a primitive root; to be (physically) right (i.e. firm); but used only as denominative from יָמִין and transitive,; to be right-handed or take the right-hand side; go (turn) to (on, use) the right hand.
Transliteration:yâman
Pronunciation:yaw-man'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb יָמַן (yâman), Strong's number `{{H3231}}`, is a primitive root whose core meaning relates to being "right" in a physical sense, implying firmness or correctness. However, its usage in the Hebrew Bible is almost exclusively denominative, deriving from the noun יָמִין (yāmîn) `{{H3225}}`, which signifies the "right hand" or "right side." Thus, yâman primarily conveys the action of turning or going to the right, or of being right-handed. It describes a directional movement or orientation. The transitive nature of the verb indicates an action performed by a subject towards the right, whether literally moving in that direction or using the right hand. Its semantic range is therefore tightly bound to spatial orientation and the symbolic significance of the right side in ancient Near Eastern thought.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurrences of יָמַן (yâman) typically describe physical movement or positioning. In directional contexts, it often appears in conjunction with its antonym, "to the left." For example, in the wilderness narratives, the command to Israel or specific individuals often includes the injunction not to turn "to the right or to the left," emphasizing strict adherence to a prescribed path. This is seen in passages like [[Numbers 20:17]] and [[Numbers 22:26]], where the refusal to turn yâman or *smol* indicates a direct, unswerving progression. Similarly, [[Isaiah 30:21]] speaks of a voice guiding, saying, "This is the way; walk in it, when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left," illustrating divine instruction for the correct path. In contexts relating to skill or action, it can describe the use of the right hand, as in [[Ezekiel 21:16]] (MT 21:21), where a sword is commanded to "turn to the right" (or "cut to the right"), indicating a specific, forceful action. The verb thus delineates precise spatial orientation, often with implications for obedience or strategic action.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is יָמִין (yāmîn) `{{H3225}}`, the noun from which יָמַן (yâman) is derived. Yāmîn denotes the "right hand," "right side," or even "south" due to ancient geographical orientation. The verb yâman thus embodies the action associated with this noun. Its direct antonym is שְׂמֹאל (sᵉmō'l) `{{H8040}}`, meaning "left hand" or "left side," and these two words frequently appear together to describe movement or orientation in any direction other than straight ahead. Conceptually, yâman is linked to themes of direction, guidance, and adherence to a prescribed course. While the verb itself focuses on the physical act of turning right, it inherently draws upon the broader biblical symbolism of the "right hand" as a place of strength, authority, blessing, and favor, connecting the physical action to deeper theological implications.
### Theological Significance
While יָמַן (yâman) primarily denotes a physical action, its theological significance emerges from the broader biblical symbolism of the "right hand" and the concept of divine guidance. The frequent command not to turn "to the right or to the left" (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 5:32]], [[Joshua 1:7]]) symbolizes the necessity of strict obedience to God's commandments, without deviation or compromise. This imagery underscores the idea that God provides a clear, straight path for His people, and faithfulness involves adhering precisely to it. In this sense, yâman, when used in such prohibitions, represents a potential act of disobedience or straying from the divine will. Conversely, being guided "to the right" could subtly evoke the idea of being led towards blessing or the path of righteousness, given the association of the right hand with favor and strength in biblical thought. The divine voice in [[Isaiah 30:21]] instructing whether to turn right or left illustrates God's active involvement in directing the precise steps of His people.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb יָמַן (yâman) `{{H3231}}` is a denominative verb derived from יָמִין (yāmîn) `{{H3225}}`, meaning "right hand" or "right side." Its core usage describes the action of turning, going, or being oriented towards the right. Biblically, it frequently appears in contexts of directional commands, often paired with its antonym "to the left," emphasizing strict adherence to a path, whether literal or metaphorical. The theological significance of yâman is deeply intertwined with the broader symbolism of the "right hand" as a place of strength, authority, and blessing, and it plays a crucial role in biblical narratives depicting divine guidance and the human imperative for unwavering obedience to God's precise instructions.
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