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 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
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.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: At the end of this two-course sequence, the student will
demonstrate the ability 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.
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 periodic 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: