Hebraisms

Hebraisms are characteristics of the Hebrew Language.

A Hebraism example is an 'idiom' where the culture must be understood in order to understand the idiom.

All languages use idioms.  For instance, in English:

·        "Bite the bullet" - to endure a painful or difficult situation with courage and determination.

·        "Break the ice" - to initiate or start a conversation in an awkward situation.

·        "Cost an arm and a leg" - to be very expensive.

·        "Hit the nail on the head" - to describe or identify something accurately or precisely.

·        "Piece of cake" - something that is very easy to do.

Hebraisms intertwine with Parallelisms in the Book of Mormon.

Certain Hebraisms may

·        Pluralize words to emphasize a singular object's size (See Plural Amplification)

·        May prefer 'exceeding/exceedingly' vs specific adjectives; (See Exceeding)

·        May use metaphor to symbolize meaning. (See Simile and Metaphor)

·        Modify the spelling of words (for instance adding 'ness' or 'ing' to a word ending).

·        Omit a word (usually verb) for emphasis (see Ellipsis and Concluding Ellipsis)

·        Ask Rhetorical Questions (see How Much More)

Hebraisms are used (contextually) perfectly throughout the Book of Mormon, underscoring its authenticity as a work of Hebrew thought.

Certain Hebraisms are explored and explained throughout this section.