How Do You Spell DYBBUK?

Pronunciation: [dˈɪbʌk] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "dybbuk" is a unique one. It is an English transliteration of the Yiddish word דיבוק‎ which is pronounced /ˈdɪb.ək/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The symbol "y" is used to represent the Yiddish letter "י‎" which makes a "i" sound in English. The double "b" indicates a geminate consonant where the sound is held longer than usual. The combination of the letters "k" and "u" at the end represents a glottal stop. The word refers to a malicious spirit from Jewish folklore.

DYBBUK Meaning and Definition

  1. A dybbuk refers to a concept deeply ingrained in Jewish folklore and mysticism. It is a supernatural entity commonly described as a malevolent spirit or possessing ghost. The term "dybbuk" originates from Hebrew, derived from the verb "davak," meaning "to cling" or "to adhere." The dybbuk is believed to be the soul of a deceased person, overwhelmed with unfinished business or unresolved emotional baggage, which attaches itself to a living individual in an attempt to fulfill its desires or seek redemption.

    The dybbuk is often portrayed as an intruder, forcibly occupying a person's body and manifesting through their words, actions, or erratic behavior. It is said to possess knowledge and memories of its past life, which it may reveal during moments of trance or possession. Dybbuks are thought to stem from tragic circumstances, such as untimely deaths, unrequited love, or revengeful motives.

    Traditionally, Jewish exorcism rituals, specifically Kabbalistic practices, are employed to relieve individuals of a dybbuk's grasp. These rituals involve incantations, prayers, and sometimes the use of amulets or talismans to sever the bond between the living and the possessing spirit. The goal is to liberate the afflicted person, allowing the dybbuk to move on and find its ultimate rest or resolution.

    Overall, the concept of a dybbuk serves as a metaphorical representation of the supernatural crossing over into the human realm, providing a framework to explore themes of unresolved emotions, the consequences of tragedy, and the potential for spiritual healing and redemption.

Common Misspellings for DYBBUK

Etymology of DYBBUK

The word "dybbuk" originates from Jewish folklore and has its roots in Yiddish. The term "dybbuk" comes from the Hebrew word "dibbūq", which means "attachment" or "clinging". In Jewish mythology, a dybbuk refers to the soul of a deceased person that has not moved on to the afterlife and instead attaches itself to a living person, often taking control of their body. The concept of the dybbuk became well-known and popularized through the play "The Dybbuk" by S. Ansky, which was written in Yiddish in 1914. The word has since entered the English language and is commonly used today to refer to a malevolent possessing spirit.

Similar spelling word for DYBBUK

Plural form of DYBBUK is DYBBUKKIM OR DYBBUKS