כִּי אָנֹכִי יָדַעְתִּי אֶת-הַמַּחֲשָׁבֹת
Ki anokhi yadati et hamachshavot
“For I know the plans I have for you”
Ki anokhi yadati et hamachshavot (כִּי אָנֹכִי יָדַעְתִּי אֶת-הַמַּחֲשָׁבֹת) is a Hebrew phrase meaning “for i know the plans i have for you,” pronounced “ki a-no-KHI ya-DA-ti et ha-makh-sha-VOT.” The literal translation is “for i know the thoughts/plans.” One of the most popular verses in the Bible, speaking of God's plans for hope and a future. Often quoted for encouragement.
| Hebrew | כִּי אָנֹכִי יָדַעְתִּי אֶת-הַמַּחֲשָׁבֹת |
|---|---|
| Transliteration | Ki anokhi yadati et hamachshavot |
| English Meaning | For I know the plans I have for you |
| Literal Translation | For I know the thoughts/plans |
| Pronunciation | ki a-no-KHI ya-DA-ti et ha-makh-sha-VOT |
| Category | Bible Verses |
| Origin | Biblical — Jeremiah 29:11. Written by the prophet Jeremiah in a letter to the Jewish exiles in Babylon, approximately 597 BCE, assuring them of God's continued care and plan for restoration. |
| Scripture Reference | Jeremiah 29:11 |
Jeremiah 29:11 is on more coffee mugs, wall art, and graduation cards than perhaps any other Bible verse — and for good reason. But its power deepens immeasurably when you know the context. God spoke these words not during a time of prosperity but during the Babylonian exile, when Jerusalem lay in ruins and the Jewish people were captives in a foreign land. Into that darkness, God declared: 'Ki anokhi yadati et hamachshavot asher anokhi choshev aleikhem' — 'For I know the plans that I am planning for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for calamity, to give you a future and a hope.' The Hebrew word machshavot (plans/thoughts) comes from the same root as 'to weave' — suggesting God is weaving a tapestry whose pattern only He can see.
Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Where Does “Ki anokhi yadati et hamachshavot” Come From?
Biblical — Jeremiah 29:11. Written by the prophet Jeremiah in a letter to the Jewish exiles in Babylon, approximately 597 BCE, assuring them of God's continued care and plan for restoration.
When and How to Say “Ki anokhi yadati et hamachshavot”
One of the most quoted encouragement verses in both Jewish and Christian traditions. Used in greeting cards, sermons, counseling, and personal devotions. Often given to people facing transitions, uncertainty, or hardship.
Cultural Context of Ki anokhi yadati et hamachshavot
This verse has become a global cultural phenomenon, especially among Christians. It's inscribed on jewelry, tattoos, home décor, and social media posts. In its original context, it was a message to an entire exiled nation, not just to individuals — though its personal application has brought comfort to millions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you say “For I know the plans I have for you” in Hebrew?
“For I know the plans I have for you” in Hebrew is Ki anokhi yadati et hamachshavot (כִּי אָנֹכִי יָדַעְתִּי אֶת-הַמַּחֲשָׁבֹת), pronounced “ki a-no-KHI ya-DA-ti et ha-makh-sha-VOT.” The literal translation is “For I know the thoughts/plans.” One of the most popular verses in the Bible, speaking of God's plans for hope and a future. Often quoted for encouragement.
How do you pronounce Ki anokhi yadati et hamachshavot?
Ki anokhi yadati et hamachshavot is pronounced “ki a-no-KHI ya-DA-ti et ha-makh-sha-VOT.” The literal meaning is “For I know the thoughts/plans.”
What is the context of Jeremiah 29:11?
God spoke these words through the prophet Jeremiah in a letter to the Jewish exiles in Babylon (circa 597 BCE). The people had lost their homeland, Temple, and freedom. God was assuring them that exile was temporary and that He had long-term plans for their restoration — but they would need patience (70 years of exile first).
What does machshavot mean in Hebrew?
Machshavot (מַחֲשָׁבֹת) means 'thoughts' or 'plans.' It comes from the root ח-ש-ב meaning 'to think, plan, weave.' The word suggests deliberate, intentional planning — not random chance. God's plans are carefully designed, like a weaver creating an intentional pattern in fabric.
What is the Hebrew word for hope in this verse?
The word for hope in Jeremiah 29:11 is 'tikvah' (תִּקְוָה). This same word is used in Israel's national anthem 'HaTikvah' (The Hope). Tikvah literally means 'cord' or 'thread' — suggesting hope is something you hold onto, a lifeline connecting present suffering to future deliverance.
Sources & Further Study
Related Hebrew Words
More Bible Verses Phrases
Explore other Hebrew phrases in the Bible Verses category
Adonai ro'i lo echsar
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want
Bereshit bara Elohim et hashamayim ve'et ha'aretz
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth
Vekovei Adonai yachalifu choach
Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength
Betach el Adonai bekhol libekha
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Shema Yisrael Adonai Eloheinu Adonai Echad
Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One
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Adonai Ro'i
The Lord is my shepherd
Blessings & Spiritualיְהוָה רֹעִי לֹא אֶחְסָרAdonai ro'i lo echsar
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want
Bible Versesוְקוֹיֵ יְהוָה יַחֲלִיפוּ כֹחַVekovei Adonai yachalifu choach
Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength
Bible Versesבְּטַח אֶל-יְהוָה בְּכָל-לִבֶּךָBetach el Adonai bekhol libekha
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
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