Elementary Biblical Hebrew – Intensive Summer Course

Highlights

  • Delve into the phonology and morphology of the Biblical Hebrew language.
  • Cover the fundamentals of syntax of Biblical Hebrew.
  • Read Biblical passages with the aid of a lexicon.

Using modern methods of linguistic instruction, this course is designed to provide you with a sufficient knowledge of Biblical Hebrew grammar, syntax, and vocabulary to read Biblical prose with the aid of a dictionary. Intended for beginners who are students of Hebrew, the Bible, or theology, this course is approximately equivalent in scope to a first-year university course in Biblical Hebrew.

This intensive course covers the fundamentals of Biblical Hebrew. We will start with the alphabet and vowel system, work our way through nouns and adjectives, and learn the conjugation of all verbs. By the end of the course, you will be able to read Biblical passages with the help of a lexicon.

Structure

This is an intensive program. The classes will take place Sunday through Thursday, for five hours per day.

Course Components

  • Class readings, lectures, and discussions
  • Daily assignments
  • Final exam
  • Field trip to the Old City

View the syllabus

You’ll be invited to participate in a wide array of trips and activities offered by HebrewU’s Office of Student Life. From tours of the Old City and the Dead Sea to checking out local festivals, you’ll build your own unique impressions and memories of Jerusalem and Israel. While living in HebrewU dormitories with other international and Israeli students, you’ll have a chance to form new friendships and get involved in campus life. A team of multilingual Israeli students, called madrichim, will help you adjust to your new surroundings and give you tips on things to do. Learn more about student life at HebrewU.

Apply by: April 1, 2025
Arrive on campus: June 16, 2025
Program length: Five weeks

Application fee: US$ 120
Course Tuition: US$ 2,810
Housing: US$ 1,020*

* Depending on availability

For payment deadlines, see here.

Learn more about cost of living, and  paying for the program.

Scholarships

A limited number of scholarships based on demonstrated need or merit are available.

Students who complete their application to this program by February 16, 2025 and who also complete payment by March 16, 2025, will be eligible for a 10% early bird discount on the program tuition.

This course is open to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as to mature learners with an academic background. You must be currently registered at or have been accepted to a recognized college or university or have successfully completed at least one year of study at an accredited institution of higher education. Familiarity with the Hebrew alphabet and English-language fluency are required.

Apply

We’re pleased you’re applying to join us in Jerusalem. See our application guidelines to learn more. Apply online now!

Please note:

  • This program cannot be combined with a summer course from the July Session due to its intensive nature but may be combined with a course from the August Session. View the August Session courses here.
  • See here for more information about visas.
  • Students who complete their application to this program by February 16, 2025 and who also complete payment by March 16, 2025, will be eligible for a 10% early bird discount on the program tuition.

Contact

We’re happy to answer any questions you might have – or to chat for a bit to help you choose the right course or program.

For questions about the curriculum
Dr. Barak Dan
Instructor

For questions about admission, housing, or other practical matters
Email Us
Call us: +972 2 588 2602

Find More Summer Courses

Please note that HebrewU reserves the right to cancel courses for which there is insufficient registration.

Fast Facts

Course:

Elementary Biblical Hebrew (SPLA011/48527)

Teaching Faculty:

Dr. Barak Dan

Language of Instruction:

English

Credits/Hours:

Academic hours: 150
Credits: 10

Course Dates:

June 16 – July 17, 2025

Eligibility:

Undergraduate and graduate students or mature learners with an academic background who are familiar with the Hebrew alphabet and proficient in English

Application Deadline:

April 1, 2025

Costs:

Application fee: US$ 120
Course Tuition: US$ 2,810
Housing: US$ 1,020*

* Depending on availability

Relevant Academic Fields:

Bible studies, religion, Judaic studies, theology

Take a look at our pages for prospects, students, faculty and staff, alumni, and parents – or contact us!

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Pre-Semester Program: “Encountering Jerusalem”
Spring
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