In Judaism, the number 18 is considered a lucky number because it is equal to the numerical value of the word חַי, which means "alive". The regular spelling of the number 18 in letters is ח"י. However, it is acceptable to use the reversed spelling ח"י for a positive meaning. For example, it is a custom to donate ח"י shekels (18) or multiples of 18 (72, 180, etc.) to add more meaning to the donation. Adding the word חי to the donation symbolizes blessing and life.
There are many jewelry items with the letters ח"י. These items symbolize blessing and long life. But the number ח"י has even more meanings: the Amidah prayer (the main prayer on weekdays) is called "Shmone Esre", which means "18"; and in Israel, every citizen reaches legal adulthood at the age of 18.
In the Hebrew language, once the words are converted into numbers, you can compare them and find similarities. Some attribute mystical significance to words with the same numerical value, and some view it as harmless fun. Enroll today to eTeacher's Hebrew course online and study Modern Hebrew, the language of "am israel chai (עַם יִשְׂרָאֵל חַי)"!
