“The purpose of reading the Bible for ourselves is not, however, to out-commentary the commentaries . . . Nor is it to out-translate the translators . . . Rather, our own work in the text provides a window through which we can see for ourselves just what decisions have been made by others and why. Instead of being a second-hander, who can only take someone else’s word for it, a knowledge of the text allows us to evaluate, rather than simply regurgitate. This will not mean that we will be able to out-expert the experts. We all have different gifts and callings. It does mean, however, that we will be able to explain to ourselves and to others why people disagree, what the real issues are, and what are the strengths of our own considered conclusions. It will allow us to have reasons for what we believe and preach, without having to resort to the papacy of scholarship or the papacy of personal experience.” (Scott Hafemann, SBJT Forum)
Χαίρειν!
Knowledge of the original languages is one of the keys to teaching Scripture excellently and responsibly. However, often students don’t know how to learn the languages, with the result that they find their study of Hebrew and Greek frustrating and unenjoyable.
This research guide will focus on practical helps for learning the biblical languages. We will compile resources here that can help you learn understand grammar, learn vocabulary and grammatical forms, and retain the languages once you have learned them. It will also suggest some language learning strategies and identify library assistants that can help you with your language questions.
! שָׁלוֹם
