DESCRIPTION:

This course provides an introduction to the grammar and syntax of Biblical Hebrew. The mastery of the basics of Hebrew will form a foundation on which to build and develop skills which can be applied to study in a Hebrew exegetical class, to further exploration of Semitic languages, or to growth in personal Bible study.

Anyone who has taught from the Bible will be aware that different versions of the Bible often give radically different translations for the same verse and that consulting commentaries can sometimes increase the confusion. A knowledge of Hebrew can equip a person to make intelligent choices among the array of options presented by commentators and translators.

The class will meet twice weekly for four-hour sessions. Because of the structure of this class, attendance at every class session is extremely important.

The course will be based on the material in the course reader (Beginning Hebrew Grammar) and in Gesenius's grammar, supplemented with material to further explain various features of the language. Classes will consist of lecture, reading from the Hebrew Bible, recitation in class on homework assigned, and frequent quizzes designed both to reinforce learning and to provide students with feedback about their progress.

Brown, F.; S. R. Driver; and C. A. Briggs. A Hebrew and English Lexicon of the Old Testament, with an appendix, containing the Biblical Aramaic. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers, 1996 [original date, 1906].

Elliger, K. and W. Rudolph. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia. 5th ed. Stuttgart: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1997.

Haney, Linda. Beginning Hebrew Grammar.

_________. Beginning Hebrew Workbook.

Gesenius, W.; E. F. Kautzsch, et al. Gesenius' Hebrew Grammar. 2d. ed. Oxford: The Clarendon Press, 1963; [original date, 1910].

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

Typical assignments will include a vocabulary list to learn, grammar material to read and study, and exercises (including Hebrew translation) to prepare. The course grade will be based on class participation, homework evaluation, daily quiz scores (vocabulary and grammar), written and oral translation grades, and the final exam.

Good standing. No audits.

Meets the M. Div. core requirement in Hebrew (HEB).

Yes.