November 20, 2003

• Hesed (a brief word study)

   

  Yesterday I mentioned “hesed” in my prayer.  I thought I should explain.  I first discovered the word in Hosea 6:6 (NIV), “For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.”  The word “mercy” here is translated from the Hebrew word “hesed.”

   

  Hesed is also used in Hosea 6:4 (in speaking of the Israelites), “Your love is like the morning mist, like the early dew that disappears.”  Love is the translation of hesed here.

   

  In the NASB, both the word love in verse 4 and mercy in verse 6 is translated as “loyalty.”

   

  According to the NIV study Bible, the word hesed refers to right conduct toward one’s fellowman or loyalty to God or both.  So… mercy, love and loyalty are interchangeable.  So when I wrote hesed yesterday, I meant that I was praying for someone who would offer hesed (loyalty to God, to his fellowman, and to me!)…

  • 12:47 pm
  • 2 Comments