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H24 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אָבִיב
Aviv
Noun, masculine
Young Grain / Spring / First Month

Definition

The Hebrew word aviv refers to grain that has reached the stage of being tender and formed but not yet fully ripened — the fresh green ears of barley or wheat in early spring. By metonymy, aviv became the name for the first month of the Hebrew religious calendar (corresponding roughly to March-April), when the barley would be in this state. God commanded the Exodus to mark this month as the beginning of months (Exodus 12:2; 13:4). It is the month of Passover — the month of Israel's birth as a nation.

Usage & Theological Significance

Aviv (spring grain) is a symbol of new life, new beginnings, and divine timing. The Exodus happened in the month of Aviv — not by accident, but because spring itself is a sermon on resurrection. Dead seeds sprout; frozen earth thaws; what seemed finished comes to life. Passover in Aviv prefigured Christ's death and resurrection — which also occurred in this month. The Song of Songs celebrates the arrival of spring (aviv) as the season of the Beloved's coming (Song of Songs 2:11–13). Every spring is a reminder: God makes all things new. The city of Tel Aviv takes its name from this word.

Key Bible Verses

Exodus 13:4 Today, in the month of Aviv, you are leaving.
Exodus 9:31 The flax and barley were destroyed, since the barley had headed and the flax was in bloom. The barley was in the ear (aviv)
Deuteronomy 16:1 Observe the month of Aviv and celebrate the Passover of the LORD your God, because in the month of Aviv he brought you out of Egypt by night.
Song of Solomon 2:11 See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come.
Leviticus 2:14 If you bring a grain offering of firstfruits to the LORD, offer crushed heads of new grain roasted in the fire — grain from the first of your harvest (aviv).

Related Words

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