אׇמְנָה (om.nah)
om.nah
brought up
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun amnah refers to the act of bringing up or nurturing someone, specifically in the context of raising a child. It encompasses the physical nourishment and careful training provided by a parent. The term highlights the active care required to bring a young person to maturity.
This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Esther 2:20. There, it describes how Mordecai had raised Esther after her parents died. The usage emphasizes his role as her guardian, providing for her needs and guiding her upbringing during a critical time in her life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we encounter the word amnah in Scripture, we are reminded of the quiet, daily work of nurturing life. It describes more than just feeding a child; it speaks to the active care, protection, and guidance required to bring someone to maturity. This concept finds a poignant example in Esther 2:20, where Mordecai is described as having brought up Esther after her parents passed away.
This passage offers a gentle picture of guardianship and faithful stewardship. It reminds us that raising the next generation involves both physical provision and moral guidance. For many, this word may evoke memories of those who invested time in their own upbringing, or it may inspire those currently in such a role to continue with patience and love.
The story of Esther shows how these acts of care can position individuals for larger purposes within God's plan. While the text highlights Mordecai's specific duty, the principle extends to all who seek to support others in their growth. It is a reminder that faithful presence matters deeply in the lives of those we are called to help.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- in/ guardianship1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בְ/אָמְנָ֖ה1×
Key Verses
-
Esther 2:20
Esther had not yet made known her relatives nor her people, as Mordecai had commanded her; for Esther obeyed Mordecai, like she did when she was brought up by him.
This verse uniquely applies amnah to Mordecai's guardianship, showing how he provided for Esther's upbringing after her parents died.