### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Hebraḯs**, represented by `{{G1446}}`, refers to the Hebraistic or Jewish language. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, specifically identifying the **Hebrew** tongue. Its usage highlights the language's importance in specific communicative contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the book of Acts, `{{G1446}}` is used exclusively in accounts involving the Apostle Paul. When Paul addresses a tumultuous crowd in Jerusalem, he speaks to them in the **Hebrew** tongue, which results in a great silence [[Acts 21:40]]. This effect is emphasized when the crowd, upon hearing him speak their language, kept the more silence [[Acts 22:2]]. The word is also used to describe the language of the divine voice Paul heard on the road to Damascus, when the Lord spoke to him, saying "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" in the **Hebrew** tongue [[Acts 26:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the use of the **Hebrew** language:
* `{{G1258}}` **diálektos** (language, tongue): This word is used in conjunction with `{{G1446}}` in every one of its appearances to form the phrase "Hebrew **tongue**" ([[Acts 21:40]], [[Acts 22:2]], [[Acts 26:14]]), clarifying that a specific spoken language is being referenced.
* `{{G191}}` **akoúō** (to hear): The significance of speaking in Hebrew is tied to the response of those who **hear** it. When the crowd **heard** Paul speaking their language, it commanded their immediate attention and respect [[Acts 22:2]].
* `{{G5456}}` **phōnḗ** (voice): Paul recounts that he heard a **voice** from heaven speaking to him in the Hebrew tongue, underscoring the language's role in this moment of divine revelation [[Acts 26:14]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G1446}}` is demonstrated through its specific application in the biblical narrative.
* **Establishing Connection:** Paul's use of the **Hebrew** language is a deliberate act to establish a common identity with his Jewish audience, effectively calming a hostile crowd and gaining him a hearing where one might not have been granted ([[Acts 21:40]], [[Acts 22:2]]).
* **Divine Communication:** The fact that the Lord chose to address Saul in the **Hebrew** tongue during his conversion experience gives the language a special standing as a medium for a pivotal divine encounter [[Acts 26:14]].
* **Cultural Identity:** The crowd's reaction reveals that the **Hebrew** tongue was more than just a means of communication; it was a powerful symbol of their shared heritage and identity.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1446}}` is a specific term for the **Hebrew** language whose importance is shown not by its frequency, but by its impact within the narrative of the book of Acts. It functions as a crucial bridge for communication between Paul and his kinsmen and serves as the chosen language for a foundational moment of divine calling. Its use demonstrates how speaking in a person's native tongue can command respect, silence opposition, and convey profound spiritual truth.
TRV