Binyan Hif’il is an active verb pattern in Hebrew that typically expresses causative action. It describes someone causing something to happen, rather than doing the action directly.
What Does Hif’il Do?
This binyan transforms a basic root into a verb that means “to cause to [do something].” For example:
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From the root ק־ו־ם (“to rise”), the Pa’al form קָם means “he rose.”
In Hif’il, it becomes הֵקִים – “he raised” or “he established.” The subject causes someone or something else to rise. -
From the root י־ש־ב (“to sit”), יָשַׁב means “he sat.”
In Hif’il, הוֹשִׁיב means “he seated [someone]” or “he caused [someone] to sit.” -
From the root י־צ־א (“to go out”), יָצָא means “he went out.”
In Hif’il, הוֹצִיא means “he brought out” or “he caused [someone/something] to go out.”
These examples show how Hif’il adds a layer of causation to the root meaning. The subject is not performing the action directly but is initiating or enabling it.
Hif’il verbs often begin with the letter ה and include a long vowel (usually i or e) in the first syllable. These features help distinguish them from other binyanim.
Why It Matters
Hif’il is essential for expressing causation in Hebrew. It allows speakers to describe influence, instruction, initiation, and transformation. Whether in Biblical or Modern Hebrew, this binyan adds depth and precision to verbal expression.