Although all language skills are taught, grammar is the focus of this course, allowing students to become familiar with the structure of the language. The course is equivalent to a semester's worth of study. This program is designed for students entering or continuing their graduate study in Jewish education or Jewish studies. A continuation of Hebrew I. Proficiency test required if Hebrew I is to be waived. A continuation of Hebrew I and II, this course and Hebrew IV emphasize developing proficiency in reading and listening comprehension skills and the expansion of vocabulary.
Basic grammar is reviewed, and more advanced structures are introduced.
Reading material includes Hebrew literature from all periods, from classical Hebrew texts to modern Israeli newspapers. A special session will be dedicated to active oral practice of the language. Whereas Shir HaShirim, in its literal sense, is a moving account, often enhanced by explicit erotic imagery, of a male and female lover s courtship and yearnings for each other, the song was interpreted allegorically and symbolically by the rabbis to mean that the lovers are God and the people of Israel, or God and the soul of the individual Jew. The rabbis transformed these sensuous love poems into reflections on spiritual relationships, on Torah, on the covenant, on sin, on messianic yearnings and on other aspects of the Jewish religious experience. We will study the midrashim to gain insight into their messages and to delight in their creative exegetical ingenuity and spiritual imagination.