THEO45230: Introductory Biblical Hebrew

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• May be taken with any one, but no more than one, of the following: THEO45130 Introductory New Testament Greek; THEO45310 Extended Study in Foreign Language; THEO43710 Extended Study in Theology and Religion.

• To introduce students to grammar and basical vocabulary of biblical Hebrew and a knowledge of advanced issues of translation.
• To equip students with skills and knowledge for further study of Hebrew at research level.
• To equip students with skills and knowledge ancillary to other modules which they are taking and to prepare them for further academic work in biblical studies.

• Students are taught using a standard textbook of biblical Hebrew. They will be expected to learn vocabulary and grammar in a traditional way, at a pace which the majority of students find comfortable. By building up a strong vocabulary and grammar base, students will soon feel confident with that language and begin study a variety of short texts in the Epiphany term. They will further engage with textual and linguistic issues in selected passages of Hebrew prose.
• Students will expand their understanding of the language, and of exegesis and translation, through more detailed work on one text with individual tutorial assistance.

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• Basic knowledge of biblical Hebrew grammar, syntax, and core vocabulary.
• Competence in the reading of simple biblical Hebrew prose.
• More advanced study of the grammar and other linguistic issues in regard to the study of one text in particular.

Subject-specific Skills:

• The ability to identify grammatical forms.
• The ability to translate simple Hebrew texts.
• The ability to plan and write an exegetical essay on a text from the Hebrew Bible.

Key Skills:

• Enhanced linguistic ability arising from engagement with a difficult and unfamiliar language.
• Enhanced skills in problem-solving.

• Lectures convey information and exemplify an approach to the subject-matter, enabling students to develop a clear understanding of the subject and to improve their skills in listening and in evaluating information.
• Language tests permit staff and students to assess progress in learning of the language, and to identify areas for remedial work.
• Examinations assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, and in this module especially assess subject skills.
• Tutorials provide specific guidance in regard to the in-depth study of a single text , its exegesis, and opportunity to discuss progress.
• Summative essays develop subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.
• Translational exercises allow students to demonstrate and explain the grammatical skills they are developing.

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