The charming name of the ladybug
Who doesn’t love a ladybug? This tiny beetle is adorable, harmless, and actually does much good by eliminating toxic insects that threaten crops. The name for the ladybug in Hebrew is Parat Moshe Rabbenu (פרת משה רבנו) which literally means “the cow of our Rabbi Moses”. Although it sounds quite odd, this name actually makes a lot of sense. Like Moses, the ladybug is humble and unassuming. Like a cow, the ladybug is diligent and essential for productive agriculture.
The story behind the name of the mantis
In many languages, the mantis is referred to as a “praying mantis” due to the fact that it raises is front legs in a position that resembles prayer. In Hebrew, it is called Gamal Shlomo (גמל שלמה) which means “Solomon’s Camel”. This odd name refers to the fact that in the Bible, King Solomon prayed to God by spreading his arms out towards the heavens (1 Kgs 8). Why a camel? According to a midrash, Solomon punished his stubborn camel by turning him into this humble insect.
Learn Hebrew - Link yourself to the past
These two insects are just the beginning! Hebrew is full of fascinating words that are rooted in the famous stories of the Bible. If you are curious to learn more about where words come from, you need to return to the source: Hebrew. Enroll today in the Rosen School’s live online Modern Hebrew course and get back to the origins of civilization. From the comfort of your own home, you will study with internationally renowned teachers live from Israel. Join us today!
