The meaning of “אֶשֶׁר”
Understanding ʼesher reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
blessed, happy. - happiness - only in masculine plural construction as interjection, how happy! 1) happiness, blessednes...
אֶשֶׁר
blessed, happy. - happiness - only in masculine plural construction as interjection, how happy! 1) happiness, blessedness 1a) often used as interjection 1b) blessed are
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Deuteronomy 33:29 | “Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the Lord, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places. ” Word: אֶשֶׁר (ʼesher) | |
| 1 Kings 10:8 | “Happy are thy men, happy are these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and that hear thy wisdom.” Word: אֶשֶׁר (ʼesher) | |
| 2 Chronicles 9:7 | “Happy are thy men, and happy are these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and hear thy wisdom.” Word: אֶשֶׁר (ʼesher) | |
| Job 5:17 | “Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty:” Word: אֶשֶׁר (ʼesher) | |
| Psalms 89:15 | “Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy countenance.” Word: אֶשֶׁר (ʼesher) |
Usage Statistics
Theological Word Study: Blessed
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Blessed, happy, praised
Hebrew uses ashrei (אַשְׁרֵי) for human happiness ('Blessed is the man,' Psalm 1:1) and barukh (בָּרוּךְ) for divine blessing or praise ('Blessed be the LORD').
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Blessed, happy, fortunate
The Greek makarios (μακάριος) describes divine blessedness. Jesus' Beatitudes ('Blessed are...') describe those who experience God's kingdom favor. True blessedness comes from relationship with God.