GLOSSARY DYF

ʾĀLAP̄ (Alap · Beginning)

Pronunciation: A-laf
English: Beginning / First
Semitic Root: √ʾ-L-P → to begin / to learn

Historical-Theological Context:
The first letter of the Aramaic alphabet symbolizes origin and unity. It is conceptually linked to the divine Word and the beginning of creation.

Biblical Ref.: John 1:1

ʾĀMĒN (Amen)

Pronunciation: Ah-mein
English: Truly / So be it
Semitic Root: √ʾ-M-N → firmness / faithfulness

Historical-Theological Context:
“Amen” is a foundational biblical word used in both Jewish and Christian traditions. In the teachings of Jesus, it emphasizes certainty, truth, and unwavering faith.

Biblical Ref.: Matthew 5:18

BAYṮ (Beth · House)

Pronunciation: Bayth
English: House / Home
Semitic Root: √B-Y-T → dwelling

Historical-Theological Context:
“Beth” represents both physical and spiritual dwelling. It reflects identity, belonging, and continuity in biblical tradition.

Biblical Ref.: John 14:2

BURAKṮĀ (Blessing)

Pronunciation: Bu-rak-tha
English: Blessing
Semitic Root: √B-R-K → to bless / to kneel

Historical-Theological Context:
In biblical theology, blessing represents divine favor, protection, and covenant. It is not symbolic language, but an active expression of God’s presence in human life.

Biblical Ref.: Numbers 6:24

TĀ W-ḤZĪ (Come and See)

Pronunciation: Ta u-jzi
English: Come and see
Semitic Root: √Ḥ-Z-Y → to see / perceive

Historical-Theological Context:
This phrase reflects a direct invitation from Jesus to experience truth personally. It represents experiential faith rather than abstract belief.

Biblical Ref.: John 1:39

DALATH (Door)

Pronunciation: Da-lath
English: Door / Gateway
Semitic Root: √D-L-T → entrance

Historical-Theological Context:
Symbol of access and transition. In Christian theology, it represents entry into truth, life, and salvation.

Biblical Ref.: John 10:9

LĀ TEDḤAL (Fear Not)

Pronunciation: La ted-jal
English: Do not fear
Semitic Root: √D-Ḥ-L → fear

Historical-Theological Context:
A recurring command throughout the Bible, often spoken in moments of divine revelation. It calls for trust rooted in faith, not in external circumstances.

Biblical Ref.: Isaiah 41:10

MŠĪḤĀ (Messiah)

Pronunciation: Meh-shee-kha
English: The Anointed One
Semitic Root: √M-Š-Ḥ → to anoint

Historical-Theological Context:
“Messiah” originates from ancient Semitic tradition and is central to biblical prophecy. In early Christianity, it identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of that expectation.

Biblical Ref.: John 4:25

ʾEMMĀ (Mother)

Pronunciation: Em-ma
English: Mother
Semitic Root: √ʾ-M → source / origin

Historical-Theological Context:
In biblical language, “mother” represents life, protection, and origin. It carries both human and spiritual meaning tied to care and identity.

Biblical Ref.: Proverbs 31:25

ʾABŪN (Our Father)

Pronunciation: Ah-boon
English: Our Father
Semitic Root: √ʾ-B → father / origin

Historical-Theological Context:
“Abun” is the Aramaic form of “Our Father,” preserved in early Christian tradition and closely associated with the way Jesus addressed God. It conveys intimacy, origin, and relational identity beyond formal religious structure.

Biblical Ref.: Matthew 6:9