חָיַי (cha.yay)
cha.yay
to live
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb chayah simply means to live, have life, or remain alive. It covers the basic state of being alive, but also extends to living prosperously or continuing in life despite hardship. The sources indicate it can describe physical survival, such as sustaining life, or a deeper restoration from sickness, discouragement, or even death.
Though this specific form appears only once in the Bible, in 1 Samuel, the root is central to biblical thought. It is used in different verb forms (binyanim) to show God preserving someone alive, giving life, or reviving a person who is faint or sick. The word captures both the biological fact of existence and the theological hope of restoration.
Its range includes the idea of being quickened or refreshed, suggesting that life in Scripture is not just static existence but vitality that can be renewed. When applied to God’s actions, it often implies a rescue from despair or physical decline, pointing to a life sustained by divine power rather than mere human effort.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word chayah reminds us that life is more than just breathing. In Scripture, it speaks of vitality, survival, and the deep hope of restoration. When we face hardship or fear for our future, this word points to a God who sustains us. It assures us that true life comes from His power, not merely our own strength.
Consider the tension in 1 Samuel 20:31. Saul threatens David with death, insisting that as long as Jesse’s son lives, Saul’s kingdom cannot stand. This verse highlights how fragile human power can be when compared to God’s sovereign plan. Even in moments of danger, the promise of life remains secure for those who trust in Him.
May you find comfort in knowing that your life is held by a faithful Creator. Whether you face physical illness or emotional despair, He offers renewal and hope. His grace sustains us through every season, inviting us to rest in His enduring care.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- he lives1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- חַ֣י1×
Key Verses
-
I Samuel 20:31
For as long as the son of Jesse lives on the earth, you will not be established, nor will your kingdom. Therefore now send and bring him to me, for he shall surely die!”
This verse uses chayah to highlight the political threat David’s continued existence poses to Saul’s throne, showing how divine purposes often unfold through human survival.