Sefer ha-shorashim

work by Kimhi

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July 16, 2026

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The Sefer ha-shorashim (Book of Roots) is a significant Hebrew lexicon compiled by David Kimhi around the 12th century. It was originally intended to be part of a larger work, the Sefer mikhlol (Book of Completeness), which aimed to cover Hebrew grammar and lexicography.1

Kimhi's Sefer ha-shorashim built upon the work of earlier scholars like Ibn Janah and his own father, Joseph Kimhi. It introduced new etymologies, compared Hebrew with Aramaic and Provençal, and provided exegetical notes on biblical word roots. This lexicon, along with Kimhi's grammar, became standard works, highly regarded for their comprehensive treatment and clarity.12

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David Kimhi
…appeared as a separate work, Sefer ha-shorashim (“Book of the Roots”). (The grammar, edited and translated by William Chomsky, was published in 1933; 2nd ed. 1952.) His work differed from previous grammars in its comprehensive treatment of verbs and covered all the rules of conjugation, punctuation, and accent. Distinguished also…
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…appeared as a separate work, Sefer ha-shorashim (“Book of the Roots”). (The grammar, edited and translated by William Chomsky, was published in 1933; 2nd ed. 1952.) His work differed from previous grammars in its comprehensive treatment of verbs and covered all the rules of conjugation, punctuation, and accent. Distinguished also…
Read More