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עברית
הנפש — meaning in English: the soul
hanefesh · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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the soul / the spirit / the life
בחזית
bakhazit
הנפש
hanefesh
אחראית
akhra'it
מהיהודים
mehayehudim
אתמול
etmol
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literary
common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'הנפש' (hanefesh) in discussions about spirituality or emotional well-being. For instance, one might say, 'תשמור על הנפש שלך' (Take care of your soul) in a conversation about mental health. It can also appear in literary contexts, such as poetry or religious texts, where the concept of the soul is deeply explored.
Synonyms & nuances
'נפש' (nefesh) is often translated as 'soul,' but it can also imply 'life' or 'self' in different contexts. While 'רוח' (ruach) refers to 'spirit' or 'breath,' which has a more ethereal connotation, 'הנפש' (hanefesh) is more grounded in the essence of being and personal identity.
Culture
The word 'נפש' (nefesh) has ancient roots in Hebrew, dating back to biblical texts where it is often associated with life and vitality. In Kabbalistic thought, the concept of the soul encompasses various layers, reflecting complex beliefs about the spirit and its connection to the divine. This rich background adds depth to its usage in both modern and traditional contexts.
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