Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The Hebrew word "hesed" (חֶסֶד) is a multifaceted term that appears frequently in the Old Testament. It is often translated as "lovingkindness," "mercy," "steadfast love," or "faithfulness" in English translations of the Bible. The term encompasses a range of meanings, including loyalty, covenant faithfulness, kindness, and love. Hesed is a central theological concept in the Hebrew Scriptures, reflecting God's character and His covenantal relationship with His people. Biblical Usage: Hesed is used approximately 250 times in the Old Testament, with a significant concentration in the Psalms, where it is often associated with God's enduring love and mercy. For example, Psalm 136 repeatedly emphasizes God's hesed, stating, "His loving devotion endures forever" . This refrain underscores the perpetual and unwavering nature of God's covenantal love. In the context of human relationships, hesed can describe acts of kindness and loyalty between individuals. The account of Ruth and Boaz is a notable example, where Boaz recognizes Ruth's hesed in her loyalty to Naomi (Ruth 3:10). Theological Significance: Hesed is a key attribute of God, reflecting His covenantal faithfulness and mercy. It is often linked with other divine attributes such as grace, truth, and righteousness. In Exodus 34:6-7, God proclaims His name to Moses, describing Himself as "abounding in loving devotion and truth" , highlighting hesed as a core aspect of His nature. The concept of hesed is foundational to understanding the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It signifies God's unwavering commitment to His promises, despite Israel's frequent unfaithfulness. This covenantal aspect is evident in passages like Deuteronomy 7:9, which states, "Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of loving devotion for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments" . Hesed in the New Testament: While the specific Hebrew term hesed does not appear in the New Testament, its themes are echoed in the Greek concept of agape, or selfless love, which characterizes God's relationship with humanity through Jesus Christ. The New Testament writers emphasize God's steadfast love and mercy, as seen in passages like Ephesians 2:4-5, which speaks of God's "great love" and "rich mercy" . Practical Implications: For believers, hesed serves as a model for how to live in relationship with God and others. It calls for a life marked by loyalty, kindness, and faithfulness, reflecting God's own character. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this call, urging believers to "act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God" . In summary, hesed is a profound and rich biblical concept that reveals the depth of God's love and faithfulness. It challenges believers to embody these qualities in their own lives, fostering relationships that mirror the divine covenantal love. Smith's Bible Dictionary Hesed(kindness), the son of Hesed or Ben-Chesed, was commissary for Solomon. (1 Kings 4:10) (B.C. about 995.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HESED, SON OFhe'-sed. Strong's Hebrew 2618. Chesed -- Hesed... 2617b, 2618. Chesed. 2619 . Hesed. Transliteration: Chesed Phonetic Spelling: (kheh'-sed) Short Definition: Hesed. Word Origin see Ben-chesed. Hesed ... /hebrew/2618.htm - 5k 3142. Yushab Chesed -- a son of Zerubbabel 1136. Ben-chesed -- "son of mercy," one of Solomon's leaders Library Hosea Second Sunday after Epiphany Thesaurus Ben-hesed (1 Occurrence)Ben-hesed. Benhesed, Ben-hesed. Ben-hinnom . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia BEN-HESED. ben-he'-sed (ben-checedh, "son ... /b/ben-hesed.htm - 7k Jushab-hesed (1 Occurrence) Hesed (2 Occurrences) Benhesed Jushabhesed (1 Occurrence) Ju'shab-he'sed (1 Occurrence) Ben-hinnom (7 Occurrences) He's (11 Occurrences) Zerubbabel (25 Occurrences) Ohel (1 Occurrence) Resources What is the meaning of the Hebrew word hesed? | GotQuestions.orgMiscellaneous Bible Questions (All) | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly (Micah 6:8)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hesed (2 Occurrences)1 Kings 4:10 1 Chronicles 3:20 Subtopics Hesed: Father of One of Solomon's officers Related Terms |
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