Assessment

Percentage contribution for learners who maintain an average of 70% in their formative assessments: Formative Exercises 100% / Percentage contribution for learners who do not maintain an average of 70% in their formative assessments: Formative Exercises 20% + Exam 80%

Module Aims

This module aims to introduce learners to the study of Biblical Hebrew, in order to enhance understanding of Scripture, especially the Old Testament. The course introduces the Biblical Hebrew writing system, typical word classes of Biblical Hebrew, major elements of Biblical Hebrew morphology and syntax, and the vocabulary of key words in Biblical Hebrew. Besides the assigned grammar book, one or two biblical passages are read in Hebrew. Knowledge of the language allows for a greater understanding of elements of biblical culture and also grants insight into diverse translations of key Hebrew words in modern biblical versions.

Indicative Syllabus

1. The Hebrew alphabet: consonants and vowels
2. Frequently occurring adjectives and pronouns
3. Regular nouns and the definite article
4. Separable and inseparable prepositions
5. Construct chain and demonstrative adjectives
6. Nouns with pronoun suffixes
7. Regular imperfect or prefixed qal verbs
8. Common irregular imperfect or prefixed qal verbs
9. Common waw-consecutive verb forms
10. Regular perfect or suffixed qal verbs

Learning Outcomes

• — Translate a core vocabulary of key words in Biblical Hebrew, and also explain the basic elements of Biblical Hebrew morphology and syntax.
• — Articulate some major features of Hebrew grammar and indicate their impact on how major Biblical Hebrew texts are to be interpreted.
• — Translate a few basic Biblical Hebrew verses, and also apply Hebrew grammatical rules to conjugate other verbs and decline other nouns of a similar pattern.
• — Through a close attention to common Hebrew words, parse their grammatical form.
• — Demonstrate some discernment regarding diverse translations of key Hebrew words in modern biblical versions.

Bibliography

• — Jo Ann Hackett, A Basic Introduction to Biblical Hebrew (Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2010).