Elementary Biblical Hebrew – Intensive Summer Course

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.