Here I Am in Hebrew: A Guide to the Phrase
הנני (hinneni) is the Hebrew phrase for "here I am." It is a common response to being called or summoned and is often used in religious contexts to express one's presence before God.
Variations of "Here I Am"
הנני (hinneni) is the formal, singular form of "here I am." There are also plural and informal forms:
- הננו (hinnenu) - plural, formal
- הנני כאן (hinneni kan) - informal, singular (literally "here I am here")
- הנה אני (hineh ani) - informal, singular (literally "behold, I am")
Biblical Usage
הנני is a significant phrase in the Bible, appearing over 200 times. It is often used by individuals to respond to God's call or to express their willingness to serve him.
For example:
- In Genesis 22:1, Abraham responds to God's call to sacrifice his son Isaac with הנני.
- In Exodus 3:4, Moses responds to God's call from the burning bush with הנני.
- In Isaiah 6:8, the prophet Isaiah volunteers to serve God by saying הנני, שלחני ("Here I am, send me").
In Modern Hebrew
הנני is still used in modern Hebrew, although it is less common than the informal forms. It is often used in religious or formal contexts, such as:
- In prayer, people may say הנני to express their presence before God.
- In the Israeli army, soldiers may respond to their commander's call with הנני.
Beyond the Phrase
הנני is a powerful phrase that conveys a sense of readiness, obedience, and trust in God. It is a reminder that we are always present before him and that we are ready to serve him.
