This article serves as both the syllabus and roadmap for your journey into the world of Hebrew. The seven-session course outlined below will soon be available to stream online for free, offering an engaging and accessible introduction to the language of the Bible. This page will be updated as the classes develop and become available.
Rather than focusing solely on grammar rules and technical mechanics—an approach that can often feel overwhelming—we take a more intuitive path. Just as young children learn language naturally before mastering formal grammar, this course emphasizes practical learning to help you build a strong foundation with ease.
While these sessions won’t make you a Hebrew scholar overnight, they will equip you with the essential skills to begin reading and provide the key to unlocking a deeper and more exciting exploration of Biblical Hebrew.
Course Materials
Handy Hebrew Alphabet Chart - $8.95 (for 10)
Handy Hebrew Writing Guide - $8.95 (for 10)
Sounds of Hebrew Flashcards - $10.95
Handy Hebrew Grammar Charts - $9.95
Master Set of Bible Flashcards - $24.95
A Bible with Hebrew and English such as:
The Hebrew English Bible (containing the Tanakh and New Testament). This is the Bible we use in our congregation as it contains both the Tanakh (Older Testament) and Brit Chadasha (New Testament) in parallel Hebrew and English.
The Stone Edition Chumash This is a fantastic resource for studying the Torah Portions throughout the year.
Sefaria.org You can also use free online Hebrew-English resources such as Sefaria.org
The Course outline is below.
I. Letters (Otiyot)
Objective: Learn to write and pronounce the letters. Practice identifying and reading letters.
Watch Debbie Friedman's Alephbet Song repeatedly until you’ve fully memorized the Hebrew letters in order. Yes, we mean really memorize them—so much so that you find yourself humming the tune all day long (and maybe even getting a little tired of it). It may seem excessive now, but trust us—this will be invaluable as you continue your Hebrew learning journey!
If this embedded video doesn't work, here is the direct link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXBeFHZDxKM
Using the Handy Hebrew Writing Guide as a reference, take a piece of paper and practice writing each Hebrew letter repeatedly until you feel confident with its form. The goal is to develop familiarity and ease, so take your time and focus on getting comfortable with each letter’s shape and stroke order.
In English transliteration, the letters ח (chet) and כ (chaf) are often represented by "ch," but this is not pronounced like the "ch" in "cheese." Instead, it sounds like the "ch" in Bach, with a guttural quality similar to clearing your throat. To help avoid this common mistake, some transliterations use "kh" instead, better reflecting the correct pronunciation. Oftentimes, you'll see both transliterations.
You'll notice that some Hebrew letters look similar, such as:
ו / ן / ך - (Vav, Final Nun, Final Khaf)
ס / ם - (Samech / Final Mem)
א / ע - (Ayin/Alef)
In Hebrew, five letters have a special form when they appear at the end of a word. These are known as sofit forms. For example, the letter mem (מ) changes to mem sofit (ם) at the end of a word.
A helpful way to remember these five final forms is with the mnemonic mantzapach (מנצפ״ך), which includes the letters מ, נ, צ, פ, כ and their respective final forms: ם, ן, ץ, ף, ך. Memorizing these will make reading and writing Hebrew much easier!
Regular Form | Final Form |
מ | ם |
נ | ן |
צ | ץ |
פ | ף |
כ | ך |
Test:
To successfully complete Class 1, you must:
Memorize and sing the Alephbet Song by heart. This will not only serve as the foundation for your Hebrew learning but will also be essential for calculating gematria (Hebrew numerology) without relying on charts.
Write out the entire Hebrew Alephbet by hand. This practice will reinforce letter recognition and help you become comfortable with Hebrew script.
Mastering these two skills will set you up for success as you continue your journey into the Hebrew language!
II. Vowels (Nikkud)
Objective: Learn to pronounce the letters with the vowels and memorize the sounds the vowels make.
Review the vowel markings on the Handy Hebrew Alphabet Chart. You’ll notice that these vowels appear as small dots or lines placed around the letters. These symbols are called nikkud (נִקּוּד) in Hebrew, with the plural form nikkudot—which literally means "dot" or "dots." Understanding nikkud is essential for proper pronunciation, especially when learning to read Hebrew, as they guide vowel sounds in words.
The vowels are pronounced as a (ah), i (ee), o (oh), and u (oo). This is unlike English and more similar to Spanish.
Using the Sounds of Hebrew Flashcards, memorize the sound of each letter and vowel. Note that the letter is usually pronounced first and then the vowel (there is an exception called a "Furtive Patach" or in Hebrew, a "Patach Gnuva").
Patach Gnuva (פַּתָּח גְּנוּבָה): This exception occurs when a patach ( _ ) appears under the final letter ה (hei), ח (chet), or ע (ayin). Instead of following the consonant, the patach is pronounced before it. For example, in the word רוּחַ (ruach - "spirit" or "wind"), the patach under the ח is pronounced before the consonant, making the correct pronunciation ruaḥ, not ruaḥa. Recognizing this rule will help with proper pronunciation and fluency in reading Hebrew. Here are some examples below:
מָשִׁיחַ
Mashiach
(Mah-Shee-Akh) Messiah
Notice that the patach is under the letter chet, but instead of being pronounced "Mashicha", it is Mashiach.
נֹ֗חַ
Noach (No-Akh) Noah Notice that the patach is under the letter chet, but instead of being pronounced "Nocha", it is Noach.
מִּזְבֵּ֔חַ
Mizbei'ach (Miz-Bay-Akh) Altar Notice that the patach is under the letter chet, but instead of being pronounced Mizbecha, it is Mizbei'ach.
רוּחַ
Ruach (Roo-Ach) Spirit Notice that the patach is under the letter chet, but instead of being pronounced Rucha, it is Ruach.
Here is my friend Moshe Gummadi explaining this letter:
When reviewing the cards, if you make a mistake, you should repeat the sound three times. If you make a mistake again with the same card, repeat the sound three times while banging it on your forehead.
Continue flashing the cards until you have memorized all the letters and the vowels.
The Dagesh דָּגֵשׁ A dagesh is a dot inside of a certain letters that determines if it is pronounced hard or soft.
With the Dagesh | Without the Dagesh |
Beit - בּ | Veit - ב |
Kaf - כּ , ךּ | Khaf - כ , ך |
Peh - פּ , ףּ | Feh - פ , ף |
Similar to the dagesh, the letter Shin has a dot that can affect its pronunciation.
Shin Dot on Right | Sin Dot on Left |
שׁ "Sheen" | שׂ "Seen" |
:
The Sheva - שְׁוָא The sheva (שְׁוָא) and sheva nach (שְׁוָא נָח) can be a bit tricky because they look identical, but their function varies. For the purposes of this course, we’ll simplify their usage with the following general pattern:
At the beginning of a word: The sheva is barely pronounced, almost like a quick, subtle "eh" sound. For example, in the word בְּרֵאשִׁית (B'resheet - "In the beginning"), the sheva under the ב sounds like a very brief "eh."
In the middle of a word: The sheva marks the end of the previous syllable. The next letter then begins the following syllable. For example, in מִסְפָּר (mispar - "number"), the sheva under the ס indicates the end of the first syllable and the start of the next.
This simplified approach should make it easier to navigate sheva in Hebrew words.
III. Words (Devarim)
Objective: Learn to read Hebrew words by sounding out the letters and vowels.
Steps:
Review the Master Set of Bible Flashcards. These cards contain words commonly used in Biblical Hebrew, allowing you to practice high-frequency terms.
Understand the Root System (Shoresh). Hebrew words are built on a root system called a Shoresh (שׁוֹרֵשׁ), which typically consists of three consonants. Some of the cards will show the root of the word, helping you understand how the words are related.
Practice Sounding Out the Words. Focus on sounding out each word carefully, paying attention to how the consonants and vowels interact.
Mistake Correction Process:
If you make a mistake while reading a word, repeat the sound three times.
If you make the same mistake again, repeat the sound three times while tapping the card on your forehead (this technique helps reinforce memory).
Repeat Until Mastery. Keep going through the cards until you have fully memorized all the words. This consistent practice will strengthen your ability to read and recognize words quickly.
By using these techniques, you'll build a solid foundation for reading and understanding Biblical Hebrew.
IV. Prefixes & Suffixes
Review the Handy Hebrew Grammar Charts.
For example, let's take the word Av (Father):
Av – אב | Father |
Avi - אבי | My Father |
Avikha - אביך | Your Father |
Aviv - אביו | His Father |
Avinu - אבינו | Our Father |
Avihem - אביהם | Their Father (when "their" includes males & females or males only) |
Avihen - אביהן | Their Father (when "their" includes only females. |
V. Sentence Structure
Understanding Simple Sentences
In Biblical Hebrew, while modern Hebrew follows a Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) structure similar to English, the typical sentence structure in Biblical Hebrew is Verb-Subject-Object (VSO). However, the order can vary depending on what the speaker wants to emphasize. For example, the verb can come first for emphasis on the action or the object, and the subject may appear later in the sentence.
1. Understanding the Accusative Particle (את - et):
In Biblical Hebrew, the accusative particle את (et) is used to mark the direct object of a verb. It does not have a direct translation in English, but it helps identify the noun that is the recipient of the action.
Example: הוּא רָאָה אֶת הַסֵּפֶר
(Hu ra'ah et hasefer)"
He saw the book."
הוּא (Hu) = Subject ("He")
רָאָה (Ra'ah) = Verb ("saw")
אֶת הַסֵּפֶר (et hasefer) = Object ("the book")
Notice that את (et) is placed before the definite object "the book" (הַסֵּפֶר).
Important note: The particle את is used when the object is definite or when it's a specific, known object. If the object is indefinite, את is generally not used.
2. Building Phrases with Words, Prefixes, and Suffixes:
In Hebrew, words are often modified using prefixes and suffixes, allowing you to create more complex meanings with fewer words.
Prefixes:
בְּ (be) = "in" or "with"
כְּ (ke) = "like"
לְ (le) = "to" or "for"
מִ (mi) = "from"
הַ (ha) = "the" (definite article)
Suffixes:
-ךָ (kha) = "your" (masculine singular)
-ה (-ah) = "her"
-נוּ (nu) = "our"
-י (i) = "my"
Example:בַּבַּיִת (babayit) = "in the house"
בְּ (be) = "in"
הַ (ha) = "the"
בַּיִת (bayit) = "house"
3. Practice Forming Simple Sentences:
Now that you know the basics of sentence structure, et usage, and word-building with prefixes and suffixes, try forming simple sentences. Begin with VSO structure, then experiment by changing the word order for emphasis.
Example 1 (VSO): אָכַל אָדָם תַּפּוּחַ (Akal adam tappu'ach) "Man ate an apple."
אָכַל (Akal) = Verb ("ate")
אָדָם (Adam) = Subject ("Man")
תַּפּוּחַ (Tappu'ach) = Object ("apple")
Example 2 (VSO): שָׁלַח אִישׁ אֶת הַמַּבּוּל (Shalach ish et hamabul) "The man sent the flood."
שָׁלַח (Shalach) = Verb ("sent")
אִישׁ (Ish) = Subject ("Man")
אֶת הַמַּבּוּל (et hamabul) = Object ("the flood")
Summary:
Biblical Hebrew Sentence Structure: Primarily VSO, but it can vary for emphasis.
Accusative Particle (את - et): Marks the direct object of a verb, typically used with definite objects.
Building Phrases: Use prefixes and suffixes to modify meaning and create more complex phrases.
By practicing these elements and forming simple sentences, you will start to build a strong foundation in understanding and reading Biblical Hebrew.
VI. Reading the Bible in Hebrew
Guided Reading Practice:
Simple, Short Passages from the Hebrew Bible: Start by reading familiar, short passages from the Hebrew Bible, such as Genesis 1:1, Psalms, and Proverbs. These are excellent texts to practice because they contain repeated vocabulary and phrases, which will help you recognize patterns and build your confidence in reading Hebrew.
Example (Genesis 1:1): בְּרֵאשִׁית בָּרָא אֱלֹהִים אֵת הַשָּׁמַיִם וְאֵת הָאָרֶץ (B'reishit bara Elohim et hashamayim v'et haaretz) "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth."
Here, you’ll see key vocabulary like בָּרָא (bara - "created"), אֱלֹהִים (Elohim - "God"), and הַשָּׁמַיִם (hashamayim - "the heavens") which can be reinforced through repetition.
Recognizing Familiar Vocabulary and Patterns: As you read these passages, focus on recognizing familiar words you’ve already encountered through flashcards or previous lessons. By encountering the same words in context, you will begin to internalize their meanings and usage. Also, look for repeating structures in sentence patterns (e.g., subject-verb-object, or the use of the accusative particle את).
Example (Psalms 23:1):הַ' רֹעִי לֹא אֶחְסָר(Adonai ro'i lo ehsar)"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."
Recognizing הַ' (Adonai - "the Lord") and רֹעִי (ro'i - "my shepherd") reinforces the relationship between the Lord and the speaker.
Understanding the Hebrew-English Bible:
How to Use a Hebrew-English Bible Effectively: A Hebrew-English Bible is a valuable tool for understanding how Hebrew sentences are translated into English. Here’s how to use it:
Start with the Hebrew side: Focus on reading the Hebrew text first. Try sounding out the words based on your previous knowledge.
Use the English translation: Once you’ve read the Hebrew, check the English side for understanding. Pay attention to how the Hebrew words are translated and how the sentence structure might differ in English.
Compare word-for-word translations: Look closely at the Hebrew words and their English counterparts. This will help you understand the nuances of Hebrew sentence structure, which often doesn’t directly match English.
Tip: Over time, aim to rely less on the English translation as you grow more comfortable with Hebrew.
Building Confidence:
Individual and Group Reading Sessions with Guided Support: To build confidence, participate in individual and group reading sessions. Reading aloud in a supportive environment helps reinforce your understanding of the text and gives you the opportunity to practice pronunciation.
Individual sessions: Read short passages aloud, focusing on pronunciation, intonation, and comprehension. Take your time and refer back to the Hebrew-English Bible as needed.
Group sessions: Join a study group or reading circle where you can practice reading together. Take turns reading passages and help each other with difficult words.
Highlighting the Joy of Uncovering the Meaning of Hebrew Texts: Reading Hebrew is a rewarding experience. As you work through passages, celebrate the progress you make in understanding the text. Pay attention to the nuances of the Hebrew language, such as word choice, verb tense, and poetic structures.
Example: When reading Psalms, notice the beauty of the language and the deeper meanings behind the words. As you decode the text, you’re not just learning a language, but also uncovering the wisdom and spirituality embedded in the words.
By engaging in guided reading practice, using a Hebrew-English Bible, and participating in individual and group reading sessions, you'll gradually build confidence and a deeper appreciation for the richness of Biblical Hebrew. Enjoy the journey of uncovering the meaning of these ancient texts!
VII. Additional Resources
That’s fantastic that you’ve got the basics down! Now, for the next steps in your Hebrew journey, here are some resources and tips that will guide you as you continue learning Lashon HaKodesh (the Holy Tongue):
1. Expand Your Vocabulary:
Flashcards and Vocabulary Lists: Use resources like the Master Set of Bible Flashcards or create your own flashcards to continue expanding your vocabulary, especially focusing on high-frequency Biblical Hebrew words.
Frequency Lists: Look for lists of the most common words in the Bible. The more frequently you encounter a word, the easier it becomes to remember.
2. Deepen Your Knowledge of Grammar:
Verb Conjugations: Once you’ve mastered the basics of sentence structure, dive into more complex verb conjugations, including understanding the binyanim (verb patterns) and how they affect the meaning of verbs.
Roots (Shoresh) and Word Families: Continue to practice identifying roots and their derivatives. Understanding how words are built from roots will help you recognize unfamiliar words as you read.
3. Study with a Hebrew-English Bible:
Reading with Translations: Continue using a Hebrew-English Bible to practice reading and comprehension. As you get more comfortable, try reading passages without looking at the English translation right away, and see if you can understand the meaning from the context.
Parallel Reading: Consider comparing the Hebrew text with different English translations to see the nuances of translation choices.
4. Join a Hebrew Learning Community:
Study Groups or Classes: Look for advanced Biblical Hebrew classes or study groups. Being part of a community can provide support, accountability, and opportunities to practice speaking, reading, and understanding the language.
Online Resources: Sites like Sefaria.org, or Chabad.org, offer access to texts and translations with notes and grammar references, perfect for continued study.
Subscribe to HebrewPod101 on Youtube to learn from Israelis!
5. Focus on Reading the Bible in Hebrew:
Choose Short Books to Start: Books like Psalms, Proverbs, or Genesis are great to read as you continue building your Hebrew skills. Since you’re already familiar with the content, you’ll have an easier time understanding the language.
Targumim (Commentaries): Explore commentaries like Rashi or Targum Onkelos to gain insights into the text and its interpretation in the original language.
6. Engage with the Texts Beyond the Basics:
Midrash and Talmud: Once you're comfortable with the Hebrew Bible, dive into more advanced texts like the Midrash or Talmud, which offer deeper insights into the Torah. These texts introduce more complex Hebrew, as well as commentary that can enrich your understanding of Biblical Hebrew.
Biblical Hebrew Audio: Listening to recorded readings of Hebrew texts (with translation) can help with pronunciation, fluency, and comprehension. It also aids in developing an ear for the rhythm and flow of the language.
7. Set Realistic Goals:
Daily Practice: Make it a habit to review and practice Hebrew daily. Even 10–15 minutes a day of reading or studying will gradually build your skills.
Set Milestones: Identify milestones for yourself, like reading a chapter of the Bible in Hebrew or understanding a specific book, and celebrate your progress along the way.
By following these tips, you can continue to deepen your understanding of the Holy Language and truly appreciate the beauty of the Hebrew language. Enjoy the journey, and remember, every step you take brings you closer to reading and understanding the sacred texts in their original form!
