Module description
This module will introduce students to the languages of the Bible. It will provide students with a basic orientation to the biblical languages: Hebrew and Koine Greek. It will enable students to read and translate simple Hebrew and Greek phrases and constructions. Students will be able to read and translate, with assistance, selected biblical passages.
Assessment details
2 hour exam (100%)
Alternative assessment for semester 1 only study abroad students: 3,000 word essay in lieu of exam (100%)
Educational aims & objectives
To provide a basic introduction to the languages of the Bible: Hebrew and Koine Greek.
To enable students to read and translate simple Hebrew and Greek phrases, and to understand some basic grammatical constructions.
To enable students to read and translate, with assistance, selected biblical passages.
To give students a grounding in Hebrew and Greek so that they may go to study either language more deeply in Biblical Languages II at level 6.
Learning outcomes
Generic skills
- demonstrate skills related to the acquisition of an ancient language
- show an understanding of issues of translation
- begin to develop an ability to read primary texts in ancient languages
- an awareness of introductory-level semantics
- confidently articulate ideas in written form
- participate with confidence in classroom discussion
Module specific skills
- learn the Hebrew and Greek alphabets
- recognize some words in Biblical Hebrew and Koine Greek
- begin to develop an understanding of the structure of both languages
- demonstrate an understanding of some basic elements of Hebrew and Greek grammar
- begin to develop an ability to read and translate biblical passages in their original languages
- begin to develop skills in analysing biblical passages in their original languages
- engage with appropriate secondary literature, especially commentaries
Teaching pattern
30 hours of seminar