Course information
Contact
Learn how to independently read biblical texts in their original language! This course introduces Biblical Hebrew using the textbook Hinneh: Biblical Hebrew – the Practical Way, by Rahel Halabe. It is designed for participants who already know the Hebrew alphabet and have basic familiarity with Hebrew vowel signs (Nikkud). The course takes a communicative, practical approach. Emphasizing reading aloud, recognition of grammatical forms in context, and gradual exposure to biblical texts from the very first lessons.
Participants develop the tools to independently access most biblical texts early on, through a combination of frequent vocabulary, color-coded root groups, and well-sequenced grammar. The course is ideal for anyone interested in the Hebrew Bible, Jewish studies, theology, or the history of the Hebrew language.
The course is given in collaboration with Paideia – the European Institute for Jewish Studies in Sweden.
Course Structure
The course takes a communicative approach using the textbook Hinneh: Biblical Hebrew the Practical Way. Emphasis is on reading aloud, translation exercises, and recognition of grammatical forms in context using a color-coded root system. The teaching consists of a Combination of teacher explanation and active participation, including individual and group reading exercises.
Participants are expected to allocate 1–2 hours preparation time before each class to do exercises in the textbook with the answer key.
Prior Knowledge
The course is given in English.
Participants are required to have prior knowledge of the Hebrew alphabet and basic familiarity with Hebrew vowel signs (Nikkud). Application is open to anyone interested in the Hebrew Bible, Jewish studies, theology, or the Hebrew language.
To apply for this course, you need basic computer skills and knowledge of how to use the digital platform Zoom.
Course Material
All course literature is not included in the course cost. You need to acquire the following book on your own:
Course Book:
- Hinneh: Biblical Hebrew the Practical Way, Volumes I + II + Tool Box.
Participants need access to the book for the first class. The digital version is recommended and sufficient. You will receive more information about the course book that you purchase on your own, if you get accepted to the course.
About the Teacher
Michael Kisliuk is a native Hebrew speaker and has been researching Hebrew for over 10 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies and a master’s degree in Hebrew Language from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. In Israel, he taught Hebrew as a second language at leading academic institutions. He relocated to Sweden with his family and now teaches Hebrew and Arabic at Paideia folkhögskola, both online and on-site.