Hashmal
Judaism·Fourth rank
Hashmallim (singular Hashmal) are angelic entities described in Jewish tradition. Their name is derived from a term in the Hebrew Bible, possibly referring to a bright, fiery substance. They are positioned within the fourth rank of the ten-tiered angelic hierarchy as outlined by Maimonides.
Key Facts
- ›Hashmallim are angelic beings originating in Jewish tradition.
- ›The term 'Hashmal' appears in the Book of Ezekiel.
- ›They are placed in the fourth rank of Maimonides' ten-tiered angelic hierarchy.
- ›The Septuagint translation of the term is 'elektron', meaning amber.
- ›In modern Hebrew, 'hashmal' translates to 'electricity'.
Hashmal
Amber, Fire, Electricity
Ezekiel 1:4-5
About Hashmal
Hashmallim
The Hashmallim (singular Hashmal) are angelic entities prominent in Jewish tradition. Their name originates from a term found in the Hebrew Bible, notably in the Book of Ezekiel, where it is associated with descriptions of divine visions. The Septuagint, an ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, rendered the term as 'elektron,' which translates to 'amber' in English.
Within the structured understanding of the angelic realm in Judaism, the Hashmallim hold a specific position. Maimonides, a renowned medieval Jewish philosopher and jurist, outlined a ten-tiered angelic hierarchy. In this exposition, the Hashmallim are situated in the fourth rank. This placement indicates their particular role and order within the celestial host.
Interestingly, the term 'Hashmal' has also found a modern application in the Hebrew language. It is the contemporary Hebrew word for 'electricity.' This linguistic evolution is attributed in part to the poet Judah Leib Gordon, who employed the term in his writings in the late 19th century, contributing to its modern meaning and usage.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Hashmallim in Judaism?
Hashmallim are angelic entities found within Jewish tradition. They are described as occupying a specific rank within the angelic hierarchy.
Where does the name 'Hashmal' originate?
The term 'Hashmal' appears in the Hebrew Bible, notably in the Book of Ezekiel. The Septuagint translated it as 'elektron', meaning amber.
What is the position of Hashmallim in the angelic hierarchy?
According to Maimonides' exposition of the Jewish angelic hierarchy, the Hashmallim occupy the fourth rank out of ten levels.
What is the modern Hebrew meaning of 'Hashmal'?
In modern Hebrew, the word 'hashmal' is used to translate the English word 'electricity'. This usage was popularized by the poet Judah Leib Gordon.
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