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Abba



Hebrew has incorporated the Aramaic word "Abba" (that is, "Dear Father!"), which is a familiar way of addressing one's father. It is the equivalent of "Dad" or "Daddy"; like all Israeli children call their father "Abba".

Judaism teaches that anyone can address God, and that God is close to each one; many prayers commence with, Avinu sh'bashammayim ("Our Father who art in heaven" Matthew 6:9-13). Nevertheless, Judaism regards it as unacceptable to appear overly familiar with God.