The Symbolic Meaning of Chai

Yesterday a community legend, Barry Bernson, climbed atop the WAKY Shack to broadcast his support of Wayside Christian Mission.  Barry, who has supported the mission for many years,  presented me with a donation in an amount which was a multiple of 18.  Barry explained that the amount may seem odd, but as a person who practices the Jewish faith, this was an expression of "luck or life".   Thank you Barry Bernson, your gift of financial support is very much appreciated, and your expression of life and luck as taught by your faith will always be remembered.

The Symbolic Meaning of Chai

Judaism is a religion that emphasizes the importance of life. Jews are encouraged to be good, ethical people (mensches) and enjoy the time they are given on Earth. A common Jewish toast is "l'chaim!," which means, "to life!." It is said at celebrations in anticipation of all the good things to come.

Because it means "life," the Chai is consequently a symbol that captures an important aspect of Judaism. According to the gematria, which is a mystical tradition that assigns a numerological value to Hebrew letters, the letters Het (ח) and Yud (י) add up to the number 18. The Het has a value of 8 and the yud has a value of 10. As a result, 18 is a popular number that represents good luck. At weddings, bar mitzvahs and other events Jews often give gifts of money in multiples of 18, symbolically giving the recipient the gift of "life" or luck.