“Head” in Hebrew Expressions
Posted by Sigal Mendelson on July 9, 2009 under Learn Hebrew | 
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Modern Hebrew found numerous uses for the word head, typically related to hierarchy or state-of-mind. Indeed, “Head” symbolizes a leading or prime position in Jewish traditions (remember the stuffed fish head at Rosh Hashana table?). The association to mental or thinking capacity is a later one, added through slang.
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The name for the holiday Rosh Hashana “ראש השנה”, is composed of two words: Rosh, which is head and Shana – year. Together they mean the first of the year. Similarly, the Jewish first day of the month is named Rosh Hodesh “ראש חודש”. The word “head” in Hebrew is often used with relation to being first, principal or primary. And so, the Prime Minister is called Rosh Hamemshala “ראש הממשלה” (head of the government – Prime Minister), and a Mayor is Rosh Ha’Ir “ראש העיר” (head of the town). |
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Hebrew slang expanded the use of the word “head” for additional occasions:
Rosh Gadol “ראש גדול” (big head) means a thinker.
Rosh Katan “ראש קטן” (small head) is used to describe someone doing only as told without thinking.
Rosh Tov “ראש טוב” (good head) describes a positive state of mind and (also works with the negative – Rosh Ra (bad head), meaning a negative mood.
Litfos Rosh “לתפוס ראש” (to catch head) is used in relation with uplifted spirit.
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Hebrew Student said,
This is another great post. There is also the Hebrew word “bereshit” = in the beginning, from the root “rosh” as well, i.e. “in the beginning” means “at the head/start” [of the Creation].
Joanne Gordon said,
Where can I buy a Hebrew keyboard for my computer and also a good Heb.-Eng. and Eng.-Heb. dictionary? Thank-you. I am enjoying the Hebrew online E-mails. Joanne
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