Module 1: Introduction to Biblical Hebrew
Overview:
This module introduces the student to the basic structure of Biblical Hebrew. It covers its alphabet, pronunciation, grammar basics, and the differences between Modern Hebrew and Biblical Hebrew. The goal is to familiarize students with the Hebrew alphabet, vowel system, and some essential vocabulary.
Key Topics:
The Hebrew Alphabet (Aleph-Bet)
Vowels and Pronunciation
Basic Word Construction: Roots, Prefixes, and Suffixes
Overview of the Grammar System (nouns, verbs, and adjectives)
Differences Between Modern and Biblical Hebrew
Introduction to Word Order in Biblical Hebrew
 
Module 2: Grammar Foundations - Nouns, Verbs, and Adjectives
Overview:
This module focuses on the fundamental grammatical elements of Biblical Hebrew, including nouns, verbs, and adjectives. The focus will be on their roles within sentences and how they form the building blocks of translation.
Key Topics:
Nouns in Biblical Hebrew (singular, plural, gender)
Introduction to Verbs: Perfect and Imperfect Tenses
Adjectives and Agreement with Nouns
Basic Sentence Structure (Subject-Verb-Object)
Possession in Biblical Hebrew
 
Module 3: Verb Conjugations and Tenses in Depth
Overview:
This module delves deeper into verb conjugations and tenses, essential for translating and understanding complex Biblical Hebrew texts. Students will explore the 7 verb stems (binyanim) and their significance.
Key Topics:
Introduction to the 7 Hebrew Verb Stems (Binyanim)
Conjugation Patterns in Perfect and Imperfect Tenses
Introduction to Participles and Imperatives
Aspect vs. Tense: Understanding Verb Forms
Irregular Verbs in Biblical Hebrew
 
Module 4: Sentence Structure and Syntax
Overview:
This module covers the syntactical structures of Biblical Hebrew sentences, which can differ from English in significant ways. Understanding these structures is crucial for accurate translation and comprehension of religious texts.
Key Topics:
Word Order: VSO (Verb-Subject-Object) vs. SVO (Subject-Verb-Object)
The Use of the Definite Article (The)
Prepositions and Their Influence on Word Order
Use of Conjunctions and Subordinators
The Emphasis in Biblical Hebrew Sentences
 
Module 5: Vocabulary Expansion and Idiomatic Expressions
Overview:
This module introduces students to more advanced vocabulary used in Biblical Hebrew, including idiomatic expressions, and how these expressions appear in religious texts. Understanding these expressions is essential for accurate translation and interpretation.
Key Topics:
Common Idiomatic Expressions in Biblical Hebrew
Vocabulary Related to Worship, Sacrifice, and Rituals
Expanding Vocabulary: Synonyms and Antonyms
Key Verbs in Biblical Texts (e.g., "to call," "to see," "to hear")
Theological Terms in Biblical Hebrew
 
Module 6: Translating and Interpreting Biblical Texts
Overview:
The final module focuses on applying everything learned in the previous modules to the translation and interpretation of Biblical Hebrew texts. Students will be guided through the process of translating more complex passages and interpreting their meaning.
Key Topics:
Step-by-Step Translation Process
Interpreting Historical and Theological Context
The Role of Context in Translation
The Use of Lexicons and Commentaries
Differences in Translation: Literal vs. Dynamic Equivalence