Fall 2012-Winter 2013/Pasadena
LG502A/B
Smoak

LG502A/B: BEGINNING HEBREW. Jeremy D. Smoak.


DESCRIPTION: This two-quarter course provides an introduction to biblical Hebrew. Students will gain a basic understanding of the vocabulary, grammar, and syntax of biblical Hebrew and begin developing translation skills necessary for biblical exegesis.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: As ministers and teachers in the church, knowledge of the Hebrew language allows us to gain a deeper appreciation for the linguistic background of the Bible. Knowledge of the Hebrew language opens a window for ministers and teachers to move beyond modern translations and interpret the biblical message in its original language. Since there is always a close connection between language and culture in societies, an understanding of biblical Hebrew also provides a greater appreciation for the cultural background of the Old Testament. A solid grasp of biblical Hebrew also aids interpretation of the Old Testament's theological message.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students successfully completing this two-quarter course will have demonstrated that they are able to do the following, to the level specified by published standards of the Biblical Division: (1) read aloud in the language and write legibly in its standard script; (2) recognize a basic vocabulary and set of forms; (3) understand its basic grammar and syntax; (4) use the standard exegetical tools in translating and analyzing the original language. 

COURSE FORMAT: This course meets twice weekly for two-hour sessions. Class attendance is required and necessary to maintain a passing grade in the course. Class sessions will consist of short lectures, reading, weekly quizzes, and translation exercises from A Grammar for Biblical Hebrew and the Hebrew Bible.

REQUIRED READING:

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. Hendrickson, 1996 [original date, 1906] [1565632060]. $34.95

Elliger, K., and W. Rudolph. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia. 5th ed. Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1997 [9781598561609]. $39.99

Seow, C. L. A Grammar for Biblical Hebrew. Rev. ed. Abingdon, 1995 [0687157862]. $40.00
See the Biblical Division bibliography "Linguistic and Exegetical Books Required in the Master of Divinity Programs" available at http://schedule.fuller.edu/sot/ecds/Ling-Exeg-Biblio.html and in the SOT Academic Advising office.

RECOMMENDED READING:
Braun, Frank X. English Grammar for Language Students. Ulrich's Books, 1947.

Würthwein, E. The Text of the Old Testament. Trans. by E. F. Rhodes. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1992.

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT: Gaining a solid knowledge of any language requires regular practice and discipline. Thus, assignments for this class will emphasize repetition through frequent quizzes and other small homework assignments. The overall evaluation for this course will be based upon several components: (1) vocabulary and grammatical quizzes (20%); (2) three exams (together 60%; exam #1: 20%; exam #2: 20%; final exam: 20%); and (3) class attendance, participation, and short homework assignments (20%).

PREREQUISITES: Good standing; no audits.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Meets the MDiv core requirement in Hebrew (HEB).

FINAL EXAMINATION: Yes.

This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. (July 2012)