Winter 2001
LG502A
Bricker

LG502A: BEGINNING HEBREW. Daniel P. Bricker.


DESCRIPTION:

This course is designed to introduce students to the basic vocabulary, grammar, and syntax of the Hebrew Bible. Mastery of these basic aspects, along with a working knowledge of the standard grammatical and lexical reference tools, are expected as preparation for further exegetical work or the study of other Semitic languages.

RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY:
Thorough knowledge of the scriptures is essential to the personal growth and work of the minister. This knowledge is further enhanced by the use of the original language of the text and to critically evaluate commentaries and translations of the text.

COURSE FORMAT:
This course is formatted as a two-course sequence (LG502A and LG502B), and will meet twice weekly for two-hour sessions for a total of four hours per week. Those who enroll in LG502A will be expected to continue in the same section for LG502B.

REQUIRED READING:
Brown, Francis, S. R. Driver, and Charles A. Briggs, eds. A Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament. Peabody: Hendrickson, 1979.

Elliger, Karl, and Wilhelm Rudolph, eds. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia. Stuttgart: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1990.

Kelley, P. H. Biblical Hebrew: An Introductory Grammar. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1992.
See the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" available in the SOT Academic Advising office.

RECOMMENDED READING:
Waltke, Bruce K. and M. O'Connor. An Introduction to Biblical Hebrew Syntax. Winona Lake: Eisenbrauns, 1990.

Williams, R. J. Hebrew Syntax: An Outline. 2nd ed. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1988.

ASSIGNMENTS:
Weekly preparation and attendance are required parts of the course. Quizzes, announced and unannounced, will be given to evaluate students' grasp of vocabulary and understanding of grammatical and syntactical elements of the language. The final grade will be based on attendance and participation, written assignments, quizzes, a mid-term, and a final examination.

PREREQUISITES:
None. No audits.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:
Two-course sequence meets M. Div. core requirement in Hebrew (HEB).

FINAL EXAMINATION:
Yes.