עָמִית
Amit / Amit
“Friend/companion”
Amit (עָמִית, Amit) is a Hebrew name meaning “friend/companion,” pronounced “a-MIT.” From the Hebrew root ע-מ-ת (ayin-mem-tav), related to 'being alongside' or 'companionship.' The word עָמִית (amit) appears in the Torah meaning 'fellow, companion, associate' — one who stands beside you in covenant relationship.
| Hebrew | עָמִית |
|---|---|
| Transliteration | Amit |
| English Name | Amit |
| Meaning | Friend/companion |
| Pronunciation | a-MIT |
| Gender | Unisex |
| Category | Modern Hebrew Names |
| Variants | Amita, Amitai |
| Key Scripture | Leviticus 19:17 |
Amit is one of modern Hebrew's most versatile names — used for both boys and girls, it means simply 'friend' or 'companion.' The word appears in the Torah in one of its most famous ethical commands: 'You shall not hate your amit (fellow/companion) in your heart... you shall love your re'a (neighbor) as yourself' (Leviticus 19:17-18). In this context, 'amit' describes the deep bond between members of a covenant community — not casual acquaintance but genuine companionship built on mutual responsibility. In modern Israel, Amit is a warm, egalitarian name that expresses the kibbutz-era ideal of friendship and solidarity, wrapped in a sleek contemporary sound.
Key Scripture: Leviticus 19:17
“Do not hate a fellow Israelite (amit) in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in their guilt.”
What Does Amit Mean in Hebrew?
The word עָמִית (amit) means 'fellow, companion, associate.' It appears in Leviticus 19 and 25 in the context of ethical obligations to one's neighbor. The root may connect to עִם (im, 'with'), suggesting 'one who is with you.' Unlike 'rea' (neighbor/friend), 'amit' specifically implies a fellow member of a committed community.
Amit in the Bible
The word 'amit' appears in Leviticus in key ethical passages: 'Do not go about spreading slander among your people. Do not do anything that endangers your amit's life' (Leviticus 19:16), and 'Do not take advantage of your amit' (Leviticus 25:17). It represents the covenant-community member whom you are obligated to protect and treat justly.
Cultural Context & Modern Usage
Amit reflects the Israeli cultural emphasis on friendship (chaverut) and community solidarity. The name gained popularity during the kibbutz era when communal values were central to Israeli identity. Today it remains popular as a name expressing warmth, equality, and human connection without religious specificity.
Amit is a top-30 name in Israel for both boys and girls, making it one of the most successful unisex names in Hebrew. Its warm meaning, simple pronunciation, and universal appeal have made it a favorite among Israeli parents of all backgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amit
What does Amit mean in Hebrew?
Amit (עָמִית, Amit) means “Friend/companion” in Hebrew. From the Hebrew root ע-מ-ת (ayin-mem-tav), related to 'being alongside' or 'companionship.' The word עָמִית (amit) appears in the Torah meaning 'fellow, companion, associate' — one who stands beside you in covenant relationship.
How do you pronounce Amit in Hebrew?
The Hebrew pronunciation of Amit is “a-MIT.” The name is written עָמִית in Hebrew script.
What does Amit mean in Hebrew?
Amit (עָמִית) means 'friend,' 'companion,' or 'fellow' in Hebrew. It appears in the Torah describing a covenant-community member whom one is obligated to treat with justice and love. Unlike casual friendship, 'amit' implies deep mutual responsibility — making it a name that carries ethical weight alongside its warmth.
Is Amit a name for boys or girls?
Amit is a true unisex name in Israel, used equally for boys and girls. This egalitarian quality is part of its appeal in modern Israeli culture, where many popular names work for both genders. It ranks in the top 30 for both sexes, making it one of Hebrew's most successfully gender-neutral names.
Where does the word Amit appear in the Bible?
The word 'amit' appears in Leviticus 19 and 25, in key ethical commands about how to treat members of your community: don't slander your amit, don't endanger your amit's life, don't take advantage of your amit. It describes a fellow covenant member toward whom you have specific moral obligations — making it a word deeply rooted in biblical ethics.
Sources & Further Study
Related Hebrew Words
More Modern Hebrew Names
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