from יָמַן; the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south; [phrase] left-handed, right (hand, side), south.
Transliteration:yâmîyn
Pronunciation:yaw-meen'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H3225}}` (yâmîyn) primarily denotes the "right hand" or "right side." Its etymological root is likely connected to `{{H3231}}` (yaman), which carries connotations of "to be strong," "to be firm," or "to be in the right direction." This fundamental meaning imbues `{{H3225}}` with inherent associations of strength, dexterity, skill, and preferred position. Beyond the literal hand, its semantic range extends to other body parts, such as the "right leg" or "right eye," and can refer to the right side of any object. A significant extension of its meaning is geographical, where `{{H3225}}` signifies "south." This directional sense arises from the common ancient Near Eastern orientation where one faces east (the rising sun), placing the south to one's right. The term can also appear in idiomatic expressions, such as describing individuals who are "left-handed," often phrased as being "hindered" or "bound in their right hand."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H3225}}` in the Hebrew Bible are numerous and diverse, reflecting its varied semantic range:
* **Literal Right Hand/Side:** Often refers to the physical limb, as seen when Jacob crosses his hands to bless Ephraim with his right hand ([[Genesis 48:13-19]]) or in commands regarding ritual purity ([[Leviticus 14:14-17]]).
* **Strength and Power:** The "right hand" frequently symbolizes might and capability. God's right hand is repeatedly depicted as the instrument of His powerful acts, such as delivering Israel from Egypt ([[Exodus 15:6]], [[Psalm 77:10]]) or achieving victory in battle ([[Psalm 118:15-16]]). It represents divine omnipotence and active intervention.
* **Honor and Authority:** To be at someone's right hand signifies a position of honor, authority, or close proximity. Bathsheba is seated at King Solomon's right hand, indicating her esteemed status ([[1 Kings 2:19]]). Most profoundly, the Messiah's future enthronement at God's right hand is a recurring prophetic motif ([[Psalm 110:1]]).
* **Direction (South):** `{{H3225}}` is commonly used to denote the cardinal direction "south." This is evident in geographical descriptions, such as the boundary of the Promised Land ([[Numbers 34:3-4]]) or when Lot chooses the plain to the east, leaving Abraham to the "right" or south ([[Genesis 13:9]]).
* **Dexterity/Skill:** The term can describe a person's skill, particularly in combat. The Benjaminites were renowned for their "left-handed" warriors, literally "bound in their right hand," enabling them to surprise enemies ([[Judges 3:15]], [[Judges 20:16]]). Similarly, skilled archers or slingers are noted for their use of the right hand ([[1 Chronicles 12:2]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{H3225}}` is closely related to its verbal root `{{H3231}}` (yaman), "to go right," "to be strong," or "to be firm." Its conceptual opposite is `{{H8040}}` (smol), meaning "left hand" or "north." Other related concepts include `{{H3027}}` (yad), the general word for "hand," and `{{H2220}}` (zerowa'), "arm," which also often conveys the idea of strength or power. The association of `{{H3225}}` with strength, honor, and blessing aligns it with broader biblical themes of divine sovereignty, royal authority, and favor.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3225}}` is profound, particularly in its application to God and the Messiah.
* **Divine Power and Deliverance:** The "right hand of the LORD" is a powerful anthropomorphism for God's active, irresistible power. It is the hand that performs great wonders, delivers His people from oppression, and executes judgment upon His enemies ([[Exodus 15:6]], [[Psalm 98:1]]). This imagery assures believers of God's might and His ability to save.
* **Messianic Exaltation and Authority:** Perhaps the most significant theological implication is the prophetic declaration and New Testament fulfillment of the Messiah sitting at the "right hand of God" ([[Psalm 110:1]]). This position signifies supreme honor, unparalleled authority, and co-regency with the Father. For Christians, it underscores Christ's divine status, His completed work of redemption, and His ongoing intercessory role as the exalted Lord ([[Matthew 26:64]], [[Acts 7:56]], [[Romans 8:34]], [[Ephesians 1:20]], [[Hebrews 1:3]]).
* **Blessing and Favor:** As the preferred and stronger hand, the right hand is associated with blessing and favor. Jacob's deliberate choice to bless Ephraim with his right hand, despite Manasseh being the elder, illustrates the conferral of a superior blessing ([[Genesis 48:13-19]]). This highlights God's sovereign choice and the bestowal of special favor.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H3225}}` (yâmîyn) is a rich term whose core meaning of "right hand" or "right side" expands into a multifaceted semantic range. It denotes physical strength and dexterity, a position of honor and authority, and the cardinal direction "south." Theologically, `{{H3225}}` is most significant in its portrayal of God's mighty power and deliverance, and supremely in its depiction of the Messiah's exaltation to the "right hand of God," signifying His ultimate authority and divine status. Its presence throughout the Hebrew Bible consistently reinforces themes of divine sovereignty, strength, and blessing.
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