DESCRIPTION: This course comprises the second half of a two-quarter
introduction to biblical Hebrew. Students enrolling in this course have
completed LG502A in the previous quarter with the same instructor (transferring
between sections is not permitted).
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Upon completing this course, the student will be able to
(1) read aloud from the Hebrew Bible; (2) write legibly in a standard Hebrew
script; (3) recognize and use high frequency vocabulary of biblical Hebrew; (4)
identify basic word forms, grammatical structures, and syntax; (5) translate
short passages from the Hebrew Bible using a standard lexicon and other
tools.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Interpreting the Bible in a critically responsible and
faithful way is vitally important in guiding our lives together as Christians,
and in whatever ministry God calls us to. The ability to read, translate, and
analyze the text of the Bible in its original languages greatly enhances our
search to discern God's message to us. With a basic understanding of the Hebrew
language, the Old Testament comes alive in new ways and allows us to open
ourselves to more of what God may be saying to us through God's word.
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, quizzes, and tests. Attendance is very important for
successfully completing this course and towards 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: