DESCRIPTION: This is the first half of a two-quarter introduction to biblical
Hebrew; the second half of the course will be offered in the Winter quarter.
Students enrolling in the Fall quarter are expected to complete their study in
the Winter quarter with the same instructor. No transferring between sections
is permitted. The course will seek to develop the mastery of elementary Hebrew
grammar and vocabulary through translation of exercises from Mark D. Futato's
Beginning Biblical Hebrew, as well as provide an introduction to the use
of reference material for the reading and translation of Hebrew.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: The students will (1) memorize basic vocabulary for prose
readings of the Hebrew Bible; (2) understand and recognize the different
grammatical categories present in Hebrew: nouns, adjectives, adverbs,
prepositions, verbs, and verbal forms; (3) learn to read aloud sections of the
Hebrew Bible; (4) translate Hebrew texts and interact with reference books and
commentaries for biblical exegesis; (5) understand a basic introduction to
exegesis of Old Testament texts.
RELEVANCE FOR 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 linguistic composition. 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.
COURSE FORMAT: The class meets twice weekly for two-hour sessions. Class time
will consist of lecture, reading, and translating from the Hebrew Bible,
translation exercises, and daily quizzes. Attendance is of paramount importance
for successfully completing this course and acquiring the skill of reading
biblical Hebrew. Students should expect to spend at least two hours of outside
preparation/homework for every hour of class time.
REQUIRED READING: