Many students arrive at Pardes excited to study Jewish texts – but quickly discover that reading Hebrew can feel overwhelming. The Biblical Hebrew Masterclass is designed to give you the foundations you need before the semester begins, so you can start your learning with greater confidence.
In just two weeks, you’ll build the essential skills for reading Biblical Hebrew and prepare yourself for success in the Beit Midrash.
For Introductory and Advanced Beginner students, Pardes considers this class a prerequisite for beginning text study.
A limited number of Masterclass spots are available to beginning learners not enrolled in our Beit Midrash Program cohort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this fulfill Pardes’s summer Hebrew requirement?
Yes. For Introductory and Advanced Beginner students, the Biblical Hebrew Masterclass fulfills Pardes’s summer Hebrew requirement.
Students may also choose to study Modern Hebrew before the semester begins. Pardes plans to offer a highly subsidized Modern Hebrew Ulpan during the first semester (pending sufficient enrollment).
Will this help me understand Modern Hebrew?
Yes. The grammar and vocabulary foundations you gain will also strengthen your understanding of Modern Hebrew.
Is a Modern Hebrew Ulpan enough preparation for text study?
Not by itself.
A Modern Hebrew Ulpan is excellent for everyday communication in Israel, but it does not provide the Biblical Hebrew skills needed for serious Jewish text study.
How should I prepare before the class?
All Introductory Level students are required to purchase:
The First Hebrew Primer
Before the class begins, you must have mastered the first six chapters. Students who have not completed this preparation will not be able to participate in the Biblical Hebrew Masterclass.
Questions?:
For questions about placement or the course, contact:
Carmella Rose carmella@pardes.org.il