HEBREW

LITERATURE
Group 6
Caringal, Irish
Moyot, Jennilyn
Saguindel, Danielle Nicole
Nature of Hebrew Language
Hebrew comes from the middle english "EBREU" which come from the old french
derived from the latin word "HEBRAEUS™
Hebrews were ancestors of Samaritan and Jews
Hebrews claim to be descendant of Biblical Patriach Abraham
They lived in the ancient middle east 1400 BC they settle in Canaan(formerly known as
Israel) the country of the eastern cost Meditteranian Sea the territory of modern Israel,
Jordan, Lebanon and Syria;
They live in the tent wealthier people live in the house.
Hebrew is a member of the Canaanite group of Semitic languages. It was the language
of the early Jews, but from 586 BC it started to replaced by Aramaic.
Phoenician Alphabet Moabite Alphabet

The Hebrew Language has gone through several major periods of development
throughout its history. These periods are often referred to as:
1. Biblical Hebrew
This is the earliest form of the Hebrew language and is primarily associated with the
Hebrew Bible (Tanakh). It was spoken from around the 5th century BCE to the 10th
century BCE. Biblical Hebrew is characterized by its poetic and prose texts, including
religious and historical writings. It is the language in which the books of the bible were
originally written, it has its own unique grammar and vocabulary. Bible Hebrew is no
longer spoken as a native language but is still studied and used for religious and
scholarly purpose.

2. Mishnaic Hebrew:
Following the Babylonian exile and the return to Israel, Mishnaic Hebrew emerged as a
spoken and written form of the language during the 2nd to 4th centuries CE. It is
associated with the Mishnah, a compilation of Jewish oral traditions and laws.
3. Medieval Hebrew:
During the Middle Ages, Hebrew continued to evolve and develop as a literary and
liturgical language. It was used for religious texts, philosophical works, poetry, and
scientific writings. Medieval Hebrew spanned from the 6th to the 18th centuries CE.
From about the 6th to the 13th century CE, when many words were borrowed from
Greek, Spanish, Arabic, and other languages; and Modern Hebrew, the language of
Israel in modern times. Scholars generally agree that the oldest form of Hebrew is that
of some of the poems in the Bible, especially the "Song of Deborah" in chapter 5 of
Judges. The sources of borrowed words that first appeared during this period include
the other Canaanite languages as well as Akkadian.

4. Modern Hebrew:
In the late 19th century, efforts to revive Hebrew as a spoken language began, leading
to the development of Modem Hebrew. Eliezer Ben-Yehuda is often credited with
spearheading this revival. Modern Hebrew is the standard form of the language spoken
in Israel today and has evolved to accommodate modern concepts, technologies, and
everyday communication

HEBREW LITERATURE
• It consists of ancient, medieval and modern writings in the Hebrew language.
• It is one of the primary forms of Jewish Literature.
• It was produced in many different parts of the world throughout the medieval and
modern eras.

ANCIENT HEBREW LITERATURE

• Literature in Hebrew begins with the Oral Literature of the Leshon Hakodesh or
the "Holy Language".
• The most important work of Ancient Hebrew is the Hebrew Bible named Tanakh.
• Mishna - primary rabbinic codification of laws as derived from the torah. It was
written in Mishnaic Hebrew.

MEDIEVAL HEBREW LITERATURE

• During the medieval period, the majority of Jewish and Hebrew was composed in
Islamic North Africa, Spain, Palestine, and Middle East.
• Many works of medieval philosophical literature such as Maimonides Guide to
the Perplexed and the Kuzari, as well as many works of fiction, were written in
Judeo-Arabic.
• One work of fiction which was written in Hebrew was the "Fox Fables" by
Berechiah ben Natronai ha-Nakdan, Hebrew fables which resemble Aesop's
fable.
• Much medieval Jewish poetry was written in Hebrew, including the liturgical
Piyyutim in Palestine in the 7th and 8th centuries by Yose ben Yose, Yanai, and
Eleazar Kalir.
 • This litturgy was compiled in book from as "the siddur" by rabbis including
Amram Gaon and Saadia Gaon.
MODERN HEBREW LITERATURE
• In addition to writing traditional rabbinic literature in Hebrew, MODERN Jews
developed new forms of fiction, poetry, and essay writing which are called
"Modern Hebrew Literature".

Hebrew's Poetry
The Hebrew Bible contains a wide variety of writing styles, categorized in general terms
as either prose or poetry. While the distinction between these two categories is
sometimes blurred, it is generally reckoned that at least 50% of the Old Testament is in
the form of poetry. In contrast to prose, poetry displays an elevated style of language
that may be adopted for a wide range of purposes.

Types of Hebrew Poetry

1. Lyrical Poetry
- The Hebrew Bible provides numerous examples of lyrical poetry (that is, poetry
associated with singing).
a. After their divine deliverance from impending annihilation by an Egyptian chariot
force, the Israelites sing a victory song that is probably composed by Miriam (Exod
15:1–21).
“I will sing to the Lord,
for he is highly exalted.
Both horse and driver
he has hurled into the sea.

2 “The Lord is my strength and my defense[a];

he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
my father’s God, and I will exalt him.
2. Dramatic Poetry
- the Old Testament preserves an important example of dramatic poetry in the Book of
Job. Sandwiched between an introduction and conclusion in prose, the bulk of Job
consists of speeches by the main participants in poetic form.
"The life of every living thing is in His hand,
as well as the breath of all mankind." -Job 12:10
Main Features of Hebrew Poetry
1. Parallelism
- One of the most widespread and distinctive features of Hebrew poetry in the Bible is
the repetition of an idea using different but equivalent terms. This usually involves some
form of semantic correspondence, although there are also examples of grammatical
correspondence. As an example of parallelism, consider Psalm 27:1–3 (ESV).
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
of whom shall I be afraid?
2 When evildoers assail me
to eat up my flesh,
my adversaries and foes,
it is they who stumble and fall.
3 Though an army encamp against me,
my heart shall not fear;
though war arise against me,
yet I will be confident.

- These verses illustrate two main types of parallelism. Adopting categories that were
first proposed by Robert Lowth in the mid-18th century, verses 1 and 3 are examples of
synonymous parallelism. The same concept is repeated in each half of these verses
using closely corresponding language. Even in English translation this parallelism is
obvious. Verse 2, however, comes under the category of antithetical parallelism. In this
instance the two parts of the verse express opposite ideas.

2. Condensed Language
- Hebrew poetry in the Bible uses a minimum of words to express ideas and,
consequently, generally lacks literary elements normally found in prose. Unfortunately,
these missing features are not particularly noticeable in English translations. The main
words or particles that are less often used in poetry are the conjunction “and,” the
definite article “the,” relative pronouns, and the definite-direct object marker.
- Alongside the absence of these literary features, Hebrew poetry exhibits ellipsis or
gapping, when a word or concept is omitted. For example, Psalm 114:4 (ESV)
"The mountains skipped like rams,
the hills like lambs."
3. Use of Imagery
- It is sometimes said that a picture is worth a thousand words. This may explain why
Hebrew poetry, with its desire for condensed language, makes frequent use of word-
pictures in the form of similes and metaphors.
a. Simile
- The simile draws a comparison between two things, often using the words “like”
or “as.”
3 He is like a tree
planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.
4 The wicked are not so,
but are like chaff that the wind drives away. -Psalm 1:3-4

b. Metaphor
- Metaphors describe objects or ideas by using other objects or ideas to suggest
some likeness between them.
The LORD is my rock and my
fortress and my deliverer,
my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield, and the horn of my salvation,
my stronghold. - Psalm 18

Hebrew’s Prose
Hebrew prose refers to written works that encompasses a wide range of literary forms,
including historical narratives, philosophical discussions, ethical writings, and modern
fiction. Hebrew prose focuses on the direct expression of ideas, events, and characters,
typically organized in a logical or narrative structure.

Importance in Hebrew Literature

Hebrew prose plays a crucial role in conveying historical events, religious teachings,
and cultural narratives. It serves as a medium for recording laws, philosophical ideas,
and societal norms, thereby reflecting the dynamic experiences and identity of the
Jewish people.
Historical Development of Hebrew Prose
a. Ancient Foundations:
 Biblical Narratives: The Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) serves as the
cornerstone of ancient Hebrew prose. Texts such as the historical books
(e.g., Samuel, Kings) and legal codes (e.g., Leviticus, Deuteronomy) are
presented in prose form.

b. Medieval Developments
 Philosophical and Ethical Writings: Hebrew prose expanded to include
philosophical and ethical discourses. Notable work like “Guide for the
Perplexed” was composed in prose.

c. Modern Prose
 Haskalah (Jewish Enlightenment): In the 19th and 20th centuries
witnessed a revival of Hebrew prose. Writers embraced realism and
addressed contemporary social issues.

Characteristics of Hebrew Prose

 Historical and National Focus: Hebrew prose often centers on historical events
and national identity, portraying individuals as integral parts of collective narrative.
 Deed-Based Narrative: The prose style is action-oriented, presenting reality as a
series of actions rather than static descriptions.
 Absence of Poetic Devices: Hebrew prose typically lacks poetic devices. This
results in a more straightforward and direct style, focusing on clarity and detail.

Types of Hebrew Prose

1. Narrative Style (prose that tells a story)
 Saga - a narrative telling the adventures of a hero or a family.
 Tale - a narrative that relates the details of some real or imaginary event,
incident, or case
 Novella - a piece of narrative prose fiction that falls in length and complexity
between a short story and a novel, typically ranging from 17,500 to 40,000
words.
 Legend - a story coming down from the past; especially: one popularly
regarded as historical although not verifiable
 Myth - a traditional story that attempts to explain the world, nature, or human
experience

2. Reportorial Style (also known as journalistic writing, is characterized by factual,

objective reporting using clear, concise language, often following the inverted
pyramid structure, prioritizing the most important information first.)

 Historiography - the study of historical writing

 Biography - a usually written history of a person's life
 Genealogy - the study and tracing of lines of descent or development.

Famous Contemporary Hebrew Writers

 1. Shmuel Yosef Agnon
 foremost writer in modern Hebrew literature
Most important work:
 I havets mitt (In the Heart of the Seas)
 Hakhnasat Kalah (The Bridal Canopy)
– a story, Jewish counterpart of Don Quixote
 Oreach Nata Lalun (A Guest for the Night)
– his greatest achievement, a novel- first Jew to receive Nobel Peace

2. Nelly Sachs
 outstanding lyrical and dramatic writer, interpreting Israel's destiny with touching
strength
Most Important works:
 Fahrtins Staublose (Journey to the Beyond) - lyric poetry
 Zeichenim Sand (Signs in the Sand) - dramatic poetry
 Eli - mystery play

Masterpieces of Hebrew Literature

Introduction
Hebrew literature stands out among the world's oldest literary traditions because of its
deep connection with the religious, cultural, and historical experiences of the Jewish
people. From the very early Hebrew religious texts to the most recent literary creation
dealing with the current, shifting cultural and societal issues, Hebrew masterpieces
comprise everything in between. This report discusses some of Hebrewism's most
influential works, their themes, and how they affect world literature and thought.

1. The Hebrew Bible (Tanakh)

The Hebrew Bible or the Tanakh is the most central text of Hebrew literature and
religious thought. It is divided into three subdivisions:
➢ Torah: This is the first five books covering laws, both sacrificial and moral, as well as
stories from the religious histories, namely Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and
Deuteronomy.
➢ Nevi'im: These books contain history and prophecy about the history of Israel and
moral and ethical lessons.
➢ Ketuvim: An assortment of texts including psalms, wisdom books, and histories (e.g.,
Psalms, Proverbs, Job, The Song of Songs).

2. The Talmud
The Talmud is an extensive compendium of Judaism's legal discourse, ethics,
philosophy, customs, and history. It has two major subdivisions:
➢ Mishnah (Oral Law): A written compendium of Jewish law circa 200 CE, enjoining law
on all aspects of life.
➢ Gemara (Commentary): This handles the Mishnah with a deep analysis and
commentary until about 500 CE.
 3. Medieval Hebrew Poetry
Medieval ages marked the time of flourishing Hebrew poetry, especially in Spain. Some
of the poets were:
➢ Solomon Ibn Gabirol: Wrote philosophical and liturgical poetry, taking upon it religious
motives from a Neoplatonist standpoint.
➢ Judah Halevi: Famous for expressing deep religious experience and longing for the
Land of Israel in the poem "My Heart Is in the East."
➢ Moses Ibn Ezra: A poet of themes dealing with love, loss, and the fleeting quality of
life.

4. Literature Books Modern Hebrew

With Hebrew getting revived as a spoken tongue by late 19th to early 20th century,
modern Hebrew literature was born. Some of the eminent figures included:
➢ Haim Nachman Bialik: The "national poet" of Israel addressed themes of exile,
cultural identity, and the struggle for renewal.
➢ Shmuel Yosef Agnon: Quite a bit of his writing won the Nobel Prize and grappled with
the life of Jews in the tension between tradition and modernity.
➢ Amos Oz and A. B. Yehoshua: Also known as contemporary writers whose novels
put forth many questions related to personal and national identity.

SUGGESTED PIECES

 GENESIS: THE CREATION

The creation story in Genesis shows how God made the world and everything in it six
days.
Day 1-2: light and sky
Day 3: dry land and plants
Day 4: [Link] and stars
Day 5: sea and flying creatures
Day 6: land animals and human beings

 PSALM 23
- a beautiful poem and prayer, depicts God as a loving shepherd who provides,
protects, and guides his people, assuring them of his constant presence and
abundant blessings, even through difficult times.

(English Standard Version)

1
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2
He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
3
He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name 's sake.
4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you
are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head
with oil; my cup overflows.
6
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in
the house of the Lord

 THE ECCLESIASTES

Brief Summary: Two phrases are repeated often in Ecclesiastes. The word translated
as “vanity” in the KJV, and “meaningless” in the NIV appears often, and is used to
emphasize the temporary nature of worldly things. In the end, even the most impressive
human achievements will be left behind. The phrase “under the sun” occurs 28 times
and refers to the mortal world. When the Preacher refers to “all things under the sun,”
he is talking about earthly, temporary, human things.

Purpose of Writing: Ecclesiastes is a book of perspective. The narrative of “the

Preacher” (KJV), or “the Teacher” (NIV) reveals the depression that inevitably results
from seeking happiness in worldly things. This book gives Christians a chance to see
the world through the eyes of a person who, though very wise, is trying to find meaning
in temporary, human things. Most every form of worldly pleasure is explored by the
Preacher, and none of it gives him a sense of meaning.

In the end, the Preacher comes to accept that faith in God is the only way to find
personal meaning. He decides to accept the fact that life is brief and ultimately
worthless without God. The Preacher advises the reader to focus on an eternal God
instead of temporary pleasure.

 The Story of Joseph (Genesis 37-50)

Introduction:
➢ The story of Joseph is found in the Book of Genesis, from Genesis 37 through Gensis
50. Joseph’s saga is both expansive and integral to the overall narrative of the
Israelites, descent into Egypt. His progression from dream-interpreting shepherd to
minister of Egypt is one of the more layered and elaborate stories in the Torah.

I. The Beloved Son

➢ Joseph, the favored son of Jacob, is loved more than his brothers, which causes
deep jealousy among them. His father gives him a "coat of many colors,"
symbolizing his special status within the family.
II. Sold by his brothers
➢ Fueled by envy, Joseph’s brothers conspire against him. They initially plan to kill
him but instead sell him to Ishmaelite traders who take him to Egypt. This act of
betrayal marks the beginning of Joseph’s journey away from his family and
homeland.
III. Joseph the Dreamer
➢ Joseph is known for his ability to interpret dreams, a gift that becomes evident
early in his life. His dreams of greatness provoke his brothers’ jealousy but also
foreshadow his future rise to power.
IV. Joseph the Righteous
➢ Despite facing numerous trials, including wrongful imprisonment after being
falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife, Joseph remains faithful and righteous. His
unwavering commitment to his morals and faith becomes a key element of his
character.
V. Joseph the interpreter and the Viceroy
➢ Joseph’s skill in dream interpretation earns him a place of high honor in Pharaoh’s
court. After successfully interpreting Pharaoh’s troubling dreams about a coming
famine, he is appointed as the viceroy of Egypt, overseeing the storage and
distribution of grain.
VI. The Reunion
➢ Years later, Joseph’s brothers travel to Egypt seeking food due to the famine.
Unaware of his true identity, they encounter Joseph, who tests their integrity before
ultimately revealing himself. The brothers reconcile, and Joseph forgives them,
acknowledging that their betrayal was part of a divine plan for the greater good.

 THE STORY OF RUTH (RUTH – ALL CHAPTERS)

Introduction
➢ The book of Ruth is the narrative of a love story, yet also has some important
Genealogy. The timeline of this book is intertwined during the period of the judges. It
was written about 1046-1035 B.C. Its purpose was to demonstrate the kind of love,
and faithfulness that God has desired for us. It shows the difference between what
happens when a nation does not follow in obedience to the covenant of God
(Judges),and when God’s people follow faithfulness within the covenant (Ruth).
I. Ruth’s Loyalty to Naomi
➢ After the death of her husband and sons, Naomi, a Jewish woman, decides to
return to her homeland, Bethlehem. Ruth, her Moabite daughter-in-law, chooses to
stay with her, declaring her unwavering loyalty with the famous words: "Where you
go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your
God, my God." (Ruth 1:16)
II. Ruth’s Hard Work and Kindness
➢ Arriving in Bethlehem, Ruth works tirelessly in the fields, gleaning leftover grains
to provide for herself and Naomi. Her kindness and dedication attract the attention of
Boaz, a wealthy and generous landowner who ensures her safety and well-being.
III. Ruth and Boaz’s Relationship
➢ Boaz, recognizing Ruth’s loyalty and good character, eventually marries her
according to the tradition of Levirate marriage. Their union symbolizes the
acceptance of a foreigner into the community through faith and loyalty.
IV. The Lineage of David
➢ Ruth and Boaz’s son, Obed, becomes the grandfather of King David, establishing
Ruth as a significant figure in the genealogy of both Judaism and Christianity

 THE PARABLES
Jesus used parables to describe the Kingdom of God, the expectations God has of
people as well as the character of God. Here are just some of the parables that
Jesus told:

1. The Good Samaritan

- Luke 10:25-37
- A man going from Jerusalem to Jericho is attacked by robbers who strip him and
beat him. A priest and a Levite pass by without helping him. But a Samaritan
stops and cares for him, taking him to an inn where the Samaritan pays for his
care.

2. The Prodigal Son

- Luke 15:11-32
- tells the story of a father and his two sons, with the younger son squandering his
inheritance, facing hardship, and returning home to be welcomed back with open
arms and a celebration.

3. The Parable of the Talents

- Matthew 25:14-30
- about a man who lent some coins to three people who worked for him. Then the
man went away. While he was gone, two of the people worked hard and used
their coins to earn more coins to give back to the man. But one person just buried
his coin because he was afraid of losing it. When the man came back, he gave
rewards to those who increased the coins he lent them. But he took the coin
away from the person who hadn’t tried to increase it.