DESCRIPTION:

This is the first half of a two-quarter Hebrew language class. the second half of the course will be offered in the Spring quarter. Those who enroll are expected to complete their study in the Spring quarter, and with the same instructor. No transferring between sections is permitted. Students will be introduced to the basic grammar (phonology and morphology) and syntax of the Hebrew Old Testament, and will learn how to use the basic grammatical and lexical reference tools. The mastery of the basics of Hebrew will provide students with the necessary competency that will enable them to begin to read and interpret the Hebrew Bible.

A thorough knowledge of the scriptures is essential in pastoral ministry. Reading the scriptures in their original languages allows a deeper understanding and more insightful exegesis of the Bible, particularly the Old Testament, which was written within a cultural context far different from our own. In addition, basic knowledge of the Hebrew language gives one tools to better evaluate commentaries, articles, and English translations.

This two-course sequence--LG502A (Winter) and LG502B (Spring)--will meet twice weekly, two hours per session, for presentation of new material, reading from the Hebrew Bible, recitation and questions from assigned homework, and quizzes.

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.

Seow, C. L. A Grammar for Biblical Hebrew. Nashville: Abingdon, 1987.

See the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Program" available in the SOT Academic Advising office.

Either:

Joüon, Paul. A Grammar of Biblical Hebrew. Translated by Takamitsu Muraoka. Rome: Editrice Pontificio Istituto Biblico, 1991; reprint, with corrections, 1993. OR

Kautzch, E., ed. Gesenius' Hebrew Grammar. (A. E. Cowley, tr.) 2nd ed. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1982.

Williams, R. J. Hebrew Syntax: An Outline. (Latest edition.) Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1988.

Exercises from the Grammar will be assigned most class sessions. In addition, there will be frequent announced quizzes on vocabulary and grammar. Attendance in class is vital in order to assimilate the amount of material that will be covered during the quarter. The final grade will be based on class participation, quiz scores, a midterm and a final exam.

None. No audits.

The two-course sequence meets the M. Div. core requirement in Hebrew (HEB).