Participants learn how to pronounce Hebrew letters and vowels and then how to read words and sentences. By the end of this class, participants are able to read Hebrew and have comfortably mastered several Shabbat prayers. This class provides participants with an opportunity to sharpen and refine Hebrew reading skills. Basic grammar and translation of key words are introduced. Understanding the meaning of the prayers and the structure of the service is emphasized Gimmel Hebrew Fluency of Hebrew reading is the goal of this class.
Participants continue to explore the vocabulary and grammar of the prayers.
These skills are then applied to a study of Biblical texts. This class is taught in conjunction with Gimmel Hebrew but may be taken by itself. The Torah portion of the week serves as the starting point for discussion. Texts are studied in English, with the Hebrew text provided. Adult members of the congregation usually prepare for the ceremony by participating in classes in Hebrew and Judaica.