Note: The illustrations and vocalization marks on this site have not yet been finalized or proofread.
Welcome to Revava Dictionary
Revava Dictionary includes thousands of proverbs of wisdom from the entire Jewish library, as well as Hebrew expressions and idioms from the Bible, the language of the Sages, and medieval literature, up to modern Hebrew literature (including colloquial slang and Israeli expressions).
The dictionary includes a search engine that allows searching by words or topics, as well as a complete list of all entries in alphabetical order.
Each entry also includes quotations from the original source in which it first appeared, along with its evolution in modern Hebrew literature.
The Revava Dictionary is based mainly on the expression and proverb books Niv Safa and Wisdom of Zion by Abraham Dayan (which are accessible for reading on the site), and also draws from many additional dictionaries.
The illustrations on the site are crafted by artificial intelligence, designed to enhance the visual learning experience and provide visual support for understanding the meanings and contexts of the Hebrew expressions.
Enjoy your reading — it's both useful and guaranteed to be enjoyable. 😊
Abraham Dayan – Niv Safa (Language Expression)
"Niv Safa" (600 pages) by Abraham Dayan gathers about 3,000 biblical expressions still used in modern Hebrew. Each phrase includes its original source, explanation, and usage examples, showing how biblical language continues through rabbinic literature and modern Hebrew writers such as Bialik, Agnon, Alterman, and Goldberg. A fascinating journey of Hebrew from the Bible to today.
Wisdom of Zion: Proverbs and Idioms from the Jewish Bookcase
"Wisdom of Zion" (500 pages) brings together more than 1,600 proverbs and idioms from the Jewish bookshelf — from the Bible, Pirkei Avot, the Talmud, Midrash, medieval writings, and modern times. Each proverb includes clear explanations, source references, and English translations, both literal and idiomatic. Topics include love, friendship, family, justice, charity, work, education, and more.
