Pronounced:   To pronounce the Hebrew word nefesh (נֶפֶשׁ) in English, say “neh-fesh”.

neh: Pronounced like the “neh” in the word net.

fesh: Pronounced exactly like the English word fresh, but dropping the “r” sound.

Stress: Put the emphasis on the first syllable.

Definition:   In Hebrew, Nefesh (נֶפֶשׁ) most commonly translates into English as soul, living being, life, or self.Unlike the traditional Western concept of an immaterial soul separated from the body, Nefesh refers to an integrated, physical-spiritual unit. It means an entire living, breathing being with physical needs, appetites, and emotions. In the Hebrew Bible, it is frequently used to describe both humans and animals.

Theological Significance: Nefesh is not just the soul separate from the body — it is the whole person, the living being. God cares for you entirely, not just spiritually.