Basic Hebrew Skills Uncoded PDF

THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME

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Written by Nechama Rozowski

Edited by Rabbi Michael J Eljarrat
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS ONE
CLASS The ALEPH BEIS
PART 1
1
Introduction by: RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT
This course is entitled the learning Hebrew programme, and contains 20 lessons dealing
with the basics of biblical and modern Hebrew. The aim of this course is to give students the
ability to read, write and understand Hebrew. Class one begins with the Aleph Beis, which is
the starting point when it comes to learning Hebrew. Through this course you will learn to
identify the letters and become familiar with their sounds. The tutorials will give you a chance
to practice what you have learnt in the course notes. I recommend that you do the quizzes to
test your knowledge and to help you retain the information being taught.
For the beginner the best place to start is with learning Hebrew, as many of the texts which
you will encounter as you progress in your studies will be in Hebrew. When learning a new
language practice is very important and I suggest that you practice as often as possible.
Unlike other languages, Hebrew is not merely a grouping of familiar sounds, producing
familiar words; Hebrew has meaning in the very letters themselves. The complex meanings
of the formations and sounds of the letters will be dealt with in an advanced course.
Once you have completed this course you can move on to the next course, entitled
Fundamentals of Judaism; which will guide you through issues pertaining to faith and
observance.
Finally I would like to thank Nechama Rozowski for her insights, and great deal of effort
which has gone into the making this course.
Introduction by: NECHAMA ROZOWKI
The letters of the Hebrew alphabet are not merely letters. They are, in fact, the essence of
the words and names that they form. When G-D created the world, G-D spoke out the letters
of the item being created and through these utterances the world was created. For example,
“Let there be light.................and there was light”1. G-D first chose the letters, containing the
essence of “light”, and through that speech “light” was created. Each letter is infused with
energy. Therefore, in Hebrew, especially Biblical Hebrew, every word and name has a
deeper meaning. This is what makes the Aleph-Beis unique, and sets it apart from all other
texts.
1. Genesis 1:3
PAGE 1
THE LETTERS ALEPH TO YUD
ALEPH: *
This letter has no sound, unless it appears at the beginning of a word or has a vowel
underneath it. When appearing with no vowel, it remains silent. The Aleph can be identified
in words such as Esrog. %+,-*
Aleph has a numerical value of one
Aleph is one of the guttural letters. (Guttural letters are pronounced with a sound that
emanates from the back of the throat).
BEIS :
This letter has a ‘B’ sound, and can be identified in such words as Besamim.!"#$ The letter Beis
has a dot in its middle.
Beis has a numerical value of two.
(VEIS): This letter looks similar to the Beis, but has no dot in its middle. This letter makes a
‘V’ sound, and never appears at the beginning of a word.
GIMMEL: %&
This letter has a ‘G’ sound, and can be identified in such words as Geshem.!'%
Gimmel has a numerical value of three.
DALED: .
This letter has a ‘D’ Sound, and can be identified in such words as David. .+.
Daled has a numerical value of four.
HEY: &)
This letter has a ‘HA’ sound, and can be identified in such words as Hallel. (()
Hey has a numerical value of five
Hey is also a guttural letter.
PAGE 2
VAV:
This letter has a ‘V’ sound, and can be identified in such words as Vayikra !"#$
There are very few if no nouns which begin with the letter Vav, especially in biblical Hebrew.
Although this is seemingly the same sound that Veis makes, their positions and functions in
words are not the same.
Vav has a numerical value of six.
Vav is used as the conjunction ‘and’, by joining it to the beginning of another word.
ZAYIN: '
This letter has a ‘Z’ sound, and can be identified in such words as Zemiros. ( "$)'
Zayin has a numerical value of seven.
CHESS: %
This letter has a ‘Ch’ sound, and can be identified in such words as Challah. *+%
Chess has a numerical value of eight
Chess is also a guttural letter.
TES: ,
This letter has ‘T’ sound, and can be identified in such words as Tallis. ($+,
Tes has a numerical value of nine.
YUD: -$
This letter has a ‘Y’ sound, and can be identified in such words as Yad. &$
Yud has a numerical value of ten.
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS TWO
CLASS The ALEPH BEIS
2 PART 2
KAF:
This letter has a ‘K’ sound, and can be identified in such words as Kelev !"# (dog). The letter Kaf
has a dot in its middle.
Kaf has a numerical value of twenty.
(CHAF): This letter looks similar to Kaf, but has no dot in the middle. This letter makes a ‘ch’
sound, and almost never appears at the beginning of a word. (Its sound is also the same as
that of Ches however, they are two separate letters).
(KAF SOFIT and CHAF SOFIT): *+$

These letters are used when kaf or chaf appears at the end of a word. “Sofit”
means “end”. It is used in words such as Lech $" (go).
LAMED: "
This letter has a ‘L’ sound, and is identified in such words as Lulav !"%" (palm branch used on
succot).
Lamed has a numerical value of thirty.
MEM: &
This letter makes a ‘M’ sound, and can be identified in words such as Melech $"& (king).
Mem has a numerical value of forty.
(MEM SOFIT): '

This letter appears at the end of words such as Shamayim '(&)!"#heaven).
PAGE 1
NUN: #
This letter has a ‘N’ sound, and is identified in such words as Neirot !"# (candles).
Nun has a numerical value of fifty.
(NUN SOFIT): $%
This letter appears at the end of words such as Din %&' (judgement).
SAMECH: *
This letter has an ‘S’ sound, and is identified in such words as Sukkah. ()!*
t Samech has a numerical value of sixty.
AYIN: ,
This letter has an ‘A’ sound, and is identified in such words as Aliyah (&+, (elevation).
Ayin sounds the similar to Alef, however, they are used differently in words.
t Ayin has a numerical value of seventy.
t Ayin is another of the guttural letters.
PEH: -
This letter has a ‘P’ sound. It has a dot in its middle, and is identified in such words as Peirot !"&-
(Fruit).
Peh has a numerical value of eighty.
(PHEH): This letter is similar to Peh, but has no dot and makes an ‘F’ sound. It doesn’t
appear at the beginning of any words.
(PEH SOFIT and PHEH SOFIT): 0$.

These letters appear at the end of words such as Alef. .+/
PAGE 2
TZADDI: #
This letter has a ‘Tz’ sound, and is identified in such words as Tzeddaka !"# (charity).
Tzaddi has a numerical value of ninety.
(TZADDI SOFIS): $
This letter appears at the end of words such as Eretz $%& (land).
KUF: ,,,!
This letter has a ‘K’ sound. It has the same sound as Kaf, but it is used in different ways. It is
identified in such words as Kearah %'! (dish).
Kuf has a numerical value of one hundred.
REISH: ,%
This letter has ‘R’ sound, and is identified in such words as Rachamim ()*+%,(mercy).
Reish has a numerical value of two hundred.
Reish is another of the guttural letters.
SHIN: ,-
This letter has a ‘Sh’ sound, and is identified in such words as Shemesh -*.!"#sun). It is important
to point out that this letter always has a dot on it’s right, as shown above.
Shin has a numerical value of three hundred.
(SIN): 0
This letter makes an ‘S’ sound. The dot is on the left side, and it’s identified in such words as
Seorah %/&0,(barley).
TOF: ,1
This letter makes a ‘T’ sound. It has a dot in its middle and is identified in such words as
Torah. %/2
Tof has a numerical value of four hundred.
(SOF): ,,,2
This letter looks like Tof, but it has no dot in the middle, this letter makes an ‘S’ sound. It is
similar sounding to Samech, but is used differently. (It doesn’t appear at the beginning of any
words).
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS THREE
CLASS THE
3 NEKUDOS
Nekudos are the vowels used with the letters of the alef beis, they indicate how the words
and letters should be pronounced.
As in English, there are short and long vowel sounds. I will list them all below, and indicate
which are long, and which are short.
KOMATZ:
This makes the same sound as the ‘A’ in car. Like in Aretz (land)
Komatz is a long vowel sound.
PATACH: !
This makes the same sound as the ‘U’ in the word up. Like in Ahavah (love).
Patach is a short vowel sound.
TZEREY: "
This makes the same sound as ‘AI’ in the word rain. Like in Reik (empty).
Tzere is a long vowel sound.
SEGGOL: #
This makes the same sound as in the ‘E’ in the word end. Like in Keshet (bow).
Seggol is a short vowel sound.
PAGE 1
THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS THREE
CHOLAM: ! !"
As shown above, the cholam can either be placed on any letter or used specifically with a
vav.
It makes the same sound as the ‘O’ in the word ‘more’. Like in olam (world), where it uses a
vav, or it could be written without the vav, and the dot is placed on the top left of the ayin.
#$
Cholam is a long vowel sound.
KUBBUTZ:
This makes the same sound as ‘OO’ in the word food.like Chumash (bible)
Kubbutz is a short vowel sound.
SHURUK:
"
This also makes an ‘OO’ sound as in food; however, it looks different to the Kubbutz.
Chumash can also be written like this.
%$
Shuruk is a long vowel sound.
CHIRIK:
This makes the same sound as the ‘E’ in eve. Like in Ilan (tree).
If it appears in a word followed by a yud, it’s a long vowel sound, known as chirik malei. If it
appears on its own, it’s a short vowel sound, knownas chirik chaser.
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS FOUR
CLASS PRONOUNS
AND
4 CONJUGATION
PART A- PRONOUNS:
Pronouns in Hebrew are split up into four categories: male singular, female singular, male
plural and female plural. In later lessons, when learning Dikduk (grammer), you’ll see how
this is important. I will now list each category and the pronouns that fall within each.
Male singular Female Singular
Pronoun Pronounced Spelt Pronoun Pronounced Spelt
Me/I Ani !"# Me/I Ani !"#

You Atah $%# You At $%#
He Hoo #&$ She Hee #!$
Male plural Female plural
Pronoun Pronounced Spelt Pronoun Pronounced Spelt
We/Us Anachnu &"'"# We/Us Anachnu &"'"#

You Atem (%# You Aten )%#
They/Them Heim They/Them Hein )$
($
PAGE 1
THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS FOUR
PART B- CONJUGATIONS
In Hebrew, when words are combined with pronouns, the word itself changes to
form a combination of the original word and the relevant pronoun. This process
is known as conjugation. Below are some examples.
M = Masculine F= Feminine S = Singular P = Plural
Root/Word Root/Word
Shel (Belonging to) Im (With)
!" #$
Mine Shelli With me Imi
%!" %-$
Yours (M/S) Shelcha
!" With you (M/S) Imcha -$
Yours (F/S) Shelach &!" With you (F/S) Imach &-$
His Shelo
'!" With him Imo '-$
Hers Shelah
(!"
With her Imah (-$
Ours Shelanu
))))))'*!" With us Imanu '*-$
Yours (M/P) Shelachem
)))))#+!"
With you (M/P) Imachem #+-$
Yours (F/P) Shelachen
,+!" With you (F/P) Imachen
,+-$
Theirs (M/P) Shelahem With them (M/P) Imahem
#(!" #(-$
Theirs(F/P Shelahen
,(!"
With them (F/P) Imahen ,(-$
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS FIVE
CLASS SHORASHIM-ROOTS
INFINITIVES
5 AND COMMANDS
PART A- SHORASHIM
All words in Hebrew have a root. If one can identify the root letters of a word, one will
be able to understand the word. Most roots are comprised of three root letters;
however, there are a few cases where the roots of words are made up of only two
root letters.
Roots are also useful when finding links between seemingly unrelated
words.
Let us take a look at a few examples:

1. I’ll start with the simple word Lichtov !"# (to write). If we take away the
Lamed, the three remaining letters are the shoresh. !"#
In general, to find the root of a word, we eliminate letters that only add to the context
of the word. As in the above example, the Lamed is the infinitive.
2. Shomarti $!%&' (I guarded). TheTaf and Yud at the end are extra here;
they are used in the past tense, singular. $!%&'
3. Tizharu (%)*! (you be careful) . In this word, we have to remove a prefix

and a suffix, the Taf and the Vav respectively. (%)*!
Sometimes words share a root, and therefore are related.

These related roots fall into two categories, cognates and variants.
Cognate roots share consonants which originate in a common vocal organ.
This means that some words which sound similar can have a similar meaning. We
will see more about the flexibility of words and roots in a later class.
I will now list some Shorashim:
Write +++ !"

Learn ++,&#
Walk ++-#)
Talk +% ,
Guard %&.
PAGE 1
THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS FIVE
PART B- INFINITIVES
In English, we add the word “to”, in front of the verb. In Hebrew, we add the letter
Lamed as a prefix to the verb.
Example: To walk. The shoresh is L,Ch. !
By adding Lamed it becomes Lalech. !!
To sit. Y, Sh, V, . – Lashev "#$!""

To talk. D, B, R- Ledaber %#&!
PART C- COMMANDS
In Hebrew, a command is called a Tzivui. It is interesting to point out that the word
Tzivui, and the word Mitzvah share the same shoresh.
Commands are always in the present tense.
Daber Male Singular

Dabri Female singular
Dabru Male plural
Dabru Female plural
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS SIX
CLASS
PRESENT TENSE – HOVEH
6
In Hebrew, the present tense, or Hoveh, is fairly simple. As explained in lesson 4, the
pronouns are split up into four categories: female singular, male singular, female plural and
male plural.
To identify if a word is in the present tense, simply look to see if the second letter is a vav.
Using the shoresh kotev (write), I will show you how to use it in the Hoveh:
!"#
!"$# "!"$#
Male singular Female Singular
Pronoun Pronounced Root Pronoun Pronounced Root
Me/I Ani ''$' Me/I Ani

"''$'
You Atah You At "''$'
''$'
He Hoo ''$' She Hee "''$'
%&!"$# "$!"$#
Male plural Female plural
Pronoun Pronounced Root Pronoun Pronounced Root
We/Us Anachnu %&''$' We/Us Anachnu

"$''$'
You Atem %&''$' You Aten
"$''$'
They/Them Heim %&''$' They/Them Hein "$''$'
This is the basic structure of Hoveh, any root can be substituted for katav.
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CLASS
PAST TENSE – AVAR
7
Unlike the Hoveh, the past tense is not as simple; each pronoun has its own form
of the verb
Using the root ‘Katav’ (write), I will list below how the verb is used in the past
tense.
Each pronoun combines with the root, to form a synthesis of the two
words.
!"#
Pronoun Pronounced Root Pronounced Spelt
$%& Ani $",,, Katavti $"!"#
'"& Atah ",,, Katavtah "!"#
"& At ",,, Katavt "!"#
&(' Hoo ,,, Katav !"#
&$' Hee ',,, Katvah '!"#
(%)%& Anachnu (% ,,, Katavnu (%!"#
*"& Atem *" ,,, K’tavtem *"!"#
+"& Aten +" ,,, K’tavten +"!"#
*' Heim ( ,,, Katvu (!"#
+' Hein ( ,,, Katvu (!"#
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS EIGHT
CLASS
FUTURE TENSE – ATID
8
As in Avar, each pronoun in Atid has its own form of the root. The only difference is that
in the past tense we added suffixes to the verb, but in the future tense, we add prefixes.
Again using the root ‘Katav’, I will list the pronouns and the form that the verb will take
when in the future tense.
!"#
Pronoun Pronounced Root Pronounced Spelt
$%& Ani ,,,& Echtov !"#&
'"& Atah ,,," Tichtov !"#"
"& At $,,," Tichtevi $!"#"
&(' Hoo ,,,$ Yichtov !"#$
&$' Hee ,,," Tichtov !"#"
(%)%& Anachnu ,,,% Nichtov !"#%
*"& Atem (,,," Tichtevu (!"#"
+"& Aten (,,," Tichtevu (!"#"
*' Heim (,,,$ Yichtevu (!"#$
+' Hein (,,,$ Yichtevu (!"#$
There is a trick to remember the conjugation of future tense; by

memorizing the mnemonic “Atit Natit”. These letters spell out the prefixes
which are added, like so: "$"% "$"&
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS NINE
CLASS
BINYAN PA’AL
9
INTRODUCTION:
In Hebrew grammar, verbs are categorized into 7 different Binyanim (forms). Each
category uses the verb in a different form.
These forms are different ways of expressing the verb in either active or passive, with
tones of active or causative emphasis. As we go along we will explain the usage of the
verb and the context in which it is best used.
In chapters 9 through to 16, we will explore the 7 possibilities.
Pa’al – Simple Active

Nif’al – Simple Passive
Pe’el – Intensive Active
Pu’al – Intensive Passive
Hif’il – Causative Active
Huf’al – Causative Passive
Hitpa’el – Reflexive
PA’AL - SIMPLE ACTIVE
This is the simplest form of the verb

In the future tense, the verbs are conjugated in two forms:
1. Efol, as in Echtov (I will write)

2. Efal, as in Eshal (I will ask)
A verb is conjugated in the Efal form if it fulfils at least one of the following conditions:
When the second or third root letter is a guttural letter. As in Eftach (I will open),
or Echas (I will get angry).
When the roots are Gadol (big), Rachav (wide), Shachav (lie down), lamad
(learn), Lavash (wear), then they’re conjugated in the Efal form.
PAGE 1
THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS NINE
!"
Pronoun Pronounced Hoveh Pronounced Avar Pronounced Atid Ef’ol Pronounced Atid Efal
#$%
Ani !'" Kotev Katavti
!"% Echtov Elmad
! !'" #! !"
&!% Atah Kotev Katavtah Tichtov Tilmad
!'" ! !" !"!
At ! !'" Kotevet ! !" Katavt # !"! Tichtevi Yilmad
!%
Hoo !'" Kotev !" Katav !"# Yichtov Tilmedi
%'&
%#& Hee Kotevet & !" Katvah !"! Tichtov Tilmad
! !'"
'$($% Anachnu )# !'" Kotvim
'$ !" Katavnu
!"$ Nichtov Nilmad
!' !'"
Atem Kotvim )! !" K’tavtem Tichtevu Tilmedu
)!% )# !'" ' !"!
Aten Kotvot ' !" Katvu Tichtevu Yilmedu
*!% !' !'" ' !"!
)& Heim )# !'" Kotvim *! !" K’tavten Yichtevu Tilmedu
' !"#
*& Hein Kotvot Katvu Yichtevu Yilmedu
!' !'" ' !" ' !"#
When commanding in Ef’ol: K’tov, Kitvi, Kitvu, Kitvu
When commanding in Ef’al: L’mad, Limdi, Limdu, Limdu
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS TEN
CLASS BINYAN NIF’AL

10
NIF’AL –SIMPLE PASSIVE
Characterized by the letter Nun as a prefix to the root in the past and present tense.
Nif’al is the passive form of the Pa’al verb.
For example:
The author wrote the book – Hasofer Katav et hasefer.
The book was written by the author - Hasefer Nichtav al yedei hasofer.
Has a meaning as an active or reciprocal verb.
In the future tense there is a Komatz under the second root letter.
!"
Pronoun Pronounced Hoveh Pronounced Avar Pronounced Atid Pronounced
Ani Nishmar Nishmarti Eshameir

#$% !"$ #' !"$ !"%
Atah Nishmar Nishmartah Tishameir
&'% !"$ ' !"$ !"'
At Nishmeret Nishmart Tishamri
'% ' !"$ ' !"$ # !"'
Hoo Nishmar Nishmar Yishameir
%(& !"$ !"$ !"#
Hee Nishmeret Nishmarah Tishameir
%#& ' !"$ & !"$ !"'
Anachnu Nishmarim Nishmarnu Nishameir
($)$% *# !"$ ($ !"$ !"$
Atem Nishmarim Nishmartem Tishamru
*'% *# !"$ *' !"$ ( !"'
+'% Aten
'( !"$
Nishmarot
+' !"$
Nishmarten
( !"'
Tishamru
*& Heim
*# !"$
Nishmarim
( !"$
Nishmeru ( !"# Yishamru
+& Hein
'( !"$
Nishmarot ( !"$ Nishmeru
( !"#
Yishamru
When commanding:
Hishameir, Hishamri, Hishamru, Hishamru
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS ELEVEN
CLASS
11 BINYAN PEE’EL
PEE’EL- INTENSIVE ACTIVE
Verbs receive a dot in the second root letter, except when the second root letter
is guttural.
If the third letter of the root is Ches or Ayin, the second and third root letters
receive a Patach in the present tense, singular, feminine.
When the second root letter is Reish or Alef, the Chirik changes to a Tzeirei, and
the patach changes to a Komatz.
Verbs with four root letters, don’t receive dots.
!"
#$% Ani Medaber #' !" Dibarti Adaber

!", !"%
&'% Atah Medaber Dibartah Tedaber
!", ' !" !"'
'% At Medaberet Dibart Tedabri
' !", ' !" # !"'
%(& Hoo Medaber !" Diber Yedaber
!", !"#
%#& Hee Medaberet Dibrah Tedaber
' !", & !" !"'
Anachnu Medabrim ($ !" Dibarnu Nedaber
($)$% *# !", !"$
*'% Atem Medabrim Dibartem Tedabru
*# !", *' !" ( !"'
+'% Aten Medabrot Dibarten Tedabru
'( !", +' !" ( !"'
Heim *# !", Medabrim Dibru Yedabru
*& ( !" ( !"#
+& Hein '( !", Medabrot Dibru Yedabru
( !" ( !"#
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS TWELVE
CLASS
BINYAN PU’AL
12
PU’AL- INTENSIVE PASSIVE
Pu’al is the passive of Pee’el.
Example:
The boy told the story – Hayeled siper et hasipur
The story was told by the boy – Hasipur supar al yedei hayeled.
The second root letter of the verb receives a dot, except when it’s a guttural
letter.
When the second root letter is a guttural, the sound changes from ‘oo’ to ‘o’, to
compensate for the dagesh. Example: To’ar (describe) from T,A,R, Mefo’ar
(Describe) from P,A,R.
If the third letter of the root is Ches or Ayin, the second and third root letters
receive a Patach in the present tense, female, singular.
Example: Meshuga’at (crazy), Mevutachat (promise).
#"$
%&' Ani Mefutar Putarti Afutar

#"$, %#"$ #"$'
("' Atah Mefutar "#"$ Putartah Tefutar
#"$, #"$"
"' At "#"$, Mefuteret "#"$ Putart %#"$" Tefutri
')( Hoo #"$, Mefutar #"$ Putar #"$% Yefutar
'%( Hee "#"$, Mefuteret Putarah #"$" Tefutar

(#"$
Anachnu Mefutarim )&#"$ Putarnu Nefutar
)&*&' +%#"$, #"$&
Atem +%#"$, Mefutarim Putartem Tefutru
+"' +"#"$ )#"$"
Aten Mefutarot Putarten Tefutru
!"' ")#"$, !"#"$ )#"$"
Heim Mefutarim )#"$ Putru )#"$% Yefutru
+( +%#"$,
!( Hein Mefutarot )#"$ Putru Yefutru
")#"$, )#"$%
t There are no forms of commands in Binyan Pu’al.
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BINYAN HIF’IL
13
HIF’IL – CAUSITIVE ACTIVE
Hif’il is used as a causative action – to cause someone to perform a certain act.

Example: He fed the dog – Hu he’echil et hakelev
It indicates change. Example: The man became very old – Ha’ish hizkin meod.
It is used to denote a simple action. Example: The girl listened to her mother.
When the first root letter is Ches, the Hey of the Hif’il is vocalized with a Segol in the
past tense. Example: He decided – Hu Hechlit.
When the first root letter is Aleph or Ayin, The Hey of the Hif’il is vocalized with a
Segol, and the first root letter with a Chataf-Segol in the past tense. Example: He
transferred – Hu He’evir.
#$%
!" Ani Mafsik (#$%' Hifsakti Afsik

#$%- #$%"
&&&'("&&&& Atah Mafsik (#$%' Hifsaktah Tafsik
#$%- #$%(
At Mafsikah (#$%' Hifsakt Yafsiki
(" '#$%- #$%
Hoo #$%- Mafsik Hifsik Yafsik
")' #$%' #$%
" '&& Hee Mafsikah Hifsikah Tafsik
'#$%- '#$%' #$%(
)!*!" Anachnu Mafsikim Hifsaknu Nafsik
+ #$%- )!#$%' #$%!
Atem Mafsikim Hifsaktem Tafsiku
+(" + #$%- +(#$%' )#$%(
Aten Mafsikot Hifsakten Tafsiku
,(" ()#$%- ,(#$%' )#$%(
Heim Mafsikim Hifsiku Yafsiku
+' + #$%- )#$%' )#$%
,' Hein ()#$%- Mafsikot )#$%' Hifsiku Yafsiku
)#$%
When commanding in Binyan Hif’il:
Hafsik, Hafsiki, Hafsiku, Hafsik
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS FOURTEEN
CLASS
BINYAN HUF’AL
14
HUF’AL – CAUSATIVE PASSIVE
Huf’al is essentially the passive of Hif’il.
Example:
David invited all his freinds – David hizmin et kol chaveirav
All the friends where invited by David – Kol Hacheveirim hoozman al yedei David.
The present tense can be used as an adjective. Example: Mootzlach (successful).
Ches and Ayin are vocalized with a Patach Example: Mooshpa’at (she is influenced).
!"
Ani Moozman Hoozmanti Oozman

#$% !"! #'$!"& !"%
Atah Moozman Hoozmanta Toozman
&'% !"! '$!"& !"'
'% At '$!"! Moozmenet Hoozmant Toozm’ni
'$!"& #$!"'
Hoo Moozman Hoozman Yoozman
%(& !"! !"& !"#
%#& Hee Moozmenet Hoozm’nah Toozman
'$!"! &$!"& !"'
($)$% Anachnu Moozmanim Hoozm’noo Noozman
*#$!"! ($!"& !"$
Atem Moozmanim Hoozmantem Toozm’noo
*'% *#$!"! *'$!"& ($!"'
Aten Moozmanot Hoozmanten Toozm’noo
'% '($!"! '$!"& ($!"'
Heim Moozmanim Hoozm’noo Yoozm’noo
*& *#$!"! ($!"& ($!"#
& Hein '($!"! Moozmanot ($!"& Hoozm’noo ($!"# Yoozm’noo
t There are no commands in this Binyan.
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS FIFTEEN
CLASS
BINYAN HITPA’EL
15
HITPA’EL – REFLEXIVE
Hitpa’el is a reflective verb.

Example:
He washed himself = Hoo Rachatz et atzmo. In one word, using Binyan Hitpa’el,
we say Hitrachetz.
Hitpa’el can also be a passive verb.

Example:
Kiblah, means she receives. This is active. In Binyan Hitpa’el, in the passive
form, we say Hitkabel.
Hitpa’el is also a mutual action.

Example:
Sara and David got married = Sara veDavid Hitchatnu zeh im zu.
In Binyan Hitpa’el there are what we call Irregular Verbs. Meaning, that with
these verbs, the rules change. I will list them below:
1. When the first letter of the root is Samech, Shin or Sin, it changes places
with the Tof of Hitpa’el. Example: Hishtamesh (he used), Histader (he
managed/organized).
2. When the first letter of the root is a Tzaddi, it also changes place with the
Tof, but the Tof changes to a Tes. Example: The root Tzaddi, Daled, Kuf,
meaning Justice, would become Hitztadek (he justified himself). The root
Tzaddi, Lamed, Mem, meaning Photograph, would become Hitztalem (He
was photographed).
3. When the first letter of the root is a zayin, it also changes place with the
Tof, and the Tof changes to a Daled. Example: The root zayin, kuf, nun,
meaning old, would become Hizdaken.
4. When the the first letter of the rool is daled, tess or tof, the tof of Hitpa’el
falls away. Example: The root daled, beis, reish, meaning speak, would
become Hidbarti (I was spoken to).
PAGE 1
THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS FIFTEEN
!"#
Ani Mitkadeim Hitkadamti Etkadeim

$%& !"#(, $(,"#(' !"#(&
Atah Mitkadeim Hitkadamtah Titkadeim
'(& !"#(, (,"#(' !"#((
At Mitkademet Hitkadamt Titkadmi
(& (,"#(, (,"#(' $,"#((
&)' Hoo !"#(, Mitkadeim
!"#('
Hitkadeim
!"#($ Yitkadeim
&$' Hee
(,"#(,
Mitkademet
',"#('
Hitkadmah !"#(( Titkadeim
Anachnu Mitkadmim Hitkadamnu Nitkadeim

)%*%& !$,"#(, )%,"#(' !"#(%
Atem Mitkadmim Hitkadamtem Titkadmu
!(& !$,"#(, !(%,"#(' ),"#((
Aten Mitkadmot Hitkadamten Titkadmu
+(& (),"#(, +(%,"#(' ),"#((
!' Heim
!$,"#(,
Mitkadmim
),"#(' Hitkadmu
),"#($
Yitkadmu
+' Hein
(),"#(,
Mitkadmot
),"#(' Hitkadmu
),"#($
Yitkadmu
When commanding, one would say:
Hitkadeim (Male singular)

Hitkadmi (Female singular)
Hitkadmu (Male plural)
Hitkadmu (Female plural)
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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS SIXTEEN
CLASS MAKING SHORT

16 SENTENCES
PART A – INTRODUCTION AND SENTENCE STRUCTURE
Just like in English, in Hebrew there are also figures of speech and a basic sentence
structure. There is a subject and a predicate (verb and object, and the rest of the
sentence).
1The first point I’d like to discuss is a noun. In Hebrew, nouns come in two forms:
Masculine and feminine. One can only tell the gender of the noun when it’s in the
singular form. The verbs and adjectives will have to match the gender of the noun.
Male plural nouns end in Yud and Mem, making the sound “im”. Female plural nouns
end in Vav and Tof, making the sound “ot”.
Example:
One boy = yeled, many boys = yeladim.
One girl = yaldah, many girls = yeladot.
Some plural nouns are singular in meaning, such as Chayim, meaning life. But the
adjective will still be in the plural form, example: A good life = Chayim tovim.
Nouns in the feminine are:

Names of women.
Nouns ending in Hey. Example: Torah.
Nouns denoting a female. Example: Achot (sister), Bat (daughter).
Nouns ending in oaf. Please note that if the Tof is the third letter of the root, the
noun is masculine. Example: Machberet (notebook).
Nouns connected to land and country. Example: Adamah (ground/earth), Ir (city).
Names of towns and countries.
Parts of the body that come in pairs. Example: Regel (one foot) = Raglayim
(feet). Big feet = Raglayim gedolot. Ozen (ear) = Oznayim (ears). Small ears =
Oznayim ketanot.
Some nouns are feminine, even though they do not have the above
characteristics. Example: Kos (cup), Lashon (tounge).
PAGE 1
2. The Adjective (Shem Hatoar):
Comes in four forms: Tov (m,s) – Tovah (f,s) – Tovim (m, pl) – Tovot (f,pl).
Must always agree with the noun in gender and in number.
When in the plural form, for a male noun it ends in “im”, and for a female noun it
ends in “ot”. Example: Angry dogs – Kelavim Ka’asim.
Large blackboards = luchot gedolim (luach in the single form is feminine).
3. The Adverb:
Always follows the verb it qualifies, but there is no agreement with it in gender or
in number. Example:
There where a lot of people there = Hayu sham harbeh Anashim.
He works alot = Hu oved harbeh.
4. a) Demonstrative Adjectives:
Follows the noun, and must agree with the gender and number of the noun.
Example:
The good student-Hatalmid hatov.
Zeh (this) = male singular. This man – Ish zeh

Zot (this) = female singular. This woman – Ishah zot
Eileh (these) = male and female plural. These men/women – Anashim/nashim
eileh.
For greater definition, add Hey (The definite article). Example: This man – Haish
Hazeh.
b) Demonstrative Pronouns:
Precede the noun and agree with it in gender and number.

Example: These are women – Eileh nashim.
5. a) Prepositions:
In = . In the closet – B’aron.
With (for an object) = . She writes with a pen – Hee kotevet B’eit.
With (for a person) = !". Sarah walks with her sister – Sarah holechet Im
achotah.
To = #$. He goes to the shops –Hu holech el hachanut.
It’s also possible to use #, like this: Hu holech Lachanut.
For = #. She bought the book for David – Hee kantah et hasefer LeDavid.
On = #". He sat on the chair –Hu yashav ul hakiseh.
Inflection of :
Bi, Becha, Bo, Bach, Bah, Banu, Bachem, Bahem, Bachen, Bahen.
Inflection of !":
Imi, Imcha, Imo, Imach, Imah, Imanu, Imachem, Imahem, Imachen, Imahen.
Inflection of #:
Li, Lecha, Lo, Lach, Lah, Lanu, Lachem, Lahem, Lachen, Lahen. (used also in
possession, see point 9)
PAGE 2
b) The Definite article:
The letter Hey is used. %

The ball – Hakadur.
In the shops – Bahachanut.
This can be simplified further to Bachanut.
Can be used as “this”.

Example:
Today – Hayom
This week – Hashavua.
6. The Definite, Direct Object:
The word “ !” precedes an object that is preceded by the definite article, Hey.
Example: David is reading the book – David koreh et hasefer.
If the sentence was “David reads a book”, we would say “David koreh sefer”.
7. Interrogative words:
Which = Eizeh/Eizoh can be used for both singular and plural, and for male and
female. Example: Which book are you reading? – Eizeh sefer atah koreh?
Eilu is a special interrogative pronoun for the plural, masculine and feminine.
Example: Which books are these? – Eilu sefarim heim?
What = Eizeh is used for specifics. Example: What (which) book is he reading? –
Eizah sefer hu koreh?
What = Mah is used for general information. Example: What is he reading? –
Mah hu koreh?
What is the time? – Mah Hasha’ah?
An interrogative sentence is usually introduced with the word “Ha’im” or with the
letter Hey.
Example: Are you a Doctor = Ha’im atah rofeh?
Or: Harofeh atah?
Are you the Doctor? = Ha’im atah Harofeh? Or: Ha’atah hu Harofeh?
8. Conjunctions:
And = ". He took his key and pen – Hu lakach et ha maftei’ach veha’eit sheloh.
Because = #$. She didn’t go to work because she was sick – Hee loh halchah
lebeit sefer ki hee haytah cholah.
Either…or = O zeh…..o zeh. Either you sit or you stand – O atah yoshev, o atah
omed.
Neither…..nor = Loh……VeLoh. Neither Yakov nor David got the flu – Loh
Yakov, Veloh David kiblu et hamachalah.
But = Aval.
PAGE 3
9. Possession:
To show possession we say Yesh L……

Example: Sarah has a car – Yesh leSarah mechonit.
He has many friends – Yesh Lo Harbeh chaveirim.
The opposite would be Ein L…….

Example: They don’t have a dog – Ein Lahem kelev.
Ariel doesn’t have a big house – Ein LeAriel bayit gadol.
10. The verb to be:
Past tense (I was): Hayiti, Haytah, Hyah, Hayit, Hayth, Hayinu, Hayitem, Hayu,
Hayiten, Hayu.
Future tense (I will be): Ehyeh, Tihyeh, Yihyeh, Tihyi, Tihyeh, Nihyeh, Tihyu,
Yihyu, Tihyu, Yihyu.
PART B – FORMATION OF SENTENCES
With the above information, it is now easier to start forming sentences. Just like in
English, the subject of the sentence comes first, then the verb, then the object.
I will list five examples of sentences:
1. I went to the shops = Ani halachti lachanut.
2. We will go to the shops to buy fruit and vegetables = Neileich lachanut liknot
peirot veyerakot.
3. He wanted to visit his friend, but he couldn’t because he was sick = Hu ratzah
lebikur et chaveiro(Hachaver sheloh), aval hu loh hayah yachol, ki hu hayah
choleh.
4. The ball was on top of the cupboard, but neither Sarah nor David saw it =
Hakadur hayah ul ha’aron, aval loh Sarah veloh David ra’ooh oto.
5. Sarah loves the flowers that Ariel sent her = Sarah ohevet et hap’rachim sheAriel
shalach lah.
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Class
PRONUNCIATION
17 OF
BIBLICAL AND MODERN HEBREW
There are several differences in the pronunciation of Biblical and Modern Hebrew:
As in any language, the speakers of the language do not strictly adhere to the laws of
grammar. Thus a new cultural language develops whereby slang terms and
mispronunciation, are acceptable.
As we will soon see in the classes to follow, the letters of the Alef- Beis are
so much more than the Hebrew equivalent of the alpha – bet. These letters
were used in the creation of the world, and thus correct pronunciation of
these letters is imperative when speaking out verses of Torah or prayer.
Today amongst Ashkenazi Jews you will find two distinctive pronunciations of the
Hebrew language, one for reading verses in the Torah or in Prayer the other in speaking
Modern Hebrew.
Some examples include:
1. In Biblical Hebrew, a Beis is pronounced as ‘B’, and a Veis as ‘V’, but in Modern
Hebrew, a Beis and a Veis are pronounced as ‘B’.
Example: Vecha in Biblical and Becha in Mordern (In you)
2. In Biblical Hebrew, a Tof is pronounced as ‘T’, and a Sof as ‘S’, but in Modern
Hebrew, a Tof and Sof are pronounced as ‘T’.
Example: Bayis in Biblical, and Bayit in Modern. (House)
3. In Biblical Hebrew, there is a distinct difference between a Komatz and a Patach,

however, in Modern Hebrew, a Komatz and Patach are both sounded as a
Patach.
Example: Oretz in Biblical, and Aretz in Modern. (Land)
4. In Biblical Hebrew, a Pey is sounded as ‘P’, and a Fey as ‘F’, but in Modern
Hebrew, both Pey and Fey are sounded as Pey.
PAGE 1
THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS SEVENTEEN
The following are verses taken from Tehillim (Psalms), and the tutorial will allow you to
listen to how the Biblical Hebrew and the Modern Hebrew are pronounced. Take note of
the differences:
Ashrei hoish asher lo holach ba’atzas resho’im. (Tehillim 1; verse 1)

“Praiseworthy is the man that walked in the council of the wicked”
Yisyatzvoo malchei eretz, veroiznim noisdoo yochad, al Hashem ve’al

meshichoi. (Tehillim 2 ; verse 2)
“The kings of the earth take their stand and the princes conspire secretly,
against Hashem and against His anointed”
Kamoh sireh, hoshivoh nafshi meshoi’eihem, mik’firim yechidosi.

(Tehillim 35 ; verse 17)
“(My Lord) How long will You look on? Rescue my soul from their darkness,
My essence from the young lions”
Ki lo vozoh velo shikatz enoos oni. (Tehillim 22 ; verse 25)

“For He has neither despised nor loathed the supplication of the poor”
Gam ki eileich b”gei tzalmoves, lo iroh roh ki atoh imodi.

(Tehillim 23 ; verse 4)
“Though I walk in the valley overshadowed by death, I will fear no evil,
For You are with me”
The following sentences are in Modern Hebrew, and again, the tutorial will allow
you to hear how the pronunciation differs. Take note of the difference between
the two:
Yesh lah mivchan bebagroot machar, velachen hee lomedet kol hayom
She has a matric exam tomorrow, and therefore she is learning all day
Harav siper lakahal shelo, she’asoor letaber bezman hatfillah

The Rabbi told his congregation that during the time of prayer, it is forbidden
to talk.
David and Uri yeilchoo la’avodah beyachad, bemonit

David and Uri will go together to work, in a taxi
Sarah ve’Esther dibroo beyachad al hmatzav hakalkali Ba’Aretz.

Sarah and Esther spoke about the economical situation in the land
Hakelev shel Orit veYoni Bore’ach etmol, vehayom, hachaver shelahem

matza oto barechov.
Orit and Yoni’s dog ran away yesterday, and today, their friend found it in the
street.
PAGE 2


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CLASS LESSONS
18 FROM
THE ALEPH-BEIS
INTRODUCTION
The Talmud1 tells us that, the letters of the Aleph-Beis teach us important character traits for us
to develop as well as behaviors to adopt. In this lesson and the next we will explore the Hebrew
language from its origin, of what is known as “Loshon HaKodesh” (the holy language).
The word Kodesh is often translated as “holy” however; this is far from an accurate translation.
The word Kodesh in actual fact means unique, and thus Loshon HaKodesh is a unique
language.
In no other language, do the letters themselves have meaning and relevance; it is only in the
unique language of Losh HaKodesh that we find deep meaning behind, the letter, its structure
and its position within the Aleph Beis.
Aleph: The symbol of Gods oneness and mastery2
Aluf Bina – Learn understanding (Talmud)
From Aleph (1) to Eleph (1000) to Aluph (infinity), alluding to God.
The Aleph consists of 3 parts an upper Yud, a lower Yud and a diagonal Vav.
Beis: The symbol of blessing and creation; Duality and Plurality
Beis represents the concept of duality; there is diversity in creation, comprising of

polar opposites such as: Good and Bad, Light and Dark, Fire and Water.
Man and Woman are two opposites which enable creation.
1. Shabbos 104a
2. The symbolism of each letter is taken from: The wisdom in the Hebrew Alphabet by Rabbi Munk
PAGE 1
Gimmel: The symbol of kindness and Culmination
Gomel Dalim – Give to the poor (Talmud)
Le-Higomel means to nurse; acts of kindness must be like nursing.
Gimmel has its leg extended forward; to teach us, that we must run to give to the poor.
Daled: The symbol of Dimensions and Concern
The Daled faces away from the Gimmel, as is the way for the poor to turn away from the
giver out of embarrassment.
The Daled faces towards the Hey, as is the way of the poor to turn to God in a time of
need.
Hey: The symbol of Divinity, Gentility and Specificity
Hey and Vov – is the name of God (Talmud)
Hey is used to denote God hence Avram and Sary became Avraham and Sarah
This soft sounding letter indicates femininity when placed at the end of a noun, thus
indicating the gentle character of women.
Vov: The symbol of Completion, Redemption and Transformation
The numerical value of Vov is six, a number that denotes physical completion. The
physical world was completed in six days. Physical objects have six sides.
Vov is used to denote the word “And” thus Vov indicates continuity3
Zayin: The symbol of Spirit, Sustenance and Struggle
If you learn wisdom and give to the poor (for the sake of God) God will give you
sustenance. (Talmud)
The numerical value of Zayin is seven. The Maharal explains that seven denotes the
spiritual values that were the purpose of creation. The creation was not finished until
there was a seventh day, a rest from the mundane, and a day with G-D.
3. We will learn more about the vov and hey in the next lesson.
PAGE 2
The letter Zayin is shaped like a spear; this shows us that one must fight to obtain his
sustenance.
Ches: The symbol of Transcendence, Divine Grace and Life
If you learn wisdom and give to the poor (for the sake of God) God will give you grace.
(Talmud)
The Ches, symbolizes man’s ability to transcend the limitations of physical existence –
“on a plane above nature”. Thus a Bris Milah takes place on the eighth day.
A Ches consists of two Zayin’s; ever since Adam sinned in the garden of Eden, man
struggles with two contradictory Zayin’s (The passive- God will provide and the active –
one must struggle for ones sustenance) When one finds the balance one creates a Ches
which is the symbol of life.
Tes: The symbol of Goodness
If you learn wisdom and give to the poor (for the sake of God) God will be good to you.
(Talmud)
One of the names of Moses was Tovia, meaning Tov – Good and Yah – God
Tes also connotes humility as the shape of the letter is bend inward, showing
submissiveness.
Yud: The symbol of Creation and the Metaphysical
If you learn wisdom and give to the poor (for the sake of God) God will give you a
Yerusha / Inheritance. (Talmud)
The letter Yud also denotes God4
Yud is the smallest letter of the Aleph-Beis, and it represents the metaphysical. This
implies that greatness is achieved through humility.
Chof: The symbol of Crowning Accomplishment
If you learn wisdom and give to the poor (for the sake of God) God will give you a Keser
/ Crown. (Talmud)
The name of the letter means bent, and many articles which are bent derive their name
from the Chof, such as Kaf meaning a spoon.
4. We will learn more about the Yud in the next lesson
PAGE 3
Chof connotes likeness
Lamed: The symbol of Teaching and Purpose
If you learn wisdom and give to the poor (for the sake of God) God will give you a Keser
/ Crown For Olam Habah (Talmud)
Lamed connotes both teaching and learning, hence one needs to learn in order to teach.
Lamed is the tallest letter of the Aleph- Beis and is sided by the Chof and the Mem,
together these three letters spell Melech – King.
Mem: The symbol of the Revealed and the Concealed; Moses and Messiah
The Mem found in the middle of a word is open, however the Mem found at the end of a
word is closed. This teaches us that some Mamarim (teachings) are open to the public,
while other Mamarim are closed to the public. (Talmud)
The open Mem points to the obvious, openly revealed glory of Gods actions. It points
upwards to indicate Gods sovereignty over us, and its bent posture indicates our humble
recognition of His mercy.
The closed, final Mem alludes to the part of God that is hidden from man.
Nun: The symbol of Faithfulness, Soul and Emergence
The Nun found in the middle of a word is bent, however the Nun found at the end of a
word is straight. This teaches us that one who is Neman (faithful) in this world and is
thus bend, will be erect in the world to come. (Talmud)
The Nun which can connote Nefilah (falling) is sided by the Samech which connotes
Somech (support). This teaches us that even when we fall God picks us up.
The Nun which can connote Nefilah (falling) is sided by the Mem which connotes Melech
(king). This teaches us, when we fall, we should turn to God the king.
Samech: The symbol of support, Protection and Memory
Somaich Ani-im (support the poor) (Talmud)
The closed, roundness of the letter indicates support and enclosure.
The letter Samech has a value of 60, the number of swordsmen of protection5.
5. Song of Songs 3:7
PAGE 4
Ayin: The symbol of Sight and Insight
The word Ayin in Hebrew means eye, sight is one of the four senses that reveals the
most to man.
It is through the eye that one can examine an individual, and it is through ones outlook in
life, that ones character can be judged.
Peh: The symbol of Speech and Silence
There is a time for speech and a time for silence. (What comes out of one’s mouth
should be consistent with what the heart feels) (Talmud)
Peh in Hebrew means mouth. It is Man’s power of intelligent speech that differentiates
him between the animals.
The letter Peh comes after the letter Ayin, to teach us, that one must first see before one
speaks.
Tzaddi: The symbol of Righteousness and Humility
The Tzaddi found in the middle of a word is bent, however the Tzaddi found at the end of
a word is straight. This teaches us that one who is reightous in this world, and is thus
bend, will be erect in the world to come. (Talmud)
The righteous are the light of the world.
Any Jew can become a Tzaddik if he/she so desires.
Kuf: The symbol of Holiness and Growth Cycles
Kuf denotes the Holy one God
Kuf has the same letters as Kof (a monkey) to teach us that a person without holiness is
a mere monkey.
As above Kuf has two very opposite meanings; it is up to man to choose which he shall
be like.
PAGE 5
Reish: The symbol of Choosing between Greatness and Degradation
The letter Reish denotes a Rosha (wicked person) and why does the Kuf turn away from
the Reish? Because the holy one says; I cannot look at the face of a Rosha. (Talmud)
If the Rosha turns his ways, he can face God directly.
The Kuf is close to the Reish to show us that God helps the wicked to return.
Shin: The symbol of Divine Power and Script – but also Corruption
The letter Shin denotes Sheker (falsehood) (Talmud)
The letters Kuf, Reish and Shin are placed together. This teaches us that when the Kof
(monkey) involves itself with Lying (Shin), it becomes the greatest evil (Reish).
The letters Kuf, Reish and Shin are placed together. This teaches us that when one has
limited perspective, one is bound to see falsehood, but if one sees the beginning, middle
and end, one will find truth.
Tof: The symbol of Truth and Perfection
The letter Tof denotes Emes (Truth) (Talmud)
The letters spelling out Emes (Aleph, Mem, Tof) are spread out the Aleph- Beis, while
the letters spelling out Sheker (Shin, Kuf, Reish) are grouped together. This teaches us
that, truth is hard to find while falsehood is everywhere.
The letters of Emes (Aleph, Mem, Tof) all stand on two legs, meaning that truth, Emes
will last. On the other hand, the letters of Sheker (Shin, Kuf, Reish) only stand on one
leg, meaning that falsehood doesn’t have a leg to stand on, and the truth will come out in
the end.
Sources and Recommended reading:
The wisdom of the Hebrew Alphabet Written by Rabbi Yechiel Munk. Published by Artscroll.
PAGE 6


Jonathan Bennett
Written by Rabbi Michael J Eljarrat

© BeeJewish

copyright holder.
Legal Notice:

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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS NINETEEN
CLASS THE 32 Paths

19 of
WISDOM
As we have said previously; God used the letters of the Aleph – Beis to create the
world. There are a total of 22 Hebrew letters and a total of 10 numbers, these two
together are referred to as the 32 paths of wisdom.
The significance of these 32 paths is clear. With letters, words can be formed
and with numbers, calculations can be quantified. Thus with letters and
numbers everything possibly imaginable can be described both in quality
(with words) and quantity (with numbers). Therefore the creation of the letters
and numbers gave rise for the potential for anything to be created.
As we saw in the previous lesson each and every letter has a meaning. In this lesson
we will look at some of these letters and explore their deeper meanings, we will also
see how the letters are grouped together.
The letters Yud and Hey form part of Gods name:
The Yud connotes Wisdom (Chochma). Wisdom is an all encompassing knowledge,

which knows no boundaries or limitations. Pure unadulterated wisdom has no parts
or sections, it is broad and indescribable. For this reason the Yud is a small letter,
which has no parts to it, it is just a small dot like shape, and which is all
encompassing like the wisdom it describes.
The Hey connotes Understanding (Binah). Understanding is processed wisdom; that

means to say understanding is the break down of wisdom into its various
components. For this reason the Hey is made up of two separate parts which form a
whole, like the understanding it describes.
Given what we have said above; regarding the Yud and Hey, we can now
understand how and why the Yud and Hey are used both as prefixes and
suffixes.
When a Yud is placed at the end of a noun it connotes possession, for example we
would say “Sifri” meaning “My book”. This is so because the Yud describes
something all encompassing and thus binds itself to the noun and takes possession
of the noun.
The Hey on the other hand, when used as a prefix connotes separateness for
example we would say “Ha- Sefer” meaning “The book” When we say the book, we
are excluding all other books, and singling out one particular book and calling it “The”
book. This is the function of the Hey which breaks down parts into their various
components.
The Yud is said to be masculine, and the Hey is said to be feminine. The Yud and
Hey are likewise used to describe gender.
PAGE 1
THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS NINETEEN
The Torah starts with the letter Beis and ends with the letter Lamed. This spells the
word Lev, which has the numerical value of 32, as in the 32 paths of wisdom.
There are only two letters in the Hebrew Aleph – Beis which can be used as a suffix
In combination with Gods name:
They are the Beis and the Lamed
Beis Lamed !
In Me " To Me "!
In Her # To Her #!
In Him $ To Him $!
The letters of the Aleph – Beis are divided in multiple ways:
The first is according to their elements:
Mother letters Double letters Elemental letters

' & % -, + * )( " 0/ . $#
54 3 2 1!
Each one of these double letters has two distinctive sounds, however the tradition of
the various pronunciations have been lost over the years.
The second is according to their vocal organ:
Guttural Labial Palatal Lingual Dental
% ( ) .
$ " 0 2
#
& * ! 4
/
+ 5 1 ,
3
- '
The five divisions are also apparent in the five Nekudos
PAGE 2


Jonathan Bennett

© BeeJewish

copyright holder.
Legal Notice:

Telephone 00 27 11 485 1731
THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS TWENTY
CLASS RASHI AND CURSIVE
20 SCRIPTS – IDENTIFYING LETTERS
PART A – RASHI SCRIPT
Rashi is an acronym for: Rav Shlomo Yitzchaki
NAME OF LETTER STANDARD SCRIPT RASHI SCRIPT

Aleph
Beis / Veis !
Gimmel "
Daled #
Hey
$
Vov
%
Zayin &
Ches '
Tes
(
Yud )
Kof / Chof ; Kof / Chof Sofis + *
;
Lamed
,
. -
Mem ; Mem Sofis
;
Nun ; Nun Sofis
0 / ;
Samech
1
Ayin 2
Pey / Fey ; Pey / Fey sofis
4 3 ;
Tzaddi ; Tzaddi Sofis
5 ;
Kuf 6
Reish 7
Shin/ Sin 8
Tof / Sof 9
PAGE 1
THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME – CLASS TWENTY
PART B – CURSIVE SCRIPT
Cursive script is also known as K’tav shotef, meaning flowing handwriting. This is because it’s
quicker and easier than writing in the print form. In general, when writing in Hebrew, cursive is
the easier option.
The following is an example of how cursive script looks:
Rashi is an acronym for:
Rav
Shlomo
Yitzchaki
Rashi lived (1040 – 1105) and was a Rishon, one of the first commentators on the Torah.
Rashi script is a semi – cursive typeface for the Aleph- beis, in which Rashi’s commentaries on
the Tanach and Talmud are written.
PAGE 2

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THE RABBI MICHAEL J ELJARRAT LEARNING HEBREW PROGRAMME

This course was sponsored by:

Written by Nechama Rozowski

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

No part of this class or course thereof may be reproduced IN ANY FORM-

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CLASS The ALEPH BEIS

Introduction by: NECHAMA ROZOWKI

THE LETTERS ALEPH TO YUD

Aleph has a numerical value of one

Beis has a numerical value of two.

Gimmel has a numerical value of three.

Hey is also a guttural letter.

Vav has a numerical value of six.

Chess has a numerical value of eight

Chess is also a guttural letter.

Yud has a numerical value of ten.

This course was sponsored by:

Written by Nechama Rozowski

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

No part of this class or course thereof may be reproduced IN ANY FORM-

The copyright holder can be contacted:

CLASS The ALEPH BEIS

Kaf has a numerical value of twenty.

(KAF SOFIT and CHAF SOFIT): *+$

Lamed has a numerical value of thirty.

Mem has a numerical value of forty.

(MEM SOFIT): '

t Samech has a numerical value of sixty.

t Ayin has a numerical value of seventy.

t Ayin is another of the guttural letters.

Peh has a numerical value of eighty.

(PEH SOFIT and PHEH SOFIT): 0$.

Kuf has a numerical value of one hundred.

Reish has a numerical value of two hundred.

Reish is another of the guttural letters.

Shin has a numerical value of three hundred.

This course was sponsored by:

Written by Nechama Rozowski

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

No part of this class or course thereof may be reproduced IN ANY FORM-

The copyright holder can be contacted:

Komatz is a long vowel sound.

Patach is a short vowel sound.

Tzere is a long vowel sound.

Seggol is a short vowel sound.

Kubbutz is a short vowel sound.

Chumash can also be written like this.

This course was sponsored by:

Written by Nechama Rozowski

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

No part of this class or course thereof may be reproduced IN ANY FORM-

The copyright holder can be contacted:

Male singular Female Singular

Pronoun Pronounced Spelt Pronoun Pronounced Spelt

Me/I Ani !"# Me/I Ani !"#

Male plural Female plural

Pronoun Pronounced Spelt Pronoun Pronounced Spelt

We/Us Anachnu &"'"# We/Us Anachnu &"'"#

M = Masculine F= Feminine S = Singular P = Plural

Shel (Belonging to) Im (With)

This course was sponsored by:

Written by Nechama Rozowski