Ancient Hebrew Logo Ancient Hebrew Title 1 Ancient Hebrew Title 2
Topics Right arrow Definition of Modern Hebrew Words Right arrow

Cross

By Jeff A. Benner


Cross The Modern Hebrew word for a “cross” is צלב (tselev) and does not appear in the Tenakh (Old Testament), but it is used in Modern Hebrew translations of the New Testament for the “cross” of the crucifixion.

A tselev is often used as a “mark,” as in “X marks the spot.” In Biblical Hebrew there are two words meaning “mark.” One is the Hebrew word אות (ot, Strong’s #226) and the other is the Hebrew word תו (tav, Strong’s #8420). This latter word is also the name of the last letter in the Hebrew alphabet, which is the ת (tav). In the Ancient Hebrew script the letter tav is written as , a picture of a “mark.” Interestingly, both Hebrew word meaning “mark” have the letter tav in them.

Like what you’re discovering? Continue the journey from Bible reader to translator.

Resources
Community
Study Tools
Jeff A. BennerMasterclasses
Webinars
Live Classes