Literally to life. A common Jewish toast.

From 'Chai' meaning 'life' -- this popular greeting means 'to life.' In Jewish mysticism, the numeric value of words are often added up to find hidden meanings in words. The letters comprising "Chai' equal a total of 18, hence the practice of giving money and donations in increments of 18 dollars.

a drinking toast: "to life!"

Lit. to life. A common Jewish toast.

L'chayim ( , literally, "to life") is wished to each other when participating in someones Simcha and is meant as a blessing that just as we are wishing each other Nachess (gladness of the heart) now; it should be to life, to be alive in the future and participate in many more simchoth. It is similarly also used as a Hebrew toast and an expression of goodwill. In American popular culture, the phrase was granted a wide audience through the song "L'chayim" in the musical Fiddler on the Roof.

L'Chayim is the longest continuously running talk show in the Jewish community and is currently seen nationally every Sunday on National Jewish Television at 3:00 PM. It is produced by the independent non-profit organization, Jewish Education in Media, Inc.