Hebrew Language Academy Corrects Common Phrase Usage
The Academy of the Hebrew Language has clarified the correct usage of a common idiom, just before the Day of Atonement. The Academy states that the proper way to express that two people have resolved a dispute is 'leyasher et ha'hedorim' (ליישר את ההדורים), not 'leyashev et ha'hedorim' (ליישב את ההדורים).
The term 'hedorim' itself is a rare biblical word with several interpretations. One explanation links it to 'hadar' (הדר), meaning high or prominent places. Another connects it to an Aramaic root meaning return, interpreting 'hedorim' as winding or convoluted paths. Biblical commentators explained the term in the context of obstacles and crooked ways.
From this, the idiom developed in Hebrew. 'Leyasher et ha'hedorim' means to remove obstacles, resolve disagreements, and reconcile parties. Therefore, the Academy emphasizes that when people make up after a quarrel or someone tries to solve a dispute, they are 'straightening' the 'hedorim', not 'settling' them.
