בָּרוּךְ הַבָּא
Baruch Haba
“Welcome / Blessed is the one who comes”
Baruch Haba (בָּרוּךְ הַבָּא) is a Hebrew phrase meaning “welcome / blessed is the one who comes,” pronounced “ba-RUKH ha-BA.” The literal translation is “blessed is the one who comes.” Used to welcome guests, visitors, and newcomers. Carries deep spiritual significance as it quotes Psalm 118:26, which is also associated with messianic expectation.
| Hebrew | בָּרוּךְ הַבָּא |
|---|---|
| Transliteration | Baruch Haba |
| English Meaning | Welcome / Blessed is the one who comes |
| Literal Translation | Blessed is the one who comes |
| Pronunciation | ba-RUKH ha-BA |
| Category | Greetings & Common |
| Origin | Biblical — from Psalm 118:26, 'Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the LORD.' This psalm was part of the Hallel prayers sung during pilgrim festivals. In the New Testament, it's quoted when Jesus enters Jerusalem (Matthew 21:9). |
| Scripture Reference | Psalm 118:26 |
No other language turns 'welcome' into a blessing quite like Hebrew does. Baruch Haba — literally 'blessed is the one who comes' — transforms the simple act of greeting a visitor into a pronouncement of divine favor. The phrase comes directly from Psalm 118:26, which was sung by pilgrims arriving at the Temple in Jerusalem. When Jews welcomed worshippers approaching the Holy City, they declared them blessed by God. Today the phrase greets you at airport arrival halls, synagogue entrances, and Israeli front doors, but it still carries the echo of that ancient Temple welcome.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 118:26
“Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the LORD. From the house of the LORD we bless you.”
Where Does “Baruch Haba” Come From?
Biblical — from Psalm 118:26, 'Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the LORD.' This psalm was part of the Hallel prayers sung during pilgrim festivals. In the New Testament, it's quoted when Jesus enters Jerusalem (Matthew 21:9).
When and How to Say “Baruch Haba”
Used to welcome guests at events, homes, synagogues, and public venues. The feminine form is 'Bruchah Haba'ah' (for a woman) and the plural is 'Bruchim Haba'im' (for a group). Signs reading 'Bruchim Haba'im' appear at the entrance to Israeli cities and venues.
Cultural Context of Baruch Haba
You'll see 'Bruchim Haba'im' signs at the entrance to Israeli cities, airports, and event venues. It's also the traditional greeting for a newborn at their brit milah (circumcision ceremony) or naming ceremony, and for a bride and groom at their wedding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you say “Welcome / Blessed is the one who comes” in Hebrew?
“Welcome / Blessed is the one who comes” in Hebrew is Baruch Haba (בָּרוּךְ הַבָּא), pronounced “ba-RUKH ha-BA.” The literal translation is “Blessed is the one who comes.” Used to welcome guests, visitors, and newcomers. Carries deep spiritual significance as it quotes Psalm 118:26, which is also associated with messianic expectation.
How do you pronounce Baruch Haba?
Baruch Haba is pronounced “ba-RUKH ha-BA.” The literal meaning is “Blessed is the one who comes.”
What does Baruch Haba literally mean?
Baruch Haba literally means 'Blessed is the one who comes.' Baruch means 'blessed,' ha is the definite article 'the,' and ba means 'comes' or 'the one who comes.' It's a direct quote from Psalm 118:26 and transforms a simple welcome into a declaration of divine blessing.
How do you say welcome to a woman or group?
Hebrew adjusts for gender and number: Baruch Haba (to one male), Bruchah Haba'ah (to one female), Bruchim Haba'im (to a mixed or male group), Bruchot Haba'ot (to an all-female group). The most common plural form on signs is 'Bruchim Haba'im.'
Is Baruch Haba connected to messianic prophecy?
Yes. Psalm 118:26 — 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD' — is understood in both Jewish and Christian tradition as having messianic significance. In the New Testament, the crowds quote this verse when Jesus enters Jerusalem on Palm Sunday (Matthew 21:9).
Sources & Further Study
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