Original Word: יוֹנַת אֵלֶם רְחֹקִים
Part of Speech: Noun
Transliteration: yownath 'elem rchoqiym
Pronunciation: yo-NAHT eh-LEM reh-kho-KEEM
Phonetic Spelling: (yo-nath' ay'-lem rekh-o-keem')
Definition: "The Silent Dove of Distant Places"
Meaning: dove of, silence, of, distances

Word Origin: This phrase is a combination of three Hebrew words: יֹונַת (yonath) meaning "dove," אֵלֶם (elem) meaning "silence" or "mute," and רְחֹקִים (rechoqim) meaning "far off" or "distant."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Greek equivalent for this specific Hebrew phrase, the themes of doves and silence can be related to Greek words like περιστερά (peristera, G4058) for "dove" and σιωπή (siopē, G4623) for "silence."

Usage: The phrase "Yonath Elem Rechoqim" is used as a title or musical term in the superscription of Psalm 56. It is often understood to refer to a specific tune or style to which the psalm was to be sung. The imagery of a "silent dove" suggests themes of innocence, vulnerability, and longing, while "distant places" may imply exile or separation.

Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Israel, music played a significant role in worship and daily life. Titles like "Yonath Elem Rechoqim" were used to convey the mood or melody of a psalm. Doves were common symbols of peace, purity, and gentleness in Hebrew culture. The phrase may reflect David's experience of feeling isolated or pursued by enemies, as he often was during his life.

Word Origin
from yonah, elem and rachoq
Definition
"dove of distant silences," probably the name of a melody.

Jonath-elem-rechokim

From yownah and 'elem and the plural of rachowq; dove of (the) silence (i.e. Dumb Israel) of (i.e. Among) distances (i.e. Strangers); the title of a ditty (used for a name of its melody) -- Jonath-elem-rechokim.

see HEBREW yownah

see HEBREW 'elem

see HEBREW rachowq

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