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Hebrew · Strong's H559

אָמַר

(ah-MAR)

verb

To say, speak, or command, encompassing a wide range of vocal expressions and declarations.

The Hebrew verb אָמַר (ah-MAR) is one of the most common verbs in the Old Testament, used nearly 5,000 times, and it carries the fundamental meaning "to say" or "to speak." However, its semantic range is considerably broader than a simple utterance. It can refer to a casual conversation, a solemn declaration, an official command, or even the internal thoughts and intentions of a person or God. This wide applicability makes it a crucial verb for understanding communication and divine interaction in the Hebrew Bible.

אָמַר frequently introduces direct speech, making up a significant portion of dialogue in narratives. It is used for human conversation, ranging from simple questions and answers to complex legal arguments or negotiations. Importantly, אָמַר is also the primary verb describing God's communication with humanity, from creation ("God said, Let there be light") to prophetic messages and covenant stipulations. This usage highlights the power and authority inherent in divine speech, as God's words are invariably effective and determinative.

Beyond direct speech, אָמַר can convey meaning related to thinking, intending, or deciding. For instance, a person might "say in his heart" something, indicating an internal thought process rather than an audible utterance. It can also signify appointing, commanding, or promising, demonstrating the performative aspect of speech where words bring about actions or commitments. The verb thereby underscores the foundational role of spoken words in shaping reality, conveying truth, and establishing relationships within the biblical worldview, both among humans and between God and humanity. Its versatility necessitates careful contextual reading to grasp the precise nuance in each occurrence.

Common English renderings

  • say
  • speak
  • answer
  • command
  • declare
  • tell

Key verses

"Thus saith Jehovah of hosts: The fast of the fourth month, and the fast of the fifth, and the fast of the seventh, and the fast of the tenth, shall be to the house of Judah joy and gladness, and cheerful feasts; therefore love truth and peace."

— Zechariah 8:19
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"Then said Jehovah unto me, Though Moses and Samuel stood before me, yet my mind would not be toward this people: cast them out of my sight, and let them go forth."

— Jeremiah 15:1
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"And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go."

— Genesis 24:58
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"Thus saith Jehovah that doeth it, Jehovah that formeth it to establish it; Jehovah is his name:"

— Jeremiah 33:2
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"And Balak’s anger was kindled against Balaam, and he smote his hands together; and Balak said unto Balaam, I called thee to curse mine enemies, and, behold, thou hast altogether blessed them these three times."

— Numbers 24:10
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"And Jehovah spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land."

— Jonah 2:10
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Related words

דָבַר To speak, say, declare, or command; also can refer to speaking destructively or arranging.דָּבָר This common Hebrew noun means "word," "speech," "thing," or "matter," and can refer to a spoken utterance, a report, a command, or an event.סָפַר To count, number, or calculate; also to recount, declare, or tell; and to write or record.פֶּה The Hebrew term *peh* primarily refers to the literal or figurative mouth, encompassing speech, command, edge, and portion.אֲמַר To speak, say, or declare, often used with a broad application for various forms of verbal communication.אֵמֶר This noun refers to something spoken, particularly a word, saying, or speech, emphasizing the act of utterance.עָנָה To answer, respond, or testify, often with the nuance of paying attention or giving consideration.