Biblical Hebrew is such a compact, yet jam-packed language. Getting into it is like opening a zip file, or unpacking a wrapped gift: there’s so much more hidden under the surface. Thankfully, even though I’m not a serious Hebrew scholar, I can still get in on some of those riches. Some of my happiest visits to God’s word take place through the very simple medium of e-sword. I’ve only downloaded a few of the many bells and whistles it offers: my favorite feature is probably the KJV+ which allows me to read the Bible, and hover my cursor over any word to read the Greek or Hebrew definition.
And suddenly, even those tedious name- lists come alive.
Some lists tell a story. Noting the sons of Asaph the musician — Mindful, May He add, God-given, and Right towards God — makes me wonder if he prayed specifically for a third child.
Other lists of names shout out the Gospel in the Old Testament. The LORD, they tell us, is judge — and escape. He knows. He is Father and Keeper and Deliverer. He possesses, supports, and heals. He is willing and generous; He is gracious and kind. He is our neighbor. He is fame itself. He is blessing. He is perfect, He is high, and He has prevailed.
Unpacking the language this way means that teaching become more practical and specific: When I’m enjoined to be hospitable, I learn that it means a genuine fondness for guests, love for someone who is outside my circle.
And when I turn to something as familiar as Psalm 23, well, here’s what I find:
Certainly
merry, bountiful goodness
and merciful lovingkindness
will chase after me
each and every day of my life.
Elisabeth Adams 