The Hebrew root samekh-khof-nun, to be of service, brings together travel agents, knives, danger and classic Israeli songs.

The root tsadi-heh-resh is used in the Hebrew words for light, lunch, declarations and day care.

Put your hands together for a root that can be applied to clapping and doubting as well as the rules of supply and demand.

The root tet, resh, feh can be scrambled, shuffled or torn to pieces.

The root lamed, vav, nun, to stay for the night, is circumscribed to a particular time—nighttime.

The root tet, ayin, nun, which can mean load or piece, also has a place in the courtroom.

Robert Alter's singular, scholarly work is meant to bring clarity to the ancient text and reflects his lifelong devotion to the Hebrew language.

Getting to the bottom of a root used in business, law and leisure.