Ancient Hebrew Courses
Learn Hebrew
Through the Siddur
This course introduces students to the Hebrew language through the rich and rhythmic texts of the Jewish prayer book (siddur). Using daily and Shabbat prayers as the primary source material, students will develop foundational skills in reading, translating, and understanding Hebrew. Alongside vocabulary and grammar, the course explores the music, structure, themes, and theological concepts of the liturgy, providing insight into Jewish worship and tradition. No prior knowledge of Hebrew is required.
Tuesday 21 July-16 September
Class Times
6:30pm-7:30pm
Structure
8 weeks
1 x 1hr live online class per week (recordings will be made available to students to download).
Please note there will be a 1 week break on Tuesday 19 August.
Course content
Text: Siddur Mishkan T’filah – World Union Edition
All other resources will be provided to students.
Hebrew Alphabet and Script
- Recognition and pronunciation of the Alef-Bet
- Vowel signs (nikkud) and pronunciation
- Introduction to block script
- Reading fluency through liturgical phrases and blessings
Basic Grammar and Syntax
- Noun and adjective agreement (gender and number)
- Definite article (“the”) and construct state (smikhut)
- Pronouns (independent, suffixes)
- Prepositions and common prefixes/suffixes
Core Vocabulary from the Siddur
- Common liturgical terms (e.g., Baruch, Adonai, Melech, olam, chesed)
- Time-related words (day, night, morning, evening, today, forever)
- Key theological terms (e.g., emunah, tzedakah, kadosh, shalom)
Reading and Comprehension
- Practice reading daily blessings (e.g., Modeh Ani, Birkot HaShachar)
- Introduction to Shabbat liturgy
- Comprehension of common prayer structures (e.g., blessing formula: Baruch Atah…)
Writing and Translation Practice
- Copying short prayers in block script
- Translating selected lines and phrases from Hebrew to English
Cost
$395 AUD