Alef (א) – Old Testament Hebrew words that start with alef

Quick reference

Hebrew Name:
אָלֶף
English Name:
alef
Pronunciation:
ahlef
Letter:
א
Speech Sound:
vowel
Numerical Value:
1

Pronunciation guide

Alef (or Aleph) is unique because it does not have a sound of its own, being considered a “silent letter.” However, it often simply serves as a place to hold Hebrew vowel markings (niqqud). For instance, an Alef with a patach (אַ) is pronounced “ah,” and with a tzeire (אֵ) it is pronounced “ey.” Therefore, it’s actually the niqqud that guide the reader on how to vocalize the Alef within words.

Numerical significance

In Gematria, the traditional Hebrew numbering system, Alef has the numeric value of one (1). The number one is significant in Hebrew culture as it represents unity and beginnings, much like Alef’s positioning as the first letter. Thus, it can also point to the one true God.

Cultural and symbolic meaning

Alef, originating from the Proto-Canaanite alphabet, is thought to have depicted an ox head, signifying strength, power, and leadership. However, in the Ten Commandments, there is a small Alef in the word “אנכי” (, anokiy, meaning “I”) in the phrase “I am the Lord your God” (). This small Alef has been interpreted by rabbinic scholars to represent God’s humility, suggesting that the infinite God is making a covenant with finite man and is doing so with humility and affection.