THEO3708 Biblical Hebrew 3

The focus of this topic is the translation of Biblical Hebrew texts. Emphasis will be given to vocabulary building and the reading of difficult texts. Knowledge of Hebrew grammar will be consolidated and the use of the critical apparatus of the BHS practiced. The characteristics and effective translation of biblical poetry will be explored since poetic texts are among the more complex in the Hebrew Bible. The relationship between translation and theological interpretation will be discussed. Consideration will also be given to the place of Biblical Hebrew in the wider context of Semitic Languages.

In this topic, students will:

• Consolidate translation skills in Biblical Hebrew
• Gain an understanding of the characteristics of Hebrew Bible poetry and facility in the translation of poetic texts
• Begin the study of later Hebrew through the reading of extra-biblical texts from the Dead Sea Scrolls and Mishnah
• Be introduced to the Semitic language family

1. Read and translate substantial portions of the Hebrew Bible, including poetic texts, in a theologically-aware manner
2. Incorporate the text-critical apparatus of the BHS into translation
3. Translate (in glossed form) extra-Biblical Hebrew texts