. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Mah' means 'what'. 'Ha-e-ra-von' means 'the pledge'. 'A-sher' means 'that'. 'E-ten-lach' means 'I give to you'. 'Va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'Cho-tam-cha' means 'your signet ring'. 'U-fe-ti-lechah' means 'and your necklace'. 'U-mat-techah' means 'and your staff'. 'A-sher be-ya-de-cha' means 'that is in your hand'. 'Va-yit-ten-lah' means 'and he gave to her'. 'Va-ya-vo e-lei-ha' means 'and he went to her'. 'Va-ta-har lo' means 'and she conceived for him'.
[GEN.38.19] And she rose and went, and removed a covering from upon her head, and she put on the garments of her widowhood. [§]
va takam va telech va tasar tzeefa’ah me’alayah va tilbash bigdei almenutah
This verse describes a woman rising and going, removing a covering from her head, and putting on the garments of her widowhood. The verbs are in the past tense and describe a sequence of actions. The possessive pronoun 'me’alayah' means 'from upon her'. 'Bigdei' means 'garments of'. 'Almenutah' refers to her state of widowhood.
[GEN.38.20] And Judah sent the kid of the goats by the hand of his friend the Adullamite, to take the pledge from the hand of the woman. And he did not find her. [§]
va-yish-lach yeh-hoo-dah et-gdee ha-ee-zeem be-yad re-eh-hoo ha-ad-oo-lah-mee lah-kah-chat ha-eh-rah-von mee-yad ha-ish-shah ve-lo me-tsa-ah.
This verse describes Judah sending a young goat through his friend, the Adullamite, to the woman to receive a pledge from her hand. However, he does not find her.
[GEN.38.21] And he asked the men of the place, saying, "Where is the consecrated one? She is at the crossroads on the road." And they said, "There is no consecrated one here." [§]
vayishal et anshey mekomeh leemor ayyeh hakdeshah hee ba'enayim al hadarech vayomru lo haytah bazeh kdeshah.
This verse describes someone asking the local people about the location of a prostitute. 'Vayishal' means 'and he asked.' 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Anshey mekomeh' means 'the men of the place.' 'Leemor' means 'saying.' 'Ayyeh' means 'where.' 'Hakdeshah' refers to a temple prostitute, literally 'the consecrated one.' 'Hee' means 'she.' 'Ba'enayim' means 'in the eyes' or 'at the crossroads.' 'Al hadarech' means 'on the road.' 'Vayomru' means 'and they said.' 'Lo haytah' means 'there was not.' 'Bazeh' means 'here.' 'Kdeshah' again means 'consecrated one' or 'prostitute'.
[GEN.38.22] And he returned to Judah and said, "I have not found her." Also, the people of the place said, "She was not here as a consecrated one." [§]
va-ya-shav el-ye-hu-da va-yo-mer lo me-tza-ti-ha ve-gam an-shei ha-ma-kom a-maru lo-ha-ye-ta ba-zeh k-de-sha
This verse describes someone returning to Judah and reporting they did not find a specific woman. They also report that the local people say she was not present in that place as a consecrated woman or priestess.
[GEN.38.23] And Judah said, "Take it for yourself, lest we become a mockery. Behold, I have sent this kid, and you have not found it." [§]
va-yo-mer yehudah tik-kah-lah pen nih-yeh leh-vooz hin-neh sha-lach-ti hag-dee ha-zeh ve-atah loh me-tzah-tah
This verse comes from Genesis 38:16. Judah speaks to Tamar, offering her a kid goat as a token, but she refuses it. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Yehudah' is Judah. 'Tik-kah-lah' means 'take it for yourself'. 'Pen' means 'lest' or 'that'. 'Nih-yeh' means 'we become'. 'Le-vooz' means 'to mockery'. 'Hin-neh' means 'behold'. 'Sha-lach-ti' means 'I have sent'. 'Hag-dee' means 'the kid'. 'Ha-zeh' means 'this'. 'Ve-atah' means 'and you'. 'Loh me-tzah-tah' means 'have not found it'.
[GEN.38.24] And it happened after three months that it was reported to Judah, saying, "Your daughter-in-law Tamar has committed adultery." Also, behold, she is with child by other men. And Judah said, "Bring her out and let her be burned." [§]
Va-yhi ke-mish-losh chodeshim va-yugad le-Yehudah le-emor zanah Tamar kalatekha ve-gam hineh harah li-zinunim va-yomer Yehudah hotzi’uha ve-tissaref.
This verse describes a situation where Tamar, the widow of Judah’s son, is accused of adultery and is found to be pregnant. Judah orders that she be brought out and burned.
[GEN.38.25] She brings forth and she sends it to her husband, to say, "To the man to whom these belong, I am pregnant." And she says, "Acknowledge, please, to whom the seal and the cords and this staff belong." [§]
hee moot-say-at ve-hee shah-lah-hah el-hah-mee-hah le-eh-mor le-eesh ah-sher-eh-leh loo ah-no-kee hah-rah va-toh-mer hah-ker-nah le-mee hah-hoh-temet ve-ha-peh-tee-leem ve-ha-mah-teh hah-eh-leh
This verse describes a woman sending a message to her husband, informing him she is pregnant. She also sends identifying items with the message, requesting he ascertain to whom these items belong, implying paternity. 'Hee' refers to 'she'. 'moot-say-at' means 'she brings forth' or 'she produces'. 'shah-lah-hah' means 'she sends'. 'hah-mee-hah' is 'her husband'. 'le-eh-mor' means 'to say'. 'eesh' means 'man'. 'ah-sher-eh-leh loo' means 'to whom these are'. 'ah-no-kee' means 'I am'. 'hah-rah' means 'pregnant'. 'vah-toh-mer' means 'and she says'. 'hah-ker-nah' means 'acknowledge'. 'hah-hoh-temet' means 'the seal'. 'hah-peh-tee-leem' means 'the cords'. 'hah-mah-teh' means 'the staff'. 'hah-eh-leh' means 'these'.
[GEN.38.26] And Judah acknowledged and said, "Righteousness comes from me, for this reason I did not give her to Shelah my son, and he did not know her again." [§]
Va-yakker Yehudah va-yomer tzdekah mimeni ki al ken lo natatiha le-Shela beni ve-lo yasaf od le-da'ta
This verse comes from Genesis 38:26. 'Va-yakker' means 'and he acknowledged'. 'Yehudah' is Judah. 'Va-yomer' means 'and he said'. 'Tzdekah' means 'righteousness'. 'Mimeni' means 'from me'. 'Ki al ken' means 'for thus'. 'Lo natatiha' means 'I did not give her'. 'Le-Shela beni' means 'to Shelah my son'. 'Ve-lo yasaf' means 'and he did not add'. 'Od' means 'again'. 'Le-da'ta' means 'to know'. The verse describes Judah's acknowledgement that Tamar was righteous and his reason for not giving her to his son Shelah.
[GEN.38.27] And it happened at the time of her giving birth, and behold, twins were in her womb. [§]
va-yhi be-et lid-tah ve-hi-neh te-o-mim be-bit-nah
This verse describes the situation at the time of her birth. 'va-yhi' means 'and it happened'. 'be-et lid-tah' means 'at the time of her giving birth'. 've-hi-neh' means 'and behold'. 'te-o-mim' means 'twins'. 'be-bit-nah' means 'in her womb'.
[GEN.38.28] And it was in her giving birth, and he put out a hand, and the midwife took it and tied a cord around his hand, saying, “This came out first.” [§]
Va-yi-hi b’lid-tah v’yi-ten-yad va-ti-kach ha-meyaledet va-ti-ksor al-yado shani le’emor zeh yatzah rishonah.
This verse describes the birth of a child. 'Va-yi-hi' means 'and it was.' 'B’lid-tah' means 'in her giving birth.' 'V’yi-ten-yad' means 'and he put out a hand.' 'Va-ti-kach' means 'and she took.' 'Ha-meyaledet' is 'the midwife.' 'Va-ti-ksor' means 'and she tied.' 'Al-yado' means 'on his hand.' 'Shani' means 'second.' 'Le’emor' means 'to say.' 'Zeh' means 'this.' 'Yatzah' means 'came out.' 'Rishonah' means 'first.' Essentially, the verse states that during the birth, a hand emerged first, and the midwife tied a cord around it, signifying that this was the first to come out.
[GEN.38.29] And it happened as returning his hand, and behold, his brother came out. And she said, "What have you breached upon yourself with this breach?" And they called his name Perez. [§]
va-yhi ke-meshiv yado ve-hineh yatsa achiv va-to'amer mah-paratzta alecha paretz va-yikra shmo paretz
This verse describes the birth of Perez. The phrasing 'as returning his hand' is an idiom likely referencing a difficult birth where the baby emerged in an unusual position. It is stated that his brother came out of his mother's womb, and his name was called Perez, meaning 'breach' or 'rupture'.
[GEN.38.30] And after, his brother went out, the second by his hand, and he called his name Zarach. [§]
ve-achar yatza achiv asher al-yado ha-shani vayikra shmo zarach.
This verse describes the birth of a second son. 've-achar' means 'and after'. 'yatza' means 'went out' (in this context, 'was born'). 'achiv' means 'his brother'. 'asher' is a relative pronoun meaning 'who' or 'which'. 'al-yado' means 'by his hand' (here meaning 'after him'). 'ha-shani' means 'the second'. 'vayikra' means 'and he called'. 'shmo' means 'his name'. 'zarach' is the name itself.
GEN.39
[GEN.39.1] And Joseph was taken down to Egypt, and Potiphar purchased him, an official of Pharaoh, chief of the slaughterers, an Egyptian man, from the hand of the Ishmaelites who had taken him down there. [§]
V'yosef hurad mitzraymah va'yiknehuhu Potifar seris par'oh sar hatabbachim ish mitzri miyad ha'yishme'alim asher huriduhu shammah.
This verse describes Joseph being taken down to Egypt and being purchased by Potiphar, an official of Pharaoh. 'V'yosef' means 'and Joseph'. 'Hurad' means 'was taken down'. 'Mitzraymah' is Egypt. 'Va'yiknehuhu' means 'and he purchased him'. 'Potifar' is the name Potiphar. 'Seris' means official or eunuch. 'Par'oh' is Pharaoh. 'Sar hatabbachim' means 'chief of the slaughterers'. 'Ish mitzri' means 'an Egyptian man'. 'Miyad ha'yishme'alim' means 'from the hand of the Ishmaelites'. 'Asher huriduhu shammah' means 'who had taken him down there'.
[GEN.39.2] And it was that Yahveh was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, and it was in the house of his lord, the Egyptian. [§]
Va-yhi Yahveh et-Yosef, va-yhi ish matzliach, va-yhi b'beit adonai ha-mitzri.
This verse describes Yahveh being with Joseph, and consequently, Joseph being a successful man within the house of his Egyptian lord. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Et' is a particle indicating a definite direct object. 'Ish' means 'man'. 'Matzliach' means 'successful'. 'B'beit' means 'in the house of'. 'Adonai' means 'my lord'. 'Ha-mitzri' means 'the Egyptian'.
[GEN.39.3] And my Lord saw that Yahveh was with him, and everything that he did, Yahveh caused to succeed in his hand. [§]
va-yar adonai ki yahveh itto vechol asher hu ose yahveh matzliach be yado
This verse describes God’s favor upon someone. 'adonai' is 'my Lord'. 'yahveh' is the proper name of God. 'itto' means 'with him'. 'asher hu ose' means 'that he does'. 'matzliach' means 'causes to succeed'. 'be yado' means 'in his hand'.
[GEN.39.4] And Joseph found favor in his eyes, and he served him. And he appointed him over his house, and he gave all that he had into his hand. [§]
va-yim-tsa yo-sef khen be-ei-nav va-ye-sha-ret oto va-yap-ki-dehu al-beit-o ve-chol-yesh-lo na-tan be-ya-do.
This verse describes Joseph finding favor in the eyes of his master, Potiphar, and being put in charge of his house and all his possessions. "vayimtsa" means "and he found". "Yo-sef" is the name Joseph. "khen" means favor or grace. "be-ei-nav" means "in his eyes". "va-ye-sha-ret" means "and he served". "oto" means "him". "va-yap-ki-dehu" means "and he appointed him". "al-beit-o" means "over his house". "ve-chol-yesh-lo" means "and all that he had". "na-tan" means "he gave". "be-ya-do" means "into his hand".
[GEN.39.5] And it was from that time that he entrusted him in his house, and over all that he had. And Yahveh blessed the house of the Egyptian because of Joseph. And the blessing of Yahveh was over all that he had, in the house and in the field. [§]
Va-yhi me-az hifkid oto be-beyto ve-al kol asher yesh-lo va-yvarech Yahveh et-beit ha-mitzri biglal Yosef va-yhi birchat Yahveh be-chol asher yesh-lo ba-bayit u-va-sadeh.
This verse describes a blessing bestowed upon the Egyptian household because of Joseph. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Me-az' means 'from that time'. 'Hifkid oto' means 'he entrusted him'. 'Be-beyto' means 'in his house'. 'Ve-al kol asher yesh-lo' means 'and over all that he has'. 'Va-yvarech' means 'and he blessed'. 'Yahveh' is the personal name of God. 'Et-beit ha-mitzri' means 'the house of the Egyptian'. 'Biglal Yosef' means 'because of Joseph'. 'Birchat Yahveh' means 'the blessing of Yahveh'. 'Be-chol asher yesh-lo' means 'over all that he has'. 'Ba-bayit u-va-sadeh' means 'in the house and in the field'.
[GEN.39.6] And he abandoned all that he possessed in the hand of Joseph, and he did not know with him anything at all, except for the bread that he eats. And Joseph was goodly in form and fair in appearance. [§]
va-ya-azov kol-asher-lo be-yad-yosef ve-lo yada ito me-umah ki im-ha-lechem asher-hu ochel va-yihi yosef yefe-toar vi-yefe mar-eh.
This verse describes the situation of Jacob (Israel) giving everything he owned into the hands of Joseph, and knowing nothing for himself except for the food he eats. It also states that Joseph was goodly in form and fair to look upon.
[GEN.39.7] And it happened after these things, and the wife of my Lord lifted her eyes to Joseph, and she said, "Lie with me." [§]
Va-yi-hi a-char ha-de-va-rim ha-eh-leh va-ti-sa a-eshet a-do-nai et-ei-nav a-el yo-sef va-to-mer shich-vah im-mi.
This verse describes the wife of Potiphar looking at Joseph and then speaking to him. 'Va-yi-hi' means 'and it happened'. 'A-char ha-de-va-rim ha-eh-leh' means 'after these things'. 'Va-ti-sa' means 'and she lifted'. 'A-eshet a-do-nai' means 'the wife of my Lord'. 'Et-ei-nav a-el yo-sef' means 'her eyes to Joseph'. 'Va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'Shich-vah im-mi' means 'lie with me'.
[GEN.39.8] He refused and said to the wife of my Lord, "Behold, my Lord does not know anything about my being here, and everything that he has, he has given into my hand." [§]
vayma'en vayomer el-eshet adonai he'n adoni lo-yada' itti mah-ba-bayit vechol asher-yesh-lo natan be-yadi
This verse describes a denial and an explanation offered to the wife of a lord. The speaker refuses something and then explains to the wife of his lord that the lord is unaware of his connection to the house, and that everything the lord possesses has been given into his hands.
[GEN.39.9] It is not great in this house from me, and she did not hold back anything from me except you, in that you are my wife. And how would I do this great evil, and sin against the Gods? [§]
ei-nen-nu ga-dol ba-bayit ha-zeh mim-me-ni ve-lo-cha-sak mim-me-ni me-u-mah ki im-o-tach ba-asher at-ish-toh ve-eich e-eh-seh ha-ra-ah ha-ged-o-lah ha-zot ve-cha-ta-ti le-elo-him
This verse is from Genesis 39:9. It expresses Joseph's resistance to the advances of Potiphar's wife. 'ei-nen-nu' means 'it is not great'. 'ga-dol' means great. 'ba-bayit ha-zeh' means 'in this house'. 'mim-me-ni' means 'from me'. 've-lo-cha-sak' means 'and did not hold back'. 'me-u-mah' means 'anything'. 'ki im-o-tach' means 'except you'. 'ba-asher at-ish-toh' means 'in that you are my wife'. 've-eich e-eh-seh' means 'and how would I do'. 'ha-ra-ah ha-ged-o-lah ha-zot' means 'this great evil'. 've-cha-ta-ti le-elo-him' means 'and sin against the Gods'.
[GEN.39.10] And it came to pass, as she spoke to Joseph day by day, and he did not listen to her words to lie with her to be with her. [§]
Va-yhi ke-dab-ra-h el-yo-sef yom yom ve-lo-sha-ma el-ei-ha le-shik-av etz-la-h le-hi-yot im-ma-h.
This verse describes a repeated attempt by the wife of Potiphar to entice Joseph. "Va-yhi" means 'and it came to pass'. "Ke-dab-ra-h" means 'as she spoke'. "El-yo-sef" means 'to Joseph'. "Yom yom" means 'day by day'. "Ve-lo-sha-ma" means 'and he did not listen'. "El-ei-ha" means 'to her words'. "Le-shik-av etz-la-h" means 'to lie with her'. "Le-hi-yot im-ma-h" means 'to be with her'.
[GEN.39.11] And it happened, like this day, that he came to the house to do his work, and there was no person from the people of the house there in the house. [§]
vayhi k'hayom hazzeh vayavo habayita la'asot m'lachto v'ein ish me'anshei habayita sham babayit
This verse describes someone entering a house to perform their work, but finding no one else present. 'Vayhi' indicates a past event unfolding. 'K'hayom hazzeh' means 'like this day'. 'Vayavo' means 'and he came'. 'Habayita' refers to 'the house'. 'La'asot' means 'to do'. 'M'lachto' means 'his work'. 'V'ein' means 'and there is not'. 'Ish' means 'man' or 'person'. 'Me'anshei' means 'from the people of'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Babayit' means 'in the house'.
[GEN.39.12] And she seized him by his garment, saying, "Lie with me!" And he abandoned his garment in her hand, and he fled and went outside. [§]
va-tit-pe-seh-hu be-vig-do le-e-mor shik-vah im-mi va-ya-azov vig-do be-ya-dah va-yanas va-yet-ze ha-chu-tzah
This verse describes a situation where a woman attempts to entice a man. The woman seizes his garment, urging him to lie with her. He leaves his garment in her hand and flees outside.
[GEN.39.13] And it happened, when she saw that he had left his garment in her hand, then she fled to the outside. [§]
Va-yhi ki-re’ota, ki-azav bigdo be-yada, va-yanas ha-chutza.
This verse describes a situation where a man leaves his garment with a woman, and she flees outside. 'Va-yhi' is an introductory phrase meaning 'and it happened'. 'Ki' means 'that' or 'when'. 'Re’ota' is a verb meaning 'she saw'. 'Azav' means 'he left' or 'he abandoned'. 'Bigdo' means 'his garment'. 'Be-yada' means 'in her hand'. 'Va-yanas' means 'and she fled'. 'Ha-chutza' means 'the outside'.
[GEN.39.14] And she called to the people of her house and said to them, saying, "See, he has brought a Hebrew man to laugh at us. He came to me to lie with me, and I cried out with a loud voice." [§]
va-tiq-ra le-an-shei beit-ah vato-mer la-hem le-emor reu he-vi lanu ish iv-ri le-tzach-ek banu ba elai li-sh-kab im-mi va-ekra be-kol ga-dol.
This verse is from Genesis 39:17. It recounts the accusation made by Potiphar's wife against Joseph. 'Va-tiq-ra' means 'and she called'. 'Le-an-shei beit-ah' means 'to the people of her house'. 'Vato-mer la-hem le-emor' means 'and she said to them, saying'. 'Reu' means 'see'. 'He-vi lanu' means 'He has brought to us'. 'Ish iv-ri' means 'a Hebrew man'. 'Le-tzach-ek banu' means 'to laugh at us'. 'Ba elai' means 'He came to me'. 'Li-sh-kab im-mi' means 'to lie with me'. 'Va-ekra be-kol ga-dol' means 'and I cried out with a loud voice'.
[GEN.39.15] And it happened, when he heard that I lifted my voice and called, he abandoned his garment with me, and he fled and went out the outside. [§]
vayhi keshamo kiherimoti qoli vaekra vayazov bigdo etzli vayanas vayeitze hachutza
This verse describes a reaction to a loud vocalization. Specifically, someone hearing a voice and responding by removing their garment and fleeing outside. The components break down as follows:
* "vayhi" - and it happened
* "keshamo" - when he heard
* "kiherimoti" - that I lifted/raised
* "qoli" - my voice
* "vaekra" - and I called
* "vayazov" - and he left/abandoned
* "bigdo" - his garment
* "etzli" - with me/near me
* "vayanas" - and he fled
* "vayeitze" - and he went out
* "hachutza" - the outside
[GEN.39.16] And his garment rested with her until the coming of my Lord to his house. [§]
va-ta-nach big-do etz-lah ad-bo-a ado-nai el-be-to
This verse describes a situation where someone’s garment is left with another person until the return of ‘my Lord’ to his house. 'Va-ta-nach' means 'and she rested' or 'and it rested', suggesting the garment was left in her care. ‘Bigdo’ refers to ‘his garment’ and ‘etzlah’ means ‘with her’. ‘Ad-bo-a’ is ‘until the coming’ and ‘ado-nai’ is ‘my Lord’, and finally ‘el-be-to’ is ‘to his house’.
[GEN.39.17] And she spoke to him like these words, saying, "Come to me, the servant, the Hebrew that you brought to us to laugh at me." [§]
va-te-da-ber e-lav ka-de-va-rim ha-e-leh le-e-mor ba-ei-lai ha-e-ved ha-iv-ri a-sher-he-ve-ta la-nu le-tzach-ek bi.
This verse is spoken by Potiphar's wife to her husband, complaining about Joseph. 'Va-te-da-ber' means 'and she spoke'. 'E-lav' means 'to him'. 'Ka-de-va-rim ha-e-leh' means 'like these words'. 'Le-e-mor' means 'to say'. 'Ba-ei-lai' means 'come to me'. 'Ha-e-ved' means 'the servant'. 'Ha-iv-ri' means 'the Hebrew'. 'A-sher-he-ve-ta' means 'that you brought'. 'La-nu' means 'to us'. 'Le-tzach-ek' means 'to laugh'. 'Bi' means 'at me'.
[GEN.39.18] And it was, as I raised my voice and called, that he abandoned his garment with me and he fled to the outside. [§]
Va-yhi ka-harimi qoli va-ekra, va-ya'azov bigdo etzli va-yanas ha-chutza.
This verse describes a situation where someone raises their voice and calls out, and another person abandons their garment with the speaker and flees outside. The verb forms indicate past tense actions. 'Va-yhi' introduces a narrative element, often translated as 'and it came to pass' but literally meaning 'and it was'. 'Ka-harimi' means 'as I raise' or 'when I raise'. 'Qoli' means 'my voice'. 'Va-ekra' means 'and I call'. 'Va-ya'azov' means 'and he abandoned'. 'Bigdo' means 'his garment'. 'Etzli' means 'with me'. 'Va-yanas' means 'and he fled'. 'Ha-chutza' means 'the outside'.
[GEN.39.19] And it happened, when my Lord heard the words of his wife, that she spoke to him, saying, “Like these things you have done to your servant,” then his anger burned. [§]
vayhi kishmoa adonai et dibrei ishto asher dibrah elav leemor kadvarim haeleh asah lih avdecha vayichar apo
This verse describes a situation where a man hears the words of his wife. She has told him that he has done certain things to her. As a result, the man's anger burns. 'Vayhi' indicates 'and it happened'. 'kishmoa' means 'when he heard'. 'Adonai' refers to 'my Lord'. 'dibrei ishto' is 'the words of his wife'. 'asher dibrah elav' means 'that she spoke to him'. 'leemor' signifies 'saying'. 'kadvarim haeleh' means 'like these things'. 'asah lih' is 'he did to me'. 'avdecha' means 'your servant (me)'. 'vayichar apo' means 'and his anger burned'.
[GEN.39.20] And my Lord of Joseph took him and gave him to the house of the jailer, a place where the prisoners of the king were imprisoned. And he was there in the house of the jailer. [§]
va-yikach adonai yosef oto va-yitenehu el-beit ha-sohar mekom asherei hamelech asurim va-yehi sham be-beit ha-sohar.
This verse describes Joseph being taken by "my Lord" (Potiphar) and placed in the royal prison. It details the location as a place where the king's prisoners are held, and Joseph remained there in the prison.
[GEN.39.21] And it was that Yahveh was with Joseph, and he turned kindness to him, and he granted his favor in the eyes of the chief of the jail. [§]
Va-yhi Yahveh et-Yosef va-yet elav hased va-yiten hino be-einei sar beit-ha-sohar.
This verse describes Yahveh being with Joseph and extending kindness to him, granting him favor in the eyes of the chief jailer. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Et-Yosef' is a particle indicating Joseph as the object of the verb. 'Va-yet' means 'and he turned'. 'Hased' means 'kindness' or 'mercy'. 'Hino' means 'his grace' or 'his favor'. 'Be-einei' means 'in the eyes of'. 'Sar beit-ha-sohar' means 'chief of the jail'.
[GEN.39.22] And the chief of the jail placed into the hand of Joseph all the prisoners who were in the jail, and all those who worked there, he was in charge. [§]
va-yit-ten sar beit-ha-so-har be-yad-yo-sef et kol-ha-a-si-rim asher be-beit ha-so-har ve-et kol asher o-sim sham hu ha-ya o-seh.
This verse describes the chief jailer placing Joseph in charge of the prisoners and all activities within the jail. 'Sar' means chief or ruler. 'Beit ha-sohar' means 'the house of confinement' or jail. 'Yad' means hand, but is used here to mean 'charge of' or 'authority over'. 'Aserim' means prisoners. 'Osim' means 'those who do' or 'workers'. 'Hu ha-ya oseh' literally translates as 'he was doing', but implies 'he was in charge of'. The 'et' is a direct object marker, not to be translated directly.
[GEN.39.23] There is no ruler of the prison who sees anything succeed in his hand, where Yahveh is with him, and whatever he does, Yahveh makes it prosper. [§]
Ein sar beit-hasohar ro'eh et-kol-me'umah beyado ba'asher Yahveh itto va'asher-hu oseh Yahveh matzliach.
This verse discusses a man in prison who experiences success because Yahveh is with him. 'Sar beit-hasohar' means 'ruler of the prison'. 'Me'umah' means 'something' or 'anything'. 'Itto' means 'with him'. 'Matzliach' means 'prosper' or 'succeed'.
GEN.40
[GEN.40.1] And it came to pass, after these things, that the cupbearer of the king of Egypt and the baker committed a wrong against their Lord, the king of Egypt. [§]
va-yi-hi a-char ha-de-va-rim ha-e-leh cha-tu mash-keh me-lech-mitz-rayim ve-ha-o-feh la-a-do-nei-hem le-me-lech mitz-rayim.
This verse describes an event following previous events where the cupbearer and baker of the king of Egypt sinned against their lord, the king of Egypt. The words are quite literal and direct, simply stating a sequence of events and a transgression.
[GEN.40.2] And Pharaoh became angry with the two eunuchs, with the chief cupbearer, and with the chief baker. [§]
va-yik-tsof par-oh al shnei sa-ree-sav, al sar ha-mash-kim, ve-al sar ha-o-fim.
This verse describes Pharaoh becoming angry with two of his officials. 'Paroh' is Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. 'Shnei sa-ree-sav' refers to two eunuchs. 'Sar ha-mash-kim' is the chief cupbearer, and 'sar ha-o-fim' is the chief baker.
[GEN.40.3] And he put them in custody in the house of the chief of the cooks to the house of the jailer, a place where Joseph was imprisoned there. [§]
Va-yit-ten o-tam be-mish-mar beit sar ha-tab-ba-chim el-beit ha-so-har me-kom a-sher Yo-sef a-sur sham.
This verse describes the placement of the brothers in confinement. 'Va-yit-ten' means 'and he gave' or 'and he put'. 'O-tam' means 'them'. 'Be-mish-mar' means 'in custody' or 'in keeping'. 'Beit sar ha-tab-ba-chim' means 'the house of the chief of the cooks' (literally 'house of master of slaughterers'). 'El-beit ha-so-har' means 'to the house of the jailer'. 'Me-kom' means 'place'. 'A-sher' means 'where'. 'Yo-sef' is the proper name 'Joseph'. 'A-sur' means 'imprisoned'. 'Sham' means 'there'.
[GEN.40.4] And the chief of the cooks assigned Joseph to be with them, and he served them. And days passed while they were in confinement. [§]
va-yip-kod sar ha-tab-bach-im et-yo-sef it-tam va-ye-sha-ret otam va-yi-hyu ya-mim be-mish-mar
This verse describes the chief cook assigning Joseph to serve with him and his fellow prisoners. The verse details a period of time spent in confinement. 'Sar hatabbachim' literally means 'chief of the cooks'. 'Mipmar' means 'in guarding' or 'in confinement'.
[GEN.40.5] And they both dreamed dreams on the same night, each man his own dream. Each dream’s interpretation pertained to him. The cupbearer and the baker who belonged to the king of Egypt were imprisoned in the jail. [§]
va-yachalmu chalom shnehem ish chalamo b'laila echad ish k'fitron chalamo ha-mashkeh ve-ha-opheh asher le-melech mitzrayim asher asurim be-beit ha-sohar
This verse describes a dream that both the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt had on the same night. Each of them had a distinct dream, and the meaning of each dream was unique to the dreamer. They were both imprisoned in the jail.
[GEN.40.6] And he came to them, Joseph, in the morning, and he saw them, and behold, they were angry. [§]
va-yo-vo a-lei-hem yo-sef ba-bo-ker va-yar otam ve-hi-nam zo-af-im
This verse describes Joseph approaching his brothers in the morning and seeing that they are angry. ‘Va-yo-vo’ means ‘and he came’. ‘A-lei-hem’ means ‘to them’. ‘Yo-sef’ is the name ‘Joseph’. ‘Ba-bo-ker’ means ‘in the morning’. ‘Va-yar’ means ‘and he saw’. ‘Otam’ means ‘them’. ‘Ve-hi-nam’ means ‘and behold’. ‘Zo-af-im’ means ‘angry’ (plural).
[GEN.40.7] And he asked the eunuchs of Pharaoh who were with him in the guardhouse of my Lord’s house, saying, "Why are your faces bad today?" [§]
va-yish-al et-ser-ee-say par-oh a-sher it-toh be-mish-mar beit a-do-nai le-emor ma-doo-ah pe-nee-chem ra-eem ha-yom.
This verse describes a questioning. "Va-yish-al" means 'and he asked'. "Et-ser-ee-say par-oh" means 'the eunuchs of Pharaoh'. "A-sher it-toh" means 'who are with him'. "Be-mish-mar beit a-do-nai" means 'in the guardhouse of my Lord's house'. "Le-emor" means 'saying'. "Ma-doo-ah" means 'why'. "Pe-nee-chem" means 'your faces'. "Ra-eem" means 'are bad'. "Ha-yom" means 'today'.
[GEN.40.8] And they said to him, "We have dreamed a dream, and there is no interpreter for it." And Joseph said to them, "Is not interpretation from the Gods? Tell it to me, please." [§]
vayomru elav chalom chalamnu ufoter ein oto vayomer alehem Yosef haloa leElohim pitronim seferu-na li.
This verse comes from Genesis 41:24. "Vayomru" means "and they said". "Elav" means "to him". "Chalom" means "dream". "Chalamnu" means "we dreamed". "Ufoter" means "and interpreter". "Ein" means "there is not". "Oto" means "it". "Vayomer" means "and he said". "Alehem" means "to them". "Yosef" is the name Joseph. "Haloa" means "is not". "LeElohim" means "to the Gods". "Pitronim" means "interpretations". "Seferu-na" means "tell". "Li" means "to me".
[GEN.40.9] And the chief cupbearer recounted his dream to Joseph, and he said to him, "In my dream, behold, a vine was before me." [§]
vay-sah-peh-r sar-hah-mahsh-keem et-khah-lo-moh leh-yo-sehf vay-yo-mer loh bah-khah-lo-mee veh-hee-neh geh-fen leh-fah-nee.
This verse describes the chief cupbearer recounting his dream to Joseph. 'Vay-sah-peh-r' means 'and he recounted'. 'Sar-hah-mahsh-keem' is 'chief cupbearer'. 'Et-khah-lo-moh' means 'his dream'. 'Leh-yo-sehf' means 'to Joseph'. 'Vay-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Loh' is 'to him'. 'Bah-khah-lo-mee' means 'in my dream'. 'Veh-hee-neh' means 'and behold'. 'Gefen' means 'vine'. 'Lefanai' means 'before me'.
[GEN.40.10] And on the vine were three tendrils. And it, as it blossomed, its bud ascended. Its clusters ripened, becoming grapes. [§]
u-va-ge-fen shlo-sha sa-ri-gim ve-hee ke-fo-ra-chat a-la-ta nit-zah hiv-shi-lu ash-kle-tot-ei-ha a-na-vim
This verse describes a vine with three tendrils. While in bloom, its bud sprouted. Its clusters ripened into grapes.
[GEN.40.11] And the cup of Pharaoh was in my hand, and I took the grapes and squeezed them into the cup of Pharaoh, and I gave the cup upon the palm of Pharaoh. [§]
vekos par'oh b'yadi va'ekach et-ha'anavim va'eschat otam el-kos par'oh va'eten et-hakos al-kaf par'oh.
This verse describes the cupbearer (wine taster) recounting a dream to Pharaoh. He details taking grapes, squeezing them into Pharaoh's cup, and placing the cup in Pharaoh's hand. 'Kos' refers to a cup, 'Par'oh' is Pharaoh, 'Yad' means hand, 'anavim' are grapes, 'eschat' means to squeeze, 'eten' means to give, and 'kaf' means palm of the hand.
[GEN.40.12] And he said to him, Joseph, this is its interpretation: three of the baskets are three days. [§]
Va-yo-mer lo Yo-sef zeh pit-ro-no shlo-she-tet ha-sa-ri-gim shlo-she-tet ya-mim hem.
This verse comes from Genesis 41:45. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Yo-sef' is the name Joseph. 'Zeh' means 'this'. 'Pit-ro-no' means 'its interpretation'. 'Shlo-she-tet' means 'three of'. 'Ha-sa-ri-gim' means 'the baskets'. 'Ya-mim' means 'days'. 'Hem' means 'they are'. The verse describes Joseph interpreting a dream about baskets.
[GEN.40.13] While three days will pass, Pharaoh will lift up your head and restore you to your former position. Then you will give Pharaoh's cup into his hand, like the first judgement that you used to give him to drink. [§]
Be'od shloshet yamim yissa par'oh et roshecha vahashivcha al kaneca venatata kos par'oh beyado kamishpat harishon asher hayita mashkeko.
This verse comes from Genesis 40:19. It describes a prediction about the chief cupbearer's fate. 'Be'od' means 'while' or 'during.' 'Shloshet yamim' means 'three days.' 'Yissa' means 'he will lift up.' 'Par'oh' is Pharaoh. 'Et roshecha' means 'your head.' 'Vahashivcha' means 'and he will restore you.' 'Al kaneca' means 'to your wings' (idiomatic for your former position). 'Venatata' means 'and you will give.' 'Kos par'oh' means 'Pharaoh's cup.' 'Beyado' means 'into his hand.' 'Kamishpat harishon' means 'like the first judgement.' 'Asher hayita mashkeko' means 'that you used to give him to drink.'
[GEN.40.14] But if you remember me with you, as it will be good for you, and please act with kindness towards me, and mention me to Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house. [§]
ki im-zikhartani itkha, ka'asher yitav lakh v'asita-na immadi khased v'hizkartani el-par'oh v'hotza'atani min-habayit hazzeh.
This verse is a plea for remembrance and assistance. The speaker is asking someone to remember them and to act with kindness towards them, specifically requesting they be mentioned to Pharaoh and be released from the current house/location. Each name of God is used as a descriptor.
[GEN.40.15] For someone stole from the land of the Hebrews, and also here I did nothing, for they placed me in the pit. [§]
Ki-gu-nov gu-nav-ti mei-eretz ha-iv-rim ve-gam-po lo-a-siti me-u-mah ki-sa-mu o-ti ba-bor.
This verse is spoken by Joseph to Potiphar's wife. 'Ki' means 'for' or 'because'. 'Gu-nov gu-nav-ti' literally means 'a thief stole' or 'I stole a thief', but in this context means 'someone stole'. 'Mei-eretz ha-iv-rim' means 'from the land of the Hebrews'. 'Ve-gam-po' means 'and also here'. 'Lo-a-siti' means 'I did not do'. 'Me-u-mah' means 'anything' or 'something'. 'Ki-sa-mu o-ti' means 'for they placed me'. 'Ba-bor' means 'in the pit'.
[GEN.40.16] The chief of the bakers saw that the interpretation was good, and he said to Joseph, “Also I had a dream, and behold, three baskets of baked goods were on my head.” [§]
va-yar sar-ha-ofim ki tov patahr va-yomer el-yosef af-ani ba-chalomai ve-hineh shloshah salei chori al-roshi
This verse describes the chief baker’s reaction to Joseph’s successful interpretation of his dream. 'Sar-ha-ofim' means 'chief of the bakers'. 'Tov patahr' means 'good interpreter'. 'Af-ani' means 'also I'. 'Ba-chalomai' means 'in my dream'. 'Ve-hineh' means 'and behold'. 'Salei chori' means 'baskets of baked goods'. 'Al-roshi' means 'on my head'.
[GEN.40.17] And in the basket, high above all of Pharaoh’s food, made by the baker, and the birds were eating them from the basket, above my head. [§]
oo-vah-sah-l hah-el-yohn mee-kohl mah-ah-khal par-oh mah-ah-seh oh-feh veh-ha-oof oh-khel oh-tahm meen-hah-sah-l may-al ro-shee.
This verse describes a dream involving a basket of baked goods presented to birds. 'Basket' is 'sal'. 'High/Upper' is 'elyon'. 'Food' is 'ma'achal'. 'Pharaoh' is 'Paroh'. 'Baker' is 'opheh'. 'Bird' is 'oof'. 'Eating' is 'ochel'. 'Them' is 'otahm'. 'From' is 'meen'. 'Above' is 'may-al'. 'Head' is 'roshee'. The verse describes the basket being 'high above' all of Pharaoh's food, made by the baker, and birds eating from it above the speaker's head.
[GEN.40.18] And Joseph answered and said, "This is its interpretation: the three baskets are three days they are." [§]
Va-yan Yosef va-yomer, zeh pitrono, shloshet ha-salim, shloshet yamim hem.
This verse comes from Genesis 41:46. 'Va-yan' means 'and answered'. 'Yosef' is the name Joseph. 'Va-yomer' means 'and he said'. 'Zeh' means 'this'. 'Pitrono' means 'its interpretation'. 'Shloshet' means 'three'. 'Ha-salim' means 'the baskets'. 'Yamim' means 'days'. 'Hem' means 'they are'.
[GEN.40.19] Within three days, the Pharaoh will lift your head from upon you, and will hang you upon a tree, and the bird will eat your flesh from upon you. [§]
Be'od shloshet yamim yisa par'oh et-rosh'cha me'aleycha v'talah ot'cha al-etz v'achal ha'of et-bsarcha me'aleycha.
This verse is a direct threat from an official of Egypt to Joseph. Let's break down the components:
* "Be'od shloshet yamim" – “While three days remain” or “within three days”.
* "yisa par'oh" – “the Pharaoh will lift”.
* "et-rosh'cha" – “your head”.
* "me'aleycha" – “from upon you”.
* "v'talah ot'cha" – “and will hang you”.
* "al-etz" – “upon a tree”.
* "v'achal ha'of" – “and the bird will eat”.
* "et-bsarcha" – “your flesh”.
* "me'aleycha" – “from upon you”.
[GEN.40.20] And it came to pass on the third day, the day of the birth of Pharaoh, and he made a feast for all his servants, and he lifted up the head of the chief of the cupbearers and the head of the chief of the bakers among his servants. [§]
Va-yi-hi | ba-yom ha-shlishi yom huledet et-Par’oh va-ya’as mishte le-chol-avadav va-yissa et-rosh sar ha-mashqim ve-et-rosh sar ha-ofim be-toch avadav.
This verse describes a birthday celebration for Pharaoh. During the feast, he elevates the chief cupbearer and the chief baker among his servants. The verse utilizes several proper nouns – Pharaoh, the chief cupbearer, and the chief baker – alongside common terms for days, servants, and feasting.
[GEN.40.21] And he restored the chief cupbearer to his position of providing drink, and he gave the cup into the hand of Pharaoh. [§]
vayyashev et-sar hammashkim al-mashkehu vaiten hakos al-kaf paroh
This verse describes Joseph restoring the chief cupbearer to his position and giving Pharaoh’s cup to him. 'Vayyashev' means 'and he restored'. 'Et-sar hammashkim' is 'the chief cupbearer'. 'Al-mashkehu' means 'to his drinking'. 'Vaiten' means 'and he gave'. 'Hakos' is 'the cup'. 'Al-kaf paroh' means 'into the hand of Pharaoh'.
[GEN.40.22] And the chief of the bakers he hung, as Joseph had interpreted for them. [§]
ve'et sar ha'ofim talah ka'asher pathar lahem Yosef.
This verse describes the hanging of the chief baker, as predicted by Joseph's interpretation of their dreams. 'Ve'et' means 'and' connecting to the direct object. 'Sar' means 'chief' or 'prince'. 'Ha'ofim' means 'of the bakers'. 'Talah' means 'he hung'. 'Ka'asher' means 'as' or 'according to'. 'Pathar' means 'he interpreted' or 'he solved'. 'Lahem' means 'for them'. 'Yosef' is the name 'Joseph'.
[GEN.40.23] And the chief of the cupbearers did not remember Joseph, and he forgot him. [§]
veh-loh-zah-khar sar-hah-mash-keem et-yo-sef vay-sh-kah-cheh-hu
This verse describes the chief cupbearer forgetting Joseph after Joseph interpreted his dream. 'Veh' is 'and'. 'Lo' is 'not'. 'Zakhar' means 'to remember'. 'Sar' means 'chief'. 'Hamashkeem' means 'the cupbearer'. 'Et' is a direct object marker. 'Yosef' is 'Joseph'. 'Vayishkachehu' means 'and he forgot him'. The 'hu' is a suffix meaning 'him'.
GEN.41
[GEN.41.1] And it happened after two years of days that Pharaoh dreamed, and behold, he was standing by the river. [§]
Va-yhee mi-ketz shnatayim yamim u-paroh holem ve-hineh omed al-ha-ye'or.
This verse describes an event that occurs after a period of two years. Pharaoh has a dream, and in the dream, he is standing near the river.
[GEN.41.2] And behold, seven cows came up from the Nile, beautiful in appearance and healthy of flesh, and they grazed in the meadow. [§]
vehinneh min-hayor olot sheva parot yefot mar'eh ubri'ot basar vatir'eina ba'achu.
This verse describes seven cows emerging from the Nile River. 'Vehinneh' means 'and behold'. 'Min-hayor' means 'from the Nile'. 'Olot' means 'ascending' or 'coming up'. 'Sheva' is 'seven'. 'Parot' is 'cows'. 'Yefot mar'eh' means 'beautiful in appearance'. 'Ubri'ot basar' means 'and healthy of flesh'. 'Vatir'eina' means 'they grazed'. 'Ba'achu' means 'in the meadow'.
[GEN.41.3] And behold, seven other cows are coming up after them from the river, appearing poor in appearance and thin in flesh, and they stood near the cows on the bank of the river. [§]
vehinneh sheva parot acherot olot achareihen min-hayor ra’ot ma’areh vedakot basar vat’amodna etzel haparot al-s’fat hayor.
This verse describes seven other cows coming up from the river, appearing poor in appearance and thin in flesh, and standing near the first cows at the riverbank. 'Vehinneh' means 'and behold'. 'Sheva' means 'seven'. 'Parot' is plural for 'cow'. 'Acherot' means 'others'. 'Olot' means 'are coming up'. 'Achareihen' means 'after them'. 'Min-hayor' means 'from the river'. 'Ra’ot ma’areh' means 'bad in appearance'. 'Vedakot basar' means 'and thin in flesh'. 'Vat’amodna' means 'and they stood'. 'Etzel haparot' means 'near the cows'. 'Al-s’fat hayor' means 'on the bank of the river'.
[GEN.41.4] And the cows ate the bad in appearance and thin of flesh, the seven cows good in appearance and the healthy ones. And Pharaoh awoke. [§]
va-to-khlanah ha-pa-rot ra-ot ha-mar-eh ve-da-kot ha-ba-sar et she-va ha-pa-rot ye-fot ha-mar-eh ve-ha-bri-ot va-yi-katz pa-re-oh.
This verse describes the cows. 'Va-to-khlanah' means 'and they ate'. 'Ha-pa-rot' means 'the cows'. 'Ra-ot ha-mar-eh' means 'bad in appearance'. 'Ve-da-kot ha-ba-sar' means 'and thin of flesh'. 'Et she-va ha-pa-rot' means 'the seven cows'. 'Ye-fot ha-mar-eh' means 'good in appearance'. 'Ve-ha-bri-ot' means 'and the healthy ones'. 'Va-yi-katz pa-re-oh' means 'and Pharaoh awoke'.
[GEN.41.5] And he slept and dreamed a second dream. And behold, seven ears of grain were ascending on one stalk, healthy and good. [§]
va-yee-shawn va-ya-khah-lohm sheh-neet ve-hee-neh sheh-vah shee-vo-leem o-loht be-kah-neh eh-khad be-ree-oht ve-toh-voht.
This verse describes a dream. 'Va-yee-shawn' means 'and he slept'. 'Va-ya-khah-lohm' means 'and he dreamed'. 'Sheh-neet' means 'second'. 'Ve-hee-neh' means 'and behold'. 'Sheh-vah' is seven. 'Shee-vo-leem' are ears of grain. 'O-loht' means 'ascending' or 'growing'. 'Be-kah-neh eh-khad' is 'on one stalk'. 'Be-ree-oht ve-toh-voht' means 'healthy and good'.
[GEN.41.6] And behold, seven thin and withered heads of grain were sprouting after them. [§]
ve-hee-neh she-vah shib-o-leem da-koht oo-sh-doo-foht ka-deem tso-me-hot akh-a-ray-hen.
This verse describes seven thin and withered heads of grain sprouting after them. 'Ve-hee-neh' means 'and behold'. 'Shevah' means 'seven'. 'Shibboleem' means 'heads of grain' or 'ears of corn'. 'Dakot' means 'thin'. 'Shdufot' means 'withered'. 'Kadim' means 'east wind' and is used to symbolize a scorching, withering wind. 'Tsomehot' means 'sprouting'. 'Akharehen' means 'after them'.
[GEN.41.7] And the thin ears of grain were swallowed by the seven healthy and full ears of grain, and Pharaoh awoke, and behold, it was a dream. [§]
Va-tib-la-na ha-shiv-o-lim ha-dak-kot et she-va ha-shiv-o-lim ha-b’ri-ot v’ha-m’le-ot va-yi-kats Par-oh v’hi-neh kha-lom.
This verse describes the swallowing of fine ears of grain by seven full and healthy ears. It then states that Pharaoh awoke, and behold, it was a dream. 'Va' means 'and'. 'Tibla'na is a verb meaning 'they swallowed'. 'Ha-shiv-o-lim' means 'the ears of grain'. 'Ha-dak-kot' means 'the thin/fine'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle marking the direct object. 'She-va' means 'seven'. 'Ha-b’ri-ot' means 'the healthy'. 'V’ha-m’le-ot' means 'and the full'. 'Va-yi-kats' means 'and he awoke'. 'Par-oh' is the name Pharaoh. 'V’hi-neh' means 'and behold'. 'Kha-lom' means 'a dream'.
[GEN.41.8] And it was in the morning, and his spirit was troubled, and he sent and called all the magicians of Egypt and all his wise men. And Pharaoh told them his dream, and there was no one who could interpret it for Pharaoh. [§]
va-ye-hee ba-bo-ker va-tee-pa-em roo-cho va-yish-lach va-yik-ra et-kol-char-too-may mee-tzra-yeem ve-et-kol-chach-a-may-ha va-yisa-per par-oh la-hem et-chalo-mo ve-ein-po-ter o-tam le-par-oh.
This verse describes Pharaoh summoning his magicians and wise men because he had a dream that none could interpret. 'Va-ye-hee' indicates a temporal setting – 'and it was'. 'Ba-bo-ker' means 'in the morning'. 'Va-tee-pa-em' suggests something startling happening to his spirit – 'and his spirit was troubled'. 'Va-yish-lach' means 'and he sent'. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Char-too-may mee-tzra-yeem' refers to the magicians of Egypt. 'Chach-a-may-ha' means 'his wise men'. 'Va-yisa-per' means 'and he told'. 'Par-oh' is Pharaoh. 'Chalo-mo' is 'his dream'. 'Ve-ein-po-ter o-tam le-par-oh' signifies that no one could interpret the dream for Pharaoh.
[GEN.41.9] And the chief cupbearer spoke to Pharaoh, saying, "I remember my sins today." [§]
Va-yedaber sar ha-mashkim et-Paroh le'emor et-chata'ai ani mazkir ha-yom.
This verse comes from Genesis 40:23. 'Va-yedaber' means 'and spoke'. 'Sar ha-mashkim' means 'chief cupbearer'. 'Et-Paroh' means 'to Pharaoh'. 'Le'emor' means 'saying'. 'Et-chata'ai' means 'my sins'. 'Ani' means 'I'. 'Mazkir' means 'remember'. 'Ha-yom' means 'today'. The verse describes the chief cupbearer speaking to Pharaoh, mentioning his sins and remembering them today.
[GEN.41.10] Pharaoh raged against his servants, and he put me in the guardhouse, the house of the chief of the slaughterers, me and the chief baker. [§]
Paroh katsaf al-avadav vayiten oti bemishmar beit sar hatabbachim oti ve'et sar ha'ofim.
This verse describes the Pharaoh's anger towards his servants and the subsequent imprisonment of the speaker and the chief baker. 'Paroh' is Pharaoh, the title of the Egyptian king. 'Katsaf' means 'he raged' or 'was angry'. 'Avadav' means 'his servants'. 'Vayiten' means 'and he gave' or 'and he put'. 'Oti' means 'me'. 'Bemishmar' means 'in confinement' or 'in the guardhouse'. 'Beit' means 'house' or 'place'. 'Sar' means 'chief' or 'master'. 'Hatabbachim' means 'of the slaughterers' or 'of the butchers'. 'Ve'et' means 'and'. 'Ha'ofim' means 'of the bakers'.
[GEN.41.11] And we dreamed a dream in one night, I and he. A man, like the interpretation of his dream, we dreamed. [§]
vanachalmah chalom b’laylah echad ani vahu ish k’fitron chalamo chalamnu
This verse describes a dream experienced by two individuals. ‘Vanachalmah’ means ‘and we dreamed’. ‘Chalom’ means ‘dream’. ‘B’laylah echad’ means ‘in one night’. ‘Ani vahu’ means ‘I and he’. ‘Ish’ means ‘man’. ‘K’fitron chalamo’ means ‘like the interpretation of his dream’. ‘Chalamnu’ means ‘we dreamed’.
[GEN.41.12] And there with us was a young Hebrew man, a servant to the chief of the cooks. And we recounted to him, and he interpreted our dreams to us, each person according to his dream, he interpreted. [§]
veh-shahm ee-tah-noo na-ahr ee-vree eh-ved leh-sar ha-tah-bah-heem, vah-neh-sah-peh-reh-loh, vah-yee-f’tah-reh-lah-noo et-khah-loh-mo-teh-ee-noo, eesh kah-khah-loh-moh pah-tar.
This verse describes a situation where people recount their dreams to an Hebrew servant of the chief cook. The servant then interprets each person's dream for them individually. The names used are ‘with us’, ‘young Hebrew man’, ‘servant’, ‘chief of the cooks’ and ‘our dreams’.
[GEN.41.13] And it happened, as he freed us, so it was. He restored me to my former condition, and he hung him. [§]
va-yhi ka-asher pa-tar-la-nu ken ha-ya-hu oti he-shiv al-ka-ni ve-o-to ta-lah
This verse describes a situation where someone was freed, then returned to their original state, and another was hung. "Patar" means to loosen or free. "Ken" means so or thus, indicating something happened as expected. "He-shiv" is to return or restore. "Al-ka-ni" refers to the original state or condition. "Ta-lah" means to hang.
[GEN.41.14] And Pharaoh sent and called for Joseph, and they hastened him up from the pit. And he shaved and changed his garments, and he came before Pharaoh. [§]
Va-yish-lakh Par-oh va-yik-rah et-Yo-seph va-ye-ri-tzu-hu min-ha-bor va-ye-ga-lach va-ye-chal-lef sim-lo-tav va-ya-vo el-Par-oh.
This verse describes Pharaoh sending for Joseph and having him brought up from the pit. It states Joseph shaved and changed his clothes before appearing before Pharaoh.
[GEN.41.15] And Pharaoh said to Joseph, "I have dreamed a dream, and there is no one to interpret it. And I have heard about you, saying that you understand dreams to interpret them." [§]
Va-yo-mer Par-oh el-Yo-sef, Chalom chalam-ti u-po-teir ein oto, va-ani shama-ti a-lei-cha le-emor, tishma chalom lif-tor oto.
This verse comes from Genesis 41:24. 'Par-oh' is Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. 'Yo-sef' is Joseph. 'Chalom' means dream. 'Po-teir' means interpreter. 'Oto' means it. 'Le-emor' means to say. 'Tishma' means you will hear or you understand. 'Lif-tor' means to interpret.
[GEN.41.16] And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, "Apart from me, the Gods will answer concerning Pharaoh’s well-being." [§]
Va-yaan Yosef et Par’oh le’emor bi-le’adai Elohim ya’aneh et shalom Par’oh.
This verse describes Joseph responding to Pharaoh. 'Va-yaan' means 'and answered'. 'Yosef' is 'Joseph'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Par’oh' is 'Pharaoh'. 'Le’emor' means 'to say'. 'Bi-le’adai' means 'apart from me'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Ya’aneh' means 'will answer'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Shalom' means 'peace' or 'well-being'. 'Par’oh' is 'Pharaoh'. The verse essentially conveys Joseph stating that any positive outcome for Pharaoh will come from the Gods, not from him.
[GEN.41.17] And Pharaoh spoke to Joseph, saying, "In my dreams, behold me, I am standing upon the edge of the river." [§]
va-ye-da-ber par-oh el-yo-sef ba-cha-lo-mai hin-nee o-med al-sef-at ha-ye-or
This verse recounts Pharaoh speaking to Joseph about a dream. 'Va-ye-da-ber' means 'and spoke'. 'Par-oh' is Pharaoh's name. 'El-yo-sef' means 'to Joseph'. 'Ba-cha-lo-mai' means 'in my dreams'. 'Hin-nee' means 'here am I' or 'behold me'. 'O-med' means 'standing'. 'Al-sef-at' means 'upon the edge of'. 'Ha-ye-or' means 'the river'.
[GEN.41.18] And behold, seven cows came up from the Nile, healthy in flesh and beautiful in appearance, and they grazed in the meadow. [§]
vehineh min-hayor olot sheva parot briot basar viyefot to’ar vatir’eina ba’achu.
This verse describes seven cows emerging from the Nile river. "Vehineh" means 'and behold'. "Min-hayor" means 'from the Nile'. "Olot" means 'ascending' or 'coming up'. "Sheva" is 'seven'. "Parot" means 'cows'. "Briot" means 'healthy' or 'well-fed'. "Basar" means 'flesh' or 'meat'. "Viyefot" means 'and beautiful'. "To’ar" means 'appearance' or 'form'. "Vatir’eina" means 'and they grazed'. "Ba’achu" means 'in the meadow'.
[GEN.41.19] And behold, seven other cows came up after them, thin and bad in appearance, very weak in flesh. I have not seen such as these in all the land of Egypt while they grazed. [§]
vehineh sheva parot acherot olot acharehen dalloot veraeot toar meod verakakot basar lo raiti kah-eh-nah bechal eretz mitzrayim laroa.
This verse describes seven other cows coming up after the first seven. These cows are described as thin and ugly in appearance, and very weak in flesh. The speaker states they have not seen anything like these cows in all the land of Egypt when it comes to grazing.
[GEN.41.20] And the thin cows and the bad cows ate the seven first healthy cows. [§]
va-to-akh-al-na ha-pa-rot ha-rak-kot ve-ha-ra-ot et she-va ha-pa-rot ha-ri-sho-not ha-bri-ot.
This verse describes the cows eating one another. 'Va-to-akh-al-na' means 'and they ate'. 'Ha-pa-rot' means 'the cows'. 'Ha-rak-kot' and 've-ha-ra-ot' describe the cows, meaning 'the thin ones' and 'the bad ones'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle marking the direct object. 'She-va' means 'seven'. 'Ha-pa-rot' again means 'the cows'. 'Ha-ri-sho-not' means 'the first'. 'Ha-bri-ot' means 'the healthy ones'.
[GEN.41.21] And they came to the threshing floor, and it was not known that they had come to the threshing floor, and their appearances were bad as at the beginning, and I awoke. [§]
va-to-vo-na el-kir-be-na ve-lo no-da ki-va-u el-kir-be-na u-mar-ei-hen ra ka-asher ba-te-chi-la va-i-katz
This verse describes a scene where someone arrives at a place (kirbenah) and their appearance is bad, as it was at the beginning. The arrival wasn't known. The final word indicates waking up or being startled.
[GEN.41.22] And I saw in my dream, and behold, seven ears of grain were growing in one stalk, full and good. [§]
Va'ere bachalomai vehineh sheva shibbolim olot bekaneh echad meleot vetovot.
This verse describes a dream. 'Va'ere' means 'and I saw'. 'Bachalomai' means 'in my dream'. 'Vehineh' is 'and behold'. 'Sheva' means 'seven'. 'Shibbolim' means 'ears of grain'. 'Olot' means 'ascending' or 'growing'. 'Bekaneh' means 'in a stalk'. 'Echad' means 'one'. 'Meleot' means 'full'. 'Vetovot' means 'and good'.
[GEN.41.23] And behold, seven heads of grain, thin, feeble, blighted by the east wind, are sprouting after them. [§]
vehineh sheva shibbolim tzenumot dakot shdufot kadim tzomechot achareihem.
This verse describes seven heads of grain. 'Vehineh' means 'and behold'. 'Sheva' means 'seven'. 'Shibbolim' means 'heads of grain'. 'Tzenumot' means 'thin' or 'withered'. 'Dakot' means 'feeble' or 'slender'. 'Shdufot' means 'blighted' or 'withered'. 'Kadim' means 'east wind' implying they are scorched. 'Tzomechot' means 'sprouting' or 'growing'. 'Achareihem' means 'after them' or 'behind them'.
[GEN.41.24] And the thin ears of grain devoured the seven good ears of grain. And I said to the magicians, "And there is no one who can explain this to me." [§]
va-tib-la-an-a ha-shiv-olim ha-dak-ot et she-va ha-shiv-olim ha-to-vot va-o-mar el-ha-har-tu-mim ve-ein mag-gid li.
This verse describes a situation where thin ears of grain devoured good ears of grain. The speaker then addresses the magicians and states that no one can explain this to him. Let's break down the names of God and related terms: There are no explicit names of God in this verse, but it's important to note that 'Elohim' is implied in the narrative context as the power behind the event. We will translate 'Elohim' as 'the Gods' as it is a plural form.
[GEN.41.25] And Joseph said to Pharaoh, Pharaoh’s dream is one. That which the Gods are doing, they declared to Pharaoh. [§]
Va-yo-mer Yo-sef el Par-oh, chalom Par-oh echad hu, et asher ha-Elohim ose higgid le-Par-oh.
This verse comes from Genesis 41:25. It details Joseph interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Yo-sef' is 'Joseph'. 'El' means 'to' or 'toward'. 'Par-oh' is 'Pharaoh'. 'Chalom' means 'dream'. 'Echad' means 'one'. 'Hu' means 'it is'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Asher' means 'which' or 'that'. 'Ha-Elohim' means 'the Gods'. 'Ose' means 'doing'. 'Higgid' means 'declared'. 'Le-Par-oh' means 'to Pharaoh'.
[GEN.41.26] Seven cows, the good ones, are seven years, and seven ears of grain, the good ones, are seven years. It is one dream. [§]
Sheva parot hatovot sheva shanim hena v’sheva hashivolim hatovot sheva shanim hena chalom echad hu.
This verse describes a dream. 'Sheva' means seven. 'Parot' means cows. 'Hatovot' means the good ones. 'Shanim' means years. 'Hena' means are/is. 'Hashivolim' means the ears of grain. 'Chalom' means dream. 'Echad' means one. 'Hu' means it/he/is.
[GEN.41.27] And seven cows, healthy and thin, which come up after them are seven years, and seven ears of grain, healthy and withered by the east wind, will be seven years of famine. [§]
ve-sheva ha-parot ha-rakkot ve-ha-raot ha-olot achareihen sheva shanim hena ve-sheva ha-shibbolim ha-rekot shdufot ha-kadim yihyu sheva shnei ra'av.
This verse describes Pharaoh’s dream of seven healthy cows and seven thin cows, and seven full ears of grain and seven withered ears. The healthy and thin cows, and the full and withered ears are symbolic of seven years, specifically seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. ‘Rakot’ means ‘healthy’ or ‘well-fed’. ‘Ra’ot’ means ‘thin’ or ‘bad’. ‘Shibbolim’ means ‘ears of grain’ or ‘sheaves’. ‘Shdufot ha-kadim’ refers to ears that are ‘blasted’ or ‘withered’ by the east wind. ‘Ra’av’ means ‘famine’.
[GEN.41.28] It is the word that I spoke to Pharaoh, that the Gods are making Pharaoh see. [§]
hu ha-davar asher dibarti el-par'oh asher ha-elohim ose her'eh et-par'oh.
This verse describes a word or matter spoken to Pharaoh, and that the Gods are causing Pharaoh to see or understand something.
[GEN.41.29] Behold, seven years are coming, a great abundance in all the land of Egypt. [§]
hin-neh sheh-vah shah-nim bah-ot sah-bah gah-dol be-chol eh-rets mitz-raim
This verse describes seven years of abundance coming upon the land of Egypt. 'Hinneh' means 'behold'. 'Shevah' means 'seven'. 'Shanim' means 'years'. 'Baot' means 'coming'. 'Saba' means 'abundance'. 'Gadol' means 'great'. 'Bechol' means 'in all'. 'Eretz' means 'land'. 'Mitzraim' is the name 'Egypt'.
[GEN.41.30] And seven years of famine will arise after them, and all satisfaction will be forgotten in the land of Egypt, and the famine will consume the land. [§]
ve-kamu sheva shnei ra'av achareihen ve-nishkach kol-ha-sava be-eretz mitzrayim ve-killa ha-ra'av et-ha-aretz.
This verse describes a famine that will occur in Egypt. 've-kamu' means 'and will arise'. 'sheva shnei ra'av' translates to 'seven years of famine'. 'achareihen' means 'after them'. 've-nishkach' means 'and will be forgotten'. 'kol-ha-sava' means 'all the fullness/satisfaction'. 'be-eretz mitzrayim' means 'in the land of Egypt'. 've-killa ha-ra'av' means 'and will finish/consume the famine'. 'et-ha-aretz' means 'the land'.
[GEN.41.31] And fullness will not be known in the land because of that famine afterward, for it is very severe. [§]
veh-lo yee-vah-deh hah-sah-bah bah-ah-retz mee-pen-ee hah-rah-ahv hah-hoo ah-chah-ree-hen kee-kee-kah-vehd hoo meh-ohd.
This verse discusses a severe famine and its impact. "lo yivadeh" means "will not be known," or "will not exist." "hasseva" means "satiety" or "fullness." "ba'aretz" means "in the land." "mipnei har'av" means "because of the famine." "acharei chen" means "after that." "kaved hu meod" means "it is very heavy" or "it is very severe".
[GEN.41.32] And concerning the years, the dream came to Pharaoh twice, because the matter is established from the Gods, and the Gods are quick to do it. [§]
ve'al ha'shanim hachalom el-par'oh pa'amayim ki-nachon hadavar me'im ha'Elohim u'memahir ha'Elohim la'asoto.
This verse discusses the repetition of a dream to Pharaoh. It states that the dream came twice because the matter is established from the Gods, and the Gods are quick to bring it about. 'Shanim' refers to years, and in this context, the dream happened over two years, or twice. 'Par'oh' is Pharaoh. 'Nachon' means established or firm. 'Me'im' means from. 'Memahir' means quick or hastening. 'La'asoto' means to do it.
[GEN.41.33] And now, Pharaoh will see a man discerning and wise, and he will appoint him over the land of Egypt. [§]
ve'atah yireh par'oh ish navon vechacam veyishitehu al-eretz mitzrayim.
This verse describes Pharaoh seeing a wise and discerning man and appointing him over the land of Egypt. 'Ve'atah' means 'and now'. 'Yireh' means 'he will see'. 'Par'oh' is Pharaoh's name. 'Ish' means 'man'. 'Navon' means 'discerning' or 'understanding'. 'Ve'chacam' means 'and wise'. 'Veyishitehu' means 'and he will appoint him'. 'Al-eretz mitzrayim' means 'over the land of Egypt'.
[GEN.41.34] Pharaoh will do, and he will appoint overseers over the land, and he will impose a fifth of the land of Egypt in seven years of plenty. [§]
ya'aseh par'oh v'yafked pkidim al-ha'aretz v'chimesh et-eretz mitzrayim b'sheva shnei ha'sava.
This verse describes Pharaoh’s actions of appointing overseers over the land of Egypt and imposing a fifth of the land’s produce as a tax during seven years of plenty. "ya'aseh" means "he will do" or "he shall do". "par'oh" is the name, Pharaoh. "v'yafked" means "and he will appoint". "pkidim" means "overseers" or "officials". "al-ha'aretz" means "over the land". "v'chimesh" means "and he will impose a fifth". "et-eretz mitzrayim" means "the land of Egypt". "b'sheva shnei ha'sava" means "in seven years of plenty".
[GEN.41.35] And they shall gather all the food of the good years that are coming and store it under the authority of Pharaoh, as food in the cities, and they shall keep it. [§]
ve-yikbotsu et-kol-okhel ha-shanim ha-tovot ha-baot ha-eleh ve-yitzberu bar takhat yad-paroh okhel be-arim ve-shamaru.
This verse instructs people to gather all the good food of the coming years and store it under the hand of Pharaoh, as food in the cities, and to keep it.
[GEN.41.36] And the food will be for safekeeping for the land, for seven years of famine which will be in the land of Egypt, and the land will not be severed by the famine. [§]
vehayah ha'ochel lefikadon la'aretz lesheva shnei har'av asher tih'yina be'eretz mitzrayim velo ticharet ha'aretz bara'av.
This verse describes the food that will be stored as a provision for the land during seven years of famine that will occur in the land of Egypt, and that the land will not be cut off by the famine.
[GEN.41.37] And the thing was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of all of his servants. [§]
Va-yitav ha-davar be-einei Par’oh u-ve-einei kol-avadav.
This verse states that something was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and all of his servants. ‘Va-yitav’ means ‘and it was good’. ‘Ha-davar’ means ‘the thing’ or ‘the matter’. ‘Be-einei’ means ‘in the eyes of’. ‘Par’oh’ is Pharaoh’s name. ‘U-ve-einei’ means ‘and in the eyes of’. ‘Kol-avadav’ means ‘all of his servants’.
[GEN.41.38] And Pharaoh said to his servants, "Is such a man found, one in whom the spirit of the Gods is?" [§]
Va-yo-mer Par-oh el-av-adav, ha-nim-tza kah-zeh, ish asher ru-ach eloh-im bo?
This verse is from Exodus 11:3. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and said'. 'Par-oh' is 'Pharaoh'. 'el-av-adav' means 'to his servants'. 'ha-nim-tza' means 'is found'. 'kah-zeh' means 'such a'. 'ish' means 'man'. 'asher' means 'who/that'. 'ru-ach' means 'spirit'. 'eloh-im' means 'the Gods'. 'bo' means 'in him'. This is a rhetorical question asking if there is anyone like this man, in whom the spirit of the Gods is.
[GEN.41.39] And Pharaoh said to Joseph, after the Gods revealed to you all this, there is no wise one and no wise one like you. [§]
Va-yo-mer Par-oh el-Yo-sef ah-charei ho-di-ah Elohim ot-cha et-kol-zo-at ein-navon ve-chakam ka-mo-cha.
This verse comes from Genesis 41:39. It recounts Pharaoh's statement to Joseph after God revealed to Joseph the meaning of his dreams. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Par-oh' is Pharaoh. 'El' means 'to'. 'Yo-sef' is Joseph. 'Ah-charei' means 'after'. 'Ho-di-ah' means 'revealing'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Ot-cha' means 'you'. 'Et-kol-zo-at' means 'all this'. 'Ein-navon' means 'there is no wise'. 'Ve-chakam' means 'and wise'. 'Ka-mo-cha' means 'like you'.
[GEN.41.40] You will be over my house, and upon your mouth will all my people sway; only the throne will I exalt above you. [§]
Atah tihyeh al-beyti ve-al-picha yishak kol-ammi rak hakisse egdal mimmecha.
This verse involves several names and terms for God. "Atah" means "you". "Tihyeh" means "you will be". "Beyti" means "my house". "Al" means "over". "Picha" means "my mouth". "Yishak" means "will kiss/sway". "Kol ammi" means "all my people". "Rak hakisse" means "only the throne". "Egdahl" means "I will exalt". "Mimmecha" means "than you". This verse appears to be a divine command or declaration, detailing a relationship between a person and God, and referencing the elevation of a throne.
[GEN.41.41] And Pharaoh said to Joseph, "See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt." [§]
Va-yo-mer Par-oh el-Yo-sef, re-eh na-ta-tee ot-cha al kol eretz Mitz-rayim.
This verse contains several names and words. "Par-oh" is the name Pharaoh. "Yo-sef" is the name Joseph. "El" means "God". "Mitz-rayim" is the name Egypt. The verb "natan" means "to give" or "to set". The pronoun "ot-cha" means "you". The preposition "al" means "over". The word "kol" means "all". "Eretz" means "land".
[GEN.41.42] And Pharaoh removed his signet ring from his hand and gave it to the hand of Joseph, and he clothed him in garments of fine linen, and he placed a chain of gold around his neck. [§]
va-yasar par'oh et-taba'to me'al yado va-yiten otah al yad yosef va-yalbesh oto bigdei-shesh va-yasem revid hazahav al tzavvaro.
This verse describes Pharaoh removing his signet ring from his hand and placing it on the hand of Joseph, then clothing Joseph in garments of fine linen and placing a gold chain around his neck. 'Pharaoh' is a title, not a name. 'taba'to' refers to the signet ring. 'yado' means 'his hand'. 'otah' means 'it' (the ring). 'yosef' is the name Joseph. 'bigdei-shesh' refers to garments of fine linen. 'revid hazahav' means 'a chain of gold'. 'tzavvaro' refers to 'his neck'.
[GEN.41.43] And he rode him in the chariot, the second that belonged to him, and they proclaimed before him a blessing, and he set him over all the land of Egypt. [§]
vayarkhev oto bemirkevet hamishneh asher lo vayikreu lefnav avrech venaton oto al kol eretz mitzrayim
This verse describes someone riding in a chariot and being proclaimed a blessing over all the land of Egypt. Let's break down the names: 'mirkevet' means chariot, 'hamishneh' means the second, 'asher' means which/that, 'lo' means his, 'avrech' means blessing, 'eretz' means land, and 'mitzrayim' means Egypt. The names for God do not appear in this verse.
[GEN.41.44] And Pharaoh said to Joseph, "I am Pharaoh, and without you, no man will lift his hand or his foot in all the land of Egypt." [§]
Va-yo-mer Par-oh el-Yo-sef, a-ni Par-oh u-vil-a-dai-cha lo ya-rim ish et ya-do ve-et rag-lo be-chal eretz mitz-raim.
This verse is from Genesis 41:40. It records Pharaoh speaking to Joseph. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Par-oh' is Pharaoh. 'El-Yo-sef' means 'to Joseph'. 'A-ni' means 'I'. 'U-vil-a-dai-cha' means 'without you'. 'Lo ya-rim' means 'no one will lift'. 'Ish' means 'man'. 'Et ya-do' means 'his hand'. 'Ve-et rag-lo' means 'and his foot'. 'Be-chal eretz mitz-raim' means 'in all the land of Egypt'.
[GEN.41.45] And Pharaoh called the name of Joseph, “Tzaphnat Paeneach”, and he gave to him Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, priest of On, as a wife. And Joseph went out upon the land of Egypt. [§]
Va-yik-ra Par-oh shem-Yo-sef Tzaph-nat Pa-e-neach, va-yit-ten-lo et-As-nat bat-Po-ti Pe-re-a Ko-hen On le-ish-shah, va-ye-tze Yo-sef al-eretz Mitz-raim.
This verse describes Pharaoh renaming Joseph and giving him Asenath in marriage. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Par-oh' is Pharaoh. 'Shem' means 'name'. 'Yo-sef' is Joseph. 'Tzaph-nat Pa-e-neach' is the new name given to Joseph. 'Va-yit-ten-lo' means 'and he gave to him'. 'Et-As-nat' is Asenath. 'Bat-Po-ti Pe-re-a' identifies Asenath’s father as Potiphera, a priest of On. 'Le-ish-shah' means ‘as a wife’. 'Va-ye-tze Yo-sef' means 'and Joseph went out'. 'Al-eretz Mitz-raim' means 'upon the land of Egypt'.
[GEN.41.46] And Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. And Joseph departed from before Pharaoh and traveled through all the land of Egypt. [§]
Ve-yosef ben-shloshim shanah be-amdo lifnei Par’oh melech-mitzrayim vayetzei Yosef milifnei Par’oh vayavor bechol-eretz mitzrayim.
This verse describes Joseph, at the age of thirty, standing before Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. It then states that Joseph left Pharaoh's presence and traveled throughout the land of Egypt.
[GEN.41.47] And the land did produce during seven years of plenty for a storing up. [§]
va-ta-as ha-aretz be-sheva shnei ha-saba le-kimatzim
This verse describes the land resting during seven years of plenty. 'Va-ta-as' means 'and the land did'. 'Ha-aretz' is 'the land'. 'Be-sheva shnei ha-saba' means 'in seven years of plenty'. 'Le-kimatzim' is 'for a storing up'. The verse describes a period of abundance leading to the collection and storage of resources.
[GEN.41.48] And he gathered all the food of seven years which were in the land of Egypt, and he gave food in the cities. Food of the field of the city which were around it he gave within it. [§]
vayikbots et kol ochel sheva shanim asher hayu be'eretz mitzrayim vayiten ochel be'arim ochel sdei ha'ir asher savivoteyha natan betochah
This verse describes Joseph gathering all the food from seven years of abundance in the land of Egypt and distributing it in the cities. Specifically, it details that food from the fields surrounding each city was placed within that city.
[GEN.41.49] And Joseph collected grain like the sea, very much, until he ceased to count because there was not a number. [§]
Va-yitz-bor Yo-sef bar ke-chol ha-yam ha-rbeh me-od ad ki-chal-dal lis-por ki-ein mis-par.
This verse describes Joseph collecting grain in Egypt. 'Va-yitz-bor' means 'and Joseph collected'. 'Yo-sef' is the name Joseph. 'Bar' means 'grain'. 'Ke-chol' means 'like the sea'. 'Ha-yam' means 'the sea'. 'Ha-rbeh' means 'the much'. 'Me-od' means 'very'. 'Ad ki' means 'until'. 'Chal-dal' means 'he ceased'. 'Lis-por' means 'to count'. 'Ki-ein' means 'because there is not'. 'Mis-par' means 'a number'. The verse describes Joseph collecting so much grain that it was impossible to count.
[GEN.41.50] And to Joseph, two sons were born before the year of the famine came, whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera, priest of On, bore to him. [§]
u-le-yo-sef yu-lad shnei ba-nim be-te-rem ta-vo shnat ha-ra-av a-sher yal-da-lo as-nat bat-po-ti pe-ra koh-en on.
This verse describes the birth of Joseph's two sons before the famine. It specifies that his wife Asenath, daughter of Potiphera, a priest of On, bore them to him.
[GEN.41.51] And Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh, because the Gods have made me forget all my hardship and all my father’s house. [§]
Va-yik-ra Yo-sef et shem ha-bekhor Mə-naš-šeh ki-naš-šə-ni Elohim et kol ‘ă-mā-lī v’et kol-beit ‘ā-vī.
This verse describes Joseph naming his firstborn son Manasseh. The reasoning he gives is that 'the Gods have made me forget all my hardship and all my father's house'. The name Manasseh itself comes from the root word meaning 'to forget'. 'Va-yik-ra' means 'and he called'. 'Et' is a direct object marker. 'Shem' is 'name'. 'Ha-bekhor' means 'the firstborn'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Naš-šə-ni' means 'have made me forget'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Kol' means 'all'. ‘ă-mā-lī means 'my hardship'. v’et means 'and'. beit ‘ā-vī means 'father's house'.
[GEN.41.52] And the second name he called Ephraim, for the Gods made me fruitful in the land of my affliction. [§]
ve’et sheim ha’sheini kara efraim ki-hifrani elohim b’eretz an’yi.
This verse describes the naming of Ephraim. 've’et' is a conjunction meaning 'and'. 'sheim' means 'name'. 'ha’sheini' means 'the second'. 'kara' means 'called'. 'efraim' is the name 'Ephraim'. 'ki' means 'for' or 'because'. 'hifrani' means 'He made me fruitful'. 'elohim' refers to 'the Gods'. 'b’eretz' means 'in the land'. 'an’yi' means 'of my affliction'.
[GEN.41.53] And the seven years of the plenty were completed, which had been in the land of Egypt. [§]
va-ti-khle-na she-va shne-i ha-sa-va a-sher ha-ya be-eretz mitz-raim
This verse describes the completion of seven years of plenty in the land of Egypt. 'Va-ti-khle-na' means 'and were completed.' 'She-va shne-i ha-sa-va' means 'seven years of the plenty.' 'A-sher ha-ya' means 'which was.' 'Be-eretz mitz-raim' means 'in the land of Egypt'.
[GEN.41.54] And the seven years of famine began to come, as Joseph had said, and there was famine in all the lands and in all the land of Egypt there was no bread. [§]
va-te-hi-le-na she-va sh-nei ha-ra-av la-vo, ka-a-sher a-mar Yo-sef, va-ye-hi ra-av be-chol-ha-ara-tzot u-ve-chol-eretz mitz-ra-yim ha-ya la-chem.
This verse describes the beginning of the seven years of famine that Joseph had predicted. It states that the famine came as Joseph had said and that there was no bread in all the lands, including the land of Egypt.
[GEN.41.55] And all the land of Egypt became hungry, and the people cried out to Pharaoh for bread. And Pharaoh said to all of Egypt, “Go to Joseph, who will tell you what to do.” [§]
va-tir-aiv kaal-eretz mitz-raim va-yitz-ak ha-am el-par-oh la-lach-em va-yomer par-oh le-khal-mitz-raim le-chu el-yo-sef asher-yomer la-chem ta-asu
This verse describes a famine in Egypt and the people’s appeal to Pharaoh for food. Pharaoh then directs them to Joseph, instructing them to do whatever Joseph tells them.
[GEN.41.56] And the famine was upon all the faces of the land, and Joseph opened all that was in them, and sold to Egypt, and the famine strengthened in the land of Egypt. [§]
veha'ra'av hayah al kol p'nei ha'aretz vayiftach Yosef et kol asher bahem vayishbor leMitzrayim vayechzak ha'ra'av be'eretz Mitzrayim
This verse describes a famine that was occurring throughout the land, and Joseph opening the stores of grain to sell to Egypt, and the famine growing strong in the land of Egypt.
[GEN.41.57] And all the land came to Egypt to purchase from Joseph, because the famine was strong in all the land. [§]
ve-khol-ha-aretz bau mitzraymah lishbor el-yosef ki-chazaq ha-ra’av be-chol-ha-aretz
This verse describes all the land coming to Egypt to purchase from Joseph because the famine was strong in all the land. 've' means 'and', 'khol' means 'all', 'ha-aretz' means 'the land', 'bau' means 'they came', 'mitzraymah' means 'Egypt', 'lishbor' means 'to purchase', 'el' means 'to', 'yosef' is the name 'Joseph', 'ki' means 'because', 'chazaq' means 'strong', 'ha-ra’av' means 'the famine', 'be' means 'in'.
GEN.42
[GEN.42.1] And Jacob saw that there was a shortage in Egypt, and Jacob said to his sons, "Why are you looking at each other?" [§]
Va-yar Ya-akov ki yesh shever be-mitzrayim va-yomer Ya-akov le-vanav lamah titrau.
This verse describes Jacob seeing that there is a shortage in Egypt, and then asking his sons why they are staring.
[GEN.42.2] And he said, "Behold, I have heard that there is a shortage in Egypt. Go there and buy for us from there, so that we may live and not die." [§]
Va-yo-mer hee-neh sha-mah-tee kee yesh-sheh-ver be-mitz-ra-yim re-du-sham-mah ve-shiv-ru-lah-nu mee-sham ve-nee-heh ve-lo na-moot.
This verse is from Genesis 42:2. It describes a situation where the sons of Jacob go to Egypt to buy grain during a famine. The speaker is Jacob instructing his sons. ‘Va-yo-mer’ means ‘and he said’. ‘Hee-neh’ means ‘behold’ or ‘surely’. ‘Sha-mah-tee’ means ‘I have heard’. ‘Kee’ means ‘that’ or ‘because’. ‘Yesh-sheh-ver’ means ‘there is breakage’ or ‘there is a shortage’. ‘Be-mitz-ra-yim’ means ‘in Egypt’. ‘Re-du-sham-mah’ means ‘go there’. ‘Ve-shiv-ru-lah-nu’ means ‘and break for us’ (meaning buy for us, since grain was broken to check its quality). ‘Mee-sham’ means ‘from there’. ‘Ve-nee-heh’ means ‘and we will live’. ‘Ve-lo na-moot’ means ‘and not die.’
[GEN.42.3] And the brothers of Joseph went down, ten in number, to purchase grain from Egypt. [§]
vayyrdu achey-yosef asarah lishbor bar mimitzrayim
This verse describes the brothers of Joseph going down to Egypt to purchase grain. 'Vayyrdu' means 'and they went down'. 'Achey-yosef' means 'brothers of Joseph'. 'Asarah' means 'ten'. 'Lishbor' means 'to purchase' or 'to break' (in this context, it means to purchase, as they are getting grain). 'Bar' means 'grain'. 'Mitzrayim' means 'Egypt'.
[GEN.42.4] And Benjamin, the brother of Joseph, Jacob did not send with his brothers, because he said, ‘Lest disaster befall him.’ [§]
ve'et-binyamin achi Yosef lo-shalach Ya'akov et-echav ki-amar pen-yikra'ennu ason.
This verse describes Jacob’s reluctance to send his son Benjamin, Joseph’s brother, with his other sons. He feared something bad would happen to him.
[GEN.42.5] The sons of God came to obtain grain among those who were already there, because there was famine in the land of Canaan. [§]
va-yo-voo ben-ei yis-ra-el li-sh-vor be-toch ha-ba-im ki-ha-yah ha-ra-av be-eretz ke-na-an.
This verse describes the sons of Israel going to obtain grain during a famine. 'Bnei Yisrael' means 'sons of Israel'. 'Lishbor' means 'to obtain' or 'to break' (in the sense of breaking open supplies). 'Ha-ba-im' refers to those who were already there, presumably purchasing grain. 'Ha-ra-av' is 'the famine'. 'Be-eretz Ke-na-an' is 'in the land of Canaan'.
[GEN.42.6] And Joseph, he is the ruler over the land, he is the provider for all the people of the land. And the brothers of Joseph came, and they prostrated themselves to him with their faces to the ground. [§]
Ve-yosef hu ha-shalit al-ha-aretz hu ha-mashbir le-chol-am ha-aretz va-yavo'u achei Yosef va-yishtachavu-lo afayim artzah.
This verse describes Joseph's position of power in Egypt and his brothers coming to him for provisions. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Hu' means 'he/it'. 'Ha' is the definite article 'the'. 'Shalit' means 'ruler'. 'Aretz' means 'land/earth'. 'Mashbir' means 'one who provides/sustains'. 'Chol' means 'all'. 'Am' means 'people/nation'. 'Achei' means 'brothers of'. 'Va-yavo'u' means 'and they came'. 'Va-yishtachavu' means 'and they prostrated themselves'. 'Afayim artzah' means 'with their faces to the ground'.
[GEN.42.7] And Joseph saw his brothers, and he recognized them, and he acted as a stranger to them and spoke to them with harshness. And he said to them, “From where do you come?” And they said, “From the land of Canaan to buy food.” [§]
Va-yar Yosef et-akhayv va-yakhiram va-yitnakeir aleihem va-ye-da-ber itam kasot va-yo-mer aleihem me-ayin ba-tem va-yo-meru me-eretz Ke-na-an li-sh-var o-khel.
This verse describes Joseph seeing his brothers and recognizing them, but pretending not to know them. He speaks harshly to them and asks where they have come from. They respond that they have come from the land of Canaan to buy food.
[GEN.42.8] And Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him. [§]
va-yakker yosef et-akhayv ve-hem lo hikiruhu
This verse describes a moment of recognition, but it is one-sided. Yosef (Joseph) recognizes his brothers, but they do not recognize him. 'Yosef' is a proper noun, the name Joseph. 'Et' is a grammatical particle marking the direct object. 'Akhayv' means 'his brothers'. 'Hem' is the pronoun 'they'. 'Lo' is a negative particle meaning 'not'. 'Hikiruhu' is a verb meaning 'they recognized him'.
[GEN.42.9] And Joseph remembered the dreams that he dreamed to them, and he said to them, "You are spies to see the vulnerabilities of the land; you have come." [§]
vayizkor yosef et hachalomot asher chalam lahem vayoamer alehem meraglim atem liraot et ervat haaretz baatem.
This verse recounts Joseph remembering his dreams and then accusing his brothers of being spies, seeking to see the vulnerabilities of the land. Each word is translated as literally as possible. 'Vayizkor' means 'and he remembered'. 'Yosef' is 'Joseph'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker with no direct translation in English, but indicates the direct object. 'Hachalomot' means 'the dreams'. 'Asher' means 'that' or 'which'. 'Chalam' means 'he dreamed'. 'Lahem' means 'to them'. 'Vayoamer' means 'and he said'. 'Alehem' means 'to them'. 'Meraglim' means 'spies'. 'Atem' means 'you'. 'Liraot' means 'to see'. 'Et' again marks the direct object. 'Ervat' means 'nakedness' or 'vulnerabilities'. 'Haaretz' means 'the land'. 'Baatem' means 'you have come'.
[GEN.42.10] And they said to him, "Not, my Lord, and your servants have come to purchase food." [§]
Va-yo-meru e-laiv lo adonai va-avadaycha bau lish-bar ochel.
This verse comes from Genesis 32:6. 'Va-yo-meru' means 'and they said'. 'E-laiv' means 'to him'. 'Lo' is 'not'. 'Adonai' is 'my Lord'. 'Va-avadaycha' means 'and your servants'. 'Bau' means 'came'. 'Lish-bar' means 'to break/buy'. 'Ochel' means 'food'. The verse is a statement made by Jacob’s servants to Esau.
[GEN.42.11] All of us are sons of one man, we are as spies. Your servants were not spies. [§]
kul-la-nu be-nei ish-echad nach-nu ke-nim a-nach-nu lo-hay-u av-a-de-cha merag-lim.
This verse is spoken by the spies sent to Canaan in Numbers 13:30. It is a declaration from the spies to Moses and Aaron. "Kul-la-nu" means "all of us". "Be-nei" means "sons of". "Ish-echad" means "one man". "Nach-nu" means "we". "Ke-nim" means "as spies". "A-nach-nu" means "we are". "Lo-hay-u" means "were not". "Av-a-de-cha" means "your servants". "Merag-lim" means "spies".
[GEN.42.12] And he said to them, "No, for you came to see the nakedness of the land." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-lei-hem lo ki-er-vat ha-aretz ba-tem li-re-ot.
This verse is from Genesis 3:13. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'A-lei-hem' means 'to them'. 'Lo' means 'no' or 'not'. 'Ki' means 'for' or 'because'. 'Er-vat' means 'nakedness'. 'Ha-aretz' means 'the land' or 'the earth'. 'Ba-tem' means 'you came'. 'Li-re-ot' means 'to see'.
[GEN.42.13] And they said, "Twelve servants of your God are brothers; we are sons of one man in the land of Canaan. And now, the youngest is with our father today, and one is not with us." [§]
vayomru shneim asar avadeicha achim anachnu benei ish-echad be'eretz kena'an vehineh ha'katon et-avinu hayom vehahad eineinu.
This verse is spoken by eleven of Jacob's sons to Joseph. They are claiming to be brothers, all sons of one man, in the land of Canaan. They state that their youngest brother is currently with their father, and one brother is missing.
[GEN.42.14] And he said to them, Joseph, it is he that I spoke to you, saying, ‘You are spies.’ [§]
Va-yo-mer a-lei-hem Yo-sef, hu asher di-bar-ti a-lei-chem le-mor, me-rag-lim atem.
This verse recounts Joseph speaking to his brothers. ‘Va-yo-mer’ means ‘and he said’. ‘A-lei-hem’ means ‘to them’. ‘Yo-sef’ is the name ‘Joseph’. ‘Hu’ means ‘he/it’. ‘Asher’ means ‘that/which’. ‘Di-bar-ti’ means ‘I spoke’. ‘A-lei-chem’ means ‘to you’. ‘Le-mor’ means ‘to say’. ‘Me-rag-lim’ means ‘spies’. ‘Atem’ means ‘you’ (plural).
[GEN.42.15] By this thing I will test you: the life of Pharaoh, if you go out from here, but only if with the coming of your youngest brother here. [§]
b’zot tivacheinu chei Par’oh im-te’ts’u mizeh ki im-b’vo achichem ha’katon hena.
This verse comes from Exodus 4:9. It is Pharaoh addressing Moses and Aaron. He states that he will only let the Israelites go if their youngest brother comes to him. ‘B’zot’ means ‘by this thing’ or ‘in this way’. ‘Tivacheinu’ means ‘you will be tested by me’. ‘Chei Par’oh’ means ‘the life of Pharaoh’. ‘Im-te’ts’u’ means ‘if you go out’. ‘Mizeh’ means ‘from here’. ‘Ki im’ is a conjunction meaning ‘only if’ or ‘but if’. ‘B’vo’ means ‘with the coming of’. ‘Achichem’ means ‘your brother’. ‘Ha’katon’ means ‘the youngest’. ‘Hena’ means ‘here’.
[GEN.42.16] Send one among you, and let him get your brother. And you will be held captive, so that your words may be tested, if truth is with you. But if not, as the life of Pharaoh lives, you are spies. [§]
shil-hoo mee-kem eh-chad vee-yee-kah-ch eh-teh ah-hee-chem vee-a-tem hay-eh-ah-soo vee-yee-vah-chanoo dee-vray-chem ha-eh-met it-chem vee-eem-loh chai par-oh kee mee-rag-ge-leem atem
This verse is from Genesis 42:16. It’s a statement made by the officials of Egypt to Joseph’s brothers. They are saying that they will send one of the brothers to retrieve their other brother, while the rest will be held captive. This is to test if their story is true. If it’s not true, they claim the life of the Pharaoh is at risk because they are spies.
[GEN.42.17] And he gathered them to a keeping place for three days. [§]
Va-ye-esof otam el-mishmar shloshet yamim.
This verse describes a gathering of something or someone to a guardhouse for three days. 'Va-ye-esof' means 'and he gathered'. 'Otam' means 'them'. 'El-mishmar' means 'to a guardhouse' or 'to a keeping place'. 'Shloshet yamim' means 'three days'.
[GEN.42.18] And Joseph said to them on the third day, "Do this, and you will live: I fear the Gods." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-leh-hem Yo-sef ba-yom ha-shlish-i zo-t a-su vi-chyu et-ha-elohim ani ya-reh.
This verse comes from Genesis 42:18. The speaker is Joseph, addressing his brothers. He instructs them on what they must do to ensure their survival. The key phrase involves a declaration of reverence for 'the Gods'.
[GEN.42.19] If among you anyone is a thief, your brother will be imprisoned, and you must go and bring repayment for the hunger of your houses. [§]
im-kenim atem achechem echad ye'aser be-beit mishmarechem ve-atem lechu haviu shever ra'avon bateichem
This verse describes a situation where if anyone among them is a thief, their brother is imprisoned and the others must bring restitution for the stolen goods to their houses. Let's break down the names: 'kenim' refers to thieves, 'achechem' is 'your brother', and the rest are descriptive words concerning restitution. There are no names of God in this verse.
[GEN.42.20] And your youngest brother you shall bring to me, and your words will be believed, and you will not die, and they did so. [§]
veh-et ah-hee-chem hah-kah-ton tah-vee-oo ee-lai v’yeh-ah-menu dee-v’ray-chem v’loh tah-moo-too vah-yah-ah-soo-keh-n
This verse describes a situation where the speaker requests that his brothers bring their youngest brother to him. He assures them that if they do so, his words will be believed and they will not die. It describes their compliance with this request. ‘Et’ is an untranslatable particle marking the direct object. ‘Ahi’ means brother. ‘Hah-kah-ton’ means the small or the youngest. ‘Tah-vee-oo’ is a command to bring. ‘Ee-lai’ means to me. ‘V’yeh-ah-menu’ means and they will believe. ‘Dee-v’ray-chem’ means your words. ‘V’loh’ means and not. ‘Tah-moo-too’ means you will die. ‘Vah-yah-ah-soo-keh-n’ means and they did.
[GEN.42.21] And they said, each man to his brother, "Indeed, we are guilty concerning our brother, for we saw the distress of his soul when he pleaded with us, and we did not listen. Therefore, this trouble has come to us." [§]
Va-yom-roo eesh el-ah-khee-vo av-al a-she-meem ah-nah-khoo al-ah-khee-noo a-sher rah-ee-noo tsa-rat naf-sho be-heet-khan-no el-ee-noo ve-lo sha-mah-nu al-ken bah-ah el-ee-noo ha-tsa-rah ha-zo-at.
This verse details a confession of guilt. The speakers are admitting they were wrong not to listen to their brother’s distress. They believe the current hardship they face is a direct consequence of their inaction. 'Eesh' means 'man' or 'someone,' and is used here in a general sense. 'Ah-khee' means 'brother.' 'A-she-meem' is 'guilty' or 'sinful.' 'Tsa-rah' means 'distress' or 'trouble.' 'Naf-sho' means 'his soul' or 'his life.' 'Bah-ah' means 'came.' 'Ha-tsa-rah ha-zo-at' means 'this trouble.'
[GEN.42.22] And Reuben said to them, "Did I not say to you, 'Do not sin against the child?' And you did not listen. And also, his blood is now required." [§]
va-ya-an re-u-ven o-tam le-e-mor ha-lo a-mar-ti a-lei-chem le-e-mor al-te-che-tu ba-ye-led ve-lo shma-tem ve-gam da-mo hi-neh nid-rash
This verse records Reuben's response to his brothers after they have thrown Joseph into a pit. He questions them about their disobedience and states that Joseph's blood will be required of them. 'Reuben' is a proper noun and remains unchanged. 'Otam' means 'them'. 'Le-e-mor' means 'to say'. 'Ha-lo' is an interrogative meaning 'have...not'. 'A-lei-chem' means 'to you'. 'Al-te-che-tu' means 'do not sin'. 'Ba-ye-led' means 'against the child'. 'Ve-lo shma-tem' means 'and you did not hear'. 'Ve-gam' means 'and also'. 'Da-mo' means 'his blood'. 'Hi-neh' means 'behold'. 'Nid-rash' means 'is required'.
[GEN.42.23] And they did not know that Joseph was listening, because the advocate was between them. [§]
vehem lo yad'u ki shomea Yosef ki hamelitz beinotaam.
This verse describes a situation where people are unaware that Joseph is listening and acting as an advocate for them. 'Vehem' means 'and they'. 'Lo yad'u' means 'did not know'. 'Ki' means 'that' or 'because'. 'Shomea' means 'the listener' or 'one who hears'. 'Yosef' is the proper name Joseph. 'Hamelitz' means 'the advocate' or 'the intercessor'. 'Beinotaam' means 'between them'. The verb structure indicates a continuing or habitual action.
[GEN.42.24] And he turned away from over them and he wept, and he returned to them and he spoke to them, and he took from among them Simeon and he bound him before their eyes. [§]
va-yissov me-alehem va-yevke va-yashav alehem va-yedaber alehem va-yikach me-ittam et-shimeon va-ye'esor oto le-einehem.
This verse describes someone turning away from a group, weeping, then returning to speak with them. Subsequently, they take Simeon from among them and bind him before their eyes. The verse uses various forms of verbs indicating action and direction, and possessive pronouns indicating ownership and relationship.
[GEN.42.25] And Joseph commanded, and they filled their containers with grain, and to return each man’s money to his sack, and to give them provisions for the way. And he did so for them. [§]
VaYetza Yosef VaYemalu Et-Keleihem Bar ULeHashiv Kasefehem Ish El-Saqov VeLatet Lahem Tsedah LaDarek VaYaas Lahem Ken.
This verse describes Joseph’s command to fill the containers of his brothers with grain, to return their money in their sacks, to provide them with provisions for the journey, and that he did as he commanded.
[GEN.42.26] And they lifted their provisions upon their donkeys, and they went from there. [§]
vayis'u et-shivram al-chamoreihem vayelchu misham
This verse describes people lifting their provisions onto donkeys and departing from a location. 'Vayis'u' means 'and they lifted'. 'Et-shivram' means 'their provisions'. 'Al-chamoreihem' means 'upon their donkeys'. 'Vayelchu' means 'and they went'. 'Misham' means 'from there'.
[GEN.42.27] And the one opened his sack to give fodder to his donkey at the lodging place, and he saw his money, and behold, it was in the mouth of his bag. [§]
vayif'tach ha'echad et-sako latet mispoa lachamoro bamalon vayar'a et-kaspo vehene hu b'fi amtachto
This verse describes a man opening his sack to provide fodder for his donkey at the lodging place. When he saw his money, it was still in his bag.
[GEN.42.28] And he said to his brothers, "Restore my money, and behold, it is in my bag." Then their hearts stirred and they trembled, each one towards his brother, saying, "What is it that God has done to us?" [§]
Va-yo-mer el-echav hushav kaspi ve-gam hineh be-am-tach-ti va-ye-tze li-vam va-ye-cher-du ish el-achiv le-emor mah-zot asa Elohim lanu.
This verse recounts a situation where someone returns money to their brothers. They state they have returned the money and it is now in their bag. This causes the brothers to become frightened and ask what God has done to them.
[GEN.42.29] And they came to Jacob their father in the land of Canaan, and they told to him all the happenings to them, saying. [§]
vayavo'u el-ya'akov aviham artzah k'na'an vayagidu lo et kol-hakrot otam le'emor
This verse describes the return of Jacob's sons to their father, Jacob, in the land of Canaan, and their report to him of all that had happened to them. 'Vayavo'u' means 'and they came'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Ya'akov' is Jacob. 'Aviham' means 'their father'. 'Artzah' means 'the land of'. 'K'na'an' is Canaan. 'Vayagidu' means 'and they told'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Et' is a particle indicating a direct object. 'Kol' means 'all'. 'Hakrot' means 'the happenings'. 'Otam' means 'to them'. 'Le'emor' means 'saying'.
[GEN.42.30] The man, my Lord of the land, spoke to us with harshness, and he gave us over as spies of the land. [§]
dib-ber ha-ish ad-o-nai ha-ah-rets ee-tan-nu kah-shoh-t vee-tee-n oh-tan-nu kee-merag-gim et-ha-ah-rets.
This verse describes people speaking about someone they refer to as "my Lord of the land." They claim he has treated them harshly and given them over as spies of the land. "Ish" simply means "man" or "person". "Ha" is the definite article, "the". "Et" is a particle indicating a definite direct object.
[GEN.42.31] And we said to him, "Spies we are not. We were not spying." [§]
Va-no-mer ei-lav ke-nim a-na-kh-nu lo ha-yi-nu me-rag-lim.
This verse is spoken by the sons of Jacob to the officials of Egypt. They are protesting their innocence, stating that they are not spies. 'Va-no-mer' means 'and we said'. 'Ei-lav' means 'to him'. 'Ke-nim' means 'spies'. 'A-na-kh-nu' means 'we'. 'Lo ha-yi-nu' means 'we were not'. 'Me-rag-lim' means 'spying'.
[GEN.42.32] We are twelve brothers, sons of our father. He is not here, and the youngest today is with our father in the land of Canaan. [§]
shneem-ah-sar a-nach-nu ah-chim beneh ah-vee-noo ha-eh-chad ee-ne-nu ve-ha-kah-ton ha-yom et-ah-vee-noo be-eretz ke-na-an.
This verse comes from Genesis 37:3. It's spoken by Joseph's brothers to their father, Jacob. 'Shneem-ah-sar' means twelve. 'A-nach-nu' means we. 'Ah-chim' means brothers. 'Benei' means sons of. 'Avi-nu' means our father. 'Ha-eh-chad' means the one. 'Ee-ne-nu' means is not. 'Ve' means and. 'Ha-kah-ton' means the youngest. 'Ha-yom' means today. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Be-eretz' means in the land of. 'Ke-na-an' means Canaan.
[GEN.42.33] And the man said to us, "Lord of the land, by this I will know that you are spies. Leave your one brother with me, and take the best of your houses and go." [§]
vayomer eleinu haish adonei haaretz bezot eda kinei atem achichem haechad haniachu itti veet raavon bateichem kchu valechu.
This verse describes a man speaking to others. "vayomer" means "and he said." "eleinu" means "to us." "haish" means "the man." "adonei haaretz" means "Lord of the land." "bezot" means "by this." "eda" means "I will know." "kinei" means "you are spies." "atem" means "you." "achichem haechad" means "your one brother." "haniachu itti" means "leave with me." "veet raavon bateichem" means "and the best of your houses." "kchu valechu" means "take and go."
[GEN.42.34] Bring your youngest brother to me, and I will know that you are not spies, but truthful people. I will give your brother to you, and you will trade for the land. [§]
vehaviu et acheichem hakatan elai ve’ed’ah ki lo meraglim atem ki kenim atem et acheichem etten lachem ve’et ha’aretz tischaru.
This verse comes from Genesis 42:20. It is spoken by the official of Egypt to Joseph’s brothers. The brothers have come to Egypt to buy grain, unaware that the official is Joseph. He suspects they are spies and demands they bring their youngest brother to prove their honesty. 'Haviu' means 'bring.' 'Acheichem' means 'your brother.' 'Hakatan' means 'the small [one],' or 'the youngest.' 'Elai' means 'to me.' 'Ed’ah' means 'I will know.' 'Meraglim' means 'spies.' 'Atem' means 'you [plural].' 'Kenim' means 'truthful [ones].' 'Etten' means 'I will give.' 'Ha’aretz' means 'the land.' 'Tischaru' means 'you will trade.'
[GEN.42.35] And it happened, as they emptied their sacks, that behold, each man’s bundle of money was in his sack. And they saw the bundles of their money, they and their father, and they were afraid. [§]
vayhi hem meriqim saqeihem vehineh ish tzror kaspo besaqo vayir'u et tzrorot kaspehem hem va'aviehem vayiru
This verse describes the brothers emptying their sacks and discovering their money had been returned to them. 'Vayhi' means 'and it happened'. 'Hem' is 'they'. 'Meriqim' means 'emptying'. 'Saqeihem' is 'their sacks'. 'Vehineh' means 'and behold'. 'Ish' means 'a man' or 'someone'. 'Tzror kaspo' means 'a bundle of his money'. 'Besaqo' means 'in his sack'. 'Vayir'u' means 'they saw'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Tzrorot kaspehem' means 'bundles of their money'. 'Va'aviehem' means 'and their father'. The final 'Vayiru' is again 'they saw' or 'they were afraid'.
[GEN.42.36] And he said to them, Jacob their father, "You have bereaved me of Joseph. Joseph is not with us, and Simeon is not with us, and you would take Benjamin. All of this has happened to me." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-lei-hem Ya-a-kov a-vi-hem o-ti shik-hal-tem Yo-sef ei-ne-nu ve-shim-on ei-ne-nu ve-et bin-ya-min ti-ka-chu a-lai ha-yu ku-la-na.
This verse is from Genesis 42:36. It records Jacob's lament to his sons after they tell him Joseph is not with them and Simeon has been detained in Egypt. He states they have bereaved him of Joseph, Simeon is not present, and they wish to take Benjamin as well. He feels that everything has happened to him. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'a-lei-hem' means 'to them'. 'Ya-a-kov' is Jacob. 'a-vi-hem' means 'their father'. 'o-ti' means 'me'. 'shik-hal-tem' means 'you have bereaved'. 'Yo-sef' is Joseph. 'ei-ne-nu' means 'is not with us'. 've-shim-on' is and Simeon. 've-et bin-ya-min' is and Benjamin. 'ti-ka-chu' means 'you will take'. 'a-lai' means 'upon me'. 'ha-yu' means 'have been'. 'ku-la-na' means 'all of them'.
[GEN.42.37] And Reuven said to my father, to say, “You will kill my two sons if I do not bring them to you. Give him into my hand, and I will return him to you.” [§]
Va-yomer Reuven el-avi le-emor et-shnei banai tamit im-lo avie'enu eleicha tenah oto al-yadi va-ani ashive'enu eleicha.
This verse comes from Genesis 37:32. Reuven is speaking to his father Jacob, after his brothers have plotted to kill Joseph. Reuven attempts to persuade his father that he can guarantee Joseph's safe return, offering his own sons as collateral. 'Reuven' is a proper noun (a name). 'Avi' means 'my father'. 'Le-emor' means 'to say'. 'Et' is a grammatical particle. 'Shnei banai' means 'my two sons'. 'Tamit' means 'you will kill'. 'Im-lo' means 'if not'. 'Avie'enu means 'I bring them'. 'Eleicha' means 'to you'. 'Tenah oto' means 'give him'. 'Al-yadi' means 'into my hand'. 'Va-ani' means 'and I'. 'Ashive'enu' means 'I will return him'. 'Eleicha' means 'to you'.
[GEN.42.38] And he said, "My son will not descend with you, for his brother is dead, and he remains alone. A disaster will call to him on the way that you go, and you will bring down my gray hair with the sorrow of the underworld." [§]
va-yo-mer lo-ye-red beni im-a-chem ki-achi met ve-hu le-va-do nish-ar u-kra-hu ason ba-derech asher tel-chu-vah ve-ho-rad-tem et-se-vah-ti be-ya-gon sha-o-lah.
This verse describes a father refusing to let his son travel with others. He explains that his son is grieving the death of his brother, and the father fears a disaster will befall the son on the journey. The father also expresses concern that the son’s grief will cause him to descend into sorrow, likened to the underworld.
GEN.43
[GEN.43.1] And the famine was heavy in the land. [§]
vehara'av kaved ba'aretz
This verse consists of three main parts: 'vehara'av' which means 'and the famine', 'kaved' meaning 'heavy' or 'severe', and 'ba'aretz' meaning 'in the land'. The verse describes a famine that is severe in the land.
[GEN.43.2] And it came to pass, when they had finished eating the provision which they had brought from Egypt, that their father said to them, “Return, and bring a little food for us.” [§]
va-yhi ka-asher killu le-ekhol et-ha-shever asher heviu mi-mitzrayim va-yomer aleihem aviehem shuvu shivru-lanu me’at-okhel.
This verse describes a situation where the people had finished eating the provisions they brought from Egypt. Their father then tells them to return and bring a little more food.
[GEN.43.3] And Judah said to them, "Is it you who witnessed and said, 'You shall not see my face unless your brother is with you?'" [§]
Va-yo-mer e-lav Ye-hu-da le-mor ha-ed he-id banu ha-ish le-mor lo-ti-reu panai bil-ti achichem it-chem.
This verse comes from Genesis 38:25. It describes Judah speaking to those who were about to present Tamar as a prostitute. He asks for confirmation that they were the ones who said she should not see his face unless she brought her brother with her. 'Elav' means 'to him'. 'Ye-hu-da' is Judah's name. 'Le-mor' means 'to say'. 'Ha-ed' means 'the witness'. 'He-id' means 'witnessed'. 'Banu' means 'in/with us'. 'Ha-ish' means 'the man'. 'Lo-ti-reu' means 'you shall not see'. 'Panai' means 'my face'. 'Bil-ti' means 'except'. 'Achichem' means 'your brother'. 'It-chem' means 'with you'.
[GEN.43.4] If there is one who sends our brother with us, we will go down and provide food for you. [§]
im-yesh-kah mshaleakh et-akhinu itanu nerda veshibra lkah okhel
This verse contains several words that require literal translation. "Im" means "if". "Yesh" means "there is/are". "Kah" is a pronoun meaning "you". "Mshaleakh" means "one who sends". "Et" is a grammatical marker that indicates a definite direct object. "Akhinu" means "our brother". "Itanu" means "with us". "Nerda" means "we will go down". "Veshibra" means "and we will break/provide". "Lkah" means "for you". "Okhel" means "food".
[GEN.43.5] And if you do not send, we will not descend, because the man said to us, "You will not see his face without your brother with you." [§]
ve-im-ei-nkha mshaleach lo neired ki-ha-ish amar eleinu lo-tir’u panav bil’ti achichem it’chem.
This verse contains a conditional statement. 've-im' means 'and if'. 'ei-nkha' is 'you', in the second person masculine singular. 'mshaleach' means 'you send'. 'lo neired' means 'we will not descend'. 'ki' means 'because'. 'ha-ish' means 'the man'. 'amar' means 'he said'. 'eleinu' means 'to us'. 'lo-tir’u' means 'you will not see'. 'panav' means 'his face'. 'bil’ti' means 'without'. 'achichem' means 'your brother'. 'it’chem' means 'with you'. The verse, in essence, is a refusal to descend unless their brother accompanies them.
[GEN.43.6] And Israel said, "Why have you done evil to me by telling the man that I still have a brother?" [§]
Va-yo-mer Yis-ra-el la-mah ha-re-otem lee le-ha-gid la-ish ha-od la-chem ach.
This verse is spoken by Israel (Jacob) to his sons. He expresses dismay at what he perceives as ill treatment toward him, specifically their revealing to a man (Joseph's supposed 'husband') that he still had another son (Benjamin). 'Israel' is the name of Jacob. 'Ha-re-otem' is the plural form, meaning 'have you done evil to'. 'La-ish' means 'to the man'. 'Ha-od' means 'still, yet'. 'Ach' means 'brother'.
[GEN.43.7] And Saul asked the man concerning them and concerning their birthplace, saying, "Is your father still alive? Do you have a brother?" And we told him according to these words. Would we know if he should say, "Bring down your brother?" [§]
va-yo-mer-u sha-ul sha-al-ha-ish la-nu u-le-mo-lad-te-nu le-e-mor ha-od a-vi-chem chai ha-yesh la-chem ach va-na-ged-lo al-pi ha-de-va-rim ha-e-leh ha-ya-do-a ne-da-a ki yo-mar ho-ridu et-a-chi-chem
This verse is from 1 Samuel 22:13. Saul asks about David and his family, specifically inquiring if David's father is still alive and if they have a brother. He seeks information to potentially use against David and his supporters. The phrase 'ho-ridu et-a-chi-chem' is a request (or perhaps a command) to 'bring down' David's brother, which could mean to bring him into Saul's control or to harm him.
[GEN.43.8] And Judah said to Israel, his father, "Send the boy with me, and we will arise and go, and we will live, and we will not die, both we and you and your family." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yehudah el Yisrael aviv shilhah ha-na’ar itti ve-naqumah ve-neilechah ve-nichyeh ve-lo namut gam-anachnu gam-atah gam-tafenu.
This verse is from Genesis 43:8. Judah speaks to Israel (Jacob) and pleads with him to let Benjamin go with them to Egypt. He promises they will return, and that both they and Jacob and their families will live. ‘Va-yo-mer’ means ‘and he said.’ ‘Yehudah’ is Judah. ‘El’ means ‘to’. ‘Yisrael’ is Israel. ‘Aviv’ means ‘his father’. ‘Shilhah’ means ‘send’. ‘Ha-na’ar’ means ‘the boy’. ‘Itti’ means ‘with me’. ‘Ve-naqumah’ means ‘and we will arise/stand’. ‘Ve-neilechah’ means ‘and we will go’. ‘Ve-nichyeh’ means ‘and we will live’. ‘Ve-lo namut’ means ‘and we will not die’. ‘Gam-anachnu’ means ‘also we’. ‘Gam-atah’ means ‘also you’. ‘Gam-tafenu’ means ‘also your little ones/family’.
[GEN.43.9] I will be responsible for him from my hand. You will seek him. If I do not bring him to you and present him before you, then I will sin to you all the days. [§]
Anokhi eer'venu miyadi tevak'sh'ennu im-lo hevi'oti eleicha vehit'zage'ti lifanecha vechatati lecha kol-hayamim.
This verse is a pledge of responsibility. "Anokhi" means "I". "Eer'venu" means "I will be responsible for him". "Miyadi" means "from my hand". "Tevak'sh'ennu" means "you will seek him". "Im-lo" means "if not". "Hevi'oti" means "I have brought". "Eleicha" means "to you". "Vehit'zage'ti" means "and I will present". "Lifanecha" means "before you". "Vechatati" means "and I will sin". "Lecha" means "to you". "Kol-hayamim" means "all the days". The verse describes a situation where someone is offering to be accountable for another person, promising to produce them if they cannot be found, and to accept blame if they are not brought forth.
[GEN.43.10] If not for your delay, we would now have returned this time twice. [§]
kee loo-lay hit-mah-hem-ah-noo kee-ah-tah shahv-noo zeh pah-ah-ma-yim
This verse utilizes several key terms. "loo-lay" signifies 'if not for,' indicating a conditional statement about a delay. "hit-mah-hem-ah-noo" is a verb form meaning 'you had delayed.' "kee-ah-tah" means 'now' or 'at this time.' "shahv-noo" means 'we would have returned.' "zeh" means 'this.' "pah-ah-ma-yim" means 'times two,' or 'twice'. Thus, the verse expresses a conditional statement about a past delay and its impact on a return.
[GEN.43.11] And he said to them, "Israel, their father, said, "If so, then do this: Take from the choice produce of the land in your vessels and bring down to the man a gift: a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, nuts and almonds." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-lei-hem yis-ra-el a-vi-hem im-ken e-po za-ot a-su ke-chu mi-zim-rat ha-aretz bi-khlei-hem ve-ho-ri-du la-ish min-chah me-at tzo-ri u-me-at de-vash ne-khot va-lot ba-tnim u-shke-dim.
This verse is spoken by Israel (Jacob) to his sons. He instructs them to act in a certain way when they go to Egypt. Specifically, he tells them to take choice produce from the land in their vessels and present a gift to the man (the official in Egypt). He specifies what the gift should consist of: a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, nuts and almonds.
[GEN.43.12] And double silver take in your hand, and the silver that was returned in the mouths of your saddlebags you will return in your hand, perhaps it is an error. [§]
vekhessef mishneh khu beyedkem ve’et-hakhessef hamushav befi amtchoteichem tashivu beyedkem ulai mishgeh hu.
This verse discusses returning silver that was mistakenly placed in the saddlebags of individuals. "Khessef" means silver. "Mishneh" means double or second. "Beyedkem" means in your hand. "Hamushav" means returned. "Amtchoteichem" refers to saddlebags (plural, your). "Tashivu" means you will return. "Ulai" means perhaps or maybe. "Mishgeh" means error or mistake. "Hu" means it or he.
[GEN.43.13] And take your brothers, and arise, return to the man. [§]
ve'et-achichem qachu ve'kumu shuvu el-ha'ish
This verse consists of several words. 've'et' is a conjunction meaning 'and' with a direct object marker. 'achichem' means 'your brothers'. 'qachu' means 'take'. 've'kumu' means 'and arise'. 'shuvu' means 'return'. 'el' means 'to'. 'ha'ish' means 'the man'. Therefore, the verse is an instruction to take your brothers, arise, and return to the man.
[GEN.43.14] And God Almighty will give you compassion before the man, and will send to you your brother also, and Benjamin. And I, as I have bereaved myself, have bereaved myself. [§]
ve-el shaddai yitten lakhem rachamim lifnei ha-ish ve-shillach lakhem et-achichem acher ve-et-binyamin va-ani ka-asher shacholti shachalti.
This verse comes from Genesis 43:14. 'El Shaddai' is a name for God. 'Yitten' means 'will give.' 'Rachamim' means 'compassion.' 'Lifnei' means 'before.' 'Ha-ish' means 'the man.' 'Shillach' means 'will send.' 'Achichem acher' means 'your brother also.' 'Binyamin' is the name of a person, Benjamin. 'Va-ani' means 'and I.' 'Ka-asher' means 'as.' 'Shacholti' means 'I have bereaved myself.'
[GEN.43.15] And the men took this offering and double the amount of silver, which they took in their hand, and Benjamin. And they arose and went down to Egypt, and they stood before Joseph. [§]
Va-yik-chu ha-a-nash-im et-ha-min-cha ha-zot u-mish-neh-keh-sef lak-hu be-ya-dam ve-et Bin-ya-min va-ya-ku-mu va-yeh-rdu mitz-ra-yim va-ya-am-du lif-nei Yo-seph.
This verse describes the men taking the offering and double the amount of silver, along with Benjamin, and going down to Egypt, and standing before Joseph. 'Va-yik-chu' means 'and they took.' 'Ha-a-nash-im' means 'the men.' 'Et-ha-min-cha ha-zot' means 'the offering this.' 'U-mish-neh-keh-sef' means 'and double silver.' 'Lak-hu' means 'they took.' 'Be-ya-dam' means 'in their hand.' 'Ve-et Bin-ya-min' means 'and Benjamin.' 'Va-ya-ku-mu' means 'and they arose.' 'Va-yeh-rdu' means 'and they went down.' 'Mitz-ra-yim' means 'Egypt.' 'Va-ya-am-du' means 'and they stood.' 'Lif-nei Yo-seph' means 'before Joseph.'
[GEN.43.16] And Joseph saw Benjamin with them, and he said to the one who was over his house, “Bring these men into the house, and slaughter an animal and prepare food, for these men will eat with me at noon.” [§]
va-yar yo-sef it-tam et-bin-ya-min; va-yo-mer la-asher al-beit-o ha-vei et-ha-anashim ha-bayita u-tvoch tevach ve-ha-chen ki it-i yo-chlu ha-anashim ba-tzahorayim.
This verse describes Joseph recognizing his brother Benjamin. He then instructs the person in charge of his house to bring the men inside, slaughter an animal, and prepare a meal, as he will eat with them at noon. The names of God do not appear in this verse.
[GEN.43.17] And the man did as Joseph said, and the man brought the men to Joseph’s house. [§]
Va-ya-as ha-ish ka-asher amar Yosef va-yave ha-ish et ha-anashim beita Yosef.
This verse describes a man doing as Joseph commanded and bringing men to Joseph's house. Let's break down the names: 'Yosef' is a proper name, and will remain as 'Joseph'. All other instances of divine or powerful titles will be translated literally. The word 'ish' means 'man'. 'Anashim' means 'men'. 'Beita' means 'house'.
[GEN.43.18] And the men were afraid because they had been brought to Joseph’s house, and they said, “Regarding the money that was returned in our sacks at first, we are being brought to be punished and to fall upon us, and to take us as slaves, and our donkeys as well.” [§]
vayiru ha'anashim ki huv'u beit yosef vayo'meru al dvar hakesef hashav be'amtchoteinu bat'chilah anachnu mubah'im lehitgolel aleinu ulehitnafel aleinu velakachat otanu la'avadim ve'et chamoreinu
This verse describes the reaction of the men after being brought to Joseph’s house. They fear they are being accused of stealing the money that was returned to their sacks and believe they will be enslaved along with their donkeys as punishment.
[GEN.43.19] And they drew near to the man who was over Joseph’s house and spoke to him about the opening of the house. [§]
va-yig-shu el-ha-ish asher al-beit yo-sef va-ye-dab-ru e-lav pe-tach ha-bayit
This verse describes people approaching the man who was over Joseph's house and speaking to him about the opening of the house. 'Va-yig-shu' means 'and they drew near'. 'El' means 'to' or 'toward'. 'Ha-ish' means 'the man'. 'Asher' means 'who' or 'which'. 'Al' means 'over' or 'upon'. 'Beit' means 'house'. 'Yo-sef' is 'Joseph'. 'Va-ye-dab-ru' means 'and they spoke'. 'E-lav' means 'to him'. 'Pe-tach' means 'opening' or 'mouth'. 'Ha-bayit' means 'the house'.
[GEN.43.20] And they said, "With my Lord, we descended, we descended at first to break food." [§]
vayomru bi adonai yarod yaradnu batalah lishvar okhel
This verse comes from Genesis 3:17. 'Vayomru' means 'and they said'. 'Bi' means 'in/with'. 'Adonai' is 'my Lord'. 'Yarod' means 'to descend'. It appears twice, so 'yarod yaradnu' can be understood as 'descended we'. 'Batalah' means 'at first/beginning'. 'Lishvar' means 'to break'. 'Okhel' means 'food'. This is spoken by Adam and Eve after eating from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, explaining why they hid from Yahveh.
[GEN.43.21] And it came to pass, when we came to the inn, that we opened our bags and behold, each person’s money was in the mouth of their bag, our money according to its weight. And we returned it into their hands. [§]
Va-y'hi ki-vanu el ha-malon va-niftacha et am't'choteinu v'hineh kesef-ish b'fi am'tachto kasfenu b'mishkalo vanashev oto b'yadeinu.
This verse describes a situation where travelers arrive at an inn and open their bags. They discover that each person’s money is present in their bag, weighed out as expected. They return the money to each person’s hand.
[GEN.43.22] And other silver we brought down in our hand to buy food, we did not know who put our silver in our sacks. [§]
vekhessef akher horadnu beyadeinu lishbar okhel lo yada'nu mi sam kasfenu be'amtekhoteinu
This verse describes a situation where silver was found in the sacks of grain belonging to Joseph's brothers. They claim they did not know how it got there. 'Khessef' means silver. 'Akher' means other. 'Horadnu' means we brought down/placed. 'Beyadeinu' means in our hand. 'Lishbar okhel' means to break bread/buy food. 'Lo yada'nu' means we did not know. 'Mi sam' means who put. 'Kasfenu' means our silver. 'Be'amtekhoteinu' means in our sacks.
[GEN.43.23] And he said, "Peace to you. Do not be afraid. Your God and the God of your fathers has given you a treasure in your saddlebags. Your silver has come to me, and he has brought Shimeon out to you." [§]
vayomer shalom lachem al tit'rau Eloheichem veElohei avichem natan lachem matmon be'amtchoteichem kaspechem ba elai vayotzea alehem et Shimeon.
This verse recounts a speech given to some people, assuring them of peace and telling them that their God and the God of their fathers has given them a treasure hidden in their saddlebags. Their silver has come to him, and he has brought Shimeon out to them.
[GEN.43.24] And the man brought the men to Joseph’s house, and he gave water, and they washed their feet, and he gave fodder to their donkeys. [§]
Va-ya-ve-a ha-ish et-ha-anashim be-te-ha Yo-sef va-yit-ten-ma-yim va-yir-cha-su rag-lei-hem va-yit-ten mis-po-a la-cha-mor-ei-hem.
This verse describes a man bringing other men to Joseph's house. He provides water for them to wash their feet and fodder for their donkeys. The words are fairly straightforward in their meaning, though 'mispoa' is a specific type of fodder.
[GEN.43.25] And they prepared the offering until Joseph came at noon, because they heard that they would eat bread there. [§]
vayakhinu et-haminhah ad-vo Yosef ba-tzahorayim ki sham yochlu lechem
This verse describes the brothers preparing the offering until Joseph arrived at noon, because they heard that they would eat bread there. 'Vayakhinu' means 'and they prepared'. 'Et-haminhah' signifies 'the offering'. 'Ad-vo Yosef' means 'until Joseph came'. 'Ba-tzahorayim' means 'at noon'. 'Ki' means 'because'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Yochlu' means 'they will eat'. 'Lechem' means 'bread'.
[GEN.43.26] And Joseph came into the house, and they brought to him the offering which was in their hand, and they bowed to him to the ground. [§]
Va-yo-vo Yo-sef ha-ba-yit-a va-ya-vi-u lo et ha-min-cha asher be-ya-dam ha-ba-yit-a va-yish-ta-chu-lo ar-tsa.
This verse describes Joseph's brothers bringing a gift to him and bowing down to him. 'Va-yo-vo' means 'and he came'. 'Yo-sef' is the name Joseph. 'Ha-ba-yit-a' means 'the house'. 'Va-ya-vi-u' means 'and they brought'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Et' is an untranslated particle. 'Ha-min-cha' means 'the offering'. 'Asher' means 'which'. 'Be-ya-dam' means 'in their hand'. 'Va-yish-ta-chu-lo' means 'and they bowed to him'. 'Ar-tsa' means 'to the ground'.
[GEN.43.27] And he asked them concerning peace, and he said, "Is peace to your elderly father that you mentioned? Is he still living?" [§]
vayishal lahem leshalom vayomer hashalom avichem hazaken asher amartem haodeinu chai.
This verse recounts a question asked concerning the well-being of someone's elderly father. "Vayishal" means "and he asked". "Lahem" means "to them". "Leshalom" means "for peace/well-being". "Vayomer" means "and he said". "Hashalom" means "is peace/well-being?" "Avichem" means "your father". "Hazaken" means "the elderly". "Asher" means "that/which". "Amartem" means "you said". "Haodeinu" means "is he still?" "Chai" means "living".
[GEN.43.28] And they said, "Peace to your servant, to our father, he is still alive." And they bowed down and prostrated themselves. [§]
vayomru shalom leavdekha leavinu odenu chai vayikdu vayishtachavu.
This verse describes the sons of Jacob (Israel) speaking to Joseph in Egypt. 'Vayomru' means 'and they said'. 'Shalom' means peace. 'Leavdekha' means 'to your servant'. 'Leavinu' means 'to our father'. 'Odenu' means 'still'. 'Chai' means 'alive'. 'Vayikdu' means 'and they bowed down'. 'Vayishtachavu' means 'and they prostrated themselves'.
[GEN.43.29] He lifted his eyes and saw Benjamin, his brother, son of his mother. And he said, “Is this your smallest brother about whom you spoke to me?” And he said, “May the Gods favor you, my son.” [§]
vayisa eineav vayara et binyamin achiv ben imo vayomer hazeh achichem hakaton asher amartem elai vayomer elohim yachnecha beni
This verse describes Joseph seeing his brother Benjamin. 'Vayisa eineav' means 'he lifted his eyes.' 'Vayara' means 'he saw.' 'Et binyamin achiv ben imo' means 'Benjamin, his brother, son of his mother' (establishing family relation). 'Hazeh achichem hakaton asher amartem elai' means 'Is this your smallest brother whom you told me about?' 'Elohim yachnecha beni' means 'May the Gods favor you, my son.'
[GEN.43.30] And Joseph quickly departed, because compassion stirred within him for his brothers, and he desired to weep. He then entered the chamber and wept there. [§]
va-yma-her yo-sef ki-nich-meru rach-a-mav el-a-chiv va-yva-kesh liv-ko-ot va-yo-vo ha-che-drah va-yev-keh sha-mah.
This verse describes Joseph quickly leaving the room because his compassion was stirred for his brothers, and he sought to weep. He then entered the chamber and wept there. The names used include 'Joseph', which is a proper noun and remains unchanged, and references to God are absent in this verse.
[GEN.43.31] And he washed his face and went out, and he covered himself with dust and said, "Place bread!" [§]
va-yir-khaz pa-nav va-ye-tseh va-yit-a-pak va-yo-mer si-moo le-khem
This verse describes a man washing his face, departing, covering himself with dust, and then commanding someone to place bread. The verbs are all in the past tense, indicating completed actions. The phrase 'si-moo le-khem' literally means 'put bread'.
[GEN.43.32] And they set apart for himself alone, and for them alone, and for the Egyptians who ate with him alone, because the Egyptians could not eat with the Hebrews as food, because it is an abomination to the Egyptians. [§]
vayyasimu lo levado ve lahem levadam velamitsrim ha’ochlim itto levadam ki lo yukhlun hamitsrim le’echol et ha’ivrim lechem ki to’evah hi lemitsrayim.
This verse describes the Egyptians being unable to eat with the Hebrews due to religious aversion. The repetition of 'levado' and 'levadam' emphasizes the strict separation – 'to himself alone' and 'to themselves alone'. The verse states that Egyptians could not eat with Hebrews because it was an abomination to Egyptians.
[GEN.43.33] And they sat before him, the firstborn as his firstborn, and the younger as his younger. And the men marveled, each man at his fellow. [§]
vayeshvu lifanav habchor kibchorato vehatzair kitzeirato vayitmhu ha’anashim ish el re’ehu.
This verse describes the sons sitting before their father, the elder as the elder and the younger as the younger, and the men marveling at each other. ‘Vayeshvu’ means ‘and they sat’. ‘Lifanav’ means ‘before his face’ or ‘before him’. ‘Habchor’ means ‘the firstborn’ and ‘kibchorato’ means ‘as his firstborn’. ‘Vehatzair’ means ‘and the younger’ and ‘kitzeirato’ means ‘as his younger’. ‘Vayitmhu’ means ‘and they were astonished’ or ‘and they marveled’. ‘Ha’anashim’ means ‘the men’. ‘Ish el re’ehu’ means ‘man to his fellow’.
[GEN.43.34] And he lifted portions from before his face toward them, and the portion of Benjamin was greater than the portions of all of them by five handbreadths. And they drank and became merry with him. [§]
va-yee-sah mass-aht me-eht pah-nahv-yv a-lay-hem vah-teh-rev mass-aht bin-yah-meen mee-mass-aht koo-lahm hah-mesh yah-doht va-yeesht-too va-yeesh-kehr-oo im-moh
This verse describes Joseph giving portions to his brothers. 'Massaht' refers to a portion or gift. 'Pahnav' means face, and in this context refers to toward them. 'Bin-yah-meen' is Benjamin. 'Hames' means five. 'Yadot' means handbreadths, a unit of measure for portions. 'Yashtu' means they drank. 'Yishkeru' means they became drunk or were made merry. 'Immoh' means with him.
GEN.44
[GEN.44.1] And he commanded the one who was over his house, saying, "Fill the sacks of the men with food as much as they are able to carry, and put money for each man inside his sack." [§]
vayetzav et asher al beito leemor male et amtechot ha’anashim okhel kaasher yukhlun se’et veshim kesef ish befi amtechto
This verse describes Joseph giving instructions to the overseer of his household regarding provisions for his brothers. 'Vayetzav' means 'and he commanded'. 'Asher al beito' refers to the person in charge of his house. 'Male et amtechot ha’anashim' means 'fill the sacks of the men'. 'Okhel kaasher yukhlun se’et' means 'with food as much as they can carry'. 'Veshim kesef ish befi amtechto' means 'and put money for each man inside his sack'.
[GEN.44.2] And my cup, the silver cup, you will put into the mouth of the smallest sack, and the silver for its price. And he did according to the word of Joseph, which he spoke. [§]
ve'et-g'vi'i g'vi'a hak-kesef tasim b'fi amtachat hak-katon ve'et kesef shivro vayasa kidvar Yosef asher dibber.
This verse describes the chief butler placing Joseph’s silver cup into the youngest brother’s sack, along with the money to repay for it, as Joseph had instructed. ‘Ve’et’ indicates ‘and’. ‘G’vi’i’ refers to ‘my cup’. ‘G’vi’a’ means ‘cup’. ‘Hak-kesef’ means ‘the silver’. ‘Tasim’ means ‘you will put’. ‘B’fi’ means ‘into the mouth of’. ‘Amtachat’ means ‘the sack’. ‘Hak-katon’ means ‘the small/youngest’. ‘Ve’et’ again indicates ‘and’. ‘Kesef’ means ‘silver’. ‘Shivro’ means ‘its breaking/price’. ‘Vayasa’ means ‘and he did’. ‘Kidvar’ means ‘according to the word of’. ‘Yosef’ is the name Joseph. ‘Asher’ means ‘which/that’. ‘Dibber’ means ‘he spoke’.
[GEN.44.3] The morning light, and the men were sent, they and their donkeys. [§]
Ha-boker or ve-ha-anashim shul-khu he-ma va-chamoreihem.
This verse describes the morning light and the sending forth of men and their donkeys. 'Ha-boker' means 'the morning'. 'Or' means 'light'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Ha-anashim' means 'the men'. 'Shul-khu' means 'they were sent'. 'He-ma' means 'they'. 'Va' means 'and'. 'Chamoreihem' means 'their donkeys'.
[GEN.44.4] They went out of the city and did not go far, and Joseph said to the one over his house, “Rise up, pursue after the men and overtake them, and you will say to them, ‘Why did you repay evil for good?’” [§]
hem yatz'u et-ha'ir lo hirhiku ve-yosef amar la'asher al-beyto kum rdof acharei ha'anashim ve-hissagtam ve-amarta alehem lamah shilamtem ra'ah tachat tovah.
This verse describes a situation where people leave the city, and Joseph instructs someone to pursue them and question their actions. 'Hem' refers to 'they'. 'Yatz'u' means 'they went out'. 'Et-ha'ir' means 'the city'. 'Lo hirhiku' means 'they did not go far'. 'Ve-yosef amar' means 'and Joseph said'. 'La'asher al-beyto' means 'to the one over his house' (essentially, his steward). 'Kum rdof acharei ha'anashim' means 'rise up, pursue after the men'. 'Ve-hissagtam' means 'and you will overtake them'. 'Ve-amarta alehem' means 'and you will say to them'. 'Lamah shilamtem ra'ah tachat tovah' means 'why did you repay evil for good'.
[GEN.44.5] Is it not this which my Lord will drink in it, and he, a serpent, will divine in it? Have you done evil deeds which you have done? [§]
Ha-lo ze asher yishte adoni bo ve-hu nachash yenachesh bo ha-reotem asher asitem?
This verse comes from Numbers 24:3. 'Ha-lo' is an interrogative particle meaning 'is it not?' or 'surely'. 'Ze' means 'this'. 'Asher' means 'which' or 'that'. 'Yishte' means 'will drink'. 'Adoni' means 'my Lord'. 'Bo' means 'in it'. 'Ve-hu' means 'and he'. 'Nachash' means 'serpent'. 'Yenachesh' means 'will divine'. 'Ha-reotem' means 'the evil deeds'. 'Asitem' means 'you have done'. The verse is a rhetorical question posed by Balaam as he observes the Israelites.
[GEN.44.6] And he overcame them, and he spoke to them these words. [§]
va-yash-ig-em, va-ye-da-beh-eem ah-leh-hem et-ha-de-va-rim ha-eh-leh.
This verse describes a situation where someone overcomes or prevails against others, and then speaks to them. 'Va'yashigem' means 'and he overcame them'. 'Va'yedabber' means 'and he spoke'. 'Alehem' means 'to them'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker that indicates the direct object. 'Ha-devarim ha-eh-leh' means 'these words'.
[GEN.44.7] And they said to him, "Why does my Lord speak these words? Forbidden be it to your servants to do this thing!" [§]
vayomru elav lamah yedaber adonai kadvarim haeleh halilah laavadeicha measot kadavar hazeh
This verse is spoken by the servants to Elijah after he declares a drought. 'Vayomru' means 'and they said'. 'Elav' means 'to him'. 'Lamah' means 'why'. 'Yedaber' means 'speak'. 'Adonai' means 'my Lord'. 'Kadvarim haeleh' means 'these words'. 'Halilah' means 'forbidden be it'. 'Laavadeicha' means 'to your servants'. 'Measot' means 'to do'. 'Kadavar hazeh' means 'this thing'.
[GEN.44.8] See, the silver that we found in our saddlebags, we have returned to you from the land of Canaan. And how would we steal silver or gold from the house of my Lord? [§]
hen kesef asher matsanu befi imtechoteinu heshivonu eleicha me'eretz kena'an ve'eich nignov mibeit adoneicha kesef o zahav.
This verse comes from Genesis 31:32 and is part of Jacob’s defense against Laban’s accusation of theft. It translates roughly to “See, the silver which we found in our saddlebags, we have returned to you from the land of Canaan. And how would I steal silver or gold from the house of my Lord?” Each word is explained below:
* **hen:** See, Behold
* **kesef:** Silver
* **asher:** Which, That
* **matsanu:** We found
* **befi:** In the mouth of, in
* **imtechoteinu:** Our saddlebags, our packs
* **heshivonu:** We have returned it
* **eleicha:** To you
* **me'eretz:** From the land of
* **kena'an:** Canaan
* **ve'eich:** And how
* **nignov:** Would we steal
* **mibeit:** From the house of
* **adoneicha:** Your Lord, your master
* **kesef:** Silver
* **o:** Or
* **zahav:** Gold
[GEN.44.9] Whoever will be found with him when he dies, and also we will be to my Lord as servants. [§]
asher yimmatsae itto meavadaycha va-met ve-gam-anachnu nihyeh la-Adonai la-avadim.
This verse involves a conditional statement offering service. "asher" means 'who' or 'that'. "yimmatsae" is a future tense verb meaning 'will be found'. "itto" means 'with him'. "meavadaycha" means 'your servants'. "va-met" means 'and dies'. "ve-gam-anachnu" means 'and also we'. "nihyeh" means 'we will be'. "la-Adonai" means 'to my Lord'. "la-avadim" means 'as servants'.
[GEN.44.10] And he said, "Even now, according to your words, so it is. That one who will be found with him will be my servant, and you will be innocent." [§]
vayomer gam-atah kedivreicham ken-hu asher yimmatse itto yihyeh-li aved veatem tihyu nekiim.
This verse is spoken by Jacob to his sons after they threaten to kill Shechem. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Gam-atah' means 'even now'. 'Kedivreicham' means 'according to your words'. 'Ken-hu' means 'so it is'. 'Asher' means 'that'. 'Yimmatse itto' means 'will be found with him'. 'Yihyeh-li aved' means 'will be my servant'. 'Veatem tihyu nekiim' means 'and you will be clean/innocent'.
[GEN.44.11] And they hurried and lowered each person his bag to the ground, and each person opened his bag. [§]
vaymaharu vayoridu ish et-amtahto artzah vayiftachu ish amtahto.
This verse describes people quickly lowering their bags to the ground and then opening their bags. "Vaymaharu" means 'and they hurried.' "Vayoridu" means 'and they lowered.' "Ish" means 'man' or 'person,' used here generally. "Et-amtahto" is a construct phrase meaning 'his bag.' "Artzah" means 'to the ground.' "Vayiftachu" means 'and they opened.' The repetition of "ish amtahto" emphasizes that each person opened their own bag.
[GEN.44.12] And he searched in the great, first, and in the small, he finished, and the cup was found in the sack of Benjamin. [§]
vayechapes babagadol hechel ubakaton kila vayimatzai hagavia be’amtachat binyamin
This verse describes a search. "vayechapes" means "and he searched". "babagadol hechel" means "in the great, first". "ubakaton kila" means "and in the small, he finished". "vayimatzai hagavia" means "and he found the cup". "be’amtachat binyamin" means "in the sack of Benjamin". The verse describes a thorough search, starting with the largest items and ending with the smallest, culminating in the discovery of the cup within Benjamin’s sack.
[GEN.44.13] And they tore their garments, and each man loaded upon his donkey, and they returned to the city. [§]
vayikre'u simlotam vayamosh ish al chamoro vayashuvu ha'irah
This verse describes a reaction to distressing news. 'Vayikre'u' means 'they tore'. 'Simlotam' means 'their garments'. 'Vayamosh' means 'each loaded'. 'Ish' means 'man'. 'Al chamoro' means 'upon his donkey'. 'Vayashuvu' means 'they returned'. 'Ha'irah' means 'the city'.
[GEN.44.14] And Judah and his brothers came to the house of Joseph, and he was still there, and they fell to the ground before him. [§]
Va-yo-vo Yehudah ve-echav beita Yosef ve-hu odenu sham va-yip-lu lifanav artzah.
This verse describes Judah and his brothers arriving at Joseph's house while Joseph is still there, and they bow before him to the ground. 'Va-yo-vo' means 'and came'. 'Yehudah' is Judah. 'Ve-echav' means 'and his brothers'. 'Beita' means 'the house of'. 'Yosef' is Joseph. 'Ve-hu' means 'and he'. 'Odenu' means 'is still'. 'Sham' means 'there'. 'Va-yip-lu' means 'and they fell'. 'Lifanav' means 'before his face'. 'Artzah' means 'to the ground'.
[GEN.44.15] And he said to them, "Joseph, what is this action that you did? Do you not know that a diviner divines, a man like me?" [§]
Va-yo-mer la-hem Yo-sef ma-ha-ma-aseh ha-zeh asher a-si-tem ha-lo ye-da-tem ki-na-chesh ye-na-chesh ish asher ka-mo-ni.
This verse is from Genesis 44:5. It details Joseph’s reaction to his brothers having secretly returned Benjamin’s cup to their sacks. He accuses them of theft.
- 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'.
- 'la-hem' means 'to them'.
- 'Yo-sef' is the name Joseph.
- 'ma-ha-ma-aseh ha-zeh' means 'what is this deed?' or 'what is this action?'
- 'asher a-si-tem' means 'that you did'.
- 'ha-lo ye-da-tem' means 'do you not know?'
- 'ki-na-chesh ye-na-chesh' means 'that a diviner divines' or 'that one practices divination'.
- 'ish asher ka-mo-ni' means 'a man like me'.
[GEN.44.16] And Judah said, "What shall we say to my Lord, what shall we speak, and how can we justify ourselves? The Gods have found the iniquity of your servants. We are servants to my Lord, also we, and also the one in whose hand the goblet was found." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yehudah mah-no-mar la-Adonai mah-ne-da-ber u-mah-nitz-ta-dak ha-Elohim matza et-avon avadecha hine-nu avadim la-Adonai gam-anachnu gam-asher nimtza ha-gaviah be-yado
This verse is spoken by Judah to Joseph (who is pretending to be an Egyptian official). Judah is pleading for Benjamin's life after a goblet has been found in Benjamin's possessions. He is attempting to explain the situation to 'my Lord' (Joseph) and asking what they should say and how they can justify themselves. He acknowledges that 'the Gods' have found the iniquity of his master's servants and they are servants to 'my Lord'. He also indicates that the goblet was found in Benjamin's possession.
[GEN.44.17] And she said, "May it never be that I do such a thing! The man in whose hand my cup was found, he will be my servant, and you, go in peace to your father." [§]
Va-yo-mer kha-lee-la lee me-ah-soh-t zo-at ha-eesh a-sher nim-tsa ha-ga-vee-ah be-ya-do hu yih-yeh-lee aved ve-at-tem a-loo le-sha-lom el-a-vee-chem.
This verse comes from the story of Joseph in Genesis. It's the statement of Joseph's master's wife after Joseph refused her advances. She falsely accused him to her husband. The verse literally means 'And she said, 'Far be it from me to do such a thing!' The man with whose cup my cup was found, he shall be my servant, and as for you, go in peace to your father.' The words 'chalila' meaning 'far be it' or 'may it never be' is a strong exclamation of innocence.
[GEN.44.18] And Judah approached him and said, "By my Lord, let your servant speak a word in the ears of my Lord, and let not your anger be kindled against your servant, for like you is Pharaoh." [§]
va-yigash elav yehudah va-yomer bi adonai yedaber-na avdecha davar be-oznei adonai ve-al-yichar af-cha be-avdecha ki-kamoch kafaroh
This verse comes from Genesis 44:18. 'Va-yigash' means 'and he approached.' 'Elav' means 'to him.' 'Yehudah' is Judah’s name. 'Va-yomer' means 'and he said.' 'Bi' means 'by.' 'Adonai' refers to the person being addressed. 'Yedaber-na' means 'let me speak.' 'Avdecha' means 'your servant.' 'Davar' means 'a word.' 'Be-oznei' means 'in the ears of.' 'Ve-al-yichar' means 'and let not be angry.' 'Af-cha' means 'your anger.' 'Be-avdecha' means 'with your servant.' 'Ki-kamoch' means 'for like you.' 'Kafaroh' means 'Pharaoh.' This is Judah pleading with the official, comparing him to Pharaoh, and asking to speak.
[GEN.44.19] My Lord asked his servants to say, "Do you have a father or a brother?" [§]
Adonai sha'al et-avadav le'emor ha'yesh-lachem av o-ach.
Adonai means "my Lord". Sha'al means "asked". Et is a particle indicating the direct object. Avadav means "his servants". Le'emor means "to say". Ha'yesh-lachem means "Is there to you", or more naturally, "Do you have". Av means "father". O means "or". Ach means "brother".
[GEN.44.20] And we said to my Lord, "We have an old father, and a young child, whose brother is dead, and he remains alone with his mother, and his father loves him." [§]
vanomer el-adonai yesh-lanu av zaken veyeled zekunim katan ve'achiv met vayivater hu levado le'imo ve'aviv ahevo.
This verse describes a situation where individuals are explaining their family circumstances to 'my Lord'. They state they have an old father and a young child, whose brother has died, leaving the child alone with his mother. The father loves this remaining child.
[GEN.44.21] And she said to your servants, "Bring him down to me, and I will set my eyes on him." [§]
va-to-mer el-avadai-cha hori-du-hu ei-lai ve-a-seem-ah ei-nai alav
This verse consists of a verb (va-to-mer - and she said) followed by a prepositional phrase (el-avadai-cha - to your servants), a verb (hori-du-hu - bring him down), a preposition (ei-lai - to me), a conjunction (ve - and), a verb (a-seem-ah - I will set), a pronoun (ei-nai - my eyes), and a prepositional phrase (alav - on him). The verse is a command spoken to servants, requesting they bring someone down to the speaker, so she may observe them.
[GEN.44.22] And we said to my Lord, "The young man cannot leave his father." And he left his father and he died. [§]
va-no-mer el-a-do-ni lo-yu-chal ha-na-ar la-a-zob et-a-vee-vo ve-a-zav et-a-vee-vo va-met
This verse comes from 2 Kings 2:2. It details a conversation about the prophet Elisha leaving his father. 'Va-no-mer' means 'and we said'. 'El' means 'to'. 'A-do-ni' means 'my Lord'. 'Lo-yu-chal' means 'cannot'. 'Ha-na-ar' means 'the young man'. 'La-a-zob' means 'to leave'. 'Et-a-vee-vo' means 'his father'. 'Ve-a-zav' means 'and he left'. 'Va-met' means 'and he died'.
[GEN.44.23] And she said to your servants, "If your youngest brother does not descend with you, you shall not add to seeing my face." [§]
Va-to-mer el-avadaycha im-lo yered achichem ha-katon it-chem lo to-sifun li-rot panay.
This verse comes from Genesis 43:3. 'Va-to-mer' means 'and she said'. 'El-avadaycha' means 'to your servants'. 'Im-lo' means 'if not'. 'Yered' means 'descend'. 'Achichem' means 'your brother'. 'Ha-katon' means 'the youngest'. 'It-chem' means 'with you'. 'Lo to-sifun' means 'you shall not add'. 'Li-rot' means 'to see'. 'Panay' means 'my face'. Therefore, the verse describes a condition where the speaker will not allow the others to see her face if their youngest brother does not accompany them.
[GEN.44.24] And it happened that we went to your servant, my father, and we related to him the words of my Lord. [§]
va-yhi ki 'aliynu el-'avdecha avi va-naged-lo et divrei adonai
This verse describes a group going to the father of someone and relating words from 'my Lord'. 'Va-yhi' means 'and it was'. 'Ki' means 'that' or 'because'. 'Aliynu' means 'we went up' or 'we went to'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Avdecha' means 'your servant'. 'Avi' means 'my father'. 'Vanaged-lo' means 'and we told him'. 'Et' is a particle used to mark the definite direct object. 'Divrei' means 'words of'. 'Adonai' means 'my Lord'.
[GEN.44.25] And he said, "Our fathers, return and provide for us a little food." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-vee-nu shoo-vu shib-ru-la-nu me-at-o-chel
This verse contains several words that need literal translation. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'A-vee-nu' is a plural possessive form meaning 'our father'. 'Shoo-vu' means 'return'. 'Shib-ru-la-nu' means 'break for us', but in this context means 'provide for us'. 'Me-at-o-chel' means 'a little food'. The verse is a request for provisions.
[GEN.44.26] And we said, "We cannot descend if our younger brother is with us, and we will descend. For we cannot look upon the face of the man unless our younger brother is with us. And our younger brother is not with us." [§]
Va-no-amer lo nu-chal la-re-det im-yesh achi-nu ha-ka-ton it-ta-nu ve-yar-de-nu ki-lo nu-chal li-re-ot p’nei ha-ish ve-achi-nu ha-ka-ton ei-ne-nu it-ta-nu.
This verse describes a situation where individuals are unwilling to descend (likely into a pit or valley) unless their younger brother is with them. They state they cannot descend if their younger brother is with them, and they cannot look upon the face of the man (likely Joseph) without their younger brother. They clarify that their younger brother is not with them.
[GEN.44.27] And your servant, my father, said to us, "You have known that my wife has borne to me two [children]." [§]
Va-yo-mer av-de-cha a-vi e-lei-nu, a-tem ye-da-tem ki sh-nai-yim yal-da-li is-ti.
This verse is spoken by Jacob to Laban. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Av-de-cha' is 'your servant'. 'A-vi' is 'my father'. 'E-lei-nu' means 'to us'. 'A-tem' means 'you'. 'Ye-da-tem' means 'you have known'. 'Ki' means 'that'. 'Sh-nai-yim' means 'two'. 'Yal-da-li' means 'has borne to me'. 'Is-ti' means 'my wife'.
[GEN.44.28] And one went out from within me, and I said, ‘Only prey, prey!’ and I have not seen him until now. [§]
vayyetze ha’echad me’itti va’omer ach tarof toraf v’lo re’itiu ad hena
This verse describes a feeling of being attacked or preyed upon. 'Vayyetze' means 'and one went out'. 'Ha’echad' means 'the one'. 'Me’itti' means 'from me'. 'Va’omer' means 'and I said'. 'Ach' means 'only'. 'Tarof' means 'prey'. 'Toraf' is a reduplication of 'tarof' for emphasis. 'V’lo' means 'and not'. 'Re’itiu' means 'I saw him'. 'Ad hena' means 'until now'. The overall sense is someone or something has gone out from within, attacking, and the speaker has not seen it until this moment.
[GEN.44.29] And you will also take this from before the face of God, and it will be a disaster, and you will bring my grey hairs down to the grave in evil. [§]
oo-lekha-tem gam-et-zeh meh-eem pa-nai v-karah-hu ah-sohn v-ho-rad-tem et-seev-ah-tee b-rah-ah shoh-lah
This verse describes a consequence of an action. Someone will take something from before the face of God, and it will become a disaster. It will bring the speaker’s grey hairs down to the grave in evil.
[GEN.44.30] And now, as I come to your servant, my father, and the young man is not with us, and his soul is bound to his soul. [§]
ve’atah kevo’i el-avdekha avi vehanana’ar eynenu itanu venafsho keshura benafsho
This verse is from Genesis 37:34. It is Jacob’s lament to his son Judah, after being told that Joseph is dead. 'Ve’atah' means 'and now'. 'Kebo’i' means 'as I come'. 'El-avdekha' means 'to your servant'. 'Avi' means 'my father'. 'Vehanana’ar' means ‘and the young man’. ‘Eynenu’ means ‘is not’. ‘Itanu’ means ‘with us’. ‘Venafsho’ means ‘and his soul’. ‘Keshura’ means ‘bound’. ‘Benafsho’ means ‘to his soul’.
[GEN.44.31] And it will be, when he sees that the young man is not there and is dead, that your servants will bring down the grayness of your servant, our father, in the sorrow of the grave. [§]
vehaya kir'oto ki-ein hanear vameit vehoreedu avadecha et-seivat avdecha avinu beyagon sh'olah
This verse describes a situation where a young man is not found and is presumed dead. The speaker anticipates that their servants will bring down the grayness (or grief) of their father, the speaker’s servant, in the sorrow of the grave. 'Vehaya' indicates a future condition. 'Kir'oto' means 'when he sees'. 'Ki-ein' means 'that there is not'. 'Hanear' refers to 'the young man'. 'Vameit' means 'and dead'. 'Vehoreedu' means 'and they will bring down'. 'Avadecha' means 'your servants' (speaking to a superior). 'Et-seivat' means 'the grayness of'. 'Avdecha avinu' means 'your servant, our father'. 'Beyagon sh'olah' means 'in the sorrow of the grave'.
[GEN.44.32] For your servant has become surety for the boy from my father, saying, "If I do not bring him to you, then I will sin against my father all the days." [§]
ki avdek arav et-hana'ar me'im avi le'emor im-lo aviennu elecha vechatati le'avi kol-hayamim.
This verse contains several key terms. "ki" means "for" or "because". "avdek" means "my servant". "arav" means "he has become surety" or "he has pledged". "et-hana'ar" means "the boy". "me'im avi" means "from my father". "le'emor" means "saying" or "to say". "im-lo aviennu elecha" means "if I do not bring him to you". "vechatati le'avi" means "and I will sin against my father". "kol-hayamim" means "all the days". The verse is a declaration of responsibility and a pledge of assurance.
[GEN.44.33] And now, let your servant remain in place of the young man, a servant to my Lord, and let the young man return with his brothers. [§]
ve'ata yeysev-na na avdecha tachat hana'ar eved la'Adonai vehana'ar ya'al im-echav
This verse is a request made by a servant to his master. The servant asks to remain in the master’s service while allowing the young man to return to his brothers. 'Ve'ata' means 'and now'. 'Yeysev-na' means 'let him sit', indicating a request. 'Avdecha' means 'your servant'. 'Tachat' means 'instead of' or 'in place of'. 'Hana'ar' means 'the young man'. 'Eved la'Adonai' means 'servant to my Lord'. 'Ya'al' means 'he shall go up' or 'he shall return'. 'Im-echav' means 'with his brothers'.
[GEN.44.34] For how can I go up to my father, and the boy is not with me? Lest I see the evil that will find my father. [§]
Ki-eych e'eleh el-avi v'han'ar einenu itti, pen ereh bara', asher yim'tza et-avi.
This verse is spoken by Joseph in Genesis 44:32. He is speaking to his brothers and offering to stay in Egypt as a substitute for Benjamin. 'Ki' means 'for' or 'because'. 'E'eleh' means 'I will go up' or 'I will ascend'. 'Avi' means 'my father'. 'Han'ar' means 'the boy' (Benjamin). 'Einenu' means 'is not'. 'Itti' means 'with me'. 'Pen' means 'lest' or 'that'. 'Ereh' means 'I see'. 'Bara' means 'evil' or 'disaster'. 'Asher' means 'which' or 'that'. 'Yim'tza' means 'finds'. 'Et-avi' means 'my father'. The verse expresses Joseph's concern for the grief his father would experience if Benjamin were to be lost.
GEN.45
[GEN.45.1] And Joseph could not restrain himself before all who stood before him, and he called out, "Bring out every man from my presence!" And no man stood with him while Joseph revealed himself to his brothers. [§]
ve-lo yakhol Yosef le-hit-apek le-chol ha-nitzavim alav va-yikra hotziu kol ish me-alav ve-lo amad ish ito be-hitvadea Yosef el echav
This verse describes Joseph’s emotional reaction to seeing his brothers again after many years. He is overcome with emotion and asks that everyone leave so he can be alone with his brothers. The verse states that no one remained with him while he revealed himself to his brothers.
[GEN.45.2] And he gave his voice in weeping, and Egypt heard, and the house of Pharaoh heard. [§]
va-yit-ten et-qo-lo biv-chi va-yish-me-u mitz-ra-yim va-yish-ma beit par-oh.
This verse describes a vocal outcry that is heard by both the Egyptians and the house of Pharaoh. 'Va-yit-ten' means 'and he gave'. 'Et' is a direct object marker. 'Qo-lo' means 'his voice'. 'Biv-chi' means 'in weeping' or 'with a cry'. 'Va-yish-me-u' means 'and they heard'. 'Mitz-ra-yim' is the name of Egypt. 'Va-yish-ma' means 'and he heard'. 'Beit par-oh' is the house of Pharaoh.
[GEN.45.3] And Joseph said to his brothers, "I am Joseph. Is my father still alive?" And his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed before his face. [§]
Va-yo-mer Yo-sef el-eh-chai a-nee Yo-sef ha-od a-vee chai ve-lo-yach-lu eh-chai la-an-ot oto ki niv-ha-lu mi-pa-nav.
This verse describes Joseph revealing his identity to his brothers. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Yo-sef' is Joseph. 'El-eh-chai' means 'to his brothers'. 'A-nee Yo-sef' means 'I am Joseph'. 'Ha-od a-vee chai' means 'is my father still alive?'. 'Ve-lo-yach-lu' means 'and they could not'. 'Eh-chai' refers to his brothers again. 'La-an-ot oto' means 'to answer him'. 'Ki niv-ha-lu mi-pa-nav' means 'for they were dismayed before his face'.
[GEN.45.4] And Joseph said to his brothers, "Come near to me." And they came near. And he said, "I am Joseph, your brother, the one you sold into Egypt." [§]
Va-yomer Yosef el-echav gesh-u-na elai va-yigashu va-yomer ani Yosef achichem asher mechartem oti mitzraymah.
This verse describes Joseph speaking to his brothers. 'Va-yomer' means 'and he said'. 'Yosef' is Joseph. 'El-echav' means 'to his brothers'. 'Gesh-u-na elai' means 'come near to me'. 'Va-yigashu' means 'and they came near'. 'Ani' means 'I'. 'Achichem' means 'your brother'. 'Asher' means 'which'. 'Mechartem' means 'you sold'. 'Oti' means 'me'. 'Mitzraymah' means 'to Egypt'.
[GEN.45.5] And now, do not be grieved, and may it not displease you that you sold me here, for the Gods sent me before you for sustenance. [§]
ve'atah al-te'atzvu ve'al yichar be'eineichem ki-mechartem oti hena ki lemichyah shlachani Elohim lifneichem.
This verse is spoken by Joseph to his brothers. He is addressing them after revealing his identity. 'Ve'atah' means 'and now'. 'Al-te'atzvu' means 'do not be grieved'. 'Ve'al yichar' means 'and let it not displease'. 'Be'eineichem' means 'in your eyes'. 'Ki-mechartem oti' means 'because you sold me'. 'Hena' means 'here'. 'Ki lemichyah' means 'for sustenance'. 'Shlachani' means 'He sent me'. 'Elohim' refers to the Gods. 'Lifneichem' means 'before you'.
[GEN.45.6] For this, two years the hunger will be in the midst of the land, and still five years that there is not a plowman and a reaper. [§]
kee-zeh shna-tayim ha-ra-av be-kerev ha-aretz ve-od cham-esh sha-nim a-sher ein cha-rish ve-ka-tzir.
This verse describes a coming famine. 'Kee-zeh' means 'for this'. 'Shna-tayim' means 'two'. 'Ha-ra-av' means 'the hunger/famine'. 'Be-kerev ha-aretz' means 'in the midst of the land'. 'Ve-od' means 'and still/more'. 'Cham-esh sha-nim' means 'five years'. 'A-sher' means 'that/which'. 'Ein' means 'there is not/there are not'. 'Cha-rish' means 'a plowman/one who plows'. 'Ve-ka-tzir' means 'and a reaper/one who reaps'. The verse describes a period of two years of famine followed by five years where plowing and harvesting will not occur.
[GEN.45.7] And the Gods sent me before you, to set for you a remnant in the land, and to revive for you a great escape. [§]
va-yish-la-che-nee e-lo-heem li-f-nei-chem la-soom la-chem sh’e-reet ba-a-retz u-le-ha-cha-yot la-chem li-flei-tah g’do-lah.
This verse describes a messenger sent by the Gods to a people. 'Va-yish-la-che-nee' means 'and he sent me'. 'E-lo-heem' is 'the Gods'. 'Li-f-nei-chem' means 'before you'. 'La-soom' means 'to set'. 'Sh’e-reet' means 'a remnant'. 'Ba-a-retz' means 'in the land'. 'U-le-ha-cha-yot' means 'and to revive'. 'Li-flei-tah' means 'for an escape'. 'G’do-lah' means 'great'.
[GEN.45.8] And now, you did not send me here, for the Gods have made me as a father to Pharaoh and as a lord over all his house, and a ruler over all the land of Egypt. [§]
ve'atah lo-atem shlachtem oti hena ki haelohim vayisimeni le'av leparoh ule'adon lechol-beto umoshel bechol-eretz mitzrayim.
This verse describes Joseph explaining to his brothers that God has made him a father to Pharaoh and a lord over all his house, and a ruler over all the land of Egypt. 'Ve'atah' means 'and now'. 'Lo-atem' means 'not you'. 'Shlachtem' means 'you sent'. 'Oti' means 'me'. 'Hena' means 'here'. 'Ki' means 'for'. 'HaElohim' means 'the Gods'. 'Vayisimeni' means 'and He set me'. 'Le'av' means 'as a father'. 'LeParoh' means 'to Pharaoh'. 'Ule'adon' means 'and as a lord'. 'Lechol-beto' means 'over all his house'. 'UMoshel' means 'and a ruler'. 'Bechol-eretz' means 'over all the land'. 'Mitzrayim' means 'Egypt'.
[GEN.45.9] Hurry and go to my father and say to him, 'Thus says your son Joseph: 'the Gods' have made me lord over all of Egypt. Come down to me; do not delay.' [§]
mah-her-oo vee-ah-loo el-ah-vee va-ah-mar-tem eh-lahv koh ah-mar bin-khah yo-seph sah-mah-nee eh-loh-heem le-ah-don le-khol mits-rah-yim reh-dah eh-lai al-tah-ah-mod.
This verse is a command from Joseph's brothers to their father Jacob. They are instructed to quickly go to their father and tell him that his son Joseph has been made 'the Gods' as lord over all of Egypt, and to request that their father come down to him, and not delay.
[GEN.45.10] And you will dwell in the land of Goshen, and you will be near to the Gods, you and your sons and the sons of your sons, and your sheep and your cattle, and all that is yours. [§]
ve-yashav-ta be-eretz-goshen ve-hayita karov elai ata u-banecha u-benei banecha ve-tzoancha u-vekarcha ve-chol-asher-lach.
This verse details a promise made to Jacob (Israel). It instructs him to dwell in the land of Goshen and assures him that he and his descendants, along with all his livestock and possessions, will be near to ‘the Gods’.
[GEN.45.11] And I will sustain you there, for still five years of famine remain, lest you and your house and all that is yours be impoverished. [§]
ve-chil-kal-ti ot-cha sham ki-od chamesh shanim ra-av pen-ti-va-resh at-tah u-veit-cha ve-chol asher-lach.
This verse details a divine provision during a coming famine. 've-chil-kal-ti' means 'and I will sustain'. 'ot-cha' means 'you'. 'sham' means 'there'. 'ki-od' means 'still/yet'. 'chamesh shanim' means 'five years'. 'ra-av' means 'famine'. 'pen-ti-va-resh' means 'lest you be impoverished'. 'at-tah' means 'you'. 'u-veit-cha' means 'and your house'. 've-chol asher-lach' means 'and all that is yours'.
[GEN.45.12] And behold, your eyes are seeing, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, because the mouth of the one who speaks is to you. [§]
vehineh eineichem ro'ot veeinei achi Binyamin ki pi hamdaber aleichem
This verse comes from Genesis 43:23. 'Vehineh' means 'and behold'. 'Eineichem' is 'your eyes' (plural). 'Ro'ot' means 'seeing'. 'Ve'einei' means 'and the eyes of'. 'Achi' means 'my brother'. 'Binyamin' is the name 'Benjamin'. 'Ki' means 'that/because'. 'Pi' means 'mouth'. 'Hamdaber' means 'the speaker'. 'Aleichem' means 'to you'. Therefore, the verse is essentially saying 'And behold, your eyes are seeing, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, because the mouth of the speaker is to you.'
[GEN.45.13] And you shall tell my father about all my glory in Egypt and about everything you have seen. And hasten and bring my father down here. [§]
vehigadtem le'avi et kol kevodi bemitzrayim ve'et kol asher re'item umihar'tem vehoradtem et avi hena
This verse is a command given by Joseph to his brothers. He instructs them to tell his father, Jacob, about all his glory in Egypt and everything they have seen. He urges them to hasten and bring his father down to Egypt.
[GEN.45.14] And he fell upon the necks of Benjamin, his brother, and wept, and Benjamin wept upon his necks. [§]
va-yip-ol al-tzav-arei bin-ya-min-a-chiv-o va-ye-vech u-vin-ya-min bacha al-tzav-arai-v.
This verse describes a scene of emotional reconciliation. "Va-yip-ol" means "and he fell". "Al-tzav-arei" means "upon the necks of". "Bin-ya-min-a-chiv-o" means "Benjamin, his brother". "Va-ye-vech" means "and he wept". "U-bin-ya-min" means "and Benjamin". "Bacha" means "wept". "Al-tzav-arai-v" means "upon his necks". The verse indicates someone fell upon the neck of Benjamin, and both wept.
[GEN.45.15] And he kissed all his brothers, and he wept over them. And after this, his brothers spoke with him. [§]
vaynashek lekhol-ekhavai vayevk aleihem ve'akharei khen dibru echavai ito
This verse describes a scene of reconciliation and farewell. 'Vaynashek' means 'and he kissed'. 'Lekhol-ekhavai' means 'to all his brothers'. 'Vayevk aleihem' means 'and he wept over them'. 'Ve'akharei khen' means 'and after this'. 'Dibru echavai ito' means 'his brothers spoke with him'.
[GEN.45.16] And the sound was heard in the house of Pharaoh, saying, "The brothers of Joseph have come." And it was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of his servants. [§]
ve-ha-kol nishma beyt par'oh le'emor bau achey yosef va-yitav be'einey par'oh u-ve'einey avadav
This verse describes a sound being heard in Pharaoh’s house, announcing the arrival of Joseph’s brothers. It then states that this news was pleasing to Pharaoh and his servants.
[GEN.45.17] And Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Say to your brothers this: Load your donkeys and go, enter the land of Canaan." [§]
va-yo-mer par-oh el-yo-sef e-mor el-a-che-cha zot a-su ta-neu et-be-ir-chem u-le-chu-vo-u ar-tzah ke-na-an
This verse records Pharaoh speaking to Joseph and instructing him to tell his brothers what to do. Pharaoh commands them to load their donkeys and go to the land of Canaan.
[GEN.45.18] And take your fathers and your houses, and come to me, and I will give to you the goodness of the land of Egypt, and you will eat the best of the land. [§]
oo-khoo ay-tah-veh-chem v'et bah-tay-chem oo-vo-oo eh-lay v'et-nah-nah lah-chem et-toov eretz mitz-rah-yim v'eech-loo et-chay-lev hah-ah-retz.
This verse is a command. 'oo-khoo' means 'and take'. 'ay-tah-veh-chem' means 'your fathers'. 'v'et bah-tay-chem' means 'and your houses'. 'oo-vo-oo eh-lay' means 'and come to me'. 'v'et-nah-nah lah-chem' means 'and I will give to you'. 'et-toov eretz mitz-rah-yim' means 'the goodness of the land of Egypt'. 'v'eech-loo' means 'and you will eat'. 'et-chay-lev hah-ah-retz' means 'the fat of the land'. This translates roughly to 'And take your fathers and your houses and come to me, and I will give to you the goodness of the land of Egypt, and you will eat the fat of the land.'
[GEN.45.19] And you are commanded to do this: Take for yourselves from the land of Egypt wagons for your children and for your wives, and you shall carry your father and come. [§]
ve-atah tsu-vey-tah zo-at a-soo k'-chu la-chem mei-eretz mitz-raim a-ga-lot le-taf-chem ve-li-ne-shee-chem u-ne-sa-tem et avi-chem u-va-tem
This verse is a command. "You are commanded to do this: Take for yourselves from the land of Egypt wagons for your little ones and for your wives, and carry your father and come."
[GEN.45.20] And your eyes should not pity your possessions, for all the land of Egypt is good to you; it is yours. [§]
ve-einechem al-tachos al-kleichem ki-tuv kol-eretz mitzrayim lachem hu
This verse is a command. "ve-einechem" means "and your eyes." "al-tachos" is a negative command meaning "do not pity" or "do not spare." "al-kleichem" means "upon your possessions." "ki-tuv" means "for good." "kol-eretz mitzrayim" means "all the land of Egypt." "lachem" means "to you." "hu" means "it/he". The verse is instructing someone not to show compassion towards their belongings, as the entirety of the land of Egypt will be theirs.
[GEN.45.21] And the sons of Israel did so, and Joseph gave them wagons according to the word of Pharaoh, and he gave them provisions for the way. [§]
Va'ya'asu khen benei Yisrael va'yiten lahem Yosef agalot al pi Par'oh va'yiten lahem tsedah la'derek.
This verse describes the Israelites doing as they were instructed and Joseph providing them with wagons, as Pharaoh commanded, along with provisions for their journey.
[GEN.45.22] To everyone he gave changes of garments, and to Benjamin he gave three hundred of silver and five changes of garments. [§]
l'khullam natan la'ish khaliphot smalot ulebinyamin natan shlosh me'ot kesef v'khamesh khaliphot smalot.
This verse describes the distribution of gifts or portions to individuals. "l'khullam" means 'to everyone'. "natan" means 'gave'. "la'ish" means 'to a man/person'. "khaliphot smalot" means 'changes of garments/clothing'. "ulebinyamin" means 'and to Benjamin'. "shlosh me'ot kesef" means 'three hundred of silver/money'. "v'khamesh khaliphot smalot" means 'and five changes of garments/clothing'.
[GEN.45.23] And to his father he sent such as ten donkeys carrying the best of Egypt and ten jennies carrying grain and bread and provisions for his father for the journey. [§]
u-le-aviv sha-lach ke-zo-t as-a-rah cham-o-rim no-se-im mi-tuv mitz-ra-yim ve-e-ser a-to-not no-se-ot bar ve-le-chem u-ma-zon le-aviv la-da-rech.
This verse describes someone sending gifts to their father for a journey. 'Aviv' refers to 'father'. 'Chamorm' means 'donkeys' and 'atonot' means 'female donkeys' or 'jennies'. 'Bar' is grain, and 'lechem' means bread. 'Mazon' is food or provisions. 'La-darek' means 'for the journey'. 'Ke-zo-t' means 'such as'. 'Asarah' is ten.
[GEN.45.24] And he sent his brothers, and they went. And he said to them, "Do not be angered on the way." [§]
vayeshallach et acheiv vayelechu vayomer alehem al tirg'zu badarech
This verse describes a sending forth of brothers and a warning not to be angered on the way. 'Vayeshallach' means 'and he sent'. 'Et acheiv' means 'his brothers'. 'Vayelechu' means 'and they went'. 'Vayomer alehem' means 'and he said to them'. 'Al tirg'zu' means 'do not be angry'. 'Badarech' means 'on the way'.
[GEN.45.25] And they ascended from Egypt and came to the land of Canaan, to Jacob, their father. [§]
va-ya'alu mimitzrayim va-yavo eretz kena'an el ya'akov aviehem
This verse describes the ascent of a people from Egypt and their arrival in the land of Canaan, specifically to Jacob, their father. 'Va-ya'alu' means 'and they ascended.' 'Mitzrayim' is Egypt. 'Va-yavo' means 'and they came.' 'Eretz Kena'an' is 'the land of Canaan.' 'El Ya'akov aviehem' means 'to Jacob, their father.'
[GEN.45.26] And they told him, saying, “Behold, Joseph is still alive, and he is ruling over all the land of Egypt.” And their heart faltered, because they did not believe them. [§]
vayagidu lo le’emor od Yosef chai ve’ki hu moshel bechal eretz mitzrayim vayipag libbo ki lo he’emin lahem.
This verse describes a report being given to someone about Joseph. It states that Joseph is still alive and is ruling over all the land of Egypt. The verse concludes by stating that this news caused their heart to falter, as they did not believe the report.
[GEN.45.27] And they spoke to him all the words of Joseph which he had spoken to them, and they showed him the wagons which Joseph had sent to carry him. And the spirit of Jacob their father revived. [§]
vayedabru elav et kol divrei Yosef asher diber alehem vayara et haagalot asher shalach Yosef lase’at oto vat’chi ruch Yaakov avivhem
This verse describes the sons of Jacob reporting all of Joseph's words to their father, Jacob. They also showed Jacob the wagons Joseph had sent to carry him. Upon hearing this news and seeing the wagons, Jacob’s spirit revived.
[GEN.45.28] And Israel said, "Surely my son Joseph is still living. I will go and see him before I die." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yis-ra-el rav od-Yo-sef beni chai, el-ke-ha ve-er-eh-nu be-te-rem a-mut.
This verse contains several names and words. "Yisra-el" is the name Israel. "Yo-sef" is the name Joseph. "Beni" means 'my son'. "Chai" means 'living'. "El" refers to God. "Ve" means 'and'. "Er-eh-nu" means 'I will see him'. "Be-te-rem" means 'before'. "A-mut" means 'I die'. The overall sentiment is Israel expressing hope that Joseph is still alive and a desire to see him before he dies.
GEN.46
[GEN.46.1] Israel journeyed with all who were with him and came to Beerah Sheva. Then he offered sacrifices to the Gods of his father, Isaac. [§]
vayisa israel vechol asher lo vayavo beerah shava vayizbach zevachim leelohei avi yitzchak
This verse describes Israel (Jacob) traveling with all that belonged to him to Beerah Sheva, and offering sacrifices to the Gods of his father Isaac.
[GEN.46.2] And the Gods spoke to Israel in visions of the night, and spoke, "Jacob, Jacob!" And he said, "Here I am." [§]
Va-yo-mer Elohim le-yis-ra-el be-mar-ot ha-lai-lah va-yo-mer ya-ak-ov ya-ak-ov va-yo-mer hi-nei-ni.
This verse recounts a nighttime vision and a calling out of the name 'Jacob'. 'Elohim' is a plural form, referring to the Gods. 'Yisrael' is the name given to Jacob, meaning 'struggles with God'. 'Marot' means visions or sights. 'Lai-lah' is night. 'Ya-ak-ov' is the name Jacob. 'Hi-nei-ni' means 'Here I am'.
[GEN.46.3] And he said, "I, the God, the Gods of your father, do not fear to descend to Egypt, for to a great nation I will make you there." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-no-chi ha-el elo-hei a-vi-cha al-tee-ra mei-re-da mitz-ra-yim ki-le-goi ga-dol a-seem-cha sham.
This verse comes from Genesis 12:8. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'A-no-chi' means 'I'. 'Ha-el' means 'the God'. 'Elohei' means 'the Gods of'. 'Avi-cha' means 'your father'. 'Al-tee-ra' means 'do not fear'. 'Mei-re-da' means 'from descending'. 'Mitz-ra-yim' is Egypt. 'Ki' means 'for'. 'Le-goi' means 'to a nation'. 'Ga-dol' means 'great'. 'A-seem-cha' means 'I will make you'. 'Sham' means 'there'.
[GEN.46.4] I will descend with you to Egypt, and I will bring you up also. And Joseph will place his hand upon your eyes. [§]
Anokhi ereid im’ka Mitzraymah ve’anokhi a’alehka gam-aleh veYosef yasit yado al-einecha.
This verse comes from Exodus 8:6. "Anokhi" means "I". "Ereid" means "I will descend". "Im’ka" means "with you". "Mitzraymah" is the name of the land, Egypt. "Ve" means "and". "A’alehka" means "I will bring you up". "Gam-aleh" means "also up". "Yosef" is the name Joseph. "Yasit" means "will place". "Yado" means "his hand". "Al-einecha" means "upon your eyes".
[GEN.46.5] And Jacob rose from the well of Sheba, and the sons of Israel carried Jacob, their father, and their little ones, and their wives, in the wagons that Pharaoh had sent to carry him. [§]
Va-ya-kom Ya-akov mi-beer Sha-va, Va-yis-u bnei-Yis-ra-el et-Ya-akov av-ihem, ve-et-taf-am ve-et-ne-sheihem ba-ag-a-lot asher-sha-lach Par-oh la-se-at oto.
This verse describes Jacob departing from Beersheba with his family, travelling in the wagons that Pharaoh had sent for him. 'Va-ya-kom' means 'and he rose/stood up'. 'Mi-beer Sha-va' means 'from the well of Sheba'. 'Va-yis-u' means 'and they carried'. 'Bnei-Yis-ra-el' means 'the sons of Israel'. 'Et-Ya-akov av-ihem' means 'Jacob, their father'. 'Ve-et-taf-am' means 'and their little ones'. 'Ve-et-ne-sheihem' means 'and their wives'. 'Ba-ag-a-lot' means 'in wagons'. 'Asher-sha-lach Par-oh' means 'which Pharaoh sent'. 'La-se-at oto' means 'to carry him'.
[GEN.46.6] They took their livestock and their possessions that they had acquired in the land of Canaan and came to Egypt: Jacob and all his descendants with him. [§]
vayikchu et miknehem ve'et rechusham asher rachshu be'eretz kena'an vayavo mitzraymah ya'akov vechol zare'o ito.
This verse describes Jacob and his family taking their livestock and possessions with them as they journey to Egypt. 'Vayikchu' means 'they took'. 'Miknehem' refers to their livestock. 'Rechusham' means their possessions. 'Asher rachshu' means 'that they had acquired'. 'Be'eretz kena'an' means 'in the land of Canaan'. 'Vayavo mitzraymah' means 'they came to Egypt'. 'Ya'akov' is Jacob. 'Vechol zare'o' means 'and all his seed/descendants'. 'Ito' means 'with him'.
[GEN.46.7] His sons and the sons of his sons were with him, his daughters and the daughters of his sons, and all his descendants. He brought them with him to Egypt. [§]
ba-nav u-ve-nei va-nav it-to be-no-tav u-ve-not be-nav ve-chol zar-o he-vi it-to mitz-ra-y-mah.
This verse details who Jacob (Israel) brought with him to Egypt. 'Banim' means 'sons', 'benei banav' means 'sons of his sons' (grandchildren). 'Bnotav' means 'his daughters', 'benot banav' means 'daughters of his sons' (granddaughters). 'Chol zar'o' means 'all his seed' (descendants). 'Hevi itto' means 'he brought with him'. 'Mitzraymah' is Egypt.
[GEN.46.8] And these are the names of the sons of Israel who came to Egypt: Jacob and his sons, the firstborn of Jacob, Reuben. [§]
ve'eleh shmot bnei yisrael habaim mitzraymah ya'akov uvanav bekhor ya'akov reuven.
This verse lists the names of the sons of Israel who came to Egypt. 've'eleh' means 'and these'. 'shmot' means 'names'. 'bnei yisrael' means 'sons of Israel'. 'habaim' means 'those coming'. 'mitzraymah' means 'Egypt'. 'ya'akov' is Jacob. 'uvanav' means 'and his sons'. 'bekhor ya'akov' means 'the firstborn of Jacob'. 'reuven' is Reuben.
[GEN.46.9] And the sons of Reuben are Hanokh and Pallu and Khetsron and Kharmi. [§]
Oo-v’nay Ree-oo-ven Khan-okh oo-Fal-loo-ah v’khets-ron v’khar-mee.
This verse lists the sons of Reuben. Each name is simply a proper noun denoting a person. The ‘v’ sounds represent the Hebrew letter ‘vav’ which often functions as ‘and’.
[GEN.46.10] And the sons of Simeon are Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Saul, son of the Canaanite woman. [§]
Oo-ve-nay shih-meh-ohn yih-moo-el ve-yah-meen ve-oh-had ve-yah-keen ve-tso-har ve-shah-ool ben-hah-keh-nah-ah-neet.
This verse lists the sons of Simeon. Each name is a proper noun, and 'ben' means 'son of'. 'Hah-keh-nah-ah-neet' signifies 'the Canaanite woman'.
[GEN.46.11] And the sons of Levi were Gershon, Kehat, and Merari. [§]
uvenei levi gershon kehat umerari
This verse lists the names of the sons of Levi. 'Benei' means 'sons of'. 'Levi' is a proper noun, the name of a person. 'Gershon', 'Kehat', and 'Merari' are also proper nouns, the names of persons.
[GEN.46.12] And the sons of Judah were Eyr, Onan, Shelah, Perez, and Zarach. And Eyr and Onan died in the land of Canaan. And the sons of Perez were Chetzron and Chamul. [§]
uveneiy yehudah eyr veonan veshelah vaferetz vazarach vayamat eyr veonan beeretz kenahan vayihyu veneiy peretz chetzron vechamul.
This verse describes the descendants of Judah. 'Beneiy' means 'sons of'. 'Eyr' and 'Onan' are names. 'Shelah', 'Perez', and 'Zarach' are also names. The verse states that Eyr and Onan died in the land of Canaan. Finally, it notes that the sons of Perez were Chetzron and Chamul.
[GEN.46.13] And the sons of Issachar are Toolah and Poovah and Yov and Shimron. [§]
Ooov’nei Yishas’char Toolah Ooov’vah V’yov V’shim’ron.
This verse lists the sons of Issachar. ‘Benei’ means ‘sons of’. Yishas’char is a proper noun, a name. Toolah, Poovah, Yov, and Shimron are also proper nouns, names of the sons. ‘V’ is a conjunction meaning ‘and’.
[GEN.46.14] And the sons of Zebulun are Sered, Elon, and Yachlael. [§]
uVnei Zvulun Sered VeElon VeYachlael
This verse lists the sons of Zebulun. 'Bnei' means 'sons of'. 'Zvulun' is the name of the tribe. 'Sered', 'Elon', and 'Yachlael' are the names of the sons.
[GEN.46.15] These are the sons of Leah, who bore them to Jacob in Paddan Aram, and also Dinah, her daughter. The total number of her sons and daughters was thirty-three. [§]
Elleh bene Leah asher yaldah leYaakov bePaddan Aram ve'et Dinah bito kol nefesh banav uvenotav shloshim veshalosh.
This verse lists the children of Leah, who were born to Jacob in Paddan Aram, and also mentions Dinah, her daughter. It states the total number of her sons and daughters as thirty-three.
[GEN.46.16] And the sons of Gad are Tsiphyon and Chaggi Shuni and Etsbon E’ri and Arodi and Ar’eli. [§]
oo-v’nei Gad Tsiphyon v’Chaggi Shuni v’Etsbon E’ri va’Arodi v’Ar’eli
This verse lists the names of the sons of Gad. Each name is a proper noun, and we treat them as such. The ‘v’ at the beginning of most names represents 'and'.
[GEN.46.17] And the sons of Asher were Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, Beriah, and Serah, their sister. And the sons of Beriah were Hever and Malkiel. [§]
uvene Asher yimna veyishva veyishvi uberia veserah ahotaam uveinei Beria hever umalkiel.
This verse lists the descendants of Asher. "Benei Asher" means "the sons of Asher". The names listed are those of sons and daughters. "Ahotaam" means "their sister". The verse essentially reads: "And the sons of Asher were Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, Beriah, and Serah, their sister. And the sons of Beriah were Hever and Malkiel."
[GEN.46.18] These are the sons of Zilpah, which Laban gave to Leah, her daughter. And she bore these to Jacob, sixteen individuals. [§]
Elleh benee Zilpah asher natan Lavan leLeah bitoo vateled et eleh leyakob shesh esreh nafesh.
This verse lists the descendants of Zilpah, who was given to Leah by Laban. It states that she bore these children to Jacob, totaling sixteen individuals. 'Elleh' means 'these', 'benee' means 'sons of', 'Zilpah' is a proper name, 'asher' means 'which/who', 'natan' means 'gave', 'Lavan' is a proper name, 'leLeah' means 'to Leah', 'bitoo' means 'her daughter', 'vateled' means 'and she bore', 'et eleh' means 'these', 'leyakob' means 'to Jacob', 'shesh esreh' means 'sixteen', and 'nafesh' means 'souls/individuals'.
[GEN.46.19] The sons of Rachel, wife of Jacob, are Joseph and Benjamin. [§]
bnei rachel eshet yaakov yosef ubinyamin
“Bnei” means sons. “Rachel” is a proper noun, the name Rachel. “Eshet” means wife of. “Yaakov” is a proper noun, the name Jacob. “Yosef” is a proper noun, the name Joseph. “U” means and. “Binyamin” is a proper noun, the name Benjamin.
[GEN.46.20] And he bore to Joseph in the land of Egypt, which she bore to him Asenath, daughter of Poti-pherah, a priest of On, Manasseh and Ephraim. [§]
Va-yee-vah-led le-yo-sef be-eretz mitz-rah-yim asher yal-dah-loo as-nat bat-po-tee fer-ah koh-en ohn et-me-nah-sheh ve-et-ef-rah-eem.
This verse describes the birth of Joseph’s sons in the land of Egypt. It states that Asenath, the daughter of Poti-pherah, a priest of On, bore him Manasseh and Ephraim. The words 'va-yee-vah-led' means 'and he bore', 'le-yo-sef' means 'to Joseph', 'be-eretz mitz-rah-yim' means 'in the land of Egypt', 'asher' means 'which', 'yal-dah-loo' means 'she bore to him', 'as-nat' is the name Asenath, 'bat-po-tee fer-ah' means 'daughter of Poti-pherah', 'koh-en ohn' means 'priest of On', 'et-me-nah-sheh' means 'Manasseh', 've-et-ef-rah-eem' means 'and Ephraim'.
[GEN.46.21] And the sons of Benjamin were Belea, and Beker, and Ashbel, Gera, and Naaman, Ehi, and Roash, Mufim, and Hufim, and Ard. [§]
oo-və-nee bin-yah-meen beh-lah oo-vah-kher və-ash-bell geh-rah və-nah-ah-man eh-hee və-roh-ash moo-feeem və-hoo-feeem və-ard.
This verse lists the sons of Benjamin. Each name is a proper noun, and the final word likely refers to cities or places associated with these individuals. The structure is a simple listing of names connected by 'and'.
[GEN.46.22] These are the sons of Rachel who were born to Jacob. Every person numbered fourteen. [§]
el-leh ben-ei ra-hel a-sher yu-lad le-ya-ak-ov kol-ne-fesh ar-ba-ah es-reh
This verse lists the sons of Rachel who were born to Jacob. “El-leh” means “these”. “Ben-ei” means “sons of”. “Ra-hel” is the name Rachel. “A-sher” means “who/which/that”. “Yu-lad” means “were born”. “Le-ya-ak-ov” means “to Jacob”. “Kol-ne-fesh” means “every soul/person”. “Ar-ba-ah es-reh” means “fourteen”.
[GEN.46.23] And the sons of Dan were skillful. [§]
Oo-ve-nee-Dan khush-eem.
This verse consists of two parts. ‘Oo-ve-nee’ means ‘and the sons of’. ‘Dan’ is a proper noun, the name of one of the tribes of Israel. ‘Khush-eem’ is the plural form of a noun meaning ‘skillful’ or ‘craftsmen’. Therefore, the verse refers to the descendants of Dan being skillful people.
[GEN.46.24] And the sons of Naphtali are Yachzael and Gooni and Yetzer and Shillem. [§]
oo-v’nee naf-tah-lee yach-tzah-el v’goo-nee v’yeh-tzer v’shil-lem
This verse lists the sons of Naphtali. Each name is simply listed in sequence. 'B’nee' means 'sons of'. The 'v’/'and' conjunction is used repeatedly to connect the names.
[GEN.46.25] These are the sons of Bilhah, who Lavan gave to Rachel as a daughter, and she bore these to Jacob; every person numbered seven. [§]
Eleh benee Bilhah asher natan Lavan lerahel bitto vateled et eleh lyaakov kol nefesh shivah.
This verse lists the sons of Bilhah, who Lavan gave to Rachel as a daughter, and who she bore to Jacob; the total number of persons is seven. 'Eleh' means 'these'. 'Benee' means 'sons of'. 'Asher' means 'who/which'. 'Natan' means 'gave'. 'Bitto' means 'as daughter'. 'Vateled' means 'and she bore'. 'Kol nefesh' means 'every person/soul'.
[GEN.46.26] All the souls who came to Jacob to Egypt, descendants of his thigh, apart from the women of the sons of Jacob, all the souls were sixty and six. [§]
kal-hanefesh haba'ah liyakob mitzraymah yotzei yerekho milvad neshei benei yakov kal-nefesh shishim vashish
This verse details the number of people who came to Egypt with Jacob (Israel). "Kal-hanefesh" means "all the souls". "Baa'ah liyakob mitzraymah" means "who came to Jacob to Egypt". "Yotzei yerekho" means "coming from the thigh" or, more naturally, "descendants of". "Milvad neshei benei yakov" means "apart from the women of the sons of Jacob". "Kal-nefesh" again means "all the souls". "Shishim vashish" means "sixty and six", or sixty-six.
[GEN.46.27] And the sons of Joseph who were born to him in Egypt were two people. All the people of the house of Jacob who came from Egypt were seventy. [§]
oo-v'nei yo-sef a-sher yoo-lad lo bee-mitz-raim ne-fesh sh'nai-yim kol-ha-ne-fesh l'beit ya-a-kov ha-vah mee-tzrai-mah shiv-eem.
This verse describes the descendants of Joseph who were born to him in Egypt. It states that the total number of people from the house of Jacob who came to Egypt was seventy. 'Bnei' means 'sons', 'asher' means 'who', 'yulad' means 'was born', 'lo' means 'to him', 'b'mitzrayim' means 'in Egypt', 'nefesh' means 'soul' or 'person', 'sh'naiyim' means 'two', 'kol' means 'all', 'l'beit ya'akov' means 'to the house of Jacob', 'haba' means 'coming', 'meetzraymah' means 'from Egypt', and 'shiv'eem' means 'seventy'.
[GEN.46.28] And Judah he sent before him to Joseph, to guide before him to the land of Goshen, and they came to the land of Goshen. [§]
ve'et-y'hudah shalach l'fanav el-yosef l'horot l'fanav goshnah vayavo'u artzah goshn.
This verse describes Judah being sent ahead of Jacob to Joseph, to guide them to the land of Goshen. 'Ve'et' means 'and'. 'Y'hudah' is Judah. 'Shalach' means 'he sent'. 'L'fanav' means 'before him', referring to Jacob. 'El-yosef' means 'to Joseph'. 'L'horot' means 'to instruct' or 'to guide'. 'Goshnah' is the name of the land, Goshen. 'Vayavo'u' means 'and they came'. 'Artzah' means 'to the land of'. 'Goshn' is a variant spelling of Goshen.
[GEN.46.29] And Joseph restrained his chariot and went up to meet Israel, his father, to Goshen. And he appeared to him, and he fell upon his neck and wept upon his neck still. [§]
Va-ye-sor Yo-sef mer-kha-v-to va-ya-al li-kre-at Yis-ra-el aviv Go-she-na va-ye-ra el-av va-yip-ol al-tzav-a-rav va-ye-vek al-tzav-a-rav od.
This verse describes Joseph going to meet his father, Israel. It details Joseph's journey by chariot to Goshen, and his emotional reunion with his father, falling upon his neck and weeping.
[GEN.46.30] And Israel said to Joseph, "I will surely die now, after having seen your face, because you are still alive." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yis-ra-el el Yo-sef a-mut-ah ha-pa-am ah-har-ei re-o-ti et pa-ne-cha ki o-dech-ah hai.
This verse contains several names for God and common expressions. "Yisrael" is the name of Jacob, a patriarch of the Israelites. "Yo-sef" is the name of Joseph, his son. The verse expresses Israel’s desire to die now that he has seen Joseph again, believing Joseph is still alive.
[GEN.46.31] And Joseph said to his brothers and to the household of his father, "I will go up and tell Pharaoh, and I will say to him, ‘My brothers and the household of my father, who are in the land of Canaan, have come to me.’" [§]
vayomer yosef el echav ve'el beit aviv ae'leh ve'agidah lefar'oh ve'omrah elav achai ubeit avi asher be'eretz kena'an bau elai.
This verse recounts Joseph speaking to his brothers and his father’s household. He states his intention to go up and tell Pharaoh that his brothers and his father's household, who are in the land of Canaan, have come to him.
[GEN.46.32] And the men were shepherds, for they were men of livestock. And their sheep and cattle and all that belonged to them they brought. [§]
veha’anashim ro’ei tzo’n ki-anshei mikneh hayu ve’tsonam ub’karam ve’chol asher lahem heviu.
This verse describes some men as shepherds, stating they were men of livestock. It further states that they brought all that belonged to them.
[GEN.46.33] And it will be that when Pharaoh calls to you and says, "What [are] your works?" [§]
vehaya ki yikra lakhem paroh ve’amar ma’ma’aseikhem
This verse comes from Exodus 5:9. ‘Vehaya’ means ‘and it will be’. ‘Ki’ means ‘that’ or ‘when’. ‘Yikra’ means ‘he calls’. ‘Lakhem’ means ‘to you’. ‘Paroh’ is the name ‘Pharaoh’. ‘Ve’amar’ means ‘and he says’. ‘Ma’ma’aseikhem’ means ‘what [are] your works’.
[GEN.46.34] And you will say, "People of livestock, your servants have been shepherds from our youth until now, both we and our fathers." Therefore, you may dwell in the land of Goshen, because all shepherds are an abomination to the Egyptians. [§]
Va'amartem anshei mikneh hayu avadeyha mine'ureinu ve'ad-'atah gam-anachnu gam-avoteinu ba'avur teshu be'eretz Goshen ki-to'avat mitzrayim kol-ro'eh tzon.
This verse is from Genesis 46:34. It details the explanation given to the Egyptians regarding why shepherds were considered detestable. The Israelites are explaining that their ancestors and they themselves have always been shepherds from their youth until now. This is the reason they request to dwell in the land of Goshen, as Egyptians found shepherds to be abhorrent.
GEN.47
[GEN.47.1] And Joseph came and told Pharaoh, and he said, “My father and my brothers and their sheep and their cattle and all that they have come from the land of Canaan, and now they are in the land of Goshen.” [§]
Va-yo-vo Yo-sef va-ya-ged le-Par-oh va-yo-mer Avi ve-achai ve-tsonam u-ve-karam ve-chol asher lahem bau me-eretz Ke-na-an ve-hinam be-eretz Go-shen.
This verse describes Joseph informing Pharaoh that his father and brothers, along with their flocks and cattle, have come from the land of Canaan and are now in the land of Goshen. It’s a report of their arrival and location.
[GEN.47.2] And he took five men from among his brothers and he presented them before Pharaoh. [§]
oo-mee-keh-eh ah-khawv lah-kah-khah khah-mee-shah ah-nah-sheem vah-yah-tzee-gem lee-fneh-ee par-oh
This verse describes taking five men from among his brothers and presenting them before Pharaoh. "Mikzeh" means 'from the end of' or 'from among'. "Achav" means 'his brothers'. "Lakach" means 'he took'. "Chamishah" means 'five'. "Anashim" means 'men'. "Vayatzigem" means 'and he presented them'. "Lifnei" means 'before'. "Paroh" means 'Pharaoh'.
[GEN.47.3] And Pharaoh said to his brothers, "What is your work?" And they said to Pharaoh, "Your servant’s family tends sheep, both we and our fathers." [§]
Va-yo-mer Par-oh el-eh-chai-v ma-ma-asei-chem va-yo-meru el-Par-oh ro-eh tzon avadei-cha gam-anachnu gam-avoteinu.
This verse recounts a conversation between Pharaoh and the brothers of Joseph. Pharaoh asks them what their occupation is, and they respond by stating they are shepherds, as were their fathers.
[GEN.47.4] And they said to Pharaoh, "To dwell in the land we have come, for there is no pasture for the sheep which belong to the servants of yours, for heavy is the famine in the land of Canaan. And now, let the servants of yours reside in the land of Goshen." [§]
vayomru el paroh lagur baaretz vanu ki ein mireh latzon asher laavadecha ki chaved harava beeretz kenaan veatah yeshvu na avadecha beeretz goshen
This verse consists of a statement made to Pharaoh. The speakers are requesting permission to reside in the land of Egypt because there is no pasture for their livestock in the land of Canaan, due to a severe famine. They ask to settle in the land of Goshen.
[GEN.47.5] And Pharaoh said to Joseph, to say, "Your father and your brothers have come to you." [§]
Va-yo-mer Par-oh el-Yo-sef le-e-mor Avi-cha ve-a-che-cha bau ei-le-cha.
This verse recounts Pharaoh speaking to Joseph. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Par-oh' is Pharaoh. 'el-Yo-sef' means 'to Joseph'. 'le-e-mor' means 'to say'. 'Avi-cha' means 'your father'. 've-a-che-cha' means 'and your brothers'. 'bau' means 'they came'. 'ei-le-cha' means 'to you'.
[GEN.47.6] The land of Egypt is before you. Settle your father and your brothers in the best part of the land. And if you know of capable people among them, appoint them overseers of my livestock. [§]
Eretz Mitsrayim lifanekha hee, b'meytab ha'aretz hhoshev et-aviha ve'et-acheha yeyishvu b'eretz Goshen ve'im-yada'ta ve'yesh-bam anshei-chayil vesamtem sarei mikneh al-asher-li.
This verse is spoken by Joseph to his brothers. He is telling them that the land of Egypt is before them and to settle their father and brothers in the land of Goshen. He also asks them if they are capable people and if so, to appoint them overseers of his livestock.
[GEN.47.7] And Joseph brought Jacob, his father, and he stationed him before Pharaoh, and Jacob blessed Pharaoh. [§]
Va-yavea Yosef et Yaakov aviv va-yaamiduhu lifnei Paroh va-yivarech Yaakov et Paroh.
This verse describes Joseph bringing his father Jacob before Pharaoh, and Jacob blessing Pharaoh. 'Va-yavea' means 'and Joseph brought'. 'Et' is a grammatical marker. 'Yaakov' is Jacob. 'Aviv' means 'his father'. 'Va-yaamiduhu' means 'and he stationed him' or 'and he stood him'. 'Lifnei' means 'before'. 'Paroh' is Pharaoh. 'Va-yivarech' means 'and blessed'.
[GEN.47.8] And Pharaoh said to Jacob, "How many are the days of the years of your life?" [§]
Va-yo-mer Par-oh el-Ya-a-kov, ka-mah ye-mei sh-nei cha-ye-cha?
This verse is from Genesis 47:28. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Par-oh' is 'Pharaoh'. 'El' means 'to'. 'Ya-a-kov' is 'Jacob'. 'Ka-mah' means 'how many'. 'Ye-mei' means 'days of'. 'Sh-nei' means 'years of'. 'Cha-ye-cha' means 'your life'. The verse is a question asked by Pharaoh to Jacob.
[GEN.47.9] And Jacob said to Pharaoh, "The days of the years of my dwelling are one hundred and thirty years. They have been few and bad, and they did not reach the days of the lives of my fathers in the years of their dwelling." [§]
Va-yo-mer Ya-akov el Par-oh Ye-mei shnei megurei shloshim u-meat shanah me-at ve-ra-im hayu ye-mei shnei chayei ve-lo his-si-gu et ye-mei shnei chayei avotai bi-mei megureihem.
This verse is from Genesis 47:28. It describes Jacob speaking to Pharaoh about the length of his life. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said.' 'Ya-akov' is Jacob. 'el Par-oh' means 'to Pharaoh.' 'Ye-mei' means 'days of.' 'shnei megurei' means 'years of my dwelling'. 'shloshim u-meat' is 'thirty and one hundred' (130). 'shanah' means 'year.' 'me-at ve-ra-im' means 'few and bad'. 'hayu' means 'were'. 've-lo his-si-gu' means 'they did not reach'. 'et ye-mei shnei chayei avotai' means 'the days of the lives of my fathers'. 'bi-mei megureihem' means 'in the years of their dwelling'.
[GEN.47.10] And Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and he departed from the presence of Pharaoh. [§]
vayvarech yaakov et pareoh vayeitse milifnei pareoh
This verse describes Jacob blessing Pharaoh and then departing from Pharaoh's presence. ‘Vayvarech’ means ‘and blessed’. ‘Yaakov’ is the name Jacob. ‘Et’ is an untranslated particle. ‘Pareoh’ is the name Pharaoh. ‘Vayeitse’ means ‘and he departed’. ‘Milifnei’ means ‘from before’ or ‘from the presence of.’
[GEN.47.11] And Joseph settled his father and his brothers. And he gave to them a holding in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land, in the land of Ra'amesses, as Pharaoh commanded. [§]
vayyoshev yosef et aviv ve'et echav vayitten lahem achuzza b'eretz mitzrayim b'meitav ha'aretz b'eretz ra'amesses ka'asher tzivva par'oh.
This verse describes Joseph settling his father and brothers in the land of Egypt. He gave them a portion of land in the best part of the land, in the land of Ra'amesses, as Pharaoh commanded.
[GEN.47.12] And Joseph sustained his father and his brothers and the entire household of his father with food for the mouths of the infants. [§]
vayechalkel yosef et aviv ve’et echav ve’et kol beit aviv lechem lefi hataf.
This verse describes Joseph providing food for his father, brothers, and the entire household of his father. 'Vayechalkel' means 'and he sustained'. 'Yosef' is the name Joseph. 'Et' is a grammatical particle that often indicates a direct object. 'Aviv' means 'his father'. 'Ve’et echav' means 'and his brothers'. 'Ve’et kol beit aviv' means 'and the entire household of his father'. 'Lechem' means 'bread/food'. 'Lefi hataf' means 'for the mouths of the infants'.
[GEN.47.13] And there was no bread in all the land, for the famine was very severe. And the land of Egypt and the land of Canaan withered because of the famine. [§]
ve-lechem ein be-chol-ha-aretz ki-kaved ha-ra'av me'od vate'lah eretz mitzrayim ve-eretz kena'an mipnei ha-ra'av.
This verse describes a severe famine affecting the land. 'Lechem' means bread, 'ein' means there is none, 'chol' means all, 'ha-aretz' means the land, 'ki' means for/because, 'kaved' means heavy/severe, 'ha-ra'av' means the famine, 'me'od' means very/greatly, 'vate'lah' means it withered/failed, 'eretz mitzrayim' means the land of Egypt, 'eretz kena'an' means the land of Canaan, 'mipnei' means because of/in the face of. The verse essentially states that there was no bread throughout the land because the famine was very severe, and both the land of Egypt and the land of Canaan suffered due to the famine.
[GEN.47.14] And Joseph gathered all the silver that was found in the land of Egypt and in the land of Canaan, for the breaking (buying) that they were breaking (buying). And Joseph brought the silver to the house of Pharaoh. [§]
vayelaket yosef et kol hakesef hanimtsa be'eretz mitzrayim ube'eretz kena'an bashever asher hem shoverim vayave yosef et hakesef beyta par'oh.
This verse describes Joseph collecting all the silver found in the land of Egypt and the land of Canaan, obtained through the famine when people were breaking (buying) grain. Joseph then brought the silver to Pharaoh’s house.
[GEN.47.15] And the money was used up from the land of Egypt and from the land of Canaan. And all of Egypt came to Joseph, saying, "Give us bread, and why should we die before you, for all the money is gone?" [§]
Va-yitom ha-kesef me-eretz mitzrayim u-me-eretz kena'an va-yavo kol-mitzrayim el-yosef le'emor haba-lanu lechem ve-lama namut negdech ki afes kesef.
This verse describes a famine in Egypt and Canaan, leading all of Egypt to come to Joseph to buy bread. They plead with him to give them bread, stating they would rather die in his presence than starve, as all their money is gone.
[GEN.47.16] And Joseph said, "Bring your livestock, and I will give to you with your livestock, if the silver fails." [§]
vayomer yosef habu mikneikhem ve'etnah lakhem bemikneikhem im-afes kasef.
This verse comes from Genesis 47:16. "Vayomer" means "and said". "Yosef" is Joseph. "Habu" means "bring". "Mikneikhem" means "your livestock". "Ve'etnah" means "and I will give". "Lakhem" means "to you". "Bemikneikhem" means "with your livestock". "Im-afes" means "if it fails". "Kasef" means "silver". This verse is part of Joseph's proposal to trade all of Egypt’s property for food in exchange for livestock during a famine.
[GEN.47.17] And they brought their livestock to Joseph, and Joseph gave them food for the horses and for the livestock of the sheep and for the livestock of the cattle and for the donkeys, and he sustained them with food with all their livestock in that year. [§]
Va-ya-vee-oo et-mik-neh-hem el-yo-sef, va-yee-ten la-hem yo-sef le-chem ba-soo-seem u-ve-mik-neh ha-tson u-ve-mik-neh ha-ba-kar u-va-cha-mo-rim, va-ye-na-h-lem ba-le-chem be-chol-mik-neh-hem ba-sha-nah ha-hee.
This verse describes Joseph providing food to the people who came to him during the famine. 'Mikneh' refers to livestock. 'Sooseem' are horses, 'tson' are sheep, 'ba-kar' are cattle, and 'cha-morim' are donkeys. 'Lechem' means food or bread. 'Ba-shanah ha-hee' means 'in that year'.
[GEN.47.18] And the year was completed, and they came to my Lord in the second year and said to him, “We will not hide anything from my Lord, for the money is spent and the livestock are my Lord’s; nothing remains before my Lord except our bodies and our land.” [§]
Va-tit-tom ha-sha-nah ha-hu-a, va-ya-vo-u e-lav ba-sha-nah ha-she-nee-t va-yo-meru lo, lo ne-cha-ed me-a-do-nai ki im tam ha-kesef u-mik-neh ha-be-he-mah el a-do-nai, lo nish-ar lif-nei a-do-nai bil-ti im gve-ya-te-nu ve-ad-ma-te-nu.
This verse describes a situation where people are reporting to their Lord that they have exhausted all of their resources and have nothing left to offer except their bodies and land. The verse uses repetitions of 'Adonai' meaning 'my Lord'. It highlights their complete dependence and submission to him.
[GEN.47.19] Why should we die before your eyes, both we and our land? Sell us and our land for bread, and let us be servants to Pharaoh. Give us seed that we may live, and not die, and that the land may not be desolate. [§]
lah-mah nah-moot le-ay-ney-kah gam-ah-nah-khoo gam ad-mah-teh-noo ke-neh-oh-tah-noo veh-et ad-mah-teh-noo bah-lah-khem veh-nee-yeh ah-nah-khoo veh-ad-mah-teh-noo ah-vah-deem le-far-oh veh-ten ze-rah veh-nee-kheh veh-loh nah-moot veh-hah-ah-dah-mah lo tee-shahm.
This verse is a plea to a powerful figure (likely a representative of the Gods) during a time of famine. The people are offering themselves and their land as slaves in exchange for seed to grow food and survive. They ask not to die, and for the land not to be laid waste. The verse demonstrates a desperate situation and a willingness to submit to servitude for the sake of survival.
[GEN.47.20] And Joseph bought all the land of Egypt for Pharaoh, because the Egyptians sold their fields, for the famine was strong upon them, and the land became Pharaoh’s. [§]
va-yik-en yo-sef et-kol-ad-mat mitz-raim le-far-oh ki-mach-ru mitz-raim ish sa-deh-hu ki-chazak alei-hem ha-ra-av va-te-hi ha-aretz le-far-oh.
This verse describes how Joseph acquired all the land of Egypt for Pharaoh. It explains that the Egyptians sold their fields because of a severe famine, and consequently, the land became Pharaoh's property.
[GEN.47.21] And the people, he transferred them to cities from the end of the border of Egypt and until its end. [§]
ve'et-ha'am he'evir oto le'arim miktzeh gevul-mitzrayim ve'ad-katzehu.
This verse describes the transfer of the people to cities. 've'et' means 'and'. 'ha'am' means 'the people'. 'he'evir' means 'he passed over' or 'he transferred'. 'oto' means 'him' or 'it' (referring to the people). 'le'arim' means 'to cities'. 'miktzeh' means 'from the end of'. 'gevul-mitzrayim' means 'the border of Egypt'. 've'ad' means 'and until'. 'katzehu' means 'its end'.
[GEN.47.22] Only the land of the priests was not purchased, because a law for the priests came from Pharaoh, and they consumed the law that Pharaoh gave to them. Therefore, they did not sell their land. [§]
rak admat hakohanim lo kanah ki hok lakohanim meat paroh ve'achlu et hukam asher natan lahem paroh al ken lo machru et admatam.
This verse discusses land ownership specifically relating to the priests. It states that the land of the priests was not purchased because the priests received a law from Pharaoh, and they consumed that law, which Pharaoh had given them. As a result of this law, they did not sell their land.
[GEN.47.23] And Joseph said to the people, "Indeed, I have bought you today, and your land for Pharaoh. Here for you is seed, and you will sow the land." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yo-sef el-ha-am hen ka-nee-tee et-chem ha-yom ve-et ad-ma-tchem le-far-oh he-la-chem ze-ra ve-zi-ra-tem et-ha-a-da-mah.
This verse comes from Genesis 47:23. It describes Joseph speaking to the people after they have sold themselves and their land to Pharaoh. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Yo-sef' is 'Joseph'. 'el-ha-am' means 'to the people'. 'hen' means 'behold' or 'indeed'. 'ka-nee-tee' means 'I have bought'. 'et-chem' means 'you'. 'ha-yom' means 'today'. 've-et ad-ma-tchem' means 'and your land'. 'le-far-oh' means 'for Pharaoh'. 'he-la-chem' means 'here for you'. 'ze-ra' means 'seed'. 've-zi-ra-tem' means 'and you will sow'. 'et-ha-a-da-mah' means 'the land'.
[GEN.47.24] And it will be, at the harvests, that you will give one-fifth to Pharaoh, and four portions will be yours for the seed of the field and for your food and for keeping in your houses and for feeding your children. [§]
ve-ha-ya bi-tev-u-ot u-netatem chamishit le-par-oh ve-ar-ba ha-yadot yi-hyeh la-chem le-zera ha-sadeh u-le-ochlechem ve-la-asher be-bateichem u-le-echol le-tafchechem.
This verse describes a tax imposed by Pharaoh during a famine. 'Tevuot' refers to produce or harvests. The tax is one-fifth of the harvest given to Pharaoh. The remaining four-fifths are for the people: for sowing seed, for eating, for keeping in their homes, and for feeding their children.
[GEN.47.25] And they said, "You have revived us. We have found favor in the eyes of my Lord, and we will be servants to Pharaoh." [§]
vayomru hekhayitanu nimtsa khen beeinei adonai vehayinu avadim lefaroh
This verse consists of several words. 'Vayomru' means 'and they said'. 'Hekhayitanu' means 'you have revived us'. 'Nimtsa khen' means 'found favor'. 'Beeinei' means 'in the eyes of'. 'Adonai' means 'my Lord'. 'Vehayinu' means 'and we will be'. 'Avadim' means 'servants'. 'Lefaroh' means 'to Pharaoh'. The verse describes a people offering themselves as servants to Pharaoh because they believe he has saved their lives.
[GEN.47.26] And Joseph established it as a law until this day on the land of Egypt, for a fifth to Pharaoh, only the land of the priests was not for Pharaoh. [§]
vayyasem otah Yosef lechok ad-hayom hazeh al-admat Mitzrayim leparoh lachomesh rak admat hakohenim levadam lo haytah leparoh.
This verse describes Joseph establishing a law in Egypt where one-fifth of the land’s produce belonged to Pharaoh. However, the land belonging to the priests was exempt from this law. 'Vayyasem' means 'and he put' or 'and he established'. 'Otah' is 'it' or 'her'. 'Yosef' is 'Joseph'. 'Lechok' means 'as a law'. 'Ad-hayom hazeh' is 'until this day'. 'Al-admat Mitzrayim' is 'on the land of Egypt'. 'LeParoh' means 'to Pharaoh'. 'Lachomesh' means 'as a fifth' or 'for a fifth'. 'Rak' means 'only'. 'Admat hakohenim' means 'the land of the priests'. 'Levadam' means 'for them alone'. 'Lo haytah' means 'was not'.
[GEN.47.27] And Israel settled in the land of Egypt, in the land of Goshen, and they took hold of it, and they flourished and multiplied greatly. [§]
Va-yeshev Yisrael be-eretz Mitzrayim be-eretz Goshen va-ye’achazu bah va-yipru va-yirbu me’od.
This verse describes the settling of the Israelites in the land of Egypt, specifically the land of Goshen. It states they took hold of the land, flourished, and multiplied greatly. ‘Va-yeshev’ indicates ‘and he settled’. ‘Yisrael’ is the name Israel. ‘Be-eretz’ means ‘in the land’. ‘Mitzrayim’ is the name Egypt. ‘Goshen’ is the name Goshen. ‘Va-ye’achazu’ means ‘and they took hold’. ‘Bah’ refers to ‘in it’ (the land). ‘Va-yipru’ means ‘and they flourished’. ‘Va-yirbu’ means ‘and they multiplied’. ‘Me’od’ means ‘greatly’.
[GEN.47.28] And Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years. And the years of Jacob’s life were one hundred seventy years. [§]
vaychi yaakov beeretz mitzrayim shva esreh shanah vayhi yemei yaakov shnei chayav shva shanim ve'arba'im u'meat shanah.
This verse states how long Jacob lived in the land of Egypt, and the total years of his life. 'Vaychi' means 'and lived'. 'Yaakov' is Jacob. 'Beeretz' means 'in the land of'. 'Mitzrayim' is Egypt. 'Shva esreh' means 'seventeen'. 'Shanah' means 'year'. 'Vayhi' means 'and were'. 'Yemei' means 'days of'. 'Shnei' means 'years of'. 'Chayav' means 'his life'. 'Ve'arba'im' means 'and forty'. 'U'meat' means 'and one hundred'.
[GEN.47.29] The days of Israel drew near to death, and he called to his son Joseph, and said to him, "If, please, I have found favor in your eyes, place your hand under my thigh, and do with me kindness and truth. Please do not bury me in Egypt." [§]
vayikrevu yemey yisrael lamut, vayikra livno liyosef, vayomer lo im na matzati chen beeinecha sim na yadcha tachat yerekhi veasita imadi chesed veemet al na tikbreini bemitzrayim.
This verse describes Jacob nearing death. He calls for his son Joseph and makes a request of him. He asks Joseph to place his hand under his thigh as a pledge, and to act with kindness and truth towards him by not burying him in Egypt.
[GEN.47.30] And I will lie down with my fathers, and you will carry me from Egypt and bury me in their burial place. And he said, "I will do according to your word." [§]
veshakhavti im-avotai unesa’tani mimitzrayim ukvar’tani bikvuratam vayomer anokhi e’ese kidvarecha.
This verse comes from Genesis 47:30. It’s Jacob’s request to Joseph regarding his burial. He asks to be laid with his fathers, to be carried from Egypt, and to be buried in their burial place. Then Joseph affirms he will do as Jacob has spoken. 'Avotai' is the plural of 'father'. 'Mitzrayim' is Egypt. 'Kvuratam' is their burial place. 'Anokhi' means 'I'. 'E’ese' means 'I will do'. 'Kidvarecha' means 'according to your word'.
[GEN.47.31] And he said, "Swear to me!" And he swore to him, and Israel prostrated themselves upon the head of the bed. [§]
va-yo-mer hi-shava-ah li, va-yi-shava-u lo, va-yish-tachavu yis-ra-el al-rosh ha-mittah.
This verse describes a swearing of an oath. "Va-yo-mer" means "and he said". "Hi-shava-ah li" means "swear to me". "Va-yi-shava-u lo" means "and he swore to him". "Va-yish-tachavu yis-ra-el" means "and Israel prostrated themselves". "al-rosh ha-mittah" means "upon the head of the bed".
GEN.48
[GEN.48.1] And it happened after these things that he said to Joseph, "Behold, your father is sick." And he took his two sons with him, Manasseh and Ephraim. [§]
va-yhi aharei ha-devarim ha-eleh va-yomer le-Yosef hinei avicha holeh va-yiqach et-shnei banav imo et-Menasheh ve-et-Ephraim.
This verse describes what happened after certain events. It states that a message was given to Joseph that his father was sick. As a result, he took his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, with him.
[GEN.48.2] And he told to Jacob, and he said, "Behold, your son Joseph comes to you." And Israel strengthened himself, and he sat on the bed. [§]
vayaged leyakob vayomer hineh bincha yosef ba elecha vayitchazek yisrael vayeshev al hamitta
This verse describes a message being delivered to Jacob about his son Joseph's return. 'Vayaged' means 'and he told'. 'Leyakob' means 'to Jacob'. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Hineh' means 'behold'. 'Bincha' means 'your son'. 'Yosef' is the name 'Joseph'. 'Ba elecha' means 'comes to you'. 'Vayitchazek' means 'and he strengthened'. 'Yisrael' is the name 'Israel'. 'Vayeshev' means 'and he sat'. 'Al hamitta' means 'on the bed'.
[GEN.48.3] And Jacob said to Joseph, "God Shaddai appeared to me at Luz in the land of Canaan, and blessed me." [§]
vayomer yaakov el-yosef, el shaddai nireh-elai beluz bearetz kenaan vayvarech oti.
This verse recounts Jacob speaking to Joseph. He states that God Shaddai appeared to him at Luz, in the land of Canaan, and blessed him. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'El' means 'God'. 'Shaddai' is a name of God often associated with strength and abundance. 'Nireh-elai' means 'appeared to me'. 'Beluz' means 'at Luz'. 'Bearetz kenaan' means 'in the land of Canaan'. 'Vayvarech oti' means 'and blessed me'.
[GEN.48.4] And He said to me, "Behold, I will spread you and increase you, and I will give you to a gathering of peoples, and I will give this land to your seed after you, a possession forever." [§]
va-yo-mer e-lai hi-nei map-rech-kha ve-hir-bee-tee-kha oo-ne-ta-tee-kha liq-hal am-eem ve-na-ta-tee et-ha-a-retz ha-zo-at le-zar-a-cha a-cha-reicha a-chu-zat o-lam.
This verse contains a promise from God to an individual. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and He said'. 'E-lai' means 'to me'. 'Hi-nei' is an expression meaning 'behold' or 'here'. 'Map-rech-kha' means 'I will spread you'. 'Ve-hir-bee-tee-kha' means 'and I will increase you'. 'Oo-ne-ta-tee-kha' means 'and I will give you'. 'Liq-hal am-eem' means 'to a gathering of peoples'. 'Ve-na-ta-tee' means 'and I will give'. 'Et-ha-a-retz ha-zo-at' means 'this land'. 'Le-zar-a-cha' means 'to your seed'. 'A-cha-reicha' means 'after you'. 'A-chu-zat o-lam' means 'possession forever'.
[GEN.48.5] And now, your two sons who are born to you in the land of Egypt, until I come to you in Egypt, are mine. Ephraim and Manasseh will be to me as Reuben and Simeon. [§]
ve'atah shnei-baneicha hannoladim lecha be'eretz mitzrayim ad-bo'i eleicha mitzraymah li-hem efrayim u'menashe kir'uvein v'shim'on yihyu-li.
This verse concerns Jacob speaking to Joseph about his sons, Ephraim and Manasseh. He is declaring that they will be treated as his own sons, inheriting as Reuben and Simeon did. The verse breaks down as follows: 'And now, your two sons who are born to you in the land of Egypt, until I come to you in Egypt, are mine. Ephraim and Manasseh, as Reuben and Simeon, will be to me.'
[GEN.48.6] Your offspring that you bore after them will be yours. They will be called by the name of your brothers in their inheritance. [§]
oo-moh-lad-teh-kah ah-sher-ho-lad-tah ah-khah-ray-hem lehkah yih-yeh-oo al shem ah-kheh-hem yih-kah-reu beh-nah-khah-lah-tem.
This verse discusses offspring born after other siblings. 'oomoladtekhah' refers to your birth(s). 'asher-holadta' means 'that you bore'. 'akharehem' means 'after them'. 'lekah yih-yeh-oo' means 'to you they will be'. 'al shem akhehhem' means 'according to the name of your brothers'. 'yikareu' means 'they will be called'. 'benachalatam' means 'in their inheritance'.
[GEN.48.7] And I, in my coming from Paddan, Rachel died upon me in the land of Canaan on the road, while still a small distance of land to come to Ephratah. And I buried her there on the road to Ephratah, that is Bethlehem. [§]
va-ani be-bo'i mipaddan meta alai rachel be-eretz kena'an ba-derech be-od kibrat-eretz laboa efrahta va-ekbreha sham be-derech efrahta hi beit lachem
This verse recounts Rachel's death during travel. 'Va-ani' means 'and I'. 'Be-bo'i mipaddan' means 'in my coming from Paddan'. 'Meta alai Rachel' means 'Rachel died upon me' (meaning, to my grief). 'Be-eretz kena'an' means 'in the land of Canaan'. 'Ba-derech' means 'on the road'. 'Be-od kibrat-eretz laboa efrahta' means 'while still a small distance of land to come to Ephratah'. 'Va-ekbreha sham' means 'and I buried her there'. 'Be-derech efrahta hi beit lachem' means 'on the road to Ephratah, that is Bethlehem'.
[GEN.48.8] And Israel saw the sons of Joseph, and he said, "Who are these?" [§]
Va-yar Isra-el et-bnei Yo-sef va-yo-mer mee-eh-leh
This verse describes Israel seeing the sons of Joseph and asking who they are. 'Va-yar' means 'and saw'. 'Isra-el' is the name Israel. 'Et' is a grammatical particle indicating the direct object. 'Bnei' means 'sons of'. 'Yo-sef' is the name Joseph. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Mee-eh-leh' means 'who are these?'
[GEN.48.9] And Joseph said to his father, “These are my sons that the Gods have given to me in this place.” And he said, “Please bring them to me, and I will bless them.” [§]
Va-yo-mer Yo-sef el-a-viv, ba-nai hem asher-na-tan-li Elohim ba-zeh. Va-yo-mer ka-chem-na eis-lai va-va-rech-em.
This verse is from Genesis 48:9. It records Joseph speaking to his father Jacob. Joseph is identifying his sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, to Jacob. He states that the Gods have given him these sons. He then requests that Jacob bless them.
[GEN.48.10] And the eyes of Israel became heavy from old age, so that he could not see. And they brought them near to him, and he kissed them and embraced them. [§]
veiinei yisrael kabdu mizoken lo yuchal lir'ot vayagesh otam elav vayishak lahem vaychabek lahem.
This verse describes the aging of Israel (Jacob) and his sons presenting themselves to him. 'veiinei' refers to the eyes of, 'yisrael' is Israel, 'kabdu' means became heavy, 'mizoken' from old age, 'lo yuchal' he could not, 'lir'ot' to see, 'vayagesh' and they brought near, 'otam' them, 'elav' to him, 'vayishak' and he kissed, 'lahem' them, 'vaychabek' and he embraced, 'lahem' them.
[GEN.48.11] And Israel said to Joseph, "Behold your face, I did not expect. And behold, the Gods have shown me also your seed." [§]
va-yo-mer yis-ra-el el-yo-sef re-eh pa-ne-cha lo pi-lal-ti ve-hi-neh heh-reh oh-ti el-o-him gam et-zar-e-cha.
This verse is from Genesis 48:11. It records Israel (Jacob) speaking to Joseph. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said.' 'Yis-ra-el' is the name Israel. 'El-yo-sef' means 'to Joseph.' 'Re-eh' means 'behold' or 'see.' 'Pa-ne-cha' means 'your face.' 'Lo pi-lal-ti' means 'I did not expect.' 'Ve-hi-neh' means 'and behold.' 'Heh-reh' means 'you have shown.' 'Oh-ti' means 'me.' 'El-o-him' means 'the Gods.' 'Gam' means 'also.' 'Et-zar-e-cha' means 'your seed.'
[GEN.48.12] And Joseph brought them out from with his knees, and they bowed to his nose to the ground. [§]
va-yo-tse yo-sef o-tam me-im bir-kav, va-yish-ta-hu le-af-av art-sah.
This verse describes Joseph bringing his brothers before his father, Jacob, and they bowing down to the ground before him.
* 'va-yo-tse' means 'and he brought out'
* 'yo-sef' is 'Joseph'
* 'o-tam' means 'them'
* 'me-im' means 'from with'
* 'bir-kav' means 'his knees'
* 'va-yish-ta-hu' means 'and they bowed'
* 'le-af-av' means 'to his nose'
* 'art-sah' means 'the ground'
[GEN.48.13] And Joseph took them, Ephraim with his right hand from Israel’s left, and Manasseh with his left from Israel’s right, and he brought them near to him. [§]
va-yee-kah yo-sef et shne-yim et ef-rah-yim bee-mee-noh mee-sem-ohl yis-rah-el ve-et me-nah-sheh bee-sem-oh-loh mee-yameen yis-rah-el va-yah-gesh el-ahv.
This verse describes Joseph presenting his sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, to his father Israel (Jacob). Joseph intentionally places Ephraim on Israel's right hand and Manasseh on his left. This positioning is significant, as the right hand typically signifies favor and blessing. The verse details this deliberate placement before Joseph brings the boys forward to receive Israel's blessing.
[GEN.48.14] And Israel sent forth his right hand and placed it upon the head of Ephraim, and he was the younger, and his left hand upon the head of Manasseh. He understood his hands, because Manasseh was the firstborn. [§]
vayishlach Yisrael et ymino vayyashet al rosh Ephrayim vahu hatza'ir ve'et smolo al rosh Menasheh sikkel et yadav ki Menasheh habechor
This verse describes Jacob (Israel) blessing his grandsons, Ephraim and Manasseh. He intentionally crosses his hands, placing his right hand on the head of the younger grandson, Ephraim, and his left hand on the head of the older grandson, Manasseh. The verse states he did this intentionally, with understanding.
[GEN.48.15] And he blessed Joseph and said, "The Gods who my fathers walked before, Abraham and Isaac, are the Gods who have shepherded me from my youth until this day." [§]
vayvarech et-yosef vayomer haElohim asher hithalchu avotai lefanav Avraham veYitzchak haElohim haRoeh oti meOdi ad-haYom haZeh.
This verse describes a blessing and a declaration. 'vayvarech' means 'and he blessed,' and 'et-yosef' means 'Joseph.' 'vayomer' means 'and he said.' 'haElohim' means 'the Gods.' 'asher' means 'that' or 'who.' 'hithalchu' means 'walked.' 'avotai' means 'my fathers.' 'lefanav' means 'before Him.' 'Avraham veYitzchak' means 'Abraham and Isaac.' 'haRoeh' means 'the Shepherd.' 'oti' means 'me.' 'meOdi' means 'from my youth.' 'ad-haYom haZeh' means 'until this day.' Thus, the verse describes a blessing of Joseph, followed by a statement that the Gods who his fathers, Abraham and Isaac, walked before are the Gods who have shepherded him from his youth until this day.
[GEN.48.16] The messenger redeeming me from all evil will bless the young men, and my name will be called upon them, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac, and they will grow greatly in the midst of the land. [§]
hammal'akh hage'ol otiy mikhal-ra, yevarekh et-hanearim, v'yikare bahhem sh'mi, v'shem avotai avraham v'yitzchak, v'yidgu larov bekerev ha'aretz.
This verse describes a blessing upon the children. "hammal'akh" means 'the messenger', often understood as 'the angel'. "hage'ol" means 'redeeming' or 'rescuing'. "otiy" means 'me'. "mikhal-ra" means 'from all evil'. "yevarekh" means 'will bless'. "et-hanearim" means 'the young men/boys'. "v'yikare" means 'and my name will be called'. "bahhem" means 'in them'. "sh'mi" means 'my name'. "v'shem avotai" means 'and the name of my fathers'. "avraham v'yitzchak" are the names Abraham and Isaac. "v'yidgu" means 'and they will grow'. "larov" means 'greatly' or 'abundantly'. "bekerev ha'aretz" means 'in the midst of the land'.
[GEN.48.17] And Joseph saw that his father placed his right hand upon the head of Ephraim, and it displeased him. And Joseph supported his father’s hand to remove it from the head of Ephraim to the head of Manasseh. [§]
Va-yar Yosef ki-yasit aviv yad-yemino al-rosh Ephraim va-yera be-einav va-yitmoch yad-aviv le-hasir otah me-al rosh-Ephraim al-rosh Menasheh.
This verse describes Joseph noticing his father Jacob placing his right hand on the head of Ephraim, and it displeased him. Joseph then supported his father’s hand to move it from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s head.
[GEN.48.18] And Joseph said to his father, "Not so, my father, because this is the firstborn. Put your right hand upon his head." [§]
Va-yo-mer Yo-sef el-a-vee lo-chen a-vee kee-zeh ha-be-chor seem y-mee-n-cha al-ro-sho.
This verse is from Genesis 48:18. It represents Joseph speaking to his father Jacob. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Yo-sef' is 'Joseph'. 'el-a-vee' means 'to my father'. 'lo-chen' means 'not so'. 'a-vee' again means 'my father'. 'kee-zeh' means 'because this'. 'ha-be-chor' means 'the firstborn'. 'seem y-mee-n-cha' means 'put your right hand'. 'al-ro-sho' means 'upon his head'.
[GEN.48.19] But his father refused and said, “I know my son, I know also that he will become a people and he will grow great. However, his younger brother will become greater than he, and his seed will fill the nations.” [§]
va-ye-ma-en a-vee-oo va-yo-mer ya-da-tee be-nee ya-da-tee gam-hoo yih-yeh le-am ve-gam-hoo yig-dal ve-oo-lam a-chee-hoo ha-ka-ton yig-dal mi-me-nu ve-zar-o yih-yeh me-lo ha-go-yim
This verse describes a father refusing to listen to a prophetic vision about his sons. He acknowledges that the younger son will become a great nation and grow large, but believes his older son will be greater. He predicts that the seed, or descendants, of the younger son will fill the nations.
[GEN.48.20] And he blessed them on that day, saying, "Through you will Israel bless, saying, 'May the Gods make you as Ephraim and as Manasseh.'" And he placed Ephraim before Manasseh. [§]
vayvarechem bayom hahu leemor becha yevarech yisrael leamor yishmech elohim keefraim vekimnasheh vayyasem et efraim lifnei menasheh
This verse describes a blessing given to Jacob by Isaac. Isaac is speaking to Jacob, and declares that through Jacob, Israel will be blessed. He then invokes the Gods, wishing that Jacob will be as fruitful as Ephraim and Manasseh. Finally, it states that Isaac positioned Ephraim before Manasseh.
[GEN.48.21] And Israel said to Joseph, behold, I am dying. And the Gods will be with you, and will bring you back to the land of your fathers. [§]
Va-yo-mer Yis-ra-el el Yo-sef, hi-neh a-no-chi met, ve-ha-yah Elohim im-a-chem, ve-he-shiv et-chem el eretz avoteichem.
This verse is from Genesis 48:21. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'Yis-ra-el' is the name Israel. 'El' means 'to' or 'at'. 'Yo-sef' is the name Joseph. 'Hi-neh' means 'behold' or 'indeed'. 'A-no-chi' means 'I'. 'Met' means 'dying' or 'dead'. 'Ve' means 'and'. 'Ha-yah' means 'will be'. 'Elohim' is the Gods. 'Im-a-chem' means 'with you'. 'Ve-he-shiv' means 'and He will bring back'. 'Et-chem' means 'you'. 'El' means 'to' or 'at'. 'Eretz' means 'land'. 'Avoteichem' means 'your fathers'.
[GEN.48.22] And I gave to you Shechem, one over your brothers, which I took from the hand of the Amorite with my sword and with my bow. [§]
va-ani natati lecha shkem akhat al-akheykha asher lakakhti miyad haEmori becharbi ubekashti.
This verse details a gift given to Jacob (or Israel) – the city of Shechem. It clarifies that this land was taken from the Amorites by force, specifically through warfare involving a sword and bow. 'Ani' means 'I', 'natati' means 'I gave', 'lecha' means 'to you', 'shkem' is Shechem, 'akhat' is 'one', 'al-akheykha' means 'over your brothers', 'asher' means 'which', 'lakakhti' means 'I took', 'miyad' means 'from the hand of', 'haEmori' means 'the Amorite', 'becharbi' means 'with my sword' and 'ubekashti' means 'and with my bow'.
GEN.49
[GEN.49.1] And Jacob called to his sons and said, "Gather yourselves, and I will tell you what the Gods will call you in the latter days." [§]
Va-yik-ra Ya-a-kov el-ba-nav va-yo-mer He-es-fu ve-a-gid-ah la-chem et asher yik-ra et-chem be-a-char-it ha-ya-mim.
This verse recounts Jacob calling his sons together to reveal something that 'the Gods' will call them in the latter days. 'Yikra' means 'he called' or 'will call', and in this context references 'the Gods' as the active agents of the naming. 'Banim' refers to 'sons'. 'Acharit hayamim' refers to 'the latter days'.
[GEN.49.2] Gather yourselves and listen, sons of Jacob, and listen to Israel, your father. [§]
hee-kahv-tsoo vee-shih-may-oo benee yah-ah-kov vee-shih-may-oo el-yis-ra-el ah-vee-chem.
This verse is a call to gather and listen. "Hikkavtsoo" means gather yourselves. "Shime'oo" means to hear or listen. "Bnei Ya'akov" means sons of Jacob. "El-Yisrael" means to Israel. "Avichem" means your father.
[GEN.49.3] Reuben, you are my firstborn, my strength and the beginning of my vigor. Excellence in agitation and excellence in might. [§]
Reuven bekhori ata kochi vere'shit oni yeter se'et veyeter az.
This verse is from Genesis 49:3, part of Jacob’s blessing to his sons. It’s addressed to Reuben, his firstborn. ‘Bekhori’ means ‘my firstborn’. ‘Ata’ means ‘you are’. ‘Kochi’ means ‘my strength’. ‘Re’shit’ means ‘beginning’. ‘Oni’ means ‘my vigor’. ‘Yeter’ means ‘excellence’. ‘Se’et’ means ‘tumult’ or ‘agitation’. ‘Az’ means ‘might’ or ‘power’. The verse speaks to Reuben’s initial position and potential, but also hints at a lack of sustained excellence.
[GEN.49.4] Be ashamed like water, do not permit it. Because you have ascended the couch of your father, then you have profaned the couch of God. [§]
pachaz kamayim al-totar ki alita mishkbei avicha az chillalta yetsuei alah.
This verse uses strong imagery of defilement. "Pachaz" means to be ashamed or to be uncovered/exposed. "Kamayim" means like water. "Al-totar" is a negative command meaning "do not allow/permit". "Alita" means you have ascended. "Mishkbei" refers to the bed/couch of. "Avicha" means your father. "Az" means then. "Chillalta" means you have profaned. "Yetsuei" refers to the couch/bed of. "Alah" means the high place/God. The verse strongly suggests a taboo act has been committed, a desecration of something sacred.
[GEN.49.5] Simeon and Levi are brothers, and violence is their tool; their merchants sell them. [§]
Shim-ohn ve-lay-vee ah-khim, clay kha-mas me-kay-ro-tay-hem.
Shim-ohn is a proper noun, a name. Ve means 'and'. Lay-vee is a proper noun, another name. Ah-khim means 'brothers'. Clay means 'tool' or 'weapon'. Kha-mas means 'violence'. Me-kay-ro-tay-hem means 'their merchants' or 'those who sell them'. This verse describes Simeon and Levi as brothers, whose tools are violence, and those who sell them are merchants.
[GEN.49.6] Do not enter into their secret, my soul, and do not glory in their assembly, my glory, for in their anger they killed a man and in their will they gored an ox. [§]
besodam al-tabo nafshi biqhalam al-techad kbodi ki be-apam har'gu ish uvir'tsonam ik'ru-shor.
This verse describes avoiding association with wicked individuals. 'Besodam' means 'in their secret,' 'al-tabo' means 'do not enter,' 'nafshi' means 'my soul,' 'biqhalam' means 'in their assembly,' 'al-techad' means 'do not glory,' 'kbodi' means 'my glory,' 'ki' means 'for,' 'be-apam' means 'in their anger,' 'har'gu' means 'they killed,' 'ish' means 'a man,' 'uvir'tsonam' means 'and in their will,' 'ik'ru-shor' means 'they gored an ox.' The verse warns against aligning oneself with those who are prone to violence and disregard for life.
[GEN.49.7] Cursed is their anger, for it is strong, and their strength, for it is severe. I will scatter them in Jacob and I will scatter them in Israel. [§]
arur afam ki az ve'evratam ki kashta achalkeim beyakov va'afitsem beyisrael.
This verse comes from Numbers 24:9. It is part of Balaam's prophecy. 'Arur' means cursed. 'Afam' refers to their anger. 'Ki' means 'for' or 'because'. 'Az' means strong or powerful. 'Evehratam' refers to their strength. 'Kashta' means hard or severe. 'Achalkeim' means I will scatter them. 'Beyakov' means in Jacob. 'Va'afitsem' means and I will scatter them. 'Beyisrael' means in Israel.
[GEN.49.8] Judah, your brothers will praise you. Your hand will be over your enemies. The sons of your father will bow down to you. [§]
Yehudah, atta yoducha achecha, yadcha be'oref oyvecha, yishtachavu lecha benei aviha.
This verse comes from Deuteronomy 33:7.
Yehudah is a proper noun, the name Judah.
Atta is 'you'.
'Yoducha' means 'they will praise you'. It is a future tense verb, derived from the root 'yadah' (to praise).
Achecha means 'your brothers'.
Yadcha means 'your hand'.
Be'oref means 'at the neck of' or 'over'.
Oyvecha means 'your enemies'.
'Yishtachavu' means 'they will bow down'.
Lecha means 'to you'.
Benei aviha means 'sons of your father'.
[GEN.49.9] A lion’s cub is Judah, from tearing my prey you have ascended. He has crouched, he has lain down like a lion and like a young lion, who will rouse him? [§]
gur aryeh yehudah miteref beni alita karah ravatz kearyeh uchelavi mi yekimenu.
This verse is a poetic description of Judah. "Gur aryeh" means "lion’s cub". "Yehudah" is Judah. "Miteref beni" means "from tearing my prey". "Alita" means "you have ascended". "Karah ravatz" means "has crouched, has lain down". "Kearyeh uchelavi" means "like a lion and like a young lion". "Mi yekimenu" means "who will rouse him?" or "who will raise him up?"
[GEN.49.10] The scepter shall not depart from Judah, and a lawgiver from between his feet, until he comes who is Shiloh, and to him shall belong the obedience of the peoples. [§]
lo-yasur shevet mi-yehuda u-mechokek min-bein raglav ad ki-yavo shilo ve-lo yikhat ammim.
This verse speaks of the scepter (symbol of kingship) not departing from Judah, and a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh comes and to him belongs obedience of the peoples. 'Shiloh' is understood as a messianic figure. 'Shevet' means 'scepter' or 'tribe'. 'Mechokek' means 'lawgiver'. 'Raglav' means 'his feet'. 'Yavo' means 'he comes'. 'Yikhat' means 'belong to him' or 'be subject to him'.
[GEN.49.11] I bind the vine to its first fruit and to the cluster to its choice foal. His garment is washed in wine, and her stripes are with the blood of grapes. [§]
Osree laghefen iroh velasorekah benee atono kibbes bayayin lubsho ubedam anavim suto.
This verse uses symbolic language, likely describing the chastisement or judgment of Israel, portrayed as a rebellious vine. "Osree" means I bind. "Laghefen" means to the vine. "Iroh" means its first fruit. "Velasorekah" means and to the cluster. "Benee" means its choice. "Atono" means his foal. "Kibbes" means washed. "Bayayin" means in wine. "Lubsho" means his garment. "Ubedam anavim" means and with the blood of grapes. "Suto" means her stripes.
[GEN.49.12] My eyes are green from wine, and my teeth are white as milk. [§]
chakhlili eineyim miyayin uleven-shinayim mechalav.
This verse is a highly poetic and metaphorical description, likely referring to a beloved's physical attributes. 'Chakhlili' refers to a green or pale color, possibly associated with eyes. 'Eineyim' means 'eyes'. 'Miyayin' means 'from wine', used here metaphorically to describe the color of the eyes. 'Uleven-shinayim' means 'and white teeth'. 'Mechalav' means 'from milk', used here to describe the whiteness of the teeth.
[GEN.49.13] Zebulun will dwell by the shore of the seas, and he will be by the shore of ships, with his side toward Tzidon. [§]
Zebulun to shore of seas will dwell and he to shore of ships and his flank upon Tzidon.
This verse describes the territory allotted to the tribe of Zebulun. "Zebulun" is a proper noun, a name. "Chof" means shore or coast. "Yamim" is seas, plural. "Yishkon" means will dwell. "Hu" is he. "Oniyot" is ships. "Yarkato" is his flank or side. "Tzidon" is a city, a proper noun.
[GEN.49.14] Issachar is a donkey, lying down between the entrances. [§]
yish-sahk-har khah-mor gah-rem ro-veitz bein ham-mish-phtay-im
This verse describes the tribe of Issachar. "Issachar" is a proper noun, the name of one of Jacob’s sons. "Chamor" means donkey. "Garem" means a backbone or the part between the shoulders. "Roveitz" means to lie down or rest. "Bein" means between. "Ham-mish-phtayim" means the thresholds or entrances.
[GEN.49.15] And he saw Rest, that it is good, and the land that it is pleasant, and he bowed his shoulder to bear it, and he became a burden-bearer. [§]
Va-yar menucha ki tov ve-et ha-aretz ki na-eima va-yet shikhmo li-svol va-yehi le-mas-oved.
This verse describes Manoah's reaction to the angel's message. 'Va-yar' means 'and he saw'. 'Menucha' is a name meaning 'rest'. 'Ki tov' means 'that it is good'. 'Ve-et ha-aretz' means 'and the land'. 'Ki na-eima' means 'that it is pleasant'. 'Va-yet shikhmo' means 'and he bowed his shoulder'. 'Li-svol' means 'to bear'. 'Va-yehi le-mas-oved' means 'and he became a burden-bearer'.
[GEN.49.16] Dan will judge his people as one of the tribes of Israel. [§]
Dan ya-deen am-mo k'echad shiv-tei Yis-ra-el.
This verse refers to the tribe of Dan and their role in judging their people, comparing them to one of the tribes of Israel. 'Dan' is a proper noun, the name of a tribe. 'Ya-deen' means 'to judge' or 'to govern'. 'Am-mo' means 'his people' or 'their people'. 'K'echad' means 'like one' or 'as one'. 'Shiv-tei' means 'tribes of'. 'Yis-ra-el' is the name Israel.
[GEN.49.17] Let Dan be a snake upon the way, a viper upon the path, biting the heels of the horse, and its rider will fall backward. [§]
Yehi-dan nashash alei-derek shfiphon alei-orach hanoshekh ikvei-sus vayipol rokhvo achor.
This verse is a poetic curse or prophetic utterance. "Yehi" means "let it be". "Dan" is a proper noun, the name of a tribe of Israel and also likely a snake. "Nashash" means snake or serpent. "Alei" means "upon". "Derek" means way or path. "Shfiphon" means viper. "Orach" also means way or path. "Hanoshekh" means biting. "Ikvei" means heels. "Sus" means horse. "Vayipol" means "and fell". "Rokhvo" means "its rider". "Achor" means backward.
[GEN.49.18] For your salvation, I have hoped in Yahveh. [§]
leeshu-ah-teh-kah kee-vee-tee Yahveh
This verse consists of several parts. 'leeshu-ah-teh-kah' is a construct phrase meaning 'for your salvation'. 'kee-vee-tee' means 'I have hoped', and 'Yahveh' is the proper name of God. The verse is a plea for salvation, stating that the speaker has placed their hope in God.
[GEN.49.19] Gad, a troop will diminish us, and he will cut off the heel. [§]
Gad gdud yeguden-nu ve-hu yagud akev.
This verse appears to be a poetic or prophetic utterance. "Gad" is a proper name, possibly referring to a person or a place, and also a root meaning 'fortune' or 'luck'. "Gdud" means a troop or band. "Yeguden-nu" is a verb form meaning 'he will cut off' or 'he will diminish' with the suffix 'nu' indicating 'us'. "Ve-hu" means 'and he'. "Yagud" is a verb meaning 'he will cut off' or 'he will diminish'. "Akev" means 'heel' or 'hindquarters'. The verse seems to be talking about a force (gdud) being diminished, and someone will cut off the heel of another.
[GEN.49.20] Asher's food is rich, and he will give delicacies fit for a king. [§]
May-ah-sher shmay-nah lach-mo vahu yit-ten ma-ah-dan-ay mel-ech.
This verse speaks of Asher being rich in food, and how God will provide delicacies fit for a king. "Asher" is a proper noun, a person's name. "Shmenah" means fatness, richness, or abundance, here referring to food. "Lachmo" means his bread, or his food. "Vahu" means and he. "Yitteen" means he will give. "Ma’adanei" means delicacies, dainties, or fine food. "Melech" means king.
[GEN.49.21] Naphtali is a doe, released; the giver of pleasant words. [§]
Naphtali ayalah shlucha hanoten imrei-shaper.
Naphtali is a proper noun, a name. 'Ayalah' refers to a female deer, a doe. 'Shlucha' means 'sent' or 'released'. 'Hanoten' means 'the giver'. 'Imrei-shaper' means 'sayings of beauty' or 'pleasant words'.
[GEN.49.22] A son of fruitfulness, Joseph, a son of fruitfulness upon the Eye, daughters stride upon Shur. [§]
ben porat yosef, ben porat alei-ayin, banot tza'adah alei-shur.
This verse describes the lineage and travels of Joseph’s descendants. "Ben" means son. "Porat" means fruitfulness or abundance. "Yosef" is Joseph. "Alei-ayin" is difficult, but literally means ‘upon the eye,’ which is understood as a place name. "Banot" means daughters. "Tza'adah" means to stride or travel. "Alei-shur" means upon Shur, another place name.
[GEN.49.23] And they made him bitter, and they increased him in suffering, and the lords of arrows hated him. [§]
va-ye-ma-re-ru-hu va-ro-bu va-yis-te-mu-hu ba-a-lei chi-tzim
This verse describes how someone was made bitter, increased in suffering, and hated by the lords of arrows. 'Va' indicates a conjunction, linking clauses together. 'Ye' is a prefix indicating a past tense action. 'Mar' relates to bitterness. 'Ro' signifies increase or abundance. 'S'tem signifies hatred or loathing. 'Ba'alei' means 'lords of' or 'possessors of'. 'Chi-tzim' means 'arrows'.
[GEN.49.24] And she rested in strength, his bow, and the arms of his hands were made strong by the mighty one of Jacob, from there, the shepherd, the stone of Israel. [§]
va-te-shev be-ei-tan kash-to, va-yap-po-zu zer-o-ei ya-da-v mi-dei a-vir ya-a-kov, mi-sham ro-eh ev-en yis-ra-el.
This verse describes the strength and power of God, comparing it to a skilled archer and a shepherd. 'Ei-tan' refers to strength or endurance. 'Kash-to' means his bow. 'Zer-o-ei ya-da-v' means the arms of his hands. 'A-vir ya-a-kov' means the mighty one of Jacob. 'Ro-eh ev-en yis-ra-el' means shepherd, the stone of Israel.
[GEN.49.25] From God your father, and He will help you, and from the Mighty One, and He will bless you with blessings of the heavens from above, blessings of the deep lying below, blessings of breasts and the womb. [§]
mei El avicha veyaezrechaca ve'et Shaddai viyvarechecha birchot shamayim me'al birchot tehom rovetet tachat birchot shadayim varachem.
This verse speaks of blessings received from God and the Mighty One. "El" is simply "God". "Avi" means "my father". "Yaezrechaca" means "He will help you". "Shaddai" means "the Mighty One". "Yivarechecha" means "He will bless you". "Birchot shamayim" means "blessings of the heavens". "Me'al" means "from above". "Birchot tehom" means "blessings of the deep". "Rovetet" means "lying". "Tachat" means "below". "Shadayim" refers to breasts (symbolic of nourishment). "Varachem" means "and the womb".
[GEN.49.26] The blessings of your father have surpassed the blessings of your parents, until the desire of the eternal hills; they will be for the head of Joseph, and for the crown of the distinguished one among his brothers. [§]
birkhot avikha gavru al birkhot horay ad tavat givot olam tihyein lerosh yosef ulkadkod nezir echav.
This verse speaks of the blessings of Jacob (the father) being greater than the blessings of his parents. It describes these blessings as being sufficient for the desires of eternal hills, and that they will be upon the head of Joseph and the crown of the distinguished one among his brothers.
[GEN.49.27] Benjamin, a wolf, will plunder in the morning; he will consume until evening, and in the evening he will divide the spoil. [§]
Bin-ya-meen zeh-ev yeet-rahf bah-bo-ker yo-akhal ad v'lah-eh-rev yeh-hal-lek sha-lal.
This verse describes a raiding or plundering event. 'Bin-ya-meen' refers to Benjamin. 'Zeh-ev' means wolf, but is used metaphorically for a raider or attacker. 'Yeet-rahf' means to tear, rend, or plunder. 'Bah-bo-ker' is 'in the morning'. 'Yo-akhal' means 'he eats' or 'he consumes'. 'Ad' means 'until'. 'V'lah-eh-rev' means 'and in the evening'. 'Yeh-hal-lek' means 'he divides'. 'Sha-lal' means spoil or plunder.
[GEN.49.28] These are all the tribes of Israel, twelve in number. This is what their father spoke to them, and he blessed them, each man according to the blessing with which he blessed them. [§]
kal-elleh shivtei Yisrael shneim asar vezot asher diber lahem aviehem vayvarech otam ish asher k’virchato birch otam.
This verse lists the twelve tribes of Israel. It states that these are the tribes, and then recounts that their father spoke to them and blessed them, each according to his blessing, he blessed them.
[GEN.49.29] And he commanded them and said to them, "I am being gathered to my people. Bury me with my fathers, in the cave which is in the field of Ephron the Hittite." [§]
vayetsav otam vayomer alehem ani ne’esaf el-ami kivru oti el-avotai el-hame’ara asher bisde efron hahiti.
This verse describes a command being given. 'Vayetsav' means 'and he commanded'. 'Otam' means 'them'. 'Vayomer alehem' means 'and he said to them'. 'Ani' means 'I'. 'Ne’esaf' means 'I am gathered'. 'El-ami' means 'to my people'. 'Kivru oti' means 'bury me'. 'El-avotai' means 'to my fathers'. 'El-hame’ara' means 'to the cave'. 'Asher' means 'which'. 'Bisde' means 'in the field'. 'Efron' is a name. 'HaHiti' means 'the Hittite'. The verse is a deathbed instruction regarding burial.
[GEN.49.30] In the cave which is in the field of the doubles, which is before Mamre’a, in the land of Canaan, which Abraham purchased the field from Ephron the Hittite for a possession of a tomb. [§]
bamme’arah asher bissedeh hammakpelah asher al-penei-mamre’a be’eretz k’na’an asher kanah avraham et-hassadeh me’et efron hahitti la’achuzzat-qaver.
This verse describes the cave Abraham purchased as a burial plot. Let's break down the names: ‘El’ is implied within the possessive structures and will be translated as ‘God’. Proper nouns like ‘Abraham’ and ‘Ephron’ remain untranslated as they are personal names. ‘Hittite’ is a nationality and will also remain untranslated.
[GEN.49.31] There they buried Abraham and his wife Sarah. There they buried Isaac and his wife Rebekah. And there I buried Leah. [§]
shamah kavru et-avraham ve'et sarah ishto shamah kavru et-yitzchak ve'et rivkah ishto veshama kavarti et-leah.
This verse describes the burial places of Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah, and Leah. 'Shamah' means 'there'. 'Kavru' means 'they buried'. 'Et' is a direct object marker. 'Avraham' is Abraham. 'Sarah' is Sarah. 'Ishto' means 'his wife'. 'Yitzchak' is Isaac. 'Rivkah' is Rebekah. 'Kavarti' means 'I buried'. 'Leah' is Leah.
[GEN.49.32] The livestock of the field, and the cave which is in it, are from the sons of Chet. [§]
mikneh hasadeh vehamme’arah asher bo me’et benei chet
mikneh means livestock or property. hasadeh means the field. vehamme’arah means and the cave. asher means which or that. bo means in it. me’et means from. benei chet means the sons of Chet.
[GEN.49.33] And Jacob finished commanding his sons, and he gathered his feet to the bed, and he expired, and he was gathered to his people. [§]
vayekhal yaakov letzavot et banav va'yesof raglav el hamita vayigva vaye'asef el amav
This verse describes Jacob completing his instructions to his sons and then dying. 'Vayekhal' means 'and finished'. 'Yaakov' is the name Jacob. 'Letzavot' means 'to command'. 'Et banav' means 'his sons'. 'Va'yesof' means 'and gathered'. 'Raglav' means 'his feet'. 'El hamita' means 'to the bed'. 'Vayigva' means 'and he expired'. 'Vaye'asef' means 'and he was gathered'. 'El amav' means 'to his people'.
GEN.50
[GEN.50.1] And Joseph fell upon the face of his father, and wept over him, and kissed him. [§]
Va-yipol Yosef al-pnei aviv va-yevke alav va-yishak-lo.
This verse describes Joseph falling upon the face of his father, weeping over him, and kissing him. 'Va-yipol' means 'and fell'. 'Yosef' is 'Joseph'. 'Al-pnei' means 'upon the face of'. 'Aviv' means 'his father'. 'Va-yevke' means 'and wept'. 'Alav' means 'over him'. 'Va-yishak-lo' means 'and kissed him'.
[GEN.50.2] And Joseph commanded his servants, the physicians, to embalm his father, and the physicians embalmed Israel. [§]
va-ye-tzav Yo-sef et-a-va-dav et-ha-ro-fim la-cha-not et-a-viv va-ya-chan-tu ha-ro-fim et-Yis-ra-el.
This verse describes Joseph instructing the physicians to embalm his father. 'Va-ye-tzav' means 'and he commanded'. 'Yo-sef' is 'Joseph'. 'Et-a-va-dav' means 'his servants'. 'Et-ha-ro-fim' means 'the physicians'. 'La-cha-not' means 'to embalm'. 'Et-a-viv' means 'his father'. 'Va-ya-chan-tu' means 'and they embalmed'. 'Yis-ra-el' is 'Israel'.
[GEN.50.3] They completed forty days for him, because thus will be completed the days of those who embalm. And Egypt wept for him seventy days. [§]
vayimle'u-lo arba'im yom ki khen yimle'u yemey hachanutim vayiveku oto mitzrayim shiv'im yom.
This verse describes the period of mourning for someone (likely Jacob) in Egypt. "Vayimle'u-lo" means "they completed for him". "Arba'im yom" means "forty days". "Ki khen yimle'u" means "because thus will be completed". "Yemey hachanutim" means "the days of the embalmers". "Vayiveku oto" means "they wept for him". "Mitzrayim" means "Egypt". "Shiv'im yom" means "seventy days".
[GEN.50.4] The days of weeping passed, and Joseph spoke to the household of Pharaoh, saying, "If I have indeed found favor in your eyes, please speak to Pharaoh in my ear, saying…" [§]
vayavru yemey bekito vayedaber yosef el-beyt par'oh le'emor im-na matzati chen b'eineichem dabberu-na be'ozney par'oh le'emor.
This verse describes Joseph speaking to the household of Pharaoh. He asks them to speak to Pharaoh on his behalf. 'Yemey bekito' refers to the days of weeping, likely mourning for Jacob. 'Chen' means grace or favor. 'Beyt par'oh' is the household of Pharaoh.
[GEN.50.5] My father swore to me, saying, "Behold, I am dead. In my grave, which I dug for myself in the land of Canaan, there you will bury me. And now, please let me go and bury my father, and I will return." [§]
Abi hishbi'ani le'emor hineh anochi met, be'kivri asher kariti li be'eretz Kena'an shamma tikbreini ve'atah e'eleh na ve'ekbra et abi ve'ashuvah.
This verse contains a request to allow someone to retrieve and bury their father. 'Abi' means 'my father'. 'Hishbi'ani' means 'swore to me'. 'Hineh' means 'behold' or 'here'. 'Anochi' means 'I'. 'Met' means 'dead'. 'Kivri' means 'my grave'. 'Kariti' means 'I dug'. 'Li' means 'for me'. 'Be'eretz Kena'an' means 'in the land of Canaan'. 'Shamma' means 'there'. 'Tikbreini' means 'you bury me'. 'Ve'atah' means 'and now'. 'E'eleh na' is a plea like 'please let me'. 'Ve'ekbra et abi' means 'and I will bury my father'. 'Ve'ashuvah' means 'and I will return'.
[GEN.50.6] And Pharaoh said, "Go up and bury your father, as he swore to you." [§]
Va-yo-mer Par-oh, a-leh u-kvor et-avi-cha ka-asher his-bi-a-cha.
This verse is from Genesis 50:6. "Va-yo-mer" means "and he said". "Par-oh" is the name "Pharaoh". "A-leh" means "go up". "U-kvor" means "and bury". "Et-avi-cha" means "your father". "Ka-asher" means "as". "His-bi-a-cha" means "he swore to you". This verse records Pharaoh’s permission for Joseph to bury his father Jacob.
[GEN.50.7] And Joseph went up to bury his father, and all of Pharaoh’s servants went up with him, the elders of his house and all the elders of the land of Egypt. [§]
vayya'al yosef lik'bor et-aviv vayya'alu itto kol-avdei par'oh ziknei beitoh v'chol ziknei eretz-mitzrayim.
This verse describes Joseph going to bury his father. It details that all of Pharaoh’s servants and the elders of the land of Egypt went with him. Each word is translated as directly as possible. 'Vayya'al' means 'and went up'. 'Lik'bor' means 'to bury'. 'Et-aviv' means 'his father'. 'Vayya'alu' means 'and went up'. 'Itto' means 'with him'. 'Kol' means 'all'. 'Avdei' means 'servants'. 'Par'oh' means 'Pharaoh'. 'Ziknei' means 'elders'. 'Beito' means 'his house'. 'V'chol' means 'and all'. 'Eretz-mitzrayim' means 'the land of Egypt'.
[GEN.50.8] And all the house of Joseph, and his brothers, and the house of his father, they left only their infants, and their sheep, and their cattle in the land of Goshen. [§]
vechol beit yosef veechav ubeit aviv rak tapam vtsonam ubkaram azvu beeretz goshen.
This verse describes what Joseph and his household left behind in the land of Goshen. 'vechol' means 'and all'. 'beit yosef' means 'the house of Joseph'. 'veechav' means 'and his brothers'. 'ubeit aviv' means 'and the house of his father'. 'rak' means 'only'. 'tapam' means 'their infants'. 'vtsonam' means 'and their sheep'. 'ubkaram' means 'and their cattle'. 'azvu' means 'they left'. 'beeretz goshen' means 'in the land of Goshen'.
[GEN.50.9] And he accompanied him with chariots and horsemen, and the army was very heavy. [§]
va-ya-al im-mo gam-rechev gam-parashim va-yehi ha-machaneh kaved me-od
This verse describes a large army accompanying someone. 'va-ya-al' means 'and he went up/ascended' or 'and he accompanied'. 'im-mo' means 'with him'. 'gam-rechev gam-parashim' means 'both chariots and horsemen'. 'va-yehi' means 'and it was'. 'ha-machaneh' means 'the camp/army'. 'kaved' means 'heavy'. 'me-od' means 'very'.
[GEN.50.10] And they came to the threshing floor of the thorn bush that is beyond the Jordan, and they mourned there a very great and heavy mourning, and he made mourning for his father for seven days. [§]
vayavo'u ad-goren ha-atad asher be'ever ha-yarden vayispedu-sham misped gadol ve-chavev me'od vayasa le-aviv evel shiv'at yamim
This verse describes the mourning period for Jacob. 'Vayavo'u' means 'they came.' 'Goren ha-atad' is 'the threshing floor of the thorn bush.' 'Be'ever ha-yarden' means 'beyond the Jordan.' 'Vayispedu-sham' means 'they mourned there.' 'Misped gadol ve-chavev me'od' is 'a very great and heavy mourning.' 'Vayasa le-aviv evel shiv'at yamim' means 'and he made mourning for his father for seven days.'
[GEN.50.11] The inhabitant of the land, the Canaanite, saw the mourning at the threshing floor of Atad, and they said, "This is heavy mourning for Egypt." Therefore, they called its name 'Mourning of Egypt,' which is beyond the Jordan. [§]
va-ya-ra yo-shev ha-a-retz ha-ke-na-ni et-ha-e-vel be-go-ren ha-a-tad va-yo-meru e-vel-ka-ved zeh le-mitz-raim al-ken ka-ra she-mah a-vel mitz-raim a-sher be-e-ver ha-yar-den.
This verse describes the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, observing a period of mourning (evel) at the threshing floor of Atad. They perceive this mourning as significant for Egypt (mitzraim), and consequently name the place 'Mourning of Egypt' (Evel Mitzraim), which is located across the Jordan River.
[GEN.50.12] And his sons did thus to him, as he had commanded them. [§]
va-ya-asu banav lo ken ka-asher tzivam
This verse describes the sons doing something *to* him, in accordance with his command. 'Va-ya-asu' means 'and they did'. 'Banav' means 'his sons'. 'Lo' means 'to him'. 'Ken' means 'thus' or 'so'. 'Ka-asher' means 'as' or 'according to'. 'Tzivam' means 'he commanded them'.
[GEN.50.13] His sons carried him to the land of Canaan and buried him in the cave of the field of Makpelah, which Abraham bought as a possession for a grave from Ephron the Hittite, before Mamre. [§]
vayisu otav banav artzah kena'an vayikberu otav bime'arat sdeh hamakpelah asher kanah avraham et-hasadeh la'achuzat-kever me'et efron hahiti al-pnei mamre'a.
This verse describes the burial of Abraham. 'Vayisu otav' means 'they carried him'. 'Banim' means 'sons'. 'Artzah kena'an' means 'to the land of Canaan'. 'Vayikberu otav' means 'they buried him'. 'Bime'arat sdeh hamakpelah' means 'in the cave of the field of Makpelah'. 'Asher kanah avraham' means 'which Abraham bought'. 'Et-hasadeh' means 'the field'. 'La'achuzat-kever' means 'as a possession of a grave'. 'Me'et efron hahiti' means 'from Ephron the Hittite'. 'Al-pnei mamre'a' means 'before Mamre'.
[GEN.50.14] And Joseph returned to Egypt, he and his brothers, and all who had come with him to bury their father, after they had buried their father. [§]
Va-ya-shav Yosef Mitzraim hu ve-echav ve-chol ha-olim itto li-kbor et-aviv acharei kavro et-aviv.
This verse describes Joseph returning to Egypt with his brothers and all who had come with him to bury their father. It notes this occurred after they had already buried their father.
[GEN.50.15] Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, and they said, “Perhaps Joseph will harbor hatred for us, and will fully return to us all the evil that we did to him.” [§]
vayiru achei-yosef ki-met aviham vayomru lu yistmenu yosef vehasheiv yashiv lanu et kol-hara'ah asher gamalnu oto.
This verse describes the reaction of Joseph’s brothers upon the death of their father Jacob. They fear that Joseph will now take revenge for the wrongs they committed against him.
[GEN.50.16] They commanded to Joseph, saying, "Your father commanded before his death, saying..." [§]
vayetzavu el-yosef leemor avicha tzivah lifnei motoh leemor
This verse recounts a command given to Joseph. 'Vayetzavu' means 'they commanded'. 'El-Yosef' is 'to Joseph'. 'Leemor' means 'to say'. 'Avicha' means 'your father'. 'Tzivah' means 'commanded'. 'Lifnei motoh' means 'before his death'. The second 'leemor' again means 'to say'.
[GEN.50.17] Thus you shall say to Joseph, ‘Please bear the transgression of your brothers and their sin, for they did evil to you.’ And now, please bear the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.” And Joseph wept when they spoke to him. [§]
koh-to-am-roo le-yo-sef, a-na sa na pisha achee-cha v'chata-tam kee-ra-ah gemal-oo-cha v'ata sa na lifisha av-dey elo-hey avi-cha va-ye-vek yo-sef b'dab-ram e-layv.
This verse comes from Genesis 50:17. It is a plea from Joseph's brothers to him, asking for forgiveness for their past actions against him. They acknowledge the evil they did to him and request that he bear their transgression and sin. The verse concludes by stating that Joseph wept upon hearing their request.
[GEN.50.18] And his brothers also went, and they fell before his face, and they said, "Lo, we are to you as servants." [§]
vayelchu gam-echav vayipilu lifanav vayomru hinenu lecha laavadim
This verse describes the brothers of a person going and prostrating themselves before him, and offering themselves as servants. 'Vayelchu' means 'and they went'. 'Gam' means 'also'. 'Echav' means 'brothers'. 'Vayipilu' means 'and they fell'. 'Lifanav' means 'before his face'. 'Vayomru' means 'and they said'. 'Hinenu' means 'lo, we are'. 'Lecha' means 'to you'. 'Laavadim' means 'as servants'.
[GEN.50.19] And Joseph said to them, "Do not be afraid, for I am in the place of the Gods." [§]
Va-yo-mer a-lei-hem Yo-sef al-tee-ra-oo kee ha-tach-at Elo-heem a-nee.
This verse comes from Genesis 50:19. 'Va-yo-mer' means 'and he said'. 'A-lei-hem' means 'to them'. 'Yo-sef' is the name Joseph. 'Al-tee-ra-oo' means 'do not fear'. 'Kee' means 'for' or 'because'. 'Ha-tach-at' means 'instead of' or 'under'. 'Elo-heem' refers to the Gods. 'A-nee' means 'I'. Thus, the verse is Joseph speaking to his brothers, telling them not to fear, because he is in the place of the Gods.
[GEN.50.20] And you thought evil against me, the Gods turned it for good, in order to do as this day, to preserve a large people. [§]
ve-atem chashavtem alai ra’ah, Elohim chashavah l’tovah, l’ma’an asoh kayom hazeh l’hachayot am-rav.
This verse describes a situation where people intended harm, but the Gods turned that intention into something good, specifically to bring about the preservation of a large population. ‘ve-atem’ means ‘and you’. ‘chashavtem’ means ‘you thought’. ‘alai’ means ‘upon me’. ‘ra’ah’ means ‘evil/bad’. ‘Elohim’ means ‘the Gods’. ‘chashavah’ means ‘thought’. ‘l’tovah’ means ‘for good’. ‘l’ma’an’ means ‘in order that’. ‘asoh’ means ‘to do/make’. ‘kayom hazeh’ means ‘like this day’. ‘l’hachayot’ means ‘to live/preserve life’. ‘am-rav’ means ‘a large people.’
[GEN.50.21] And now, do not be afraid. I will provide for you and your little ones. And He comforted them, and spoke to their hearts. [§]
ve'atah al-tir'au anokhi akhalekh etkem ve'et taphekhem vaynakhem otam vaydaber al libam
This verse contains several key names and verbs. "ve'atah" means "and now". "al-tir'au" is a command meaning "do not fear". "anokhi" means "I". "akhalekh" means "I will provide for". "etkem" means "you (plural)". "ve'et taphekhem" means "and your little ones". "vaynakhem otam" means "and He comforted them". "vaydaber al libam" means "and He spoke to their hearts".
[GEN.50.22] And Joseph settled in Egypt, he and the house of his father. And Joseph lived one hundred and ten years. [§]
Va-yeshev Yosef be-mitzrayim hu u-beit aviv va-yichi Yosef mea ve-eser shanim.
This verse describes Joseph settling in Egypt with his father’s household and living for 110 years. ‘Va-yeshev’ means ‘and he settled.’ ‘Yosef’ is the name ‘Joseph.’ ‘Be-mitzrayim’ means ‘in Egypt.’ ‘Hu’ means ‘he’. ‘U-beit aviv’ means ‘and the house of his father’. ‘Va-yichi Yosef’ means ‘and Joseph lived’. ‘Meah va-eser shanim’ means ‘one hundred and ten years.’
[GEN.50.23] And Joseph saw the sons of Shileshim, also the sons of Machir son of Manasseh were born upon the knees of Joseph. [§]
va-yar Yosef le-Ephraim benei shileshim gam benei Machir ben-Menashe yuladu al-birkei Yosef.
This verse describes the sons of Ephraim and Machir being born to Yosef (Joseph). "va-yar" means 'and saw' or 'and appeared to.' "le-Ephraim" means 'to Ephraim.' "benei shileshim" means 'sons of Shileshim.' "gam" means 'also.' "benei Machir" means 'sons of Machir.' "ben-Menashe" means 'son of Manasseh.' "yuladu" means 'were born.' "al-birkei Yosef" means 'upon the knees of Joseph'.
[GEN.50.24] And Joseph said to his brothers, "I am dead, and the Gods will surely visit you and bring you up from this land to the land which He swore to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob." [§]
vayomer yosef el echav anochi met veElohim pakod yifkod etkhem vehe'elah etkhem min ha'aretz hazot el ha'aretz asher nishba le'avraham le'itzchak ule'yakov.
This verse comes from Genesis 50:24. 'Vayomer' means 'and he said'. 'Yosef' is Joseph. 'El echav' means 'to his brothers'. 'Anochi' means 'I'. 'Met' means 'dead'. 'VeElohim' means 'and the Gods'. 'Pakod' means 'visit'. 'Yifkod' means 'will visit'. 'Etkhem' means 'you'. 'Vehe'elah' means 'and will bring up'. 'Min ha'aretz hazot' means 'from this land'. 'El ha'aretz' means 'to the land'. 'Asher nishba' means 'which he swore'. 'Le'avraham le'itzchak ule'yakov' means 'to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob'.
[GEN.50.25] And Joseph swore to the sons of Israel, saying, "The Gods will surely visit you, and you shall bring up my bones from here." [§]
vayashba yosef et bene yisrael leemor pakod yifkod elohim etkem vehaalithem et atzmotei mizeh.
This verse describes Joseph making his brothers swear an oath. He requests that when God visits them, they will take his bones with them. 'Vayashba' means 'and Joseph swore'. 'Et bene yisrael' means 'to the sons of Israel'. 'Leemor' means 'saying'. 'Pakod yifkod' is a doubled verb meaning 'God will surely visit'. 'Elohim' is 'the Gods'. 'Etkem' means 'you'. 'Vehaalithem' means 'and you shall bring up'. 'Et atzmotei' means 'my bones'. 'Mizeh' means 'from here'.
[GEN.50.26] And Joseph died, being one hundred and ten years old. And they embalmed him, and they placed him in the coffin in Egypt. [§]
vayamat yosef ben-meah va-eser shanim vayachantu oto vayishem ba-aron be-mitzrayim
This verse describes the death of Joseph. 'Vayamat' means 'and he died.' 'Yosef' is the name Joseph. 'Ben-meah va-eser shanim' means 'son of one hundred and ten years,' or 'one hundred and ten years old.' 'Vayachantu oto' means 'and they embalmed him.' 'Vayishem ba-aron' means 'and they placed him in the coffin.' 'Be-mitzrayim' means 'in Egypt.'