Chai Jewish Jewelry

The Chai is one of the more popular Judaica symbols. Chai which is represented by the number 18 in Jewish numerology translates to "life" or "living". The Chai signifies a long life and Chai jewelry is powerful on its own and can often be found interwoven with other Jewish symbols like a Star of David or Tree of life. Gold Chai necklaces and silver chai necklaces make great bar-mitzvah gifts and Chai bracelets are great bat-mitzvah gifts!

Chai FAQs

What is a Chai?

Chai is a Hebrew word that means life. It is comprised of the two letters Het and Yod. The word has become one of the most popular Jewish motifs to wear. It symbolizes long life and if it’s given as a gift it is as if you are blessing the recipient with a long (healthy, happy and prosperous) life.

How do you pronounce Chai?

Chai is a hard word to pronounce because the chet sound is not on part of the English language. It sounds like “Chai “(as in tea), but the CH is actually the [χai̯] sound. Those who can’t make that sound pronounce it like the word “hi”. Chai is in the word “l’chaim” that you may have heard in a Jewish toast.

What is the symbolism of a Chai?

Chai means life or being alive. It’s a symbol that dates back to the 18th century. It has links to the Talmud and the Zohar (Jewish book of mysticism). Its also the root of the word Chaya – which means living thing or animal.

What letters make up a Chai?

The letters Chet and Yod make up the word chai. Chet is the 8th letter of the alphabet and Yod is the 10th letter. The numerical value of the word Chai is 18. 18 is considered a lucky number in Judaism because it represents being alive in front of G-d.

Is Chai the same as L’chaim?

L’chaim is the toast you make in Hebrew (like cheers or chin chin). It means “to life” and your probably remember it from Fiddler on the Roof. Chai, which means life, is part of the phrase L’chaim. Those who wear the Chai symbol are meant to be blessed with a long life.

Is Chai jewelry for a male or female?

Chai jewelry can be worn by both males and females. The simple bold chai designs make great Bar Mitzvah gifts, nugget style chai pendants are really popular with adult men and the more ornate intricate Chai designs are popular with women as well. Some people prefer to wear a Chai because its less identifiably Jewish than a Star of David.