binyan

Binyan is a term in Hebrew linguistics that refers to a pattern or template used to form verb forms from a three-letter root. Each binyan specifies a fixed arrangement of vowels and affixes that modifies voice, aspect, or causation while preserving the core meaning of the root. Through these patterns, related verbs share a common semantic core but differ in nuance.

The main binyanim are Qal, Niphal, Piel, Pu’al, Hiph’il, Hophal, and Hitpa’el. Qal is the basic active voice. Niphal typically yields passive or reflexive meanings. Piel conveys intensive or causative action. Pu’al is the passive counterpart of Piel. Hiph’il is a primary causative form. Hophal serves as the passive of Hiph’il. Hitpa’el is usually reflexive or reciprocal, sometimes iterative.

For example, the same root can appear in multiple binyanim to produce related verbs with different shades of meaning. In general terms, Qal gives the straightforward verb, Niphal expresses passivity or self-action, Piel adds force or causation, and Hitpa’el often indicates reflexive or collective action. The exact form and nuance depend on vocalization and context, and many roots are used in several binyanim.

In practice, binyanim are a core organizing principle of Hebrew grammar, essential for conjugating verbs, building vocabulary, and interpreting texts in both Biblical and Modern Hebrew. The word binyan also exists as בניין to mean building or construction, a separate sense unrelated to verb morphology.