Description

This course focuses on the intensive reading of biblical prose texts as well as some poetic passages. Students will practice reading Hebrew and augment their vocabulary through the concentration of root identification and their realization in the nominal and verbal systems. Moreover, students will learn advanced and salient features of phonology, morphology, morphosyntax, and syntax in the light of the development of Biblical Hebrew. Special attention will be paid to the subtleties of the Hebrew nominal and verbal systems and to clause structure.

Objectives

– Increasing mastery of Hebrew grammar (phonology, morphology, morphosyntax, and syntax)

– Expanding vocabulary and understanding the role of the root in nominal and verbal formation

– Understanding important developments in the historical grammar of Hebrew

– Acquiring advanced skills in reading and translation

Method

– Interactive reading, analysis, and discussion of texts

– Lectures on grammatical topics

– Preparation at home of additional biblical texts

Assigned texts: Exod 20 and Deut 5; Gen 1; Exod 32–33; Deut 1–10; 1 Kgs 1–10; Jonah 1–4; Psalms 1, 29, and 125

Evaluation

The final grade will be based on classroom participation and a final examination, which will include materials read in class as well as chapters prepared at home by the students.