10: Holy Spirit — Ruach HaKodesh (OT), Pneuma Hagion (NT), and Intertestamental Usage

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1. Hebrew Term: Ruach HaKodesh — רוּחַ הַקֹּדֶשׁ

Pronunciation: roo-AKH hah-koh-DESH
Meaning: Holy Spirit; the sacred Spirit of God, active in creation, revelation, inspiration, and sanctification.

Old Testament Usage:

  • Depicts God’s empowering presence, especially in prophecy and leadership (Judges 3:10).
  • Expresses God’s sanctifying work and presence among His people.
    Example Verses:
  • Isaiah 63:10 — “But they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit (ruach ha-kodesh).”
  • Psalm 51:11 — “Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your Holy Spirit (ruach ha-kodesh) from me.”

Intertestamental Usage:

  • Writings emphasize the Spirit’s role in wisdom, prophecy, and eschatological renewal.
  • The Spirit is portrayed as a divine agent sustaining and guiding the faithful.

New Testament Usage:

  • Pneuma Hagion refers to the third Person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit who indwells, empowers, and guides believers.
  • Central to the experience of the early church and Christian life.
    Example Verses:
  • John 14:26 — “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit (Pneuma Hagion), whom the Father will send…”
  • Acts 1:8 — “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit (Pneuma Hagion) has come upon you.”

Comparative Summary:

  • Ruach HaKodesh in the OT reveals God’s presence and sanctifying power.
  • Intertestamental literature bridges prophetic and wisdom traditions with new messianic hope.
  • Pneuma Hagion in the NT fully expresses the Spirit’s Trinitarian personhood and active role in salvation.
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