Rachamim
/rəˈkɑːmɪm/noun
A Hebrew term meaning compassion, mercy, or deep loving-kindness.
Did you know?Rachamim is linked to the Hebrew word reḥem, “womb,” suggesting compassion as an embodied, protective feeling rather than mere abstract kindness.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Semitic
Proto-Semitic
*raḥim-
“Reconstructed root associated with womb and deep compassion”
Biblical Hebrew
Hebrew
reḥem
“Womb”
Biblical Hebrew
Hebrew
raḥamim
“Compassion, mercy, or mercies; traditionally a plural form with an intensive or collective sense”
Biblical Aramaic
Aramaic
raḥmīn
“Mercy or compassion”
Classical Arabic
Arabic
raḥma
“Mercy, compassion, or divine grace”
Modern English
English
rachamim
“A transliterated Hebrew term used in Jewish religious, mystical, and ethical discussion for compassion or mercy”