Resh

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Resh (רֵישׁ) is the twentieth letter of the Hebrew alphabet. It has a numerical value of 200 in the Hebrew numerals system. The letter is pronounced as a voiced uvular fricative or a voiced uvular approximant, depending on the dialect.

Etymology

The name "Resh" is derived from the Phoenician letter "Rēš," which means "head." This is reflective of the letter's shape, which resembles a head in profile.

Pronunciation

In Modern Hebrew, Resh is typically pronounced as a voiced uvular fricative [ʁ] or a voiced uvular approximant [ʁ̞]. In some Sephardic and Mizrahi traditions, it is pronounced as an alveolar trill [r].

Numerical Value

In the system of Hebrew numerals, Resh represents the number 200. This system is used in various contexts, including gematria, a traditional Jewish form of numerology.

Usage in Hebrew

Resh is used in many common Hebrew words and names. For example:

• רֹאשׁ (Rosh) - meaning "head" or "beginning"
• רַב (Rav) - meaning "rabbi" or "great"
• רֶגֶל (Regel) - meaning "foot" or "leg"

Cultural Significance

In Kabbalah, the letter Resh is associated with the concept of "Rosh" (head or beginning), symbolizing leadership and authority. It is also linked to the sefirot of Keter (crown) and Chokhmah (wisdom).

Related Letters

Resh is related to the following letters in other Semitic alphabets:

• Arabic: ر (Rāʾ)
• Syriac: ܪ (Rēš)
• Phoenician: 𐤓 (Rēš)

See Also

• Hebrew alphabet
• Hebrew numerals
• Gematria
• Kabbalah
• Phoenician alphabet