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Semester 1

Intermediate Biblical Hebrew (Honours) (DIVI10103)

Subject

Divinity

College

CAHSS

Credits

20

Normal Year Taken

3

Delivery Session Year

2023/2024

Pre-requisites

Visiting students should have completed at least 3 Divinity/Religious Studies courses at grade B or above. We will only consider University/College level courses.

Course Summary

This course strengthens students' biblical Hebrew language skills at an intermediate level. It offers a structured consolidation of grammar and vocabulary, and focusses on using the language to translate, analyse, and explore texts from the Hebrew Bible.

Course Description

Academic Description: This course builds on the biblical Hebrew language skills acquired in 'Introducing Biblical Hebrew' (or equivalent course), strengthening them at an intermediate level. It is intended to consolidate and develop students' grammar and vocabulary proficiency, and to put these skills to use. It achieves this through close analysis of texts from the Hebrew Bible. Students read, translate, and explore various set texts, considering their textual, historical, and literary dimensions. Syllabus/outline content: The precise content of the course varies from year to year. It always includes a review of grammar and close reading of several set texts, of varied character and difficulty. These texts will primarily be prose narratives, such as the creation accounts (Gen 1-3); the book of Jonah; the book of Ruth; or the prose framework of Job (Job 1-2, 42). Poetry may also be introduced towards the end of the course, such as a selection of Psalms, or excerpts from the prophets. The set texts will be read, translated, and analysed in depth. Student Learning Experience Students have three hours of class time per week. In advance of most classes, they will be expected to read, translate, and analyse a short portion of the set text. In class, students will discuss their translations and consolidate any grammatical issues that emerge. They will use their language skills for exegetical purposes, and explore together what new light the original language might shed on our interpretation of the text. In-class assessment and revision activities provide students a useful way to track their progress.

Assessment Information

Written Exam 60%, Coursework 0%, Practical Exam 40%

view the timetable and further details for this course