This week’s Torah portion – Beresheet- the very first word in the bible contains some profound insight
The Hebrew word Bereshit (בְּרֵאשִׁית), meaning “In the beginning,” is rich with symbolic depth when viewed through the lens of ancient Hebrew pictographs. Each letter carries visual and conceptual meaning that, when combined, paints a profound theological and prophetic picture. Here’s a breakdown of the word picture:
Hebrew Pictograph Breakdown of Bereshit (בראשית)
Hebrew reads right to left. The word Beresheet is composed of six letters:
| ב | Bet | House, tent, dwelling | God’s dwelling, creation begins with a “house” |
| ר | Resh | Head, first, person | Firstborn, beginning, leadership |
| א | Aleph | Ox, strength, leader | God, strong leader, divine origin |
| ש | Shin | Teeth, consume, destroy | Divine judgment or provision |
| י | Yod | Hand, work, deed | God’s hand at work in creation |
| ת | Tav | Cross, covenant, mark | Covenant, sign of
redemption |
For the way of the LORD is a strong hold, they that cling to it are saved. He that dwells in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future”. Jeremiah 29:11
Share with us your testimony and experiences as you encounter the depth of truth of God’s Word.