Asian Biblical Studies Network
Basics of Old Testament Aramaic
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of Old Testament Aramaic, the language used in certain portions of the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Daniel and Ezra. Students will learn the Aramaic alphabet, basic grammar, and vocabulary, enabling them to read and understand simple passages from these texts.
Course Outline:
1. Introduction to Old Testament Aramaic
- Importance of studying Old Testament Aramaic
- Historical context of Aramaic as a lingua franca
- Overview of Aramaic portions of the Old Testament
2. Aramaic Alphabet and Pronunciation
- Learning to write and pronounce the Aramaic letters
- Understanding vowel markings and diacritics
3. Basic Grammar Concepts
- Nouns: Gender, Number, State
- Pronouns: Personal and Demonstrative
- Verbs: Perfect, Imperfect, Infinitive Construct
4. Vocabulary Building
- Introduction to basic vocabulary found in Aramaic passages of the Old Testament
- Vocabulary exercises and drills to reinforce learning
5. Basic Sentence Structure
- Word Order
- Introduction to Aramaic syntax
- Construct phrases and clauses
6. Introduction to Aramaic Texts
- Selecting simple passages from the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament for translation
- Translating and analyzing selected passages
7. Intermediate Grammar Concepts
- Introduction to more complex verb forms (Participle, Infinitive Absolute)
- Prepositions and their usage
- Conjunctions: Coordinating and Subordinating
8. Reading Comprehension
- Practice reading and translating longer passages from the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament
- Comprehension exercises to improve understanding
9. Review and Consolidation
- Review of all grammar concepts covered in the course
- Vocabulary review and reinforcement exercises
- Translation exercises covering a variety of New Testament passages
10. Conclusion and Further Study
- Discussion of resources for further study of Old Testament Aramaic
- Suggestions for continued practice and improvement
Assessment:
- Regular quizzes on vocabulary and grammar
- Translation exercises
- Final exam covering all material taught in the course
Prerequisites:
- No prior knowledge of Greek is required, but a basic understanding of English grammar is recommended.
Materials:
- Textbook: A beginner's textbook on Old Testament Aramaic
- Aramaic-English lexicon or dictionary
- Supplementary reading materials from the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament
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