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H595 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אָנֹכִי
Anoki
Pronoun, first person singular
I (emphatic)

Definition

The Hebrew pronoun anoki (אָנֹכִי) is the emphatic or solemn form of 'I,' distinct from the common ani (H589). It is used in contexts of heightened emphasis, solemnity, or divine self-identification. Anoki appears famously at the opening of the Ten Commandments.

Usage & Theological Significance

The first word of the Ten Commandments — spoken by God at Sinai — is anoki: 'I am (anoki) the LORD your God who brought you out of Egypt.' This single emphatic pronoun establishes the entire Decalogue in the context of relationship and redemption. God does not begin with commands but with self-disclosure. Every commandment flows from this prior grace — the God who already delivered Israel now calls Israel to live in light of that deliverance. Anoki is the grammar of covenant grace.

Key Bible Verses

Exodus 20:2
I am (Anoki) the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
Genesis 26:24
That night the LORD appeared to him and said, 'I am (anoki) the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid, for I am with you.'
Isaiah 43:11
I, even I, am the LORD, and apart from me there is no savior.
Genesis 37:13
Israel said to Joseph, 'As you know, your brothers are grazing the flocks near Shechem. Come, I am going to send you to them.'
Jeremiah 1:5
'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.'

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