DESCRIPTION: This is the second half of a two-quarter introduction to biblical
Hebrew. Students enrolling in this course have completed LG502A in the Fall
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 C. L. Seow's A
Grammar for Biblical Hebrew, as well as provide an introduction to the use
of reference material for the reading and translation of Hebrew.
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
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.
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 biblical
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.
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: