Hebrew, Letter Pictures: Is there any theological validity with Hebrew letter pictures, i.e., interpreting various Hebrew words through the representations of each letter?
An area of Jewish mystical thought that has errantly influenced some in the Messianic community is that of Hebrew letter pictures. While it can be an interesting study for some, and it tickles many ears, its source is highly questionable. Some of you may be familiar with teachings associated with Hebrew letter pictures in passing. Basically, what is advocated is that each letter of the Hebrew alef-bet has significance. It has significance in that it has a numeric value, and that the picture of the letter itself means something. On the surface, this may not seem to be much of a problem. But when it comes to credible Scriptural exegesis and examination of Biblical texts, it can become a serious problem. How are we to properly understand the Hebrew Scriptures and words of the Tanach? Obviously, in order to properly understand them we must have, at the very least, a working knowledge of the Hebrew language. We must know Hebrew from a linguistic standpoint, insomuch that we know how to read
