What is Chai? The Jewish Symbol of Life & Meaning Explained

Few symbols are as warm and positive to Jewish existence as the word Chai (חי). In Hebrew, Chai means "life." It consists of two letters, chet (ח) and yud (י), but together they contain centuries of tradition and meaning, religion.

For Jews around the world, Chai is more than a word. It is a blessing spoken in moments of happiness, an emblem displayed proudly around the neck on chains and pendants and an acknowledgement that life itself is the dearest gift of all. To say l'chaim, "to life", is to toast resilience, survival, and hope.

In this post, we’ll explore where the Chai symbol comes from, what it means in Jewish tradition, why the number 18 is so important and how people continue to carry Chai into daily life and jewelry today. We’ll also answer the most common questions people ask about this powerful word.

The Chai symbol is made up of two Hebrew letters: chet (ח) and yud (י). Together, they form the word Chai (חי), which means "life." Although short, this word carries deep meaning in Jewish philosophy and culture. When said in Hebrew, the word Chai has a throaty "ch" sound, similar to saying "chutzpah." The word is simple and powerful, only two letters, but rich with meaning. It reminds Jews that life itself must be honored and treasured.

The word Chai was present in Hebrew prayer and scripture for centuries, but as a symbol, on jewelry or in benedictions, it spread through the Middle Ages. The Jewish communities already began to wear the letters not just as a word but as a visible symbol, a way of applying the sense of life into being.

Over time, the symbol of Chai pervaded Jewish society. It was inscribed on ritual items, included in blessings and eventually one of the favorite symbols to be added to Jewish jewelry.

The word Chai is simple, but its meaning is profound. In Judaism, life is the greatest blessing and the Chai symbol is an expression of this belief in two letters.

Life is never taken for granted in Jewish culture, it is danced through each day. Each breath is a reminder to be grateful and connect with the world and God. The Chai symbol explains this lesson, remembering one at every moment to live and be grateful.

The word Chai is employed in prayer, music, and everyday speech. To call out l'chaim (\"to life\") at a wedding, Shabbat meal, or holiday is to bless the occasion with hope and joy. It is also an expression of Jewish resiliency, strength to push life forward despite challenges. Wearing or displaying the Chai symbol is not only a matter of tradition, however, but of affirming strength, survival and the loveliness of life itself.

In Judaism, numbers and letters are customarily linked with a system called gematria. Each Hebrew letter has a number and when all the letters of Chai (chet = 8, yud = 10) are added together, they total 18.

As Chai means 18, the number itself has become equivalent to life. Donations or gifts in multiples of 18 are an ancient Jewish practice. For example, someone can give $18, $180, or $1,800, all with the intention to signify a blessing for life and prosperity.

When Jews give in multiples of 18, they are not just giving money or aid, they are offering a blessing. It is a way of saying, "May you be alive, may you be blessed." It is a way of connecting everyday activities like charity or gift-giving to the deeper meaning of Chai, bringing spirituality into the everyday.

The Chai symbol is not just ancient history, it is alive in Jewish speech, celebrations and traditions. One of the most common expressions is l’chaim, "to life." It’s more than just a toast. Saying l’chaim is a way of celebrating the gift of being alive, of sharing joy and of looking forward with hope. You’ll hear it at weddings, Shabbat meals and moments of happiness.