Fall 2015/Pasadena

LG525

Melzian

LG525: BIBLICAL ARAMAIC (4 Units: 160 Hours). Marilyn Lundberg Melzian.

DESCRIPTION: An introduction to the essential elements of the phonology, morphology, and syntax of biblical Aramaic, using the Aramaic portions of Ezra and Daniel. Some attention will be paid to other Aramaic literature for purposes of comparison.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: On completion of this course the student will (1) be able to read the Aramaic biblical texts aloud and translate both literally and in smooth English; (2) be able to identify nouns, pronouns, regular and irregular verbs and other grammatical forms; (3) be able to identify subjects, adjectives, direct and indirect objects, prepositional phrases, and adverbs and other syntactical units; (4) be able to read a basic narrative text in Aramaic; (5) be able to use lexicons and reference grammars; and (6) have the tools with which to study other ancient Aramaic texts.

COURSE FORMAT: This class meets twice weekly for two hour sessions for a total of 40 instructional hours in the classroom for lecture and discussion. Each two-hour session will include presentation of new material and recitation of prepared readings.

REQUIRED READING:

Elliger, K. and W. Rudolph, eds. Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia, Editio Minor – Compact Edition. Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1997. ISBN: 978-1598561630, Pub. Price $69.95 [Or fullsize edition of Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia.]

Johns, Alger F. A Short Grammar of Biblical Aramaic. Andrews University Press, 1972. ISBN: 978-0943872742, Pub. Price $14.99.

Rosenthal, Franz. A Grammar of Biblical Aramaic. 7th, rev. ed. Harrassowitz, 2006. ISBN: 978-3447052511, Pub. Price $37.00.

Material in class syllabus.

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:

  1. Students will be assigned a biblical Aramaic passage to prepare for each class. They will be expected to be able to read aloud and translate any part of the passage in class. In addition, they will be expected to discuss issues of grammar and syntax on the passage prepared. At the beginning of the course, guide sheets will be provided for use by the students in their preparation of biblical passages; as the course progresses the students will be expected to provide increasing levels of analysis and translation. (40%) [This assignment is related to learning outcomes 1-6] [90 hours].

  2. Vocabulary quizzes will be given once a week (15%) [This assignment is related to learning outcome 1] [10 hours].

  3. Mid-term (20%) [This assignment is related to learning outcomes 2-3] [10 hours].

  4. Final exam (25%) [This assignment is related to learning outcomes 1-3] [10 hours].

PREREQUISITES: LG502 or equivalent. No audits.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Required for Ancient Context of the Old Testament and Ancient Near Eastern Studies emphases. Satisfies the Aramaic language requirement for PhD in Old Testament. Elective for MDiv. Requisite course for MA in Theology—Ancient Near Eastern Languages and Literature format.

FINAL EXAMINATION: Yes.


NOTE: This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design but is subject to modification. Textbook prices are set by publishers and are subject to change.

For your convenience, order these texts online through the Archives Bookshop.