The Hebrew word יָד (yad) with Strong's reference H3027 is one of the most frequent and versatile words in the Old Testament, appearing more than 1,600 times. Its primary meaning is "hand", but it has multiple uses and meanings in the Bible:
Primary word; hand (open [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from H3709, which indicates closed hand); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great variety of applications, both literally and figuratively, both proximate and remote [as follows]: - width, broad, under, enough, arm, charge, company, conduit, consecrate, coast, care, finger, debt, direction, disposal, dominion, order, axle, spike, border, strength, claw, generosity, deed, homage, swear, laborious, side, plague, place, command, hand, best, molding, monument, ordinance, shore, part, power, possibility, thumb, bank, breach, path, service, armpit, pride, submit, territory, time, left-handed.
Literal meanings:
- The physical human hand
- Hands as body parts
- Palms or fingers
Symbolic and figurative meanings:
- Power or authority ("in the hand of" means "under the power of")
- Action or work ("work of their hands")
- Possession or control
- Help or assistance ("to give a hand to someone")
- Oath or covenant (giving the hand as a sign of agreement)
- Direction or guidance ("by the hand of" means "by means of" or "through")
- Side or flank
In theological contexts, "the hand of God" or "the hand of the Lord" represents:
- Divine power in action
- God's direct intervention in human affairs
- Divine protection or care
- Divine judgment or punishment
This word is fundamental in many Hebrew idioms and biblical metaphors that describe relationships, actions, and the interaction between God and humanity.